Moving a shed in your garden might be a complicated or simple task, depending on many factors such as the employed technique, the distance, and the shed’s condition and size. In most cases, however, it is essential to prepare carefully in advance to make sure everything happens as planned.
Be safe and smart to avoid any drainage issues, get less or more sunlight, and update the design of your garden. Here are our step-by-step guides on how to move a shed with different methods.
How to lift a shed
Before moving your shed, the first thing you need to do is lifting it up from the ground. Firstly, make sure to support any weak point beforehand to avoid any issues during and after moving. Remove all windows because any warping or shifting of the structure would break them.
To keep the shed in its shape, you should attach boards with screw or nails from all corners on the wall. Also, consider adding additional some diagonal supports across door and window openings because these are often weak points.
Next, you need to dig under the structure to set up the jacks. You can choose to dig 4 holes at 4 corners or 2 holes in the middle. If you don’t have the right tool for digging, then consider lifting the shed and fit the jacks underneath.
Jack up the shed to the necessary height. In most cases, you should set up multiple jacks to lift the whole structure at the same time. If you are planning to roll the shed on pipes, you might need to raise the shed a little bit higher to place the pipes and tracks. Keep in mind to ensure all supports and jacks are secure and level.
Move a shed by hand
Step 1: Prepare tracks and pipes
If you want to move the shed across your backyard, it is possible to roll it on a belt of pipes. Firstly, you need to select pipes which are long and sturdy enough to endure the weight of the shed. Thicker-walled pipes with a radius of around 2 inches will often ideal for small units.
Next, space out 3 pipes under the shed so that they are perpendicular to the moving. If you are moving on a soft ground, create the tracks with 2 pairs of wide, longboards to roll these pipes.
Step 2: Roll and reposition
Once you have already set up the tracks and pipes, push your shed slowly in the needed direction. It is essential to plan and control your movements carefully and estimate the total weight to get additional assistance. More helpers are always better to keep the shed in the track.
Also, reposition the tracks often so that they can stay under the pipes. Repeat this step until the structure reaches the destination.
Step 3: Reverse the process of lifting
After reaching the destination, simply push your shed off pipes. If it is large or not sturdy, you should use the jacks or have other people support in easing the shed back to place. Keep in mind to prepare the destination area so that it is level.
Watch the following clip to learn more about moving your shed by hand:
Move a shed by machine
Option 1: Set up your shed on the trailer
If you want to move a shed further than just across your yard, you need to set it up securely in a trailer. To ensure safety, make sure to jack it high enough to slide onto the unit.
Otherwise, you might need to use the ramp and combine lifting, pushing, and pulling to move your shed to the destination. Also, keep the structure centred and secured on the trailer with the snug, strong strapping.
Use a secure tarp to cover all roof shingles because high speeds would make them shear off. Also, you might need to cover all window openings, whether with or without windows, with plywood.
Option 2: Drag your shed along the sled
If you have a level ground and large yard, it is much easier to drag your shed along a makeshift sled with the help of a tractor or pickup truck. In these cases, keep in mind to secure the pulling chain or rope around the shed instead of the sled to prevent it from being pulled out when the truck is moving.
Construct the sled from plywood sheets or a fairly smooth, thin material and make sure it is bigger than the shed’s base. You should also keep the weight of the structure pin this sled under while moving or secure it with screws.
Wrap the whole shed with the tow line, around midway up its side walls. Tie, hook, or latch it on the area facing the truck’s back to keep it snug securely in place. Always drive steadily and slowly to avoid any quick stops or lurches forward. Also, have a few helpers guide and keep an eye on your shed if necessary.
Option 3: Use a crane or a forklift
Another option to move your shed in a long distance is to use a forklift. This machine can be helpful in relocating a propped-up and secured structure with ease. Also, a crane which is often used to remodel your house can also be a great option to move your shed quickly from the back to the front yard.
Keep in mind to learn how to use these units properly and safely to avoid any accidents. And make sure you shed is secured properly to the machine with sturdy and heavy-duty strapping. Once all is done, inspect the shed in the new location thoroughly, possibly apply a new shed paint, and enjoy it!
