If you want a more permanent base for your shed a concrete slab is a perfect option. You will get a floor that will last forever, and it will give you easy access since the floor is close to the ground. When preparing to pour a concrete slab for a shed, there are several factors to consider if you want to make the most out of it...remember it is always cheaper to do it right the first time.
Determine the size of the slab based on the size of the shed and any additional space you want around it. Make sure the area of the shed is slightly raised from the rest of the slab and the ground to make sure water doesn't seep under the wall and into the inside of the shed. There is no point in spending a lot of money doing a concrete slab if your storage shed still gets wet inside. At Eagle Ridge we build the sheds exactly to the size. So if you get a 10x12 shed make sure the slab is exactly 10ft wide and 12ft long and perfectly squared so that we can build your shed on it.
Determine the thickness of the slab based on the weight of the shed and any equipment that will be stored inside. A common thickness for a shed slab is 4 inches (10 cm), but a thicker slab may be necessary for heavier loads. If you are just going to store some boxes, tools, lawn mower, etc... 3-4 inches should be enough. But if you want to pull in cars, big atv's, or heavy machines you will need it to be thicker and better reinforced.(Ask your professional concrete guy if you don't know what thickness works better for you)
Proper site preparation is essential for a level and durable slab. Clear the area of any debris or vegetation, level the ground, and compact the soil to prevent settling. Also pay attention to where water will flow in a heavy rain and make it higher than the rest of ground around it.
Consider reinforcing the slab with wire mesh or rebar for added strength and durability. This also depends on what you will be putting inside the shed so ask your professional concrete guy what he thinks will hold the weight.
Like it was mentioned a little before, proper drainage is important to prevent water buildup and damage to the shed. Make sure the slab is higher than the ground around it and install drainage systems if necessary. You don't want to get up in the morning and find out your shed got flooded.
Eagle Ridge's onsite crews anchor the walls to the concrete using anchor bolts after the shed is constructed. Any bolts placed while pouring the slab will stand in the way and complicate the construction of the shed. So don't worry about anchors when pouring the slab but make sure your shed walls are anchored once the shed is done.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your shed's concrete slab is level, durable, and long-lasting. This way you make the most of the slab and you save money in the long run.