How to Build a Shed Foundation with Deck Blocks?

If you're planning on building a shed, you must start with a strong foundation. One of the easiest and most popular ways to build a shed foundation is with deck blocks. Deck blocks are simple concrete piers that you can set in place with just a few tools. In this article, we'll show you how to build a shed foundation with deck blocks in just a few simple steps.

And not only that, you will get some tips on how to use deck blocks at the end. Let’s take you to the details.

How to Build a Shed Foundation With Deck Blocks?

Well, let me inform you among all the foundation types, it is the easiest and fastest way to shed foundation. So if you can know the process once, you can smoothly proceed to your shed foundation without any assistance.

A shed foundation is a base upon which your shed will sit, and it needs to be built right for it to last. Here's how to build a shed foundation with deck blocks.

Building a shed foundation with deck blocks is a quick and easy way to get your shed up and running. Deck blocks are pre-formed concrete piers that you can find at any home improvement store. They're easy to work with, and they provide a solid, level foundation for your shed.

To build your foundation, start by leveling the ground where you want to put your shed. Then, set the deck blocks in place, ensuring they're level with each other. Once the deck blocks are in place, you can start building your Shed on top of them.

We will show you two methods here. One is with an adjustable steel pipe for the right level, and another is without any deck support, only the timber frame. So, let’s start with the steps for building a shed foundation with deck blocks.

Method 1: Shed Foundation Blocks with Support Pipe

First, let’s see how to use concrete deck blocks with supporting steel pipes. People mostly use it when they need an accurate measure and perfect leveling. 

And with this pipe support, your hassle with the leveling and measurement gets reduced. Check out the steps.

Step 1: Check Land Area & Allowance

Whatever method you apply for shed foundation, remember, you have to be sure of your land area. You must check the land codes if it’s ideal for a shed foundation or not.

Then, you have to get the permit if you need it. You may need to be sure of the underground situation also. For that, call any structural engineer or check on the internet with the correct regional zip code.

Step 2: Make a Detailed Plan of the Structure

For any construction task, it is crucial to have a detailed plan of the structure and measurement. It will help you to check and be sure of every measure. 

If you already have a drawing, then what remains left? There won't be any chance to displace any blocks or ups and downs in leveling. So, you must have a detailed structure plan before you go down the field. And be sure of how many blocks you may need. 

An area of 12’’x12’’ may need around 18 blocks or even more. But it depends on the structure and size.

Step 3: Start with Digging

Now, the excavation time. Before digging, mark the areas where you have to put the deck blocks.

Start the digging. Remember, here is one thing. How deep you should dig will depend on how many feet high the shed will be above the ground.

So, measure it then and adequately dig according to that.

Step 4: Put Some Gravel

putting gravel is optional to some and needs to some. So, it's up to you. If you think the blocks may not be stable, you can put some gravel to increase the density.  

Press hard on the gravel mixture to make it leveled. You can do it with your legs also if you are in your shoes.

Step 5: Place the Block

Now, place your block on the gravel texture. Check if it is on the correct mark or not.

Step 6: Place the Supporting Pipes

Now, it’s time for the leveling steps. Take a leveling pipe. Take out the bracket side from the flat head end side. 

Place the pipe with a flat head steel side into the hole of the deck block. Make sure you place it so that the corner of the flathead steel will support the block corners.

Step 7: Pour Some Concrete Mix

Pour some concrete mix into the holes of the deck blocks. Wet the blocks and ensure the leveling pipe is finely attached to the cement block.

Repeat the steps from 1 to 7 and set all other blocks in the correct place. Smoothen the upper area of the concrete mixture on the blocks and let them dry out.

Step 8: Put the Bracket End and Place the Frame

After drying and being aligned accurately, place the bracket end of the steel pipes. Then, put the timber frame on them.

Here the best part is once you set the blocks with a leveling pipe, you don’t have to worry about any further frame leveling or beam leveling.

Insert the screws properly, and you are done with the base work.

Now, place the floor panel on the frame and nail down it correctly. Your shed base is ready. You can build any design of the structure you wish on it.

Method 2: Build without Extra Supporting

Many times method 1 seems a little tough and time-consuming to some people. So, if you don't want to use additional support for leveling, this method is for you. 

Well, here you won’t have to do anything extra or new. It’s easier than the other method.

Follow the steps from step-1 to step-5 shown in method-1. And after that, just place your timbers one by one with the accurate measure. 

Whenever you place the timber, check the length or width sizes, if it’s similar to the plan or not. And also, measure the diagonal after finishing two end lines.

Some Tips On How To Use Concrete Deck Blocks

A foundation is the base of any construction or building. Before building, you must be 100% sure of the facts that may affect you later. And using deck blocks, it has been very straightforward for people to build a shed foundation.

Here we are showing you some factors that you must consider before building. 

• Be sure of the land twice or thrice if needed. Check if the area is frost lining type or frost-proof on-ground foundation type. 
• If it needs frost lining, you will need a deeper hole and more weight to hold the structure. Using just deck blocks can’t make a stronger foundation.
• Choose the area far from any trees or branches. A shed foundation will have some spaces under it. So, trees can grow through it, which can be harmful to your foundation.
• You must keep a minimum of 2-foot space around the whole perimeter of the foundation area. It will help in flowing the utility lines and others.
• While building a shed foundation with blocks, try to have a small to medium size foundation/ If your area is more than 160 Sqft, then we recommend choosing the frost lining foundation. It would be best and ideal for a bigger size space.
• Leveling is a significant factor in any foundation. So in shed foundation too. So, it can take a lot of time, but you must be sure of the leveling every time.
• While buying the deck blocks, have some extras. It can be beneficial for you.
• Remember, a shed foundation is not a good option for residential construction.
• If your region is in hill tracks or a high windy area, it would be better to avoid deck blocks and use any other foundation method.

Final Words

Deck blocks are an excellent option for building a shed foundation, especially on flat ground.  And in this context, we have clearly explained two methods to build a shed foundation with deck blocks.

However, you are also getting some tips that you might need in any shed foundation blocks. So, don’t overthink. Archimple always serves you. So, contact us today.

Frequently Asked Question

What Are Deck Blocks?

Deck blocks are concrete piers typically used for decks and other outdoor projects. They’re easy to use and relatively inexpensive.

How Do I Use Them For A Shed Foundation?

To use deck blocks for a shed foundation, mark where the shed will go. Then, dig holes for the deck block piers, ensuring they’re level as you go. Next, set the deck blocks in place and fill in around them with gravel or soil.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Deck Blocks To Build A Shed Foundation?

Deck blocks are easy and inexpensive to create a level surface for your shed. They’re versatile and can be used on various surfaces, including uneven ground.

How Many Deck Blocks Do I Need To Use For My Shed Foundation?

The number of blocks you’ll need will depend on the size and weight of your shed. For a small shed, four or five blocks should be sufficient. For a larger shed, you may need up to 10 blocks.

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