Wood Shed Base vs Cement Shed Pad
Question: Which shed base should I get?
One of the most common questions we get is in regards to the shed base. Specifically, whether to get a wood shed base or a cement slab base.
This post will help lay out the pros and cons of both types of shed bases.
TLDR: We think that wood shed bases are the best option for you shed in most cases. They are durable, strong, and much more cost effective than cement slabs.
Read below for the full breakdown!
Wood Foundations:
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Cost of the wood foundation is already included in the overall shed price.
- Water Resistance: Elevated structure virtually eliminates the risk of water damage from flooding.
- Settling Solutions: If settling does occur, there are relatively easy options to re-level the shed.
Cons:
- Critter Attraction: The number one complaint with wood shed bases is that they can become home to rabbits or other animals due to being elevated. There are ways to work around this, by installing chicken wire or skirting boards to cover the exposed foundation.
- Limited Support for Heavy Loads: Can’t hold as heavy of a load as cement, but will have no trouble holding most yard items (riding mower, snowblower, etc.)
- Elevated Entrance: May need a ramp to get into the shed, but that’s easy to add (we offer them as an upgrade as well).
Cement Slabs:
Pros:
- Sturdy Support: Ideal for very heavy storage, providing a robust foundation.
- Critter Prevention: Effectively keeps critters out from underneath the shed.
- Leveling: Once installed, the surface is typically level and even.
Cons:
- High Initial Cost: The upfront expense of installing a cement slab can be substantial. In our current market, quotes we’ve been getting are adding roughly 50% to the entire shed project cost. Most concrete contractors have a $3,000 minimum charge.
- Flooding Risk: Susceptible to water damage or flooding, particularly after snowmelt, because of how low to the ground they are.
- Settling Challenges: Limited options for addressing settling issues over time, if settling does occur.
- Finding Contractors: Difficulty in finding reliable concrete subcontractors, often leading to working with less experienced individuals.
- Heavy Equipment: May require heavy equipment to do the slab installation.
Now you can see the pros and cons of the wood shed base vs the cement slab. If you’ve already got a slab in place, it may make sense to use that and build the shed on a slab. In most other cases, the wood shed base will perform just as well without the added expense.
