How to Build a Foundation for a Small Storage Shed

Mark a foundation area that is 2 feet longer and 2 feet wider than the dimensions of the shade using stakes and string. Measure the straight lines as well as the diagonals to ensure the marked area is square. If your shed is small and manageable, you can place the structure in the spot and measure 2 feet from the sides to determine the foundation area.

Excavate 3 inches of ground using a shovel.

Rake the bed of the excavated site to even out the soil.

Place a 2-inch-by-4-inch board in the bed with a level on top and move it around to check for overall bed evenness. Add or remove soil as needed.

Compact the soil using a hand tamper.

Dig a 4-inch deep, 3-inch wide trench along the inside edge of the excavated site using a hand shovel.

Tamp the bed of the trench with a paver stone.

Line bed of the trench with a 1-inch layer of gravel.

Set 6-inch-by-6-inch pavers in upright positions, edge to edge, in the trench, all around the inner perimeter of the excavated site. Tap the tops of the pavers with a rubber mallet to set them firmly in the trench. Add or remove gravel under the pavers as needed to correct any unevenness. Backfill any gaps left in the trench after the pavers are placed with soil. The pavers will provide edging and retention.

Line the bed of the excavated site with weed-blocking fabric. Cut the fabric long enough to go up the sides of the pavers.

Fill the site to the top with gravel.

Place a two-by-four in the bed with a level on top and move it around to check for overall foundation evenness. Add or remove gravel as needed.

Tamp the gravel with the hand tamper.