Site Preparation Guide for Prefab Sheds
Adirondack Corp. 

1. Choose the Optimal Location

Before you break ground, look at the "big picture" of your property in Albany or Ulster County.

• Drainage is King: Avoid low spots where water pools after a heavy rain. Moisture is the enemy of wood, and while our structures are durable, keeping the base dry is essential.

• Accessibility: Our delivery teams need a clear path. Ensure there is at least 14 feet of vertical clearance (watch for low-hanging branches) and a path 2 feet wider than your building.

• Sun and Shade: If you are using the shed as a workspace, consider how the afternoon sun in Suffolk County might heat the interior.

2. Check Local Permits and Setbacks

Every town, from Glenmont to Endicott, has different rules regarding "Accessory Structures."

• Setbacks: Most municipalities require your shed to be a specific distance from property lines, fences, or your primary home.

• Permit Requirements: Some counties, like Nassau or Westchester, may require a permit for buildings over a certain square footage. Always check with your local building department before the delivery truck arrives at our Farmingdale or Westbury locations.

3. The Best Foundation: The Crushed Stone Pad

While some competitors suggest concrete blocks, Adirondack Corp. strongly recommends a Crushed Stone Pad for most prefab builds. This is the gold standard for drainage and stability.

• Size: Build your pad 12 inches wider than the shed on all sides (e.g., for a 10x12 shed, build a 12x14 pad). This prevents mud from splashing against your siding.

• Depth: Excavate 4 to 6 inches of topsoil and replace it with #2 crushed stone (not pea gravel, which shifts like sand).

• Leveling: Use a laser level. Even a 1-inch slope over 10 feet can cause doors to bind and windows to stick over time.

4. Alternative Foundations: Concrete and Piers

For our larger custom garages or structures in steep areas like Sullivan or Delaware Counties, a concrete slab or sonotube piers may be necessary.

• Concrete Slabs: These offer the most permanent solution but require professional grading and curing time.

• Piers: Best for steep slopes, though they do not provide the same uniform floor support as a stone pad.

5. Final Delivery Day Prep

On the day of delivery from our nearest location—whether it’s Hancock, Oneonta, or Elmira—ensure the following:

• Gate Clearances: If you have a fence, ensure the gate is wide enough or sections are temporarily removed.

• Ground Conditions: If the ground is exceptionally soft or muddy, we may need to reschedule to prevent ruts in your lawn.

Why Adirondack Corp. Sites Last Longer

Since 1991, we have stood by the quality of our builds. By following these site prep steps, you ensure that your 40-year non-prorated roof warranty and our high-quality New York wood are supported by a foundation that won't quit.

Need help visualizing your project? Visit any of our 12 locations, including Duanesburg, Dundee, and Hensonville, to speak with a specialist about your site's specific challenges. From the first shovel of dirt to the final delivery, we bring Veteran Precision to every square inch of your property.

Explore our current inventory and building styles here.