So, you’re planning to add a new shed, barn, or garage to your property—exciting! But before the building arrives, there’s one important step: site preparation for sheds and barns. Don’t worry, The Carriage Shed is here to make this process as easy as possible. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to do!
What Type of Site Preparation Do You Need?
The type of site preparation for sheds and barns depends on the size and structure of your new building. Here’s a quick guide:
For Small Buildings (Sheds, Greenhouses, etc.)
- Lay down 3”–5” of hardpack on top of road fabric.
- Compact it well to ensure a sturdy and level foundation.
- Make sure the pad extends 1 foot beyond each side of the building.
For Larger Buildings (Garages, Barns, etc.)
- A frost wall with a 4”–5” concrete pad inside or on top is ideal.
- A floating slab (18” thick around the edges with a 6” slab) also works well if drainage is properly managed.
Not sure what’s best for your situation? No worries! Our owner, Robert, has a background in concrete and can help you decide on the perfect foundation for your shed or barn site preparation.
How Do You Know If You Need a Small or Large Foundation?
If your building arrives in one piece, a hardpack pad should work just fine.
If your building comes in multiple sections, you’ll likely need a more substantial foundation.
Keep in mind, every site is different! Feel free to reach out so we can help determine the best option for your shed or barn foundation.
Common Questions About Site Preparation for Sheds or Barns:
Why Use Road Fabric?
- It prevents the hardpack from mixing with dirt.
- It helps with drainage and minimizes weed growth.
- It stabilizes the site for long-term durability.
Why Not Use Crushed Stone or Cement Blocks?
- Crushed stone doesn’t stay level or compact as well as hardpack.
- Cement blocks can hold moisture, which can lead to premature rotting of your building. Plus, our structures are designed with built-in skids that provide proper support.
What If I’m Getting a Run-In Shed for a Field?
- Run-In Sheds come with pressure-treated 6×6 skids.
- If your field is level and well-drained, you may not need a prepared pad.
- However, a hardpack pad is recommended to prevent settling and potential moisture damage.
How Do I Determine the Right Pad Size?
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For small buildings: Pad should be 1 foot larger on all sides. (Example: A 10’ x 12’ shed needs a 12’ x 14’ pad.)
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For larger buildings: Clear at least 20 feet around the structure for delivery and setup. If space is tight, let us know—we’ll work with you!
Preparing for Delivery
The Carriage Shed handles delivery and setup, but we need a clear path to your prepared site. Our state-of-the-art truck and trailer system allows us to maneuver buildings into tricky spots. If you’re unsure whether we can access your site, give us a call—we love a challenge!
Have Questions? Let’s Talk!
Our top priority at The Carriage Shed is making your new addition as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions site preparation for sheds and barns, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help! Check out our Delivery page here on the website to watch videos on our delivery process!
📞 Call us today and let’s get started on making your property even better!
