Your garden building must be assembled on a strong, flat, and level base made from a durable material. A level base is crucial for both the stability and longevity of your shed, summerhouse, or cabin.
Why it matters:
Doors and windows can become misaligned, making them hard to open or close.
Water ingress may occur if the building tilts or shifts over time.
Guarantee compliance: An incorrect base may invalidate your product guarantee.
Level tolerance:
Your base should be as close to perfectly level as possible. Even small slopes or uneven areas can affect the assembly and performance of your building. Use a spirit level when constructing the base to check both side-to-side and front-to-back alignment.
Tips for achieving a level base:
Check the diagonals of the base area to ensure it is square.
Adjust concrete, paving slabs, or timber bearers gradually to achieve a uniform level.
Ensure the base extends slightly beyond the building footprint (about 30–40mm extra on each side) to support the walls and roof properly.
Recommended base types:
Concrete base – ideal for larger buildings; compacted hardcore or scalpings with a smooth concrete finish.
Paving slabs – suitable for smaller sheds or summerhouses; ensure slabs are level and tightly butted.
Timber bearers – pressure-treated timber laid on compacted gravel; check each bearer is level with a spirit level.
A well-prepared, level base is the foundation of a secure and long-lasting building. Take the time to get it right before assembly.
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