How Do I Prepare For A Building With Bearers ?
PLANNING & PREPARATION
This is the simplest option, however it's not suited to all buildings. If you are constructing the base for a building over 12' x 8', a garage, a sectional building, a corner unit, a gazebo, or a building with no floor, we recommend a purpose-built concrete base.
CONSTRUCTING THE BASE
Cut back any infringing trees and bushes. Allow at least 12" (300mm) all around and 36"-48" above the roof of the building. the base must be firm, level, square and designed to suit the floor size of the selected building as detailed above.
Carefully mark out the exact size of the required shed base, using pegs and string. Check this is square by measuring the diagonals - if the base is square, the diagonal measurements will be equal. Mark 6" all around the outside of this area for the overall size of the 'dig'. remove the setting out strings, but leave the pegs in place for further use. remove all vegetation and clear the topsoil to the depth required.
Carefully level and compact the ground using a large spirit level - there must be no bumps or imperfections in the level of the base. You make find it easier to put down a 2" layer of pea shingle over the area (this will also aid drainage) Finally, please have on-site various pieces of packing in case the fitter needs to pack any of the bearers. These should include house bricks, roof slates or tiles, and paving slabs.
USEFUL LINKS- B&Q - DIY Superstore
- Graham Group - Builders Merchants
- Homebase - Home Improvements Store
- HSS - Major Chain Of Tool Hire Shops
- Jewsons - Timber & Builders Merchants
- Keyline - Builders Merchants
- Travis Perkins - Builders Merchants & Tool Hire
- BuildNet - Handy Hints, Tips & Guides. Also has a discussion forum in case you get stuck!
