Do plastic sheds require a foundation? [solved]

Question

andersonbd1439 Asked 12 years ago

Do plastic sheds require a foundation? [solved]

Do I need a foundation for this type of shed, or can I just put it on level ground?

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FWIW, I have a 6'x8' plastic shed on a gravel base. It's been there for 6.5 years and I'm starting to notice some lean. I'd recommend a better base than just the ground. - Niall C. 12 years ago

What's the frost depth in your climate? - Jay Bazuzi 12 years ago

3 Answers Found

Recommended is not required, however. - Adam Musch 12 years ago

beat me to it ! :) it's probably not "absolutely required" to have it on a foundation but it's VERY strongly recommended. Putting it right on the ground will lead to long term issues, most notably as you start putting more and more weight in it. - user45 12 years ago

+1, Even if he had ground level enough to install it on, he's going to have lots of problems with moisture, bugs, rodents, etc. if there isn't some kind of deck or slab underneath it. - Eric Petroelje 12 years ago

@Eric - Updated answer based on your comment. - ChrisF 12 years ago

Engineer20213259 Answered 12 years ago

I got pea gravel and spread it onto bare ground after I raked it. I have had my shed for 4 years. It is not sinking. YMMV but I don't think you need to lay a concrete surface. On older, wood sheds it was recommended due to rot, but in a Rubbermaid shed I don't think it is necessary.

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James1410 Answered 1 week ago

ProBase Plastic Shed Base Foundation - How To Install

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score 53 · Accepted Answer

The assembly instructions state:

Recommended surfaces for installation include cement or treated wood deck style surfaces.

So it should be installed on a level platform of some kind that will support the weight of the shed and its contents.

It wouldn't be a good idea just to use level ground as you'll have problems with moisture, rodents etc (as Eric Petroelje points out in his comment). You may well also find that the shed will sink unevenly into the ground making it difficult, if not impossible to use.