DIY Builds
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Do plastic sheds get damp?

Metal Sheds and plastic Sheds will only suffer from condensation when dampness is present in the foundations. The air inside the shed is always slightly warmer than outside and therefore, any moisture in the foundation base will rise until it touches the cold roof panels.

Do pole barn posts need to be in concrete?
Do pole barn posts need to be in concrete?

Also, be aware that simply setting posts in concrete will not prevent rot. The wood won't be in contact with the ground, but moisture is absorbed...

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Can I spray vinegar on mold and leave it?
Can I spray vinegar on mold and leave it?

Pour the undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray it directly onto the moldy surface. Let the vinegar sit for at least an hour. Using a brush...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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CREATING A CONCRETE BASE

Step 1:

Decide where to position the building in an optimal space, allow enough distance from hedges or fences for easy access to all sides. Using pegs and string to mark out the base to the dimensions of the shed/foundation kit and measure diagonally to ensure the area is square. To get this to the right size you could build the foundation kit/shed base rails first and marks out using the outside edge of the framework.

Step 2:

A Concrete base requires 3 inch (7.5 cm) of compacted hardcore (not supplied) underneath the 3 inch (7.5cm) concrete layer. The base can be level with the ground or raised above it. If it is to be level excavate the top earth to 6 inch (15cm) to allow for the hardcore layer and the 3 inch (7.5cm) thickness of concrete. Level the area with a rake and remove the pegs.

Step 3:

Set up leveled framework if you have not got a foundation kit. Spread a layer of well compacted hardcore and cover with a liberal amount of sand. (Hardcore and sand not supplied)

Step 4:

Place a DPC (Damp Proof Membrane) on top of the sand. This is to prevent rising damp once the concrete has set. (Please note that the illustration is just to show the DPC, only use timber framework if you do not have the foundation kit option, as the foundation kit has its own shuttering). (DPC not Supplied).

Step 5: (If you have ordered a foundation kit)

Construct the foundation kit (if not already built) and lay it into your working area. Step 6: (If you have a foundation kit, construct the building before commencing with this stage) Lay DPM (Damp Proof Membrane) and mix the concrete (not supplied) using one part cement to five ballast or use bags of dry-mixed concrete to which you just add water. Small amounts of water should be added at a time and mixed into the concrete mix to ensure excessive amounts are added making the cement sloppy, as the concrete should be kept on the dry side.Spread the concrete evenly and slightly proud of the framework. This can be levelled off to the top of the foundation kit frame with a long straight edge of timber resting on the edges of the foundation kit or top of the formwork using a sawing motion slowly (as shown below) over the entire surface of the freshly laid concrete. You should be able to see the top surface of the foundation kit flush with the concrete. If wet weather is forecast, cover the concrete with polythene for 24-hours. In warm weather cover the base with damp sacks and sprinkle them with water over the 24-hour period, this will ensure the drying concrete will not shrink or crack. The result is a smooth, sound, level base. The perfect foundation for the construction of an outdoor storage building.

How much is a modular ramp?
How much is a modular ramp?

between $500 and $5,000 Modular ramps cost between $500 and $5,000 and are generally less expensive than their custom counterparts. Jun 17, 2022

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Do steel sheds get hot?
Do steel sheds get hot?

The metal shed simply doesn't have much heat to radiate so the only heat it accumulates inside comes from the walls that are in the sun. The shed...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

What happens if you don't put gravel under concrete?

Because concrete is a very porous material, it will absorb any moisture that it contacts. This can cause pooling. Without crushed stone, pooling water will settle under it and erode your slab. Adding a layer of crushed stone will add proper drainage, as well as create a barrier between your slab and the ground.

Concrete may seem strong, but after many years, elements, and pressure, it will eventually crack. So in order to make your concrete last as long as your money that went into it, adding a layer of crushed stone under a slab of concrete will increase the life of your investment. Here are 3 reasons why a layer of crushed stone is important to the life of your concrete:

A Level Surface

Adding crushed stone under your concrete slab will provide a level surface for your foundation. Simply pouring concrete onto the ground will expose it to elemental erosion that will cause cracking and sinking. Similarly, if there are roots or plants under your slab, they may rot and cause unevenness. Pouring concrete over crushed stone, however, will eliminate these worries.

Proper Drainage

Because concrete is a very porous material, it will absorb any moisture that it contacts. This can cause pooling. Without crushed stone, pooling water will settle under it and erode your slab. Adding a layer of crushed stone will add proper drainage, as well as create a barrier between your slab and the ground. For added protection, consider adding a vapor barrier as well.

Settlement Cracks

Over a long enough time, concrete is prone to cracking. A flaw that can lead to unevenness. So while this is typically caused because of movement and shifting in the ground (due to poorly compacted soil, or soil type), a layer of crushed stone will greatly reduce the chances of this happening, and increase its longevity.

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Can you get wood pallets from Home Depot?
Can you get wood pallets from Home Depot?

In addition to finding old pallets, they may also be purchased – typically online. The Home Depot offers recycled pallets and disassembled recycled...

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How much does a 12x24 shed weight?
How much does a 12x24 shed weight?

Base Weight: 3531 lbs.

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Can I build my own shed?

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