Bases & foundations
Step-by-step gravel shed foundation
The cheapest base that actually lasts. Eight steps, a full materials list and a line-by-line cost table for an 8×10 ft shed. Done in a weekend with hired tools.
Plan the right shed, first time, on a sensible budget.
Shed World is a no-nonsense guide for first-time shed owners. Build or buy, timber or metal, what size, what base, and what it all really costs, explained the way a handy neighbour would over the fence.
Why Shed World
Independent
Not tied to any shed maker. When a link earns us a commission, we say so.
Written for DIYers
Handy but not a tradesperson? Good. Every guide assumes basic tools and a free weekend.
Budget first
Real line-by-line costs, and where it’s worth spending more (usually the base and the roof).
What are you trying to work out?
Pick the question closest to yours. One guide is live, more are on the workbench.
Costs
What a shed really costs once you add the base, delivery and fixings.
3 plannedBases & foundations
Gravel, slabs, concrete or timber frame, and which suits your ground.
1 guide · 2 plannedMaterials
Timber, metal or plastic resin: how each one ages, and the upkeep.
2 plannedSizes
Measure what you own, then size up. Plus height and planning limits.
2 plannedStorage ideas
Shelves, hooks and layouts that fit twice as much in the same floor.
2 plannedFresh from the workbench
Costs
How much does a shed cost? The full bill, not just the sticker
Shed, base, delivery, felt, fixings and paint: what to add before you compare prices.
Materials
Wood vs metal vs plastic sheds: which lasts longest?
Rot, rust and UV: the honest trade-offs, and the yearly upkeep each one needs.
Sizes
What size shed do I need? Measure first, then add a foot
A simple floor-plan method using what you already own, plus door width and headroom.
Don’t buy a shed until you’ve read this
The Shed Review Guide is the checklist we wish we’d had first time round. Take it to the garden centre or keep it open next to a product page.
- The specs that separate a shed that lasts from one that doesn’t
- A fill-in comparison sheet for up to three sheds
- A base-and-budget planner so there are no surprise costs