Can a concrete slab be included in my shed quote?

When planning a new shed for your property, one of the first questions many customers ask is whether a concrete slab can be included in their shed quote. It's a reasonable question, particularly if you're looking to simplify the process of installing a large shed. The short answer? No, we typically don't include concrete slabs in our quotes, and for good reason.

Why concrete slabs aren't part of your shed quote

A proper concrete slab requires specialised skills and equipment that go beyond standard shed installation. Concreting is a trade of its own, requiring specific expertise in:

• Site preparation and excavation.

• Creating formwork.

• Installing reinforcement.

• Mixing, pouring and finishing concrete to the right specifications.

• Ensuring proper drainage and fall.

The quality of your slab directly impacts the longevity and stability of your shed. A poorly constructed concrete base can lead to uneven floors, water ingress, and structural issues down the track. That's why we recommend leaving this work to dedicated concrete specialists who focus exclusively on this type of construction.

Try our free Shed Builder tool to design your perfect shed.

When you might not need a concrete slab at all

It's worth noting that not every shed project requires a concrete slab. Depending on your intended use, location and budget, alternative foundations might be more suitable:

• Crushed rock base: Cost-effective for machinery or storage sheds in rural settings.

• Concrete piers: Suitable for sloping sites where a full slab would be impractical.

• Natural earth: In some cases — such as hay storage sheds — the existing ground may be sufficient. It’s free, readily available, and works well for low-impact use.

Each option offers different benefits in terms of cost, installation time and suitability for your specific needs. Many of our customers find that once they understand their options, a full concrete slab isn't always necessary for their project. 

Coordinating your concrete work

If you do decide a concrete slab is right for your large shed, there are several approaches to getting the work done:

Option 1: Shed erector with concreting capabilities

Some shed installation teams also offer concreting services. This can streamline the process, as they understand the exact requirements for your shed model. When discussing your shed installation, simply ask if your erector offers this service. They'll typically provide a separate quote for the concrete work.

Option 2: Dedicated concrete contractor

For larger projects or complex sites, like an industrial shed, hiring a specialist concrete contractor often makes the most sense. They bring focused expertise and dedicated equipment to ensure your slab meets all technical specifications.

When going this route, we recommend:

1. Getting your shed plans first, so the contractor knows exact dimensions.

2. Ensuring they understand the anchor points and load requirements.

3. Coordinating timing so the slab is properly cured before shed installation begins.

Option 3: DIY concrete (for smaller projects only)

While we generally don't recommend DIY concrete for large sheds, it can be viable for smaller garden sheds if you have experience. However, be realistic about your skills. A concrete slab is permanent, and mistakes are difficult (and expensive) to fix.

Key considerations for your concrete slab

Whether using a specialist or an erector who offers concreting, ensure your slab meets these essential requirements:

• Correct dimensions: The slab should extend at least 50mm beyond your shed footprint on all sides.

• Adequate thickness: Typically 100mm for standard sheds, potentially thicker for heavy equipment storage.

• Proper reinforcement: Steel mesh to prevent cracking and increase load-bearing capacity.

• Level surface: Maximum variation of 3mm across the entire surface.

• Drainage consideration: Slight fall to prevent water pooling against or under the structure.

Getting these elements right will provide a solid foundation for your shed to deliver years of reliable service.

Making the right choice for your project

When requesting your shed quote, remember that while the concrete slab isn't included, we're happy to advise on specifications and can suggest reliable concreters in your area. Many of our customers find this separation of services actually gives them more control over their project timeline and budget.

The most important thing is ensuring your shed has a foundation that matches its purpose and quality. A properly constructed concrete slab paired with our precision-engineered sheds creates a durable, long-lasting structure that will serve you well for decades.

Ready to take the next step in your shed journey? Download our comprehensive Buyer's Guide below.