Looking for advice
I’m trying to build a gravel foundation for a 10’x16’ shed. I’ve never really done this before and am just trying to get it right.
I have an area dug out that is 12’x18.3’. I’ve had some issues with some of the particulars of this.
I’m using 4x6 ground contact boards for the frame that will contain the gravel. Should I be putting a layer of compacted gravel underneath the frame so there’s a buffer and it’s not directly contacting dirt? I’ve heard differing opinions.
I definitely dug the hole too deep. My photos are just to show how far I went with an extra piece of 4x6 in there for a visual…. The ground where this is going is higher on the back than on the front and things just got a little carried away while I was trying to dig relatively level….mistakes were made…maybe When I drop the boards in, the top is several inches below flush with the surrounding ground at the front and even more at the back. It seems my only options are to either backfill some of the dirt or leave it and just buy more gravel. My dad has a heavy skid steer loader and thinks he can just bring it over and backfill it and drive over it several times and that will be good enough…I feel like I should rent a compactor and make sure it’s more evenly compacted everywhere. Is any of this right?
Typically where should the 4x6’s sit relative to ground level at the end? I guess I got it in my head that the top of the frame should be somewhat flush or slightly above the surrounding ground. Again, I realize I dug too far since it’s actually several inches below but I thought I needed more gravel underneath than is probably necessary.
I mentioned the compactor already for the dirt, but I would like it also use it for the gravel. Is this overkill? It seems like a lot to tamp down by hand.
I appreciate anyone taking the time to help. I realize there are issues, so I don’t really need to hear about it. I just want to figure the best way to get this done from here. Shed will mainly be used for storage, nothing too overly heavy. Thanks.