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COOKIES
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This privacy policy sets out how Landscaping Supplies Direct uses and protects any information that you give Landscaping Supplies Direct when you use this website. Landscaping Supplies Direct is committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide certain information by which you can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement. Landscaping Supplies Direct may change this policy from time to time by updating this page. You should check this page from time to time to ensure that you are happy with any changes.
What we collect
We may collect the following information:
name
contact information including email address
demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests
other information relevant to customer surveys and/or offers
We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:
Internal record keeping.
We may use the information to improve our products and services.
We may periodically send promotional emails about new products, special offers or other information which we think you may find interesting using the email address which you have provided.
From time to time, we may also use your information to contact you for market research purposes. We may contact you by email, phone, fax or mail. We may use the information to customise the website according to your interests.
Security
We are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.
How we use cookies
A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.
We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes and then the data is removed from the system.
Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website, by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us. You can choose to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. This may prevent you from taking full advantage of the website.
Links to other websites
Our website may contain links to other websites of interest. However, once you have used these links to leave our site, you should note that we do not have any control over that other website. Therefore, we cannot be responsible for the protection and privacy of any information which you provide whilst visiting such sites and such sites are not governed by this privacy statement. You should exercise caution and look at the privacy statement applicable to the website in question.
Controlling your personal information
You may choose to restrict the collection or use of your personal information in the following ways:
whenever you are asked to fill in a form on the website, look for the box that you can click to indicate that you do not want the information to be used by anybody for direct marketing purposes
if you have previously agreed to us using your personal information for direct marketing purposes, you may change your mind at any time by writing to or emailing us at [email protected]
We will not sell, distribute or lease your personal information to third parties unless we have your permission or are required by law to do so. We may use your personal information to send you promotional information about third parties which we think you may find interesting if you tell us that you wish this to happen.
You may request details of personal information which we hold about you under the Data Protection Act 1998. A small fee will be payable. If you would like a copy of the information held on you please write to .
If you believe that any information we are holding on you is incorrect or incomplete, please write to or email us as soon as possible, at the above address. We will promptly correct any information found to be incorrect.
List of cookies we collect
The table below lists the cookies we collect and what information they store.
COOKIE name
COOKIE Description
CART
The association with your shopping cart.
CATEGORY_INFO
Stores the category info on the page, that allows to display pages more quickly.
COMPARE
The items that you have in the Compare Products list.
CURRENCY
Your preferred currency
CUSTOMER
An encrypted version of your customer id with the store.
CUSTOMER_AUTH
An indicator if you are currently logged into the store.
CUSTOMER_INFO
An encrypted version of the customer group you belong to.
CUSTOMER_SEGMENT_IDS
Stores the Customer Segment ID
EXTERNAL_NO_CACHE
A flag, which indicates whether caching is disabled or not.
FRONTEND
You sesssion ID on the server.
GUEST-VIEW
Allows guests to edit their orders.
LAST_CATEGORY
The last category you visited.
LAST_PRODUCT
The most recent product you have viewed.
NEWMESSAGE
Indicates whether a new message has been received.
NO_CACHE
Indicates whether it is allowed to use cache.
PERSISTENT_SHOPPING_CART
A link to information about your cart and viewing history if you have asked the site.
POLL
The ID of any polls you have recently voted in.
POLLN
Information on what polls you have voted on.
RECENTLYCOMPARED
The items that you have recently compared.
STF
Information on products you have emailed to friends.
STORE
The store view or language you have selected.
USER_ALLOWED_SAVE_COOKIE
Indicates whether a customer allowed to use cookies.
VIEWED_PRODUCT_IDS
The products that you have recently viewed.
WISHLIST
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How to Lay a Shed Base with Paving Slabs in 7 Easy Steps
How to Lay a Shed Base with Paving Slabs in 7 Easy Steps
20Aug
How to Lay a Shed Base with Paving Slabs in 7 Easy Steps
When building a shed, creating a stable base is crucial for ensuring its longevity and structural integrity. This guide will walk you through the process of laying a shed base using paving slabs in 7 easy steps.
A stable shed base prevents common issues such as sinking, shifting, and water damage. It also provides a solid foundation that can support the weight of your shed and its contents.
Using paving slabs for your shed base offers several benefits:
Durability: Paving slabs are robust and can withstand heavy loads.
Ease of installation: The process is straightforward, making it accessible even for DIY enthusiasts.
Cost-effective: Compared to other methods, using paving slabs is often more budget-friendly.
1. Prepare the Area
Step 1: Measuring and Marking Out the Shed Base Area
Begin by measuring the dimensions of your shed base using a measuring tape. Ensure that you account for any additional space needed around the edges. Accurate measurements are crucial to avoid any issues during installation.
Step 2: Using Wooden Pegs and String to Outline the Area
Once you've measured, use wooden pegs and a roll of string to outline the area. Drive the wooden pegs into the ground at each corner of the measured area. Then, tie the string around each peg, creating a clear boundary for excavation.
Tips for Accurate Measurements and Straight Lines
Double-check all measurements before placing pegs.
Use a spirit level to ensure that all pegs are at the same height.
Maintain tension in the string to keep lines straight and accurate.
Accurate preparation at this stage sets a solid foundation for subsequent steps, making sure your shed base is both stable and durable.
2. Excavate the Soil
Step 3: Digging up the Soil Within the Marked Area
Start by using a shovel or spade to dig up the soil within the marked area. Remove all topsoil and plants to create a clear working surface. Make sure to dig down at least 150mm (6 inches) deep to accommodate the sub-base materials.
Step 4: Ensuring Proper Depth and Evenness of the Excavation
As you dig, periodically check the levelness of the base using a spirit level. This will help you achieve an even excavation, which is crucial for stability. It's important to take your time with this step as uneven ground can cause problems later on.
Recommendations for Proper Soil Removal
Use a wheelbarrow to transport excavated soil away from the worksite.
Dispose of soil responsibly or use it in other garden areas.
Avoid digging too deep; maintain consistent depth throughout.
Accurate excavation lays the groundwork for a stable shed base, ensuring longevity and durability.
3. Add Hardcore and Sand for Stability
Step 5: Layering MOT Type 1 Hardcore on the Excavated Area
Transport MOT type 1 hardcore to the excavated area using a wheelbarrow. Spread the hardcore evenly, keeping it at a depth of approximately 100mm (4 inches). This layer will serve as the base for your shed, giving it the necessary support and stability.
Step 6: Spreading Sharp Sand Over the Hardcore Layer
After placing the hardcore, put a layer of sharp sand on top. Make sure to distribute the sand evenly across the entire area, aiming for a depth of around 50mm (2 inches). Use a garden rake to achieve an even spread and smooth surface.
Note: A solid sub-base is crucial for shed longevity. The combination of MOT type 1 hardcore and sharp sand creates a stable and durable foundation. This prevents movement and settling, reducing the risk of structural issues over time. Proper sub-base installation ensures your shed remains level and secure, safeguarding against potential damage caused by uneven ground or shifting soil.
4. Compact the Sub-base for Durability
Using a Tamping Tool to Compact the Sub-base Materials
Compact the sub-base materials using a tamping tool. This step ensures the hardcore and sharp sand layers are firm and stable, creating a solid foundation for your shed. Proper compaction helps prevent future shifting or settling.
Optional Use of an Earth Rammer or Plate Compactor
For more effective compaction, consider renting an earth rammer or plate compactor. These tools provide superior compaction by applying additional force, making the sub-base more durable. Rental equipment can often be sourced from local hardware stores.
Different Compaction Techniques for Varying Sub-base Materials
Different materials may require unique compaction techniques:
Hardcore: Mechanical compactors like plate compactors work best.
Sharp Sand: A tamping tool is usually sufficient, but a plate compactor can offer extra stability.
Ensuring optimal compaction at this stage will contribute significantly to the longevity of your shed base.
5. Lay Paving Slabs with Mortar
Step 9: Checking for Evenness Using a Spirit Level
Before laying the slabs, make sure the base is flat and level. Use a spirit level to check the surface. This tool will help you find any uneven areas that need fixing.
Step 10: Laying the First Slab and Aligning It Properly
Start by placing the first slab at one corner of your marked area. Make sure it lines up perfectly with the edges. This will create a strong base for the rest of the slabs.
Step 11: Using a Mallet to Tap Slabs into Place and a Garden Rake to
Once it's aligned, gently tap the slab into position using a mallet. This will make sure it's securely set on the mortar bed. Then, use a garden rake to keep an even gap between each slab, making them look uniform.
Step 12: Cleaning Off Excess Mortar with a Hard-bristled Brush
After placing each slab, immediately clean off any extra mortar with a hard-bristled brush. This stops it from drying and gives you a tidy finish.
Following these steps will give you accurate results and a strong base for your shed.
6. Secure the Slabs for Longevity
Step 13: Filling gaps between slabs with jointing compound
After placing all the paving slabs, focus on filling the gaps. Use a quality jointing compound to fill the spaces. This step is crucial for added stability and ensures that weeds don't grow between the slabs. Here's how you can do it:
Mix the jointing compound according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Use a trowel to carefully apply it into the gaps, making sure it's evenly distributed.
Importance of properly securing all slabs
Properly securing each slab prevents them from shifting over time, which can lead to an uneven shed base and potential structural issues. Ensuring that every slab is set firmly in place minimises movement, enhancing the durability of your base. Pay extra attention to corners and edges where movement is more likely.
A well-secured base translates to a stable and long-lasting foundation for your shed, giving you peace of mind and reducing future maintenance efforts.
By diligently following these steps, you create a robust and secure base that will support your shed efficiently for years to come.
7. Final Checks and Finishing Touches
Step 14: Checking the Shed Base for Evenness and Stability
After securing the slabs, it's crucial to check the shed base for evenness and stability. Use a spirit level to ensure each slab is level and that the overall base is flat. Walk around the shed base, applying light pressure on various slabs to detect any wobbling or instability. If any slab appears uneven, gently tap it with a mallet until it sits correctly.
Step 15: Making Necessary Adjustments
Make any necessary adjustments before moving forward with your shed installation. This might involve adding extra jointing compound where needed or realigning certain slabs. Ensuring all paving slabs are properly aligned and secured will prevent future structural issues with your shed.
Optional Measures: Weather Protection
Consider using a tarpaulin to protect your newly laid shed base from weather elements like rain or snow. This step is particularly important if there is a delay between completing the base and installing the shed. Proper protection helps maintain the integrity of your base, ensuring it remains dry and stable.
Taking these final steps ensures your shed base installation is robust and ready for use, providing a sturdy foundation for your shed.
Conclusion
Building a shed foundation using paving slabs involves careful planning and precise installation methods. Every stage plays a crucial role in ensuring the strength and durability of your shed. By following this guide, you can create a solid base that will stand the test of time and endure various weather conditions.
We encourage you to share your own experiences and helpful suggestions in the comments below. Your insights might just assist fellow DIY enthusiasts with their shed foundation endeavours.
FAQ - Paving Laying Patterns in Landscape Design
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using paving slabs for shed base installation?
Paving slabs provide a stable and durable foundation for the shed, ensuring longevity and stability. They also offer a level surface for the shed to sit on, preventing any unevenness or sinking over time.
What tools are needed for preparing the shed base area?
To prepare the shed base area, you will need a measuring tape, wooden pegs, and a roll of string. These tools are essential for accurately measuring and marking out the shed base area before excavation.
How can I ensure accurate measurements and straight lines when preparing the shed base area?
To ensure accurate measurements and straight lines when preparing the shed base area, it is important to use a measuring tape for precise measurements and wooden pegs with string to outline the area. Additionally, double-checking the measurements and adjusting as necessary will help maintain accuracy.
What materials are required for layering the sub-base during shed base installation?
For stability, layering MOT type 1 hardcore on the excavated area is essential. Additionally, spreading sharp sand over the hardcore layer provides a solid sub-base that is crucial for the longevity of the shed.
What techniques can be used to compact the sub-base materials effectively?
Using a tamping tool to compact the sub-base materials is recommended. For better compaction, an earth rammer or plate compactor can be used (rental may be required). Different compaction techniques should be employed based on the specific sub-base materials being used.
Why is it important to fill gaps between paving slabs with jointing compounds?
Filling gaps between paving slabs with jointing compounds is crucial for added stability. This helps secure all slabs in place, preventing movement or shifting over time and ensuring a durable and long-lasting shed base.