moving a shed

Trishh_2

Hi
Have any of you ever dismantled a wooden garden shed, to move it?

If so, did it go back together ok? Any tips on doing this/
Thanks

molerat

I have moved a couple of sheds and they both went back together fine. Just do it carefully is all I can suggest. At least 2 people are needed so that one can hold on to the panels so they don't twist and break. When it is apart use the opportunity to check all the joints etc and re-nail as required.

Avoriaz

I moved one some years ago. It was fairly simple and easy. It is really just the reverse of assembly. Ideally there should be two of you doing the work, especially if it is a large shed with heavy panels.

They are usually very simple structures screwed and/or nailed together. Examine it carefully all around inside and out and work out how it has been assembled.

Start with the roofing felt or roofing material. If it is more than a few years old you might as well just rip it off and renew it as it is probably very difficult to remove it without damaging it, especially if the layers have been bonded together. If it is still in good condition, you could try carefully removing it.

If the glazing is only held in with pins, it is a good idea to carefully remove it and set it aside somewhere safe. If it is secured with putty just leave it and handle that side of the shed very carefully.

Then just carefully dismantle the shed starting with the roof and working downwards. Make a note of what screws go where and, if you have to remove any nails, record what size is used where and either reuse the old ones if they are still straight or buy new ones.

Remove the roof, door and then the four sides in that order. Then lift the floor. You will probably find it is supported by timber joists.

Again, just record what goes where so you can reassemble it correctly.

Make sure the new surface is flat and properly prepared with brick or concrete supports for the timber joists.

It might be a good idea to treat the timber joists with preservative while they are exposed. You can also considering treating the exterior side of all the panels, though it makes little difference whether you do this while it is apart or assembled in place.

Good luck.

albalad

alternatively , if it's not a huge shed - and you have four fit and healthy people - just pick it up and move it !
this is how we moved ours a couple of years ago , i screwed a couple of timbers to the corners (as handles) and then slowly moved it to new position - job done :T

smudger1964

I moved a shed last year with the help of a trolley jack under one side and 3 strong people to guide it into its new position 50 metres away