Installing a new timber building, like a garden shed, summer house, or garden room, is an exciting way to enhance your outdoor space. But before you can enjoy your new structure, there’s one crucial step that sets the foundation for its longevity and stability: preparing the base. At Kidbys, we understand that getting the base right is essential to ensure your timber building stands the test of time. Here’s our guide to creating a solid, durable base for your Kidbys structure, based on decades of expertise in crafting high-quality timber buildings.
Why a Proper Base Matters
A well-prepared base is the backbone of any timber building. It provides stability, prevents moisture damage, and ensures your structure remains level and secure for years to come. Whether you’re installing a shed for storage or a garden room for relaxation, a solid foundation protects your investment and enhances its functionality. Without a proper base, you risk issues like sinking, rot, or structural instability, especially if your garden is prone to dampness or heavy soil.
Choose the Right Location
Start by selecting a suitable spot in your garden. Consider the following:
• Accessibility: Ensure there’s enough space around the building for installation and future maintenance. We recommend at least 300mm (12 inches) of clearance from borders, trees, or fences to accommodate roof overhangs and allow easy access.
• Ground Conditions: Check if the area is level and assess whether it’s prone to waterlogging or dampness, such as under trees. For damp locations, consider using recycled plastic floor bearers instead of timber to prevent rot.
• Purpose: Think about how you’ll use the building. For example, a shed for heavy equipment needs a more robust base, like concrete, while a lightweight summer house may work well with ground screws.
Select the Best Base Type:
At Kidbys, we offer several base options tailored to different needs and budgets. Here are the most popular choices:
100mm Fibre-Reinforced Concrete Base
A concrete base is ideal for larger buildings or those housing heavy equipment. It’s durable, permanent, and provides excellent stability. To prepare:
• Dig down to create a sub-base of gravel to ensure proper drainage and prevent cracking.
• Build a wooden framework to pour the concrete, ensuring it’s at least 100mm thick and matches or exceeds the size of your building’s footprint.
• Allow the concrete to set for about 48 hours before installation. The framework can be removed (use screws for easy dismantling) or left in place.
Kidbys Tip: Our team can manufacture and install pressure-treated timber subframes with post saver wraps to further protect against rot, ensuring your concrete base is ready for your timber building.
Ground Screws
For a quicker, eco-friendly option, ground screws are perfect for garden rooms, sheds, or summer houses. They’re installed directly into the ground, providing a solid foundation without the need for extensive digging. This option is especially suitable for uneven or sloped surfaces and offers excellent drainage.
Let Kidbys Help You Build a Lasting Foundation
At Kidbys, we’re more than just timber building experts—we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the right base to ensuring a flawless installation. Our pressure-treated timber subframes, post saver wraps, and professional installation services guarantee a foundation that’s built to last. Whether you opt for a concrete base, ground screws, or a stone foundation, we’ll work with you to create a base that suits your needs and budget.
Ready to get started? Contact the Kidbys team today to discuss your base preparation needs and ensure your new timber building stands strong for years to come. Visit kidbys.co.uk for more details or to schedule a consultation.
Pro Tip: Not sure which base is right for you? Our team can assess your garden’s conditions and recommend the best solution to keep your timber building secure and durable.
