After determining the location for your building, clear your construction area.
Remove all debris, roots, grass and any large rocks.
Start by deciding where exactly to place the building.. Please review size specification for model to determine actual size. For example, our 8×10 Rancher model is actually 93” wide x 120 5/8” long. Remember, it is your responsibility to check with your local municipal/county for permit requirements.It is important that the chosen site have good drainage and is on solid ground. If not, we recommend that you slope your location 10 feet in all directions. A slope of 1/8 inch per foot is enough to prevent water accumulation.If the site is typically moist, a vapor barrier of polyurethane also helps reduce moisture inside the completed shed.
Next clear your construction area. Remove all debris, roots, grass and any large rocks. LEVEL the ground.. a non level site is no fun to work with and will compromise the function of doors and windows! Be sure there are no obstructions to operation of doors and windows. Leave about a 2ft.distance around all sides so workers and painters can access.
PatioStone Foundation: If the ground is stable with good drainage, you can set patio stones directly on firm compacted soil. If not, lay on gravel or crushed rock.
Starting with one floor section, position stones around its perimeter and specific joists. (For details, see specific instruction manual) Use a 2×4 straight piece of lumber on edge and a carpenter’s level to position correctly. Add or remove soils under each stone until level. Complete remaining floor sections in the same manner. When all floor panels are level with each other, flip over, screw together and place back on your level foundation.
4×4 PressureTreated Beam Foundation: You can build directly on pressure-treated beams or railroad ties laid on a properly prepared construction site. Run beams perpendicular to floor joists. Use a 2×4 straight piece of lumber on edge and a carpenter’s level to position correctly .To prevent the beams from shifting, secure them with rebar inserted through holes drilled in the beams and driven 3 to 4 feet into the ground. Leave each side or end of the foundation open to promote drainage and air circulation beneath the floor.