Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Sheds, 3rd Edition: Design & Build a Shed: - Complete Plans - Step-by-Step How-To (Black & Decker Complete Guide)

How to Build a Wooden Skid Foundation

Step 1: Prepare the Gravel Base

A. Remove 4" of soil in an area about 12" wider and longer than the dimensions of the building.

B. Fill the excavated area with a 4" layer of compactible gravel. Rake the gravel smooth, then check it for level using a 4-ft. level and a straight, 8-ft.-long 2 × 4. Rake the gravel until it is fairly level.

C. Tamp the gravel thoroughly using a hand tamper or a rented plate compactor. As you work, check the surface with the board and level, and add or remove gravel until the surface is level.

Step 2: Cut & Set the Skids

A. Cut the skids to length, using a circular saw or reciprocating saw. (Skids typically run parallel to the length of the building and are cut to the same dimension as the floor frame.)

B. To angle-cut the ends, measure down 1½" to 2" from the top edge of each skid. Use a square to mark a 45° cutting line down to the bottom edge, then make the cuts.

C. Coat the cut ends of the skids with a wood sealerpreservative and let them dry.

D. Set the skids on the gravel so they are parallel and their ends are even. Make sure the outer skids are spaced according to the width of the building.

Step 3: Level the Skids

A. Cut the skids to length, using a circular saw or reciprocating saw. (Skids typically run parallel to the length of the building and are cut to the same dimension as the floor frame.)

B. To angle-cut the ends, measure down 1½" to 2" from the top edge of each skid. Use a square to mark a 45° cutting line down to the bottom edge, then make the cuts.

C. Coat the cut ends of the skids with a wood sealerpreservative and let them dry.

D. Set the skids on the gravel so they are parallel and their ends are even. Make sure the outer skids are spaced according to the width of the building.

Gallery from The Complete Guide to Sheds, 3rd Edition

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