Preparing a stone pad site for a shed is key to creating a strong, level foundation that prevents moisture issues and uneven settling. Here’s a brief overview of how to do it properly:

1. Mark the Area — Outline your shed’s footprint using stakes and string, adding an extra foot around each side for stability and drainage.
2. Excavate the Site — Remove grass, topsoil, and debris to a depth of about 4–6 inches.
3. Level the Ground — Use a shovel and a level to ensure the base is flat and even across the entire site.
4. Add Landscape Fabric — Lay down weed barrier fabric to prevent vegetation from growing through the stone.
5. Add Crushed Stone — Fill the area with ¾” crushed gravel or stone, spreading it evenly.
6. Compact the Stone — Use a plate compactor or hand tamper to compress the stone until it’s solid and level.
7. Double-Check Level — Ensure the pad is flat, level, and firm before placing any shed blocks or foundation materials.

This simple process ensures your shed rests on a stable, well-drained base that resists shifting and water damage for years.

Adding a wooden border around your stone pad is optional but highly recommended. The border helps keep the stone level and compacted within a defined area, preventing it from spreading or shifting over time.

A square and properly aligned border is the most important first step. To ensure it’s square, use the 1-2-3 rule (based on the Pythagorean theorem):

Measure 3 feet along one side
Measure 4 feet along the adjacent side
The diagonal between those two points should measure 5 feet if your corner is perfectly square

This “1-2-3 rule” (or 3-4-5 triangle method) helps confirm that the border’s corners are true 90° angles, providing a stable and accurate foundation for your pad.