How To Prepare Your Backyard For A Timber Shed

Installing a timber shed from Trekk Spaces is an exciting upgrade for your backyard, but like any quality timber structure, good preparation is always key. Taking time to prepare your space properly will make installation smoother, help your shed perform better long term and ensure it looks great from day one.  

Here is everything you need to consider before your timber shed arrives. 

1. Choose the right location for your shed

Before anything else, decide where your shed will sit. A well-chosen spot makes a huge difference to both the installation and longevity of the shed. 

When planning the position of your shed: 

  • Choose a flat, well drained area 
  • Make sure there’s sufficient clearance around the shed for airflow and access 
  • Think about future use. Door swing, storage access and maintenance  
  • Check any local council requirements if applicable 

If your site isn’t level, you should consider a steel subframe base for your shed. It’s designed for uneven sites and ensures your shed has a level platform to be built upon which is essential for correct assembly and long-term structural integrity. 

2. Prepare a strong, level foundation

Your timber shed must be installed on a solid, level foundation. This is one of the most important steps in preparing your backyard. Our timber sheds can be installed on several foundation types, including: 

Steel Subframe Foundation Kit 
For a quick and easy solution, Trekk offers a steel subframe foundation kit, tailored to each shed we offer. Using the steel subframe adds 12 additional months to your Trekk Space warranty, and comes with: 

  • Pre‑cut steel framing 
  • Pre‑drilled connection points 
  • Galvanised fasteners and hardware 
  • Heavy-duty stirrups and anchoring components 
Trekk Spaces
steel subframe in backyard

Alternative foundation options If you prefer to build your own include: 

  • Gravel pad with treated bearers. This option is a cost-effective option for smaller sheds (may require maintenance over time) 
  • Treated timber frame with posts or pavers. This makes the shed relocatable and easy to level 
  • Concrete slab. This solution long-lasting and ideal if you already have an existing pad (requires proper moisture sealing) 

Whichever option you choose, the key requirement is the same. It needs to be flat, square, and level. 

3. Check access for delivery and assembly

Trekk timber sheds are supplied as flatpack kits so access really matters. Before delivery, check: 

  • Clear access paths to your backyard  
  • Space to unload the kit 
  • Enough from around the build site to assemble  

You’ll also want to ensure you can safely manoeuvre larger panels in position during installation. 

Trekk timber sheds are supplied as flatpack kits so access really matters. Before delivery, check: 

  • Clear access paths to your backyard  
  • Space to unload the kit 
  • Enough from around the build site to assemble  

You’ll also want to ensure you can safely manoeuvre larger panels in position during installation. 

4. Have the right tools ready

You don’t need trade-level equipment, but having basic DIY tools on hand will make the process a lot easier. Typical tools required include: 

  • Tape measure and pencil 
  • Spirit level and square  
  • Electric drill 
  • Hammer 
  • Step ladder 
  • Craft knife  
  • Silicone sealant and wood glue  

Trekk provides step-by-step instructions so preparation is more about readiness than expertise. 

Trekk Spaces Shed Assembly Instructions
Trekk Spaces DIY assembly
Trekk Spaces pre-painted undercoat

5. Allow time and a helping hand

Trekk timber sheds are designed for DIY installation. Before you start make sure: 

  • You can set aside some time  
  • You have at least one extra set of hands  
  • You are comfortable with basic DIY tasks like pre-drilling, fastening and painting. 

Rushing the build can lead to alignment issues, so allowing enough time makes a noticeable difference to the finished result. 

two ladies putting a trekk spaces shed together in backyard

6. Plan for finishing and weather protection

Most of our timber are supplied with the exterior pre‑painted with an undercoat, which speeds up assembly and preparation. To complete your shed, you’ll need to: 

  • Apply exterior paint suitable for timber 
  • Seal joints and openings with exterior silicone 
  • Ensure roofing materials are installed correctly for weather protection 

These finishing steps protect your shed against the elements and help it look its best for years to come. 

Ready for installation

Preparing your backyard properly sets your Trekk shed up for success, making installation smoother, performance stronger, and ownership more enjoyable long term. 

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