I’ve been tired of the backyard staying the same for years on end. So, last summer, I decided to give it a complete overhaul.
Apart from the usual nitty-gritty associated with the task, one of the essential jobs I had to handle was moving the storage shed to a new spot. I wanted to place it in a more strategic location so as to minimize the walk from the house to the shed and back.
Naturally, I realized this wasn’t a task that I could tackle myself, so I called upon my son and husband to help out. After a bit of planning, they carried out the job, while I helped from the sidelines; and observed the entire process.
Howdy folks! I’m Stacy Smith, and today I’ve decided to teach you how to move a storage shed. This is a problem that needs a carefully curated guide, and as my readers know, helping others is sort of my thing.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
Moving A Storage Shed
Factors To Consider Before Beginning
There’s no denying that moving a storage shed is no easy task, and just hearing about it often makes people think that it’s an impossible endeavor. While by no means ‘impossible,’ it can, nevertheless, be rather tricky. That’s why, before moving a shed, you have to consider a few factors as outlined below:
The size of the shed
The condition of the shed
The distance of the move
Based on the above factors, you’ll have to decide whether you need to dismantle the shed to move it or shift the entire structure as is. For smaller sheds such as mine, it’s entirely possible to shift it without taking it apart.
That being said, I’d like to mention that the easiest method for moving a shed remains a forklift. However, since they didn’t have access to one, my husband and son had to use a bit of ingenuity to get the job done. Here are the steps for doing so.
Steps To Move A Storage Shed
1. Get The Shed Empty
The very first thing that you’ll need to do is get the shed empty. Trying to move a shed with all its contents inside will only lead to damaging the stored items. Plus, it will also add to the shed’s weight, so you’ll need to take everything out and place it in a secure location.
2. Gather All Equipment
Next, you need to gather all the equipment that you need for the task. Here you’ll have to get a hold of a few pipes (even round scaffolding poles or fence posts will do) to act as rollers. You’ll also need some timber, a spade, and a jack for lifting the shed.
3. Clear All Obstacles
By this time, you should have identified the location where you want to move the shed, and the route you’ll take from your current position to the destination. Once you have that down, you’ll have to clear the path of all obstacles that might get in the way of the move. Not doing so can lead to accidents, so do this with diligence.
4. Reinforce The Shed Structure
I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you that sheds aren’t built to be moved around; they are meant to stay where they are. That’s why, when moving the shed, you’ll need to reinforce its structural weak points to ensure that it doesn’t fall apart while you’re moving it.
To do so, you can remove the windows and doors of the shed. You can even attach boards to the shed floor in the shape of an X to ensure that the shed’s structural integrity is preserved while it is being moved.
5. Dig The Shed Out
Once sheds are put in place, they usually sink into the ground to some extent. That’s why when moving the structure, you’ll need to dig around the shed and create space for placing the jack. I suggest you dig at least six inches deep to ensure sufficient loosening of the soil around the base.
6. Lift The Shed
Now comes the hard part where you have to lift the shed onto the rollers. For this, use a mechanical or hydraulic jack that’s powerful enough to bear the shed’s weight. Raise one side of the shed, and slide the rollers underneath.
You might need to use wooden tracks to slide the rollers under the shed. Be advised: this is a step that needs careful handling. I recommend getting some extra pairs of hands to help you out from this point onwards.
7. Roll The Shed To The Desired Location
Once the shed is on the rollers, begin to slide the entire arrangement towards the destination carefully. If you’ve already cleared the path, then you shouldn’t face much trouble while doing so. Just remember to keep the pipes properly aligned, and you’re good to go.
8. Place The Shed In The New Location
After you’ve got the shed to its desired new spot, use the jack to lift it and remove the rollers. Then allow the shed to settle into the ground, and reassemble any parts you may have removed during the move. And you’re done! You can now place all the stuff back inside the shed and use it.
Final Words
Now that you know all about moving a storage shed, I’m sure you’re excited about getting the gear and taking your shed for a spin. Before you do, however, make sure that you have all the right equipment for the job.
Also, don’t try to move a huge shed without dismantling it. In case the shed you’re considering for a move is of a considerable size, I suggest that you call in professional help to get it done properly. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
That’s all for today, folks. Catch you later!