Moving a storage shed may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and efficiently. Before starting, you will need to prepare the shed by emptying it and removing any obstacles. Next, you will need to recruit a team of helpers to assist with the lifting. Using a pry bar or crowbar, carefully lift the front of the shed just enough to fit a 4×4 timber underneath. Secure the timber with stakes driven into the ground on either side of the shed. Repeat this process for the back of the shed.
With the timbers in place, you can now begin lifting the shed using a hydraulic jack. Position the jack in the center of the front timber and pump it until the shed is raised about 6 inches off the ground. Insert a 2×4 spacer between the jack and the timber to hold the shed in place. Repeat this process for the back of the shed, ensuring that the shed is level. Once the shed is lifted, you can move it to its new location using a dolly or trailer.
Preparing for the Lift
Before lifting your storage shed, thorough preparation is essential to ensure a safe and successful operation. Here are the key steps involved in preparing for the lift:
1. Safety Equipment and Tools
Gather the necessary safety gear and tools. This includes hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, a reciprocating saw or circular saw, a pry bar, a level, and a measuring tape. Ensure that all equipment is in good working condition and meets industry safety standards.
Additionally, consider the following tools and materials:
| Tool/Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Toe nails | Hold the shed walls in place |
| 2×4 lumber | Strengthen the shed frame |
| Shims | Level the shed foundation |
| Concrete nails | Secure the shed to the foundation |
| Exterior wood glue | Bond the shed components together |
Using a Hydraulic Jack
If you’re working with a larger or heavier shed, using a hydraulic jack may be the best option. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
1. Gather the necessary tools
* Hydraulic jack (rated for the weight of your shed)
* Wooden blocks or cribbing
* Safety glasses
* Gloves
2. Safety precautions
* Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Ensure the shed is empty and unattached to any other structures.
* Use wooden blocks or cribbing to support the shed while it’s being lifted.
3. Position the jack
* Place the jack under the center of the shed’s base.
* Ensure the jack is stable and centered.
4. Lift the shed
* Pump the jack slowly and carefully to lift the shed.
* Stop pumping as soon as the shed is off the ground by about 6 inches.
5. Secure the shed
* Place wooden blocks or cribbing under the shed’s corners to support it.
* Ensure the blocks are stable and secure.
* Check the shed’s stability by gently pushing or pulling on it. If it feels unstable, tighten the cribbing and recheck.
Expert tip:
- Use a jack with a capacity that exceeds the weight of your shed.
- Never work under a lifted shed without supporting it with cribbing.
- If you’re not comfortable using a hydraulic jack, consider hiring a professional.
Raising the Shed Safely
### Equipment Required
- 4 jacks
- 4 wooden blocks
- 2 long pieces of wood (at least 6 feet in length)
- Level
- Safety glasses
### Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when lifting a storage shed. Ensure you have adequate support and proper equipment to avoid accidents.
### Placing the Jacks
Position the jacks at each corner of the shed, as close to the base as possible. Place a wooden block under each jack to provide a stable base.
### Initial Lifting
Slowly pump up the jacks to raise the shed slightly. Ensure the shed is level by placing a level on the top of the structure. Adjust the jacks as necessary to achieve a level foundation.
### Installing the Support Beams
Insert the two long pieces of wood under the shed, parallel to each other and directly opposite one another. Slowly raise the shed further until the support beams are firmly in place, supporting the weight of the shed.
### Continued Lifting
Continue pumping up the jacks evenly to raise the shed to the desired height. Ensure the support beams remain securely in place throughout the process.
### Securing the Shed
Once the shed has reached the desired height, use shims or other supports to secure it permanently in place. Remove the jacks and support beams, and ensure the shed is stable before using it.
Leveling the Shed
Checking Level
Before you begin, it’s crucial to check the levelness of your shed. Use a spirit level or laser level to place on the shed’s floor at different points, such as the corners and center. If the bubble in the spirit level or the laser beam indicates any slope, you will need to adjust the jack stands.
Adjusting Jack Stands
To adjust the jack stands, carefully loosen or tighten the bolt located on the side of the stand. By turning the bolt clockwise, you raise the shed; turning it counterclockwise lowers it. Adjust the jack stands until the shed is level in both directions (front-to-back and side-to-side). Use a level or laser level to verify.
Using a Leveling Block
If you encounter significant unevenness in the ground, consider using a leveling block. Place the block under the jack stand at the lowest corner of the shed. This provides extra height and helps distribute the weight more evenly.
Inspecting Regularly
Once the shed is leveled, continue to inspect it periodically, especially after heavy rain or snowfall. Ensure the jack stands remain stable and the shed is still level. Make any necessary adjustments as needed to maintain the integrity of the structure.
| Tools Required |
|---|
| Spirit level or laser level |
| Jack stands |
| Leveling block (optional) |
How To Lift A Storage Shed
Lifting a storage shed can be a daunting task, but it is possible with the right tools and techniques. Here are the steps on how to lift a storage shed:
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need:
- A pry bar
- A sledgehammer
- A block and tackle
- A sturdy rope
- A helper
- Prepare the shed. Remove all of the contents from the shed. Close and lock all of the doors and windows. Secure any loose items inside the shed.
- Position the block and tackle. Attach the block and tackle to a sturdy overhead beam or tree branch. The block and tackle will be used to lift the shed.
- Attach the rope to the shed. Tie the rope to a secure point on the shed. The rope will be used to pull the shed up into the air.
- Lift the shed. Have your helper operate the block and tackle to lift the shed. Slowly and carefully lift the shed until it is high enough to clear the ground.
- Secure the shed. Once the shed is high enough, secure it to the overhead beam or tree branch. This will prevent the shed from falling.
Lifting a storage shed can be a dangerous task. Be sure to take all necessary safety precautions and follow the instructions carefully.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to lift a storage shed?
The cost to lift a storage shed will vary depending on the size of the shed, the height it needs to be lifted, and the location of the shed. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 to have a shed lifted professionally.
Can I lift a storage shed myself?
It is possible to lift a storage shed yourself, but it is not recommended. Lifting a shed can be dangerous, and it is best to leave it to the professionals. If you do decide to lift a shed yourself, be sure to take all necessary safety precautions.
How long does it take to lift a storage shed?
The time it takes to lift a storage shed will vary depending on the size of the shed and the height it needs to be lifted. However, you can expect it to take several hours to lift a shed yourself. If you hire professionals to lift the shed, it will likely take them less time.
