So, you’re staring at your trusty 10×20 shed, and it’s time for a change of scenery. Maybe you’re relocating it to a new spot in your yard, or perhaps you’re even moving it to a completely different property. Whatever the reason, you’re probably wondering, ‘How on earth do I move a shed?’
The good news is, it’s absolutely doable! Moving a shed, especially a 10×20, is a significant undertaking, but with the right planning, tools, and a bit of elbow grease, you can successfully relocate your structure. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and safe move. We’ll cover everything from assessing your shed’s condition to the final placement. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Planning and Preparation: The Foundation of a Successful Move
Before you even think about lifting or rolling, proper planning is essential. Rushing into the move without a solid plan can lead to damage, injuries, and a whole lot of frustration. Take your time with these preliminary steps.
1. Assess Your Shed’s Condition
Inspect your shed thoroughly. This is the most crucial step. A shed in poor condition may not survive the move. Look for:
- Rot: Check the wood for rot, especially at the base, corners, and around doors and windows. Probe the wood with a screwdriver; if it’s soft, it’s likely rotten.
- Structural Integrity: Look for cracks, splits, or warping in the walls, roof, and floor.
- Foundation: Determine how the shed is anchored to the ground. Is it sitting on skids, concrete blocks, or a concrete slab? This will influence your moving method.
- Attachments: Note any attached features like porches, ramps, or lean-tos. These will need to be addressed separately.
If your shed has significant damage, consider whether it’s worth moving. Extensive repairs might be needed, and it could be safer and more cost-effective to build a new shed.
2. Obtain Necessary Permits (if Required)
Check with your local authorities. Depending on your location, you might need permits to move a structure, even within your property. This is especially true if you’re moving it across a public road or to a new property. Permits often involve:
- Inspections: The authorities might inspect the shed to ensure it meets certain safety standards.
- Road Closures: If you’re using a large truck or trailer, you might need to apply for permits to close off or restrict traffic on certain roads.
- Zoning Regulations: Ensure the new location complies with zoning regulations.
Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines and delays, so it’s best to be proactive.
3. Gather Your Tools and Materials
Get the right tools. You’ll need a variety of tools and materials for the move. Here’s a comprehensive list:
- Lifting Equipment:
- Hydraulic jacks: For lifting the shed. Consider several jacks with sufficient weight capacity.
- Bottle jacks: Useful for finer adjustments.
- Come-alongs or winches: For pulling the shed (especially if sliding).
- Moving and Support:
- Skids (pressure-treated lumber): To create a base for moving or to place under the shed to slide.
- Pipes or rollers (steel pipes are best): For rolling the shed.
- Heavy-duty trailer or truck: If you’re moving the shed a long distance.
- Wood blocks and shims: For leveling and support.
- Fastening and Securing:
- Wrench and socket set: For any bolts or screws.
- Screwdrivers (various types): For screws.
- Pry bar: For prying.
- Hammer: For nailing.
- Ratchet straps: To secure the shed during transport.
- Rope: For securing components.
- Safety Gear:
- Work gloves: To protect your hands.
- Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
- Steel-toe boots: For foot protection.
- Hard hat: Especially if working under the shed.
- Other Essential Items:
- Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
- Level: To ensure the shed is level.
- Chalk or marking pen: For making marks.
- Shovels and rakes: For ground preparation.
4. Clear the Path and Prep the New Location
Clear the path. Before you start moving, meticulously clear the path the shed will take. Remove any obstacles, such as trees, bushes, rocks, or anything else that could impede progress. Consider the width of your shed and the moving method you’ll be using.
Prepare the new location. Ensure the new location is level and ready to receive the shed. This might involve:
- Grading: Leveling the ground.
- Adding a foundation: Preparing a gravel base or pouring a concrete slab.
- Compacting the soil: Ensuring the ground is stable.
Measure everything twice. Double-check the dimensions of your shed and the new location to ensure everything fits.
Method 1: Sliding the Shed
Sliding is a good option for short distances across relatively flat ground. It’s often the simplest method, but it requires a lot of manpower and a bit of patience.
1. Prepare the Base
Lift and Prepare the base. Use jacks to lift the shed slightly off the ground. Then, place several long, sturdy skids (pressure-treated lumber) under the shed, running in the direction you plan to move it. These will act as runners.
2. Create a Sliding Surface
Reduce friction. You can use several methods to reduce friction to make sliding easier. Consider:
- Grease or Soap: Apply grease or heavy-duty soap to the skids and the ground to reduce friction.
- Plastic Sheeting: Place heavy-duty plastic sheeting under the skids to help the shed slide.
- Waxed Lumber: Wax the skids for smoother movement.
3. Begin Sliding
Get moving. Use come-alongs or a winch attached to a sturdy anchor point (a tree, a stake in the ground, or a vehicle) to slowly pull the shed along the skids. Ensure the path is clear and that the shed is moving in a straight line. Have people on either side to help guide it. (See Also: How To Get Rid Of Wasps Nest In Shed )
Constant adjustments. Continuously monitor the shed’s movement, and make adjustments as needed. If the shed gets stuck, reassess the situation and adjust your technique. Consider adding more lubrication or removing any obstructions.
4. Level and Secure
Level it up. Once the shed is in its new location, use jacks and shims to level it. Make sure it’s perfectly level before securing it to its new foundation.
Method 2: Rolling the Shed
Rolling is ideal for moving the shed a moderate distance, especially if the ground is relatively even. This method involves using pipes or rollers.
1. Lift the Shed
Get some lift. Using hydraulic jacks, lift the shed high enough to allow you to place pipes or rollers underneath. Make sure you lift it evenly on all sides to avoid racking the structure.
2. Place the Rollers
Roll, roll, roll. Place the pipes or rollers perpendicular to the direction of movement, spacing them evenly under the shed. Start with a few rollers at the front and slowly work your way along. Be sure to use steel pipes, as they are strong.
3. Roll the Shed
Start rolling. Carefully push or pull the shed along the rollers. As the shed moves forward, retrieve the rollers from the back and reposition them in the front. This is a continuous process.
Safety first. Ensure the ground is firm enough to support the weight of the shed and the rollers. Have people on either side to guide the shed and prevent it from tipping.
4. Level and Secure
The final touch. Once the shed is in its new location, use jacks and shims to level it. Then, secure it to its new foundation.
Method 3: Lifting and Transporting (using a Trailer or Truck)
This is the best method for moving the shed a significant distance, especially across public roads. It requires a trailer or truck with a sufficient weight capacity.
1. Prepare the Shed
Minimize the weight. Before lifting, remove any loose items from the shed, such as tools, equipment, and furniture. This will reduce the overall weight and make the move easier. Also, consider removing the roof if it’s easily removable, to lower the center of gravity and reduce the overall weight. Be sure to label each part.
Reinforce the structure. If the shed is old or structurally weak, you might need to reinforce it before lifting. This could involve adding bracing to the walls and roof.
2. Lift the Shed
Get the right gear. Use a heavy-duty forklift, crane, or a combination of jacks and beams to lift the shed. Ensure the lifting equipment has a weight capacity that exceeds the shed’s weight.
Lift evenly. Lift the shed evenly on all sides to prevent it from racking or twisting. Use straps or chains to secure the shed to the lifting equipment.
3. Load the Shed Onto the Trailer or Truck
Load it up. Carefully maneuver the shed onto the trailer or truck bed. Ensure the shed is centered and properly balanced on the trailer. (See Also: How To Build A Flat Roof For A Shed )
Secure the load. Use ratchet straps or chains to secure the shed to the trailer. Make sure the straps are tight and that the shed cannot move during transport. Check local laws for transport requirements.
4. Transport the Shed
Drive carefully. Drive slowly and carefully, especially when turning or going over bumps. Avoid sudden stops or starts. Consider the height of the shed and any overhead obstructions.
Monitor the load. Regularly check the straps or chains to ensure they remain secure. Stop periodically to inspect the shed and trailer.
5. Unload and Place
Reverse the process. At the new location, use the lifting equipment to carefully unload the shed from the trailer or truck. Place the shed on the prepared foundation.
Level and secure. Level the shed using jacks and shims, and then secure it to its new foundation.
Disassembling and Reassembling the Shed (as a Last Resort)
If the shed is in poor condition, or if access is restricted, you might need to disassemble it and reassemble it at the new location. This is the most labor-intensive method, but it can be necessary.
1. Document the Shed
Take photos and notes. Before you start disassembling, take detailed photos and notes of the shed’s construction. This will help you during reassembly.
2. Disassemble the Shed
Take it apart. Carefully disassemble the shed, starting with the roof and working your way down. Label each piece and keep all screws, nails, and hardware organized. Consider using a system to keep everything organized.
3. Transport the Parts
Move the pieces. Transport the disassembled parts to the new location. A trailer or truck will be necessary.
4. Reassemble the Shed
Put it back together. Reassemble the shed at the new location, following your photos and notes. Ensure all parts are properly aligned and secured.
Safety Precautions: Your Well-Being Matters
Moving a shed is a potentially dangerous activity. Always prioritize safety. Here are some essential safety precautions:
- Wear appropriate safety gear. This includes work gloves, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and a hard hat.
- Get help. Enlist the help of friends, family, or professional movers. Moving a shed is not a one-person job.
- Assess the weather. Avoid moving the shed in windy or rainy conditions.
- Clear the area. Keep the work area clear of obstacles and debris.
- Be aware of overhead power lines. Maintain a safe distance from power lines.
- Take breaks. Moving a shed can be physically demanding. Take breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Communicate. Communicate clearly with your helpers.
- Know your limits. Don’t try to lift or move anything that’s too heavy for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (faq)
Q: How much does it cost to move a 10×20 shed?
A: The cost varies widely depending on several factors, including distance, method, and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. DIY moves can cost a few hundred dollars for materials, while professional moves can cost several thousand.
Q: Can I move a shed myself? (See Also: How Many Times Does A Snake Shed A Year )
A: Yes, you can move a shed yourself, but it requires careful planning, the right tools, and physical effort. The sliding and rolling methods are more suitable for DIY moves.
Q: How long does it take to move a shed?
A: The time depends on the method, distance, and your experience. A DIY move might take a day or two, while a professional move could be completed in a few hours.
Q: What is the best method to move a shed?
A: The best method depends on your shed’s condition, the distance to be moved, and your resources. Lifting and transporting is best for long distances, while sliding or rolling is suitable for short moves.
Q: What if my shed doesn’t have a floor?
A: If your shed doesn’t have a floor, you’ll need to create a temporary or permanent floor during the move. You can build a temporary floor using pressure-treated lumber or place the shed directly on skids.
Q: How do I prepare the ground for my shed?
A: The ground should be level and well-drained. You can prepare the ground by grading the area, adding a gravel base, or pouring a concrete slab. The best choice depends on your shed’s foundation and your local climate. You can also use gravel to further level the ground.
Q: What are the risks of moving a shed?
A: Risks include structural damage to the shed, personal injury, and damage to the surrounding property. Careful planning, proper tools, and safety precautions can minimize these risks.
Q: Should I hire professional movers?
A: Hiring professionals is recommended if you’re uncomfortable with the DIY process, if your shed is large or in poor condition, or if you’re moving it a long distance. Professional movers have the experience, equipment, and insurance to handle the move safely and efficiently.
Final Verdict
Moving a 10×20 shed can seem daunting, but with careful planning, the right tools, and a bit of effort, you can successfully relocate your structure. Remember to assess your shed’s condition, gather the necessary equipment, and choose the moving method that best suits your needs. Prioritize safety throughout the entire process, and don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. Good luck, and enjoy your newly relocated shed!
