Preparing Your Site

*Note: Horizon Storage Sheds is not responsible for any building permits required by the city or Rural Municipality. It is up to the customer to apply for applicable permits (if any).

1. Think about septic tanks, power lines, shrubbery, trees, and low hanging branches. Ensure there is sufficient space to transport the shed to its final destination.

2. You need to decide what kind of foundation to use. There are three ways to prepare your foundation. The first option is to use blocks, like those used for mobile homes. The second option is a perfectly flat gravel pad. The third option would be to build a concrete pad the size of the shed. We believe the using a flat gravel pad is the best and most economical of the three. The whole building rests on the ground rather than on blocks and distributes the weight evenly. Also, the step up into the building is not as high as it would be if the building were on blocks.

3. Your next step is to build your base. It is very important for your site to be perfectly level as an un-level foundation will cause the frame of the shed to be twisted and make opening of doors and windows difficult.

*Note: If you plan on hiring someone to build your base, you may want to share these instructions with them to ensure the site is properly prepared and leveled.

    How your shed will get moved.

    Site Prep Instructions

    1. Build Your Frame

    Begin your new shed foundation by constructing a temporary frame to contain the material for the base of your new shed. We suggest that you use 2×4 lumber to build a three-sided frame as pictured below. Fasten the frame to the stakes from the outside to ensure easy removal of the frame after it is filled with the base material and your building is set in place.

    2. Add Base Material

    To ensure the new foundation will be perfectly square, be sure to level all sides and measure the frame across the corners before filling with base material. We recommend using crushed rock for the foundation to maximize the longevity of your building.

    3. Level Base With Screed Board

    Slide a straight board back and forth over the top of the temporary frame to level the base material within the frame. Note: if the frame has not been properly leveled, this step can not be completed accurately.

    4. Compact Base Material

    Use a compactor to finish your new foundation. This will make delivery easier and minimize the shifting of your shed over time, which is especially important on larger buildings. Remove temporary frame after building is set in place.