If you are a DIY novice, building a shed can seem like a daunting task, the key to success is to plan the task carefully and make sure the base you intend to place your shed on is level, sound and sturdy. Once you have achieved this the rest of the task should seem like plain sailing.

Carrying out the job of laying the base for a garden building should be simple enough for one person to complete singularly, unless of course the garden building you propose to erect is on the large size. It is sensible to arrange to have an extra person on site for the actual construction of the shed. An extra person will be able assist with the lifting of the roof and wall panels which are too large and cumbersome for one person alone to manage.

It is not usually necessary to obtain planning permission for a prefabricated garden building, although be aware that if you live in a conservation area or the garden building could obstruct a neighbours view, you should check with your neighbours and local council before proceeding with the garden building.

It is important to choose the most suitable spot for your garden building, consider access to the building ensuring that any required maintenance can be carried out with ease. Remember to take into account the conditions surrounding area of the proposed site, are there young trees which will grow over time and may affect your foundations. Try to incorporate as much natural light as possible in your chosen site as this is preferable especially for a workshop. If the designed building is to be a summerhouse you will want to contemplate the view of the chosen site. Should you require an electrical supply to the shed this may restrict where you can position the building and should be organised before the build is carried out.

There is generally two types of base that are suitable for a garden building, without a good, level base it is extremely difficult to line up panels and assemble a shed correctly. Garden building bases can be made of either a concrete base or a paving base. Normally a concrete base would be recommended for larger garden buildings. It is essential whatever method you choose to calculate the correct size of your base for your build, add 4 inches to your overall dimensions to ensure the base is large enough for your building.

A concrete base should comprise of a 3 inch layer of hardcore beneath a 3 inch layer of concrete, the base can be built level with the ground or raised above it. If you opt for ground level the site should be excavated 6 inches to allow for the layer of hardcore and the layer of concrete. Set up a timber formwork to the shape of the base and ensure that it is level. The next stage is to spread a layer of hardcore and make sure it is well compacted, and then cover with a generous amount of sand. Once this is done mix the concrete and spread evenly so it is slightly higher than the timber formwork. After this level off the concrete by using the long straight edge of a timber, once completed the result should give you a smooth, level base.

If you choose a slab base method you will need to remove the topsoil from the area and dig out to 2.5 inches for the base. The key to getting a good job done is to accurately measure the site for the garden building making sure that it is square and level, allow 2 inches all round to ensure the base will be large enough for the shed. Mix a dry sand and cement mix and spread an even layer of about 4cm, starting at one corner and working outwards lay the slabs, using a spirit level and rubber mallet to tap the centre of each slab ensure they are all level. Brush off any extra sand and cement and you should end up with a smooth, solid base.