Can I put a Lifetime shed on a gravel base? We do not recommend large gravel as a base for lifetime sheds. Concrete or wooden platform are better.
The short answer is yes! Sheds can sit on a gravel pad or foundation with no problem.
The Lifetime shed directions recommend building the shed on a concrete slab. However, if that is not an option, they recommend building the shed on a wood platform covered with plywood or on a wood frame filled with pea gravel.
Lifetime recommends a concrete base foremost, then wood platform/filled wood base as alternatives. But having just removed a bunch of old concrete from the yard, I'd rather go with something a little less permanent but also stable and long-lasting.
Generally, a well-constructed and level foundation is crucial to ensure the shed's stability and longevity. Concrete slabs are a good choice as they provide a durable and long-lasting base suitable for heavy or larger sheds. However, another very popular option is a gravel base.
A gravel foundation is often ideal for smaller sheds, offering excellent drainage and ease of installation. For larger or heavier sheds, a concrete slab foundation is the most durable option, providing strong support. Paver foundations are a more aesthetic choice that still provides good stability.
A gravel pad is the best kind of foundation for a 10×12 shed. This kind of foundation allows for easy drainage which will prevent rot and prevent erosion from under your shed. The foundation that you place your 10x 12 shed on is just as important as the construction of your shed.
Can I put a Lifetime shed on a gravel base? We do not recommend large gravel as a base for lifetime sheds. Concrete or wooden platform are better.
Robust construction and weather resistant
This begs the question, how long will a Lifetime shed last? Well, thanks to the HDPE (high-density polyethylene) construction, it's expected to last for over 25 years, and if cared for could last for far longer.
Like you, I often wonder whether it's cheaper to buy something or do it on my own. What I've found is professional craftsmanship is invaluable. Building your own shed will save you an average of 40%. However, buying one has invaluable advantages such as a warranty, better quality, and time savings.
The floors of Lifetime plastic sheds are 3/4-inch thick. They are not sufficiently strong to bear weight. The shed installation must be supported underneath by a rigid surface that can support the weight of the shed and the contents of the shed.
Placing a shed directly on your lawn or the bare ground, or any other unlevel surface, can cause a variety of problems, including: Doors won't work properly. The floors will deteriorate. The frame may be difficult to put together.
One of the simplest ways to anchor your shed into gravel is to use an arrowhead or bullet anchoring system. With both bullet and arrowhead anchors, the head is driven into the ground, and the cable is connected to the shed. Bullet anchors are especially useful in tough, hard soil.
For best long-term durability, use pressure treated lumber as floor joists in your storage shed. If you want the strongest floor joists to hold the highest weight capacity, select 2x6 floor joists in your storage shed. For average storage use, 2x4 16" O/C is a standard floor joists with good strength.
Dry laying on gravel is a practical, versatile solution that provides a contemporary effect, bringing added style to patios, paths, pedestrian walkways and courtyards and relaxation areas in general.
The heavy-duty steel reinforced construction makes Lifetime sheds strong, durable, and weather resistant with a wind speed rating of 70 MPH. However, some US areas (particularly in Florida) have wind force regulations regarding sheds.
In short, yes, sheds add value to a home. Sheds are versatile and can enhance your property's appeal and functionality. To increase home value with a shed, choose one that complements your home's aesthetics. While many use sheds for extra storage, they can boost property value when well-built and adequately placed.
So if you have a smaller garden, we'd recommend the Keter Oakland 11×7. If you have the space to house a Lifetime 15×8, then this should be a preferred choice as you won't be short for space. Both are available at GardenStreet, with delivery in around 2-3 weeks.
Yes, you can place your shed directly on your gravel pad. Some people opt to embed concrete blocks in their gravel for the shed to also rest on, though this is optional (see more info). Some people also pour concrete pillars in the gravel shed pad to increase strength and stability (see info from Site Prep).
Standard Height: A small shed or medium-sized storage building should be 4-6 inches above the ground to protect against rot and pests.
Like any portable structure, a 12×16 shed needs a place to be set. There are multiple foundation options available for a 12×16 shed to be placed on. Let's look at the most common type of shed foundation options.
A 10×12 shed can cost anywhere from $3,000 – $12,000, depending on what you buy. I know that doesn't give you the range you were hoping for, so let's break it down a bit more from least to most expensive. Tier 1 – A simple 10×12 shed with wood siding and no windows is going to be the tier 1 option.
For very small sheds, like those made by Rubbermaid, Lifetime, and similar brands, you may still want a gravel shed foundation if the total weight of the shed and contents is over 300-500lbs.
What's the cheapest way to level ground for a shed? Using crushed stone or fill dirt is your most budget-friendly option. It's effective and easy on the wallet.