Can you put a shed on gravel?
When it comes to installing a shed, there are many things to consider, one of which is the type of ground you’re installing it on.
We all know that you shouldn’t install garden sheds directly on grass or pavement, since that’s a big moisture concern, but what about gravel?
While the answer is yes, it’s completely fine to put a garden shed on a gravel surface, but you absolutely must not do so without a solid base. Not only would this make the ground uneven and tricky to build a shed on, but it would also just lead to structural issues down the road.
To sum up: gravel foundation? Yes. Gravel base? NO.
But don’t worry; we won’t leave you hanging. If you’re looking to install a shed base over a gravel foundation, then stick with us as we walk you through it.
Why can’t you install a shed directly onto gravel?
If you install a shed directly onto gravel without a base, it won’t hold up for long.
The gravel surface lacks the rigidity to distribute the shed's weight evenly, resulting in an unstable structure. Since gravel is constantly shifting, failing to add a base or grid will lead to the base of your shed becoming uneven, leaning to one side and putting strain on the joints.
And this is without storing anything in your shed. Start adding heavy objects like bikes and tools, and the screws will start to loosen, or the panels will flex and bow.
Even though gravel drains well, placing your shed directly on top of it can cause moisture to become trapped and cause mould or mildew issues.
So, what does a solid base provide?
- It allows airflow underneath the shed
- It keeps the shed level
- Creates a barrier between the timber and the ground
Practical steps for installing a shed on gravel
If you’re ready to install a garden shed on gravel the RIGHT way, then you can follow our easy steps for a quick process.
No unnecessary complicated lingo or long-winded instructions. Gather the following tools before you get started:
- Measuring tape
- Wooden pegs
- String line
- Spirit level
- Spade or shovel
- Turf cutter
- Rake
- Wheelbarrow
- Weed membrane and fixing pegs
- Plate compactor
- Hammer
We highly urge you to wear gloves, safety glasses, and hard-toe boots when working with heavy materials and power tools.
1. Prepare the area
First things first, we need to measure and mark the area so you know where to place your base and how large it needs to be.
We suggest choosing the highest point of your garden to achieve good drainage or somewhere covered or shaded so it’s protected from the elements. However, make sure it’s in a spot that still gets a good amount of sunlight! Especially for offices and workshops.
When measuring, make sure the base is the same width and length as the bottom of your shed or slightly larger.
Add at least 5–10 cm extra on all sides for better drainage, and mark the corners with wooden pegs with a string between them to form the outline.
2. Clear the ground
Once you’ve chosen and marked the area, clear away any weeds and roots that are acting as obstacles and any large stones. You can use a spade or turf cutter to do so.
Then, dig 5–10 cm into the soil to remove the soft topsoil and get to the firmer subsoil. If your garden is sloped, remove soil from the higher side until the ground is roughly level.
3. Add a weed barrier
When you’ve spent so much time clearing away roots and weeds, you don’t want them to grow back and cover your shed.
Adding a weed barrier will prevent vines from trailing up the structure. Use a high-quality, permeable fabric for this (you can find cheap weed barriers online) and roll it out across the marked area.
Overlap any joins by at least 10–15 cm so weeds can’t find a way through, and secure it in place with metal or plastic fixing pegs around the edges and across the middle.
4. Add and compact the base gravel
Once the barrier is in place, add MOT Type 1 crushed stone on top of the weed barrier until it covers the whole surface. Aim for around 5-8 cm of depth.
Then, use a rake to flatten and spread it out evenly across the barrier so that the surface is flat and level. Once that’s done, use a vibrating plate compactor to compress the gravel until it’s firm, checking it with a spirit level as you go.
Doing so will lock the stones together to prevent shifting or sinking.
5. Top with drainage gravel
Adding a second level of crushed stone gravel will create better drainage for your shed.
Aim for 10–20 mm of gravel or shingle over the compacted sub-base, again spreading it out evenly for a solid base. Make sure the second layer is around 2–4 cm deep and rake it smooth; if there are any gaps or dips, use more gravel to even it out.
Don’t use pea gravel or rounded stones here, as they move too easily under pressure.
6. Add support
Once you’ve completed your gravel sub-base, it’s time to add your structural support on top of it.
A pressure-treated timber sub-frame or concrete base is two of the most long-lasting options, as they hold well under heavy weight and increase the life expectancy of your shed.
Add your base on top of the gravel, following our step-by-step guide on building a shed base for a successful finish.
7. Position and secure the shed
Once your gravel foundation and shed base have been installed, you can now add your shed on top.
You can either construct the shed on top of the base or build it and then install it afterwards with some help from a few lifters. Make sure it sits squarely and level, and secure it in place with metal anchors or fixing brackets to prevent movement in strong winds.
What type of gravel is best for a shed foundation?
When it comes to laying down a gravel base for a shed, there are a few types of gravel that work better for drainage, stability, and support.
For this reason, we highly recommend using MOT Type 1, also known as Type 1 sub-base. Materials such as crushed limestone and granite (up to 40 mm in size) are compacted, which helps to create a solid base for sheds in the UK.
DO NOT use river stone, as this is too rounded and won’t lock together properly when compacted.
Gravel is not only an economical choice for your shed base, since it’s really affordable, but it’s also one of the simplest materials to install. This is a dream for inexperienced DIY’ers!
How should I maintain my gravel base?
Like anything, your gravel base is subject to degradation from years of harsh weather conditions and handling constant weight from your shed.
To keep on top of it and make sure it lasts for years to come, we suggest doing the following:
- Inspect the base once or twice a year.
- Rake gravel back into any areas where it’s shifted.
- Make sure water can still drain freely away from the shed.
- Re-level the base if you spot any sagging.
- Replace the weed barrier once it starts to perform poorly.
Are you looking for a beautiful garden shed?
If you’ve felt like your garden has been missing something for a while, a garden shed is bound to fill the awkward space and make it feel more homey.
When you install a garden shed, you’re really opening up the opportunities for your garden. It could be a secret library, a workout space, or even a garden office, allowing you to work from home while maintaining a separation from your home life.
Whatever you’re after, our beautiful timber garden sheds can make it happen. You can browse an extensive collection of styles and sizes until you find the right fit for your home.