Thoughts on structure to support raised shed

[ctmustache]

Hi Everyone

Currently planning to install an 8 x 10 shed on a sloped site. Building department don't seem to care how I do it. However, as I plan to put concrete piers in due to the slope, I did have to get health department and zoning approval.'

I will build a platform, and initially we will put a metal storage shed on top for speed. We'll mainly keep kids outdoor toys in there, plus a few garden items like the lawnmower, etc.

I'd really like to keep the piers to a minimum due to the terrain, but don't want to half-ass this. I was originally planning on putting in 6 piers, one at each corner and one on each side, half way along each 10 foot side. However, I'm curious what thoughts are on going down to 4 piers. Instead of being on each corner, they'd be inset about 1.5 feet from each end, with a 10 foot beam across. Therefore, part of each end of the shed would in effect be cantilevered over the end. Does this seem reasonable?

Also, given that this will be above grade due to the piers, what do you guys think about pressure treated/non-PT lumber?

Thanks!

[Greg]

Your idea is fine, you could even put 4 piers at the corners.  Piers should be set with their top at grade, so use a galv. bracket to hold the lumber off 1" from the concrete pier.  I like the adjustable ones.

Use 4x6 min. beams running the 10' direction.  I would use P.T. lumber and treat the cuts, and all galv. hardware but I overdo it.  Plain wood would probably be fine, but you could get some rot eventually where the framing is close to the ground.  A lot of moisture evaps up into structures from below.  You'll need some cross-bracing on the posts supporting the beams if there is any height involved. 

Simpson makes structural screws now for their sawn lumber bracketry, they're often a tidier install over Tico nails.  They have 1/4" hex heads and are hot-dipped galv., not the phillips head "project screws" also available.

[usmarine1975]

If I were doing this I would go a different route.  Humor me and do what you like it's your place.  I would consider a block wall for your foundation.  With a door on the lower end.  This essentially doubles your storage space as you have some underneath that could be used as a cold cellar.  Just a thought to consider.  It would be a little more to dig out and build the wall.  You could use stone for the floor or concrete the 1st level.  I am not a huge fan of piers or the nasty space underneath that you would have to maintain.  Just my opinion.

[dragoncar]

If I were doing this I would go a different route.  Humor me and do what you like it's your place.  I would consider a block wall for your foundation.  With a door on the lower end.  This essentially doubles your storage space as you have some underneath that could be used as a cold cellar.  Just a thought to consider.  It would be a little more to dig out and build the wall.  You could use stone for the floor or concrete the 1st level.  I am not a huge fan of piers or the nasty space underneath that you would have to maintain.  Just my opinion.

I'm guessing the building department might consider this a 2-story building

Anyways, looking forward to more replies as I want to do something like this too. 

[ctmustache]

I have now built the platform, and got 90% of the metal shed kit assembled. I'll post pics if people are interested.

As suggested I used 2x 2x6's for the 10' sides, with 2x6 joists between. These were built over 4 concrete piers below the frost line, with anchors attaching 4 4x4 posts to get to level. 5/8 ply on top, and it is very sturdy. Haven't yet braced the long posts at the back but will do so later in the week.

[dragoncar]

I have now built the platform, and got 90% of the metal shed kit assembled. I'll post pics if people are interested.

As suggested I used 2x 2x6's for the 10' sides, with 2x6 joists between. These were built over 4 concrete piers below the frost line, with anchors attaching 4 4x4 posts to get to level. 5/8 ply on top, and it is very sturdy. Haven't yet braced the long posts at the back but will do so later in the week.

Cool I'd love to see some pics.   Did you pour the piers in some sort of form or use preformed piers?

[ctmustache]

Here are some pics

[dragoncar]

very cool

[Greg]

Looks great!

[zolotiyeruki]

I'm envious.  Both of your land, and the fact that you can build a shed on your property (our HOA doesn't let us :( )