Question 1

Which shed base type is best for my Christchurch garden?

Accepted Answer

The best base depends on your garden's specific conditions. In Christchurch, we commonly recommend: Concrete slabs — Ideal for heavy-duty workshops or large sheds on well-drained ground. Works well in Highcliffe and Walkford where sandy soils drain freely. Timber frame on posts — Best for gardens with softer ground or properties near the rivers where water tables can fluctuate seasonally. Ground screws — The fast, no-dig option that causes minimal disturbance. Popular in established gardens where preserving landscaping matters. Paving slabs — A classic, budget-friendly choice for smaller sheds in residential gardens like Somerford and Purewell. We'll assess your garden access, ground conditions, and shed size to recommend the most suitable option.

Question 2

What's the difference between ground screws and concrete bases?

Accepted Answer

Both create solid foundations, but they work very differently: Concrete bases involve excavating your ground, laying a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base, then pouring reinforced concrete. The concrete needs 24-48 hours to cure before you can place your shed. This is the most robust option for heavy workshops, but requires more excavation and generates more waste. Ground screws are large steel screws driven directly into the earth using specialist machinery. They support a timber frame on top. Installation is faster (often same-day), there's no concrete curing wait, and minimal ground disturbance. They're particularly useful in Christchurch where you want to avoid disturbing established gardens or where access is limited. Ground screws cost slightly more upfront (from £1,180 for an 8x6 base vs £595 for concrete), but save on excavation costs and are fully reversible if you ever want to relocate your shed.

Question 3

Is a timber frame base better for gardens near the rivers?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Properties near the Rivers Avon and Stour can experience higher water tables, especially after heavy rainfall. A raised timber frame on concrete or ground screw posts keeps your shed floor above any potential moisture, improving airflow underneath and reducing the risk of damp. Timber frame bases also work well on ground that may be softer or prone to seasonal movement. The posts transfer the load to more stable ground below the surface. Timber frame bases start from £700 for an 8x6 shed. During your free quote, we'll assess your garden and recommend whether this approach would benefit your specific location.

Question 4

How much does a shed base cost in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Shed base prices in Christchurch depend on the base type and size. Here are our starting prices for standard installations: Paving slab base: From £510 (9x5) Concrete slab base: From £595 (8x6) Timber frame base: From £700 (8x6) Ground screw base: From £1,180 (8x6, screws only) or £1,650 (with timber frame) Your final quote includes all materials, labour, and waste removal — no hidden costs. View our full price list for more sizes, or request a personalised quote.

Question 5

Is VAT included in your prices?

Accepted Answer

If VAT is applicable to your project, we will clearly notify you as part of your quotation. There are no hidden extras — your quote shows exactly what you'll pay. Some domestic groundworks may be VAT-exempt under certain conditions. We'll explain which applies to your specific project when we provide your quote.

Question 6

What factors affect shed base pricing in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Several factors influence your final price in the Christchurch area: Base size: Larger bases require more materials and labour. Ground conditions: The sandy soils in Highcliffe and Mudeford generally work well, but properties near the rivers may need additional preparation. Access: Older properties around the Priory and town centre often have narrow side access. We have equipment to work in tight spaces. Drainage: If your garden has drainage concerns, we may recommend a raised timber frame or ground screws. Existing obstacles: Removing old bases, tree stumps, or heavy vegetation adds to the work. We provide honest, transparent quotes with no surprises. What we quote is what you pay.

Question 7

Can you access gardens in the older parts of Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Almost certainly, yes. Access challenges are common in the older properties around the Priory, town centre, and Purewell. We've invested in specialist equipment specifically to tackle restricted access: Micro-diggers that can fit through a standard doorway (under 750mm wide) Power barrow systems for moving materials through tight spaces Ground screw installers that avoid the need for concrete trucks entirely If access is extremely tight — for example, through a house or over a wall — a quick site visit helps us plan the most efficient approach. Send us a photo of your access when you request a quote, and we'll confirm what's possible.

Question 8

What are the ground conditions like in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Christchurch sits on varied ground, largely influenced by its rivers and coastal location: Sandy, free-draining soil (Highcliffe, Mudeford, Walkford): Excellent drainage but needs proper compaction. Works well for all base types. Gravel deposits (most of BH23): Generally stable and well-drained. A good foundation for concrete bases. River-influenced areas (near the Avon/Stour): Can have higher water tables after rain. Raised timber frames or ground screws often work best here. Alluvial areas (near the Harbour): Softer ground that may need additional consideration for heavier structures. Because we're local, we know exactly which preparation each area needs. We'll tell you if your postcode has specific challenges and how we'll address them — it's all included in your fixed-price quote.

Question 9

Do I need planning permission for a shed base in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Most garden sheds qualify as "permitted development" and don't need planning permission, but there are specific rules to follow: General permitted development rules: Outbuilding must be single-storey with eaves no higher than 2.5m Maximum height 4m (dual-pitched roof) or 3m (other roof types) If within 2m of a boundary, maximum height is 2.5m Total area of outbuildings must not exceed 50% of your garden Must be at the rear, not forward of the principal elevation Conservation areas (around the Priory and Quay): Additional restrictions may apply. Check with the council before proceeding. For specific guidance, contact BCP Council Planning .

Question 10

Are there Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are TPOs on various trees throughout Christchurch, particularly in established residential areas and near Highcliffe Castle. A TPO means you cannot cut down, lop, top, uproot, or damage a protected tree without consent from the Local Planning Authority. If your shed base would be near a TPO-protected tree, concrete excavation could damage the root system — which risks prosecution and fines. This is where ground screws become valuable . They're driven into the ground between roots, causing minimal disturbance — a "no-dig" solution that satisfies TPO requirements. Additionally, if you're in a Conservation Area (parts of the town centre near the Priory), trees with stems over 75mm diameter at 1.5m height are automatically protected. You can check for TPOs on your property by contacting BCP Council's Tree Officers . We're experienced in working around protected trees and can advise on compliant base solutions during your quote.

Question 11

How long does shed base installation take in Christchurch?

Accepted Answer

Most shed bases in Christchurch are installed in a single day. Here's what to expect: Paving slab base: Typically 1 day Concrete base: 1 day for installation, plus 24-48 hours curing before you can place the shed Timber frame base: 1 day Ground screw base: Often half a day — the fastest option Larger bases (over 12x10) or challenging ground may require a second day. We'll confirm the timeline in your quote. We always aim to complete work as efficiently as possible, respecting your privacy and leaving your property immaculate.

Question 12

Is a site visit required before you quote?

Accepted Answer

Not always. For standard shed bases in Christchurch, clear photos and measurements are usually enough for us to provide an accurate fixed-price quote — often on the same day you enquire. We recommend a free, discreet site survey for: Gardens near the rivers with potential drainage concerns Very restricted access (e.g., through a house or over a wall) Sites near protected trees Larger bases (over 15x10) Commercial or unusual applications Site visits are always free and arranged at your convenience.

Question 13

Do you supply sheds?

Accepted Answer

No, we specialise in bases and foundations only — it's what we do best. However, these Christchurch-based shed suppliers can help: Fencing Centre Garden Structures — Based at Hurn Bridge (BH23 6AE), they specialise in sheds, summerhouses, and garden buildings with expert local advice. Coastal Garden Buildings — Family-run with 40+ years experience, with a show site at Stewarts Garden Centre in Christchurch. They offer bespoke designs too. Order your shed, then contact us for the base — we'll coordinate timing so the base is ready when your shed arrives.

Question 14

Do you assemble or erect sheds?

Accepted Answer

No, we focus exclusively on base installation. However, several Christchurch-area tradespeople offer professional shed assembly: Coastal Garden Buildings — Have their own experienced fitting team and operate within 25 miles of Christchurch. They also assist with groundwork and site surveys. Matthew Wilkins Landscapes Ltd — Based in Bournemouth, they offer shed construction and installation across Christchurch and the surrounding areas. Local Christchurch handymen — Search "shed assembly Christchurch" on Checkatrade or Bark to find rated local tradespeople in BH23. The most efficient approach: order your shed with an installation date, book us to install the base a few days before, then your chosen installer fits the building onto the ready-and-waiting level base.

Question 15

Do you remove all waste from the site?

Accepted Answer

Yes, complete waste removal is included in your fixed-price quote. We leave your Christchurch garden pristine — ready for your shed delivery. How we handle waste: Our own trucks where access allows Skip hire for larger excavations — especially useful in Highcliffe and Mudeford Grab lorries for restricted access sites near the town centre We're fully licensed waste carriers and work with local recyclers including Dorset Skips and Bournemouth Skip Hire . All excavated material — sandy soil, river gravel, or old paving — goes to licensed recycling centres. We recycle over 90%. For reference, BCP Council's Christchurch Recycling Centre is at Wilverley Road, with additional sites at Ringwood Road Bournemouth (BH11 9LQ) and Nuffield Road Poole (BH17 0RS) — though these are for household waste only.

Question 16

What areas of Christchurch do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We cover all of Christchurch and surrounding BH23 postcodes: Christchurch Town Centre — Including properties near the Priory and Quay Mudeford & Mudeford Quay — Coastal properties with sandy soils Highcliffe & Highcliffe Castle — Established residential with well-drained ground Somerford & Purewell — Family home specialists Burton & Winkton — Including riverside properties Walkford & Hinton Admiral — On the border with New Milton Hurn & St Catherine's Hill — Including properties with larger plots We also serve neighbouring areas including Bournemouth, Bransgore, New Milton, and across to Ringwood.

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