How long do ground screws last?

Ground screws are manufactured from steel and fully galvanised to approximately 70 microns. In average soil conditions our DIY Ground Screws will last in excess of 20 years.

diygroundscrews.co.uk - Self-install Ground Screw FAQs

How do you create a cutting list?

Create the Cut List Create a view of the assembly and create a parts list for it. Select the part list and apply the “Cut List” style to it. Right...

Last updated Jul 28, 2020

Do sheds need ventilation?

Ventilating your shed provides proper airflow and is important in your shed to prevent mildew and fume buildup from chemicals that you may store in...

Last updated Oct 28, 2021

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Self-install Ground Screw FAQs

How do Ground Screws work?

As the Ground Screw penetrates the soil it compacts the soil around it, making it more compact. The helix on the screw helps pull the screw into the soil and also provides additional stability and load bearing.

How easy are ground screws to install?

Our DIY Ground Screws and Extensions are designed for ease of installation using the correct equipment provided and methods of installation we promote. Please refer to our installation guides and videos.

Do I need to buy the installation equipment?

You can buy or rent installation equipment with a refundable deposit. If you are a regular installer we recommend purchasing either our PRO Spanner Kit or our Gearbox 1:20 Kit for speed of installation.

How do I choose the correct length of ground screw?

Our Extendable DIY range of ground screws are designed to provide the perfect solution. You can choose from our range of different length screw tips and add our extension pieces until you reach good load bearing ground conditions or to take up the levels in uneven ground. What you don’t use you can return and receive a refund. You can speak to one of our professional team for advice if you are unsure or your requirements.

What is the load bearing capacity of a ground screw?

This will depend on your ground conditions. Please refer to our load-bearing chart for information. We do not recommend installing ground screws in soft marshy ground as this will not offer good stability.

How long will Ground Screws last?

Ground screws are manufactured from steel and fully galvanised to approximately 70 microns. In average soil conditions our DIY Ground Screws will last in excess of 20 years.

How many Ground Screw do I need for my project?

You can use our Ground Screw calculator to provide you with the number of screws required. Alternatively contact one of our team to help with your enquiry.

Can Ground Screws be removed?

Yes, you can remove ground screws at any time by simply unscrewing them from the ground using the same tool to install them. You can even re-use them if you would like to relocate your garden project.

How do I keep my shed damp free?

Open the doors of your shed often to allow air to circulate. Stop moisture buildup by making sure your shed is well ventilated. Even opening the...

Last updated Jul 16, 2021

How long does it take to put a TUFF SHED together?

The result of this process is a building true to specifications, typically assembled in a single day, and situated precisely how and where the...

Last updated Oct 24, 2019

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

How thick should sand and cement be under slabs?

As you lay each slab, trowel the cement mix laying coarse where the slab will be placed. The cement mix mortar should be approximately 50mm in depth.

pavingdirect.com - How to Lay Patio Paving Slabs

To provide a stable and secure platform for your patio installation, you will need to add a sub-base of compacted DTp1 hardcore (an aggregate with particulates ranging from 40mm down to dust). We advise that you lay your sub-base to conform with the required fall. You can gauge this with string and pegs or depth staves. In both cases, you’ll start with a projected level line from the top of your patio (the datum line) and then measure down to either tie a line at the required gradient of the fall, or knock in staves at 1m or 2m intervals with the top of each stave representing the required depth of hardcore sub-base.

Sub-base of DTp1 aggregate (MoT type 1 hardcore)

Lay the DTp1 hardcore sub-base, ensuring it is compacted and even. It should be 150mm in depth once laid. We recommend laying the hardcore in two or three layers, compacting down each as you go. This approach will add strength and stability to the hardcore sub-base.

“Wacker” plate compactor

We recommend using a wacker plate (compactor plate) as this tool is the easiest way to ensure your hardcore is properly compacted, and that the aggregate particulates are settled and stabilised. If you don’t have one, you can usually hire one inexpensively (approx £25 a day).

Q: What is the best way to compact a patio sub-base?

A: Use a mechanical compactor AKA “wacker plate”. These can be hired for a little as £25 a day. Traditionally, a blinding coat (builders’ sand) was sprinkled on top of the hardcore to finish the sub-base, but if you’re using DTp1 (MOT Type 1) hardcore and a wacker plate this is not generally required (as the fine particulates and compacting forces generate the required finish).

Why do Swedish doors open out?

Doors open outwards in Sweden because, traditionally, Swedish homes had double-entrance doors. One door opened outward, away from the home. Another...

Last updated May 20, 2021