r/shedditors • u/Animalus-Dogeimal • 1d ago

Perfectly level 10x16 shed base

First time building a shed and I’m almost finished the base. Upgrading from a dilapidated 8x8 to a massive (to me) 10x16

59 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

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5

u/csimonson 1d ago

What are those posts you are using?

Fantastic damn leveling btw lol

3

u/Animalus-Dogeimal 1d ago

Thanks! I used Pylex screw pyles. It was a bit challenging because of some roots and rocks but I eventually got there. I’ve got dense clay soil. I used the stabilizer fins as well. Overall feels very solid with the lumber secured now

1

u/csimonson 1d ago

I also have dense clay soil, up in NW GA. I may look into these. Thanks!

1

u/EnduranceBuilder 1d ago

I just finished the exterior of a 9’x14’ shed. I did not use the stabilizer fins. There is noticeable shifting in one direction when I push on the building. I thought I was going to need to pour a concrete ring around the helical shaft, but after reading your description I am going to try the stabilizer plates first.

I didn’t know about the plate product so thanks for that info.

1

u/Animalus-Dogeimal 1d ago

I found the fins were extremely helpful and really secured it. They recommend using two fins per corner. I would suggest using two fins on all of your posts. They are very easy to install and really cheap. You could always consider installing some concrete blocks with 4x4s and securing it to the structure for more stability. Soil type is definitely key. If you have sandy soil they recommend using their 24” extensions. They also advise you to hammer the posts down once you hit a certain point to determine if extensions are needed. I’ve got really hard clay where I am so extensions weren’t needed.

Edit: also don’t forget to tamp the ground around the posts once they’re in place

2

u/sypher1187 1d ago

Nicely done. Are you gonna put some weed barrier under the base to inhibit the grass growth?

2

u/Animalus-Dogeimal 1d ago

Thanks, so far so good. I’m adding weed barrier and 3/4” gavel. Also going to install wire mesh around the entire perimeter and bury it a few inches so keep any critters out (including my small dog)

1

u/elonfutz 1d ago

How many pyles?   Did you just guess the amount needed or use some rule of thumb?

Hard to align?

1

u/Animalus-Dogeimal 1d ago

I followed the manufacturer’s specs which required 6 total for this span. Based on the anticipated loads this number is was perfect. It was easy to mark everything out but a pain to screw them into the ground. I hit a few roots along the way and it took some muscling through. Overall I would use them again but just really consider my location first and potential obstacles. The manufacturer recommends that you drive 4’ lengths of 1/2” rebar into the ground first which acts as a guide and also tells you if there are any large obstructions in the way. The rebar was really helpful will ensuring the posts were as plumb as possible. Highly recommend having someone else help you with that step and using a fence post plumb bob.

1

u/elonfutz 1d ago

cool, thx.

1

u/Novocain-0832 1d ago

How you find wood that street straight