Blackburn Sheds guides

Preparing a Garden for a New Shed

A practical checklist for choosing the position, getting the base ready and checking the route before delivery or installation.

A little preparation can prevent avoidable problems later. Think about the final position, the ground, drainage, the base and the route from the road into the garden.

PositionLeave room around the building.
BaseLevel, stable and suited to the footprint.
AccessMeasure the narrowest point in the route.
Before deliveryClear obstacles and protect the route.
Entrance and delivery route at Blackburn Sheds
Measure the route into the garden as carefully as the final spot.

1. Choose the position before preparing the base

Look for a place with sensible access around the building and enough room to open the doors. Avoid areas where rainwater collects or where vegetation will press against the timber.

  • Leave space for doors, drainage, inspection and future maintenance.
  • Consider how the roof sits beside walls, fences and nearby buildings.
  • Keep the building away from ground that stays wet or becomes difficult after rain.
  • Check whether planning rules or property restrictions may apply.

2. Prepare a sound, level base

The shed needs a suitable base that supports the intended footprint and keeps the floor clear of uneven ground and standing water. Clear loose material, roots and vegetation before checking the finished level.

  1. Confirm the footprintCheck the base dimensions against the shed size, including any practical clearance needed around it.
  2. Check the levelUse a long level or other reliable method across the area rather than judging from one corner.
  3. Think about drainageMake sure water can move away from the base and will not collect against the floor or walls.
  4. Keep the edges accessibleLeave enough room to inspect and maintain the building after installation.
Installed paved shed base ready for a new garden shed
Base installation available

We can install a new shed base ready for your building

If you need a suitable base before your shed arrives, Blackburn Sheds can discuss installing one ready for shed installation.

  • Plan the base around the agreed shed footprint.
  • Allow for a level finished surface and sensible drainage.
  • Check access for materials and the installation team.
  • Coordinate the base work with the new shed installation.
Discuss a shed base

3. Measure the delivery route

Start at the road and trace the complete route to the final position. Measure gates and the narrowest parts of side passages, then note every step, fence, wall, tight corner, low branch and overhead obstacle.

  • Measure the clear opening of gates, not the gate frame.
  • Check corners where the building may need to turn.
  • Look for steps, slopes, raised thresholds and soft ground.
  • Trim branches and clear pots, furniture, loose materials and vegetation.
  • Tell the installer about anything that cannot be moved or measured easily.
Useful preparation test: walk the route carrying a tape measure and note the tightest height, width and turning point. A route that looks wide enough can still be difficult at a corner.

The day before delivery

Clear the route again, secure pets, move garden furniture and make sure the base is accessible. If the ground is soft after heavy rain, mention it before the delivery is arranged rather than waiting until the building arrives.

Need to discuss a difficult site?
Call 01254 897262 with the measurements and unusual details. You can also read the full shed base installation advice.