That Victorian terrace garden in SW18 deserves a proper foundation for your new shed. Between Wandsworth Common's clay soil and those classic narrow plots, getting the base right matters more than you'd think.
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Wandsworth gardens throw up interesting challenges when installing shed bases. Those long, thin plots running behind Edwardian terraces often slope dramatically towards the River Wandle. Clay soil that swells in winter and shrinks come August means your average paving slab foundation simply won't cut it. A properly constructed base prevents timber rot, keeps doors aligned, and stops that annoying lean developing after the first winter.
Ground preparation begins with excavating down through the topsoil to stable ground - typically 150-200mm in these parts. Hardcore gets compacted in layers, creating drainage channels that direct water away from your structure. The final surface - whether concrete, eco-grid, or timber frame - sits perfectly level despite whatever gradient your Earlsfield garden throws at us. Each base extends 75mm beyond the shed footprint, creating that essential dry perimeter.
Twenty years handling Wandsworth's peculiar geology teaches you things. Like how Southfields' high water table needs extra drainage consideration. Or why Battersea-facing gardens require deeper foundations due to old river deposits.




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Basic 8x6ft concrete bases start from £650-750 in SW18, though sloping gardens near Garratt Lane might push costs to £850-950. Larger 12x8ft bases typically run £950-1200, depending on access and ground conditions.
Absolutely - those riverside properties between Wandsworth Town and Earlsfield station are familiar territory. Limited access through side returns is standard for SW18's Victorian housing stock.
Most standard bases in Wandsworth complete within one full day, weather permitting. Trickier slopes or poor access might stretch to day two, particularly those narrow passages typical of Southfields terraces.
Each base carries decade-long protection against settlement or structural failure. This covers the entire construction - from membrane to surface finish - giving proper peace of mind for your investment.
Reinforced bases for heavier structures are routine work. Steel mesh reinforcement and increased concrete depth handle workshop loads up to 2 tonnes - perfect for serious hobbyists or home businesses operating from their garden space.
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