Do I need a foundation? All manner of questions and solutions to problems and issues surrounding the subject of brickwork, blockwork and stonework

[amc1902]

I'm thinking of replacing my wooden shed with a self-build brick shed. If I site the shed in the place of the old wooden shed (in the corner of a large recently patio'd area), will I need to dig a foundation or can I simply build onto the patio'd area?

[ALDA]

I WOULD SAY IN THE LONG RUN, THE ABSENCE OF A SUITABLE FOUNDATION OR RAFT WILL COME BACK TO HAUNT YOU.

WOULD IT NOT BE WISER TO BITE THE BULLET AND PREPARE THE GROUND WELL BEFORE BUILDING YOUR BRICK SHED.

IT IS SUPRISING HOW MUCH WEIGHT THERE IS IN EVEN A SMALL CONSTRUCTION AND HOW GROUND HEAVE, FREEZE/THAW AND WATER ERROSION OF SUB-SOIL WILL INEVITABLY RESULT IN MOVEMENT AND FAILURE SOMEWHERE IN THE STRUCTURE.

PATIOS ARE FOR WALKING ON, ME THINKS!!!

ALDA.

[TheDoctor5]

Last year 64% of the questions asked in our forum were answered within our DIY project pages at www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects.htm The project pages are now separated alphabetically and your answers are accompanied by diagrams and the ability to see, and buy, the tools and/or required to complete your project. Use our search box to look for your answer and save a great deal of time and money!