Yes. All garden buildings must be installed on a strong, solid and level base, and this base needs to be in place before your delivery arrives.
Having a suitable base prepared in advance is essential for correct assembly, long-term performance and ensuring your building meets its warranty requirements.
Why is a base so important?
A properly prepared base provides:
A stable, level surface for accurate assembly
Correct alignment of doors and windows
Protection against movement or distortion over time
A solid foundation that supports the full weight of the building
Installing a garden building on an uneven or unsuitable base can lead to problems such as doors not closing correctly, gaps forming between panels, or difficulty during installation.
Is a base required for all garden buildings?
Yes. Every timber garden building, including sheds, summerhouses and log cabins, requires a suitable base.
While smaller buildings may tolerate lighter base solutions, larger and heavier buildings—particularly log cabins—require a more substantial and accurately level base to ensure safe and successful installation.
Does my base need to be ready before delivery?
Yes. Your base must be:
Fully constructed
Completely level
Ready to accept the building on the day of delivery
Garden buildings cannot be installed or correctly assembled without a prepared base. If a base is not ready, this may delay installation and affect delivery arrangements.
What type of base should I choose?
There are several base options available, including concrete bases, paving slabs and specialist base systems. The most suitable option will depend on:
The type of building you are purchasing
The size and weight of the building
The ground conditions in your garden
This article focuses on what to consider before ordering. Detailed guidance on constructing different types of bases is available in our Building a Shed Base article within the Maintenance & Care section.
What happens if my base is not suitable?
If a building is installed on an unsuitable base, it may:
Be difficult or impossible to assemble correctly
Develop alignment or structural issues
Experience long-term performance problems
In some cases, installing a building on an unsuitable base may affect warranty cover, which is why base preparation should be carefully considered before placing an order.
What should I do next?
Before ordering, we recommend:
Confirming the correct size of your building
Checking the base requirements for that product
Ensuring your base will be ready before delivery
You may also find it helpful to read our articles on base types before making your final decision.
If you would like advice on base suitability before ordering, please contact us and our Customer Care Team will be happy to help.
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