Question 1

Which shed base type is best for Southampton's variable ground?

Accepted Answer

Southampton's Hampshire Basin geology means ground conditions vary by neighbourhood. Here's what we typically recommend: Gravel areas (Portswood, parts of Bassett) — Concrete or paving slabs work well as the ground drains freely. Good sub-base compaction is key. Clay areas (Bitterne, parts of Shirley) — Concrete with steel reinforcement prevents cracking from clay shrink-swell. Timber frame on posts also works well. Urban gardens with limited access — Ground screws are ideal as they don't require concrete delivery through narrow passages. Sloping sites (near Southampton Common) — Raised timber frame creates a level platform without costly excavation. We'll assess your specific location and recommend the most suitable option.

Question 2

Will my shed base crack on Southampton's clay?

Accepted Answer

Not if it's installed correctly. Parts of Southampton (particularly around Bitterne and towards Eastleigh) have clay from the Bracklesham Beds. Clay swells when wet and shrinks when dry, which can crack poorly-built bases. At JustBases, we: Excavate deeper than standard — typically 200-250mm below topsoil Install a thick MOT Type 1 sub-base compacted in layers Use steel mesh reinforcement in concrete slabs Allow for seasonal ground movement in our design The result is a base that stays level and crack-free — backed by our 10-year guarantee.

Question 3

Are ground screws suitable for Southampton gardens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ground screws are often the perfect choice for Southampton's urban gardens. They're particularly suited when: Access is limited — No bulky concrete mixer needed; we carry in equipment by hand if necessary You want minimal disruption — Installation is often completed in half a day Preserving trees — Screws don't disturb root systems like excavation would Ground is gravelly — Screws anchor well in Southampton's gravel terraces Ground screws are also fully reversible if you ever need to move the shed — ideal for rental properties or future garden redesigns.

Question 4

How much does a shed base cost in Southampton?

Accepted Answer

Shed base prices in Southampton 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 Southampton?

Accepted Answer

Several factors influence your final price: Base size: Larger bases require more materials and labour. Ground conditions: Heavy clay may need extra excavation depth and reinforcement. Access: Many Southampton terraced houses have narrow side access, which can add complexity. Existing obstacles: Removing old bases, tree stumps, or heavy vegetation adds to the work. Parking restrictions: Some Southampton streets have parking permits; we may need to factor in skip permits. We provide honest, transparent quotes with no surprises. What we quote is what you pay.

Question 7

Can you access Southampton terraced house gardens?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work in terraced houses across Southampton every week. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in areas like Shirley, Freemantle, and St Denys have narrow or restricted access. We can: Use compact equipment that fits through standard side gates Carry materials by hand for gardens with internal-only access Install ground screws which don't need any concrete delivery Mix concrete on-site for small bases where a mixer truck can't attend Tell us about your access situation when you request a quote, and we'll advise on the best approach.

Question 8

What areas of Southampton do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We cover all of Southampton and the surrounding SO postcodes: Southampton city: SO14, SO15, SO16, SO17 Bitterne, Harefield, Townhill Park: SO18 Woolston, Weston, Netley: SO19 Hedge End, Botley, West End: SO30 Hamble, Bursledon, Locks Heath: SO31 Eastleigh, Chandler's Ford: SO50, SO53 Romsey: SO51 We also serve the wider Hampshire area including Winchester, Fareham, and into Dorset.

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Most garden sheds qualify as "permitted development" and don't need planning permission, but there are specific 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 Note: If your property is in a Conservation Area (parts of Old Town, Bitterne Park, Ocean Village), additional restrictions may apply. Contact Southampton City Council Planning for guidance.

Question 10

Do I need to notify my neighbours?

Accepted Answer

For standard shed bases, you don't legally need to notify neighbours. However, we always recommend being a good neighbour: Let adjacent neighbours know when we'll be working — there will be some noise If your shed will be close to a boundary, check it doesn't block light to their windows (though sheds rarely cause issues) If we need to access your property via a shared drive, we'll work around their schedules If you're building close to or on a boundary, Party Wall agreements may apply. We're happy to advise.

Question 11

How long does shed base installation take in Southampton?

Accepted Answer

Most shed bases in Southampton 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 Difficult access or very heavy clay can add a few hours, but we'll confirm the timeline in your quote.

Question 12

Do you take away waste and old materials?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We carefully remove all excavated soil, old paving, and rubble from your site. We use licensed waste carriers and recycle materials wherever possible. For Southampton properties where skip access is difficult, we can arrange alternative waste removal — just let us know your situation. Your garden is left clean and tidy, ready for your new shed. Waste removal is included in your fixed-price quote — no hidden charges.

Question 13

Do you supply sheds?

Accepted Answer

No, we specialise in bases and foundations only — it's what we do best. However, Southampton has excellent local shed suppliers: Elford Sheds Southampton — Family-run since 1987, based in Southampton. They supply sheds, summerhouses, workshops, and offer assembly services. 1st Choice Leisure Buildings — Quality wooden sheds with free delivery and assembly in the Southampton area. 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 Southampton-area tradespeople offer professional shed assembly: Elford Sheds Southampton — They supply and install; they also have a sister company, Repair My Shed, for repairs and maintenance. Winchester Sheds — Manufacture, supply, and install sheds and workshops across the Hampshire area. Local Southampton handymen — Search "shed assembly Southampton" on Checkatrade or MyBuilder to find rated local tradespeople. 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 every fixed-price quote. We leave your Southampton garden pristine — no piles of clay, gravel, or rubble left behind. How we handle waste: Our own trucks where access allows Skip hire for larger excavations — arranged with council permits where needed Grab lorries for tight-access Southampton terraced house gardens We're fully licensed waste carriers and work with local recyclers. All excavated material — clay, gravel, or old paving — goes to licensed recycling centres. We recycle over 90%. For reference, Hampshire's Otterbourne HWRC is at Poles Lane (SO21 2EA) — though this is for household waste only.

Question 16

What guarantee do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide a rock-solid 10-year guarantee on all materials and labour. This covers: Structural integrity of the base Levelling remaining true Materials (concrete, timber, ground screws) Workmanship We're a Dorset family business with over 50 years of experience. You know exactly where to find us if you ever need us — our guarantee is backed by our reputation.

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