Getting Your Garden Ready for a Shed Delivery in Norfolk: Bases, Access and Common Mistakes
Ordering a new shed should be the exciting part. Choosing the size, picking the style and imagining how much more organised your garden will feel once it arrives. Yet for many people, the real stress starts just before delivery. Suddenly questions appear. Is the ground level enough? Will it fit through the gate? What if the garden is soggy? These are the moments where things can go wrong if no one has explained what actually matters.
In Norfolk, these concerns are especially common. Gardens here are wonderfully varied, from neat city plots in Norwich to sprawling rural spaces, coastal gardens exposed to wind and older properties with uneven ground. What works perfectly in one location can cause problems in another. That is why preparing your garden properly before a shed delivery is not just helpful, it is essential.
This guide is written to walk you through exactly what to think about before your shed arrives. It is not a generic checklist. It reflects real situations seen every week, including common mistakes that delay deliveries, cause frustration or shorten the life of a new building. By the end, you will understand why the right base matters, how access affects delivery and what you can do now to avoid problems later.
Why Garden Preparation Matters More Than You Think
It is easy to assume that shed delivery is straightforward. The lorry arrives, the shed goes in the garden and that is the end of it. In reality, the success of a delivery depends far more on preparation than most people realise. A well prepared garden allows the building to be installed quickly, safely and exactly where it should be. Poor preparation creates delays, compromises stability and can shorten the lifespan of the shed.
The base is the most important factor. A shed is only as good as what it sits on. If the ground is uneven, soft or poorly drained, the building will shift over time. Doors begin to stick, panels strain and moisture finds its way in. These problems do not appear immediately. They creep in slowly, often after the first winter, leaving owners wondering what went wrong.
Access is just as important. Delivery teams need clear routes through the garden. Narrow gates, sharp corners and uneven paths can all cause problems if they have not been considered in advance. Even a small obstruction can prevent panels from reaching the intended location, leading to last minute compromises or postponed deliveries.
Preparation also gives you control. Instead of reacting to issues on the day, you can make calm decisions ahead of time. You can choose the right base, adjust access points and position the shed where it will work best long term. This is particularly important in Norfolk, where soil conditions, drainage and exposure vary widely from one garden to the next.
Taking the time to prepare properly does not just protect your investment. It removes stress from the entire process. Delivery becomes a formality rather than a gamble, and the shed you have chosen starts its life in the best possible position.
Understanding Norfolk Gardens and Ground Conditions
One of the biggest reasons shed deliveries run into trouble in Norfolk is the ground itself. On the surface, many gardens look flat and firm enough. Underneath, the reality can be very different. Much of Norfolk sits on clay heavy soil, especially around Norwich and surrounding villages. Clay holds water, drains slowly and shifts with seasonal changes. In winter, it becomes soft and spongy. In summer, it can dry out and crack. Both conditions can affect how a shed settles over time.
Older gardens present their own challenges. It is common to find uneven ground caused by removed outbuildings, filled ponds or long forgotten patios. These areas may appear level but often compress under weight, leading to gradual movement. Coastal gardens add another layer of complexity, with higher exposure to wind and salt air making stability even more important.
Winter is actually the best time to see these issues clearly. Grass grows slowly, borders are cut back and standing water becomes obvious after rainfall. If your garden puddles in certain spots or feels soft underfoot, those areas are unlikely to provide a stable foundation for a shed without preparation. This is not a fault of the shed, it is simply how the ground behaves.
Understanding your garden’s natural behaviour allows you to make better decisions. A shed placed directly on grass may seem fine initially, but over time the ground compresses unevenly, leading to twisting and movement. Moisture becomes trapped underneath, increasing the risk of rot and damp. These problems often show up months later, long after the delivery has taken place.
This is why Norfolk Sheds always encourages customers to think carefully about ground conditions before delivery. The goal is not just to get the shed into the garden, but to ensure it remains square, stable and functional for years to come.
Choosing the Right Shed Base for Long-Term Stability
A proper base is the single most important factor in the long term performance of a shed. It spreads weight evenly, keeps the building level and protects it from ground moisture. Skipping this step or choosing the wrong solution is one of the most common mistakes people make.
Concrete bases are often seen as the gold standard, and in many cases they are an excellent choice. They provide a solid, permanent foundation and cope well with heavy buildings. However, they require significant preparation, curing time and accurate measurements. Once installed, they are also permanent, which is not ideal for every garden or homeowner.
Timber bases offer a more flexible alternative. When built correctly, they lift the shed off the ground and allow air to circulate underneath. This reduces moisture build up and helps protect the structure. Timber bases work well in gardens where a permanent concrete base is not practical, but they still require level ground and proper support.
Eco base systems have become increasingly popular for good reason. They are designed to cope with uneven ground and allow excellent drainage. For Norfolk gardens, where clay soil and water retention are common, this can make a significant difference. Eco bases distribute weight evenly and are quicker to install than concrete, making them a practical solution for many households.
Whichever option you choose, the key is preparation. The area must be level, compacted and free from organic material such as grass or roots. Taking shortcuts here often leads to problems later. Doors stick, panels strain and the shed no longer feels solid. These issues are frustrating because they are avoidable.
Choosing the right base is not about spending the most money. It is about matching the solution to your garden’s conditions and the size of the building. A little extra thought at this stage saves years of irritation later.
A well prepared shed base is essential for stability, drainage and long term performance, particularly on uneven or moisture prone ground.
Want a Deeper Dive Into Shed Bases?
If you are still unsure which type of base is right for your garden, or you want to understand the differences in more detail, it is worth taking a moment to explore our dedicated guide on shed foundations. We have put together a separate article that looks specifically at why the right base matters so much, how different foundation types perform over time and which options suit different garden conditions.
That guide goes into more depth on common mistakes, long term stability and how the right foundation can dramatically extend the lifespan of a shed. It is particularly useful if your garden has uneven ground, clay soil or drainage issues, which are all common across Norfolk.
You can read our full guide on shed bases here.
Reading the two articles together gives a complete picture. This guide helps you prepare your garden and delivery access, while the shed base guide focuses on choosing the right foundation so your building stays level, secure and problem free for years to come.
Why Placing a Shed Directly on Grass Rarely Works
Placing a shed directly on grass is one of the most tempting shortcuts, especially when the garden looks flat and dry. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most common causes of long term issues. Grass and soil compress unevenly under weight. As moisture levels change, the ground shifts. The shed moves with it.
Over time, this movement causes small distortions that add up. Doors become harder to open, gaps appear and the building no longer sits square. Moisture becomes trapped underneath, creating a damp environment that encourages rot. Even pressure treated timber suffers when it is constantly exposed to moisture from below.
In Norfolk, where rainfall is frequent and drainage can be slow, these problems appear faster than many people expect. What looks fine in summer can become a headache by the following winter. The cost of correcting these issues often exceeds the cost of installing a proper base in the first place.
A base does not need to be complicated, but it does need to be appropriate. Lifting the shed off the ground, ensuring good drainage and maintaining a level surface are non negotiable for long term success.
Delivery Access: Gates, Paths and Tight Corners
Delivery access is one of the most underestimated aspects of buying a shed. Many gardens look accessible at first glance, yet small details can quickly become obstacles on delivery day. Narrow gates, low fences, sharp turns and uneven paths all affect whether panels can reach the intended spot. If access has not been checked properly, delivery teams may be forced to stop short or reschedule, which is frustrating for everyone involved.
The most common issue is gate width. Shed panels are often wider than people expect, especially on larger buildings. A gate that feels generous for daily use can suddenly feel very narrow when a solid timber panel needs to pass through it. Measuring the clear opening width, not just the gate itself but including posts and hinges, is essential. It is also worth checking the height, as low arches or trellises can cause problems.
Paths are another frequent stumbling block. Gravel, uneven paving or soft ground can slow progress and increase the risk of damage. In winter, these issues are more pronounced. Wet ground becomes slippery and loose surfaces shift underfoot. Clearing paths in advance, trimming back plants and ensuring stable footing makes a significant difference.
Tight corners require special attention. A right angle turn between a side gate and the main garden can be particularly challenging. Panels need room to manoeuvre, not just pass through. Thinking about the delivery route as a whole, from the lorry to the final location, helps avoid surprises.
Norfolk Sheds always encourages customers to walk the delivery route beforehand. Imagine carrying a large, rigid panel through the space. If it feels awkward or tight, it probably is. Addressing these issues early keeps delivery smooth and stress free.
Common Shed Delivery Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Most delivery problems are not caused by bad luck. They are the result of assumptions. Assuming the ground is level enough, assuming the gate will be wide enough, assuming the shed can be moved once it arrives. These assumptions are understandable, but they often lead to delays or compromises.
Garden buildings are often treated as temporary additions, but guidance from the UK Planning Portal makes it clear that outbuildings are considered permanent garden structures, which is why proper groundwork, positioning and preparation matter from the outset.
One of the most common mistakes is preparing the base after delivery rather than before. A shed delivered onto bare ground while the base is still being planned is vulnerable to movement and moisture. Even a short period without proper support can cause alignment issues. Preparing the base first ensures the shed goes straight into its final position.
Another frequent issue is last minute clearance. Overhanging branches, garden furniture or stored items can block access routes unexpectedly. Clearing the route fully before delivery day avoids rushed decisions and unnecessary stress.
Some customers also underestimate how heavy shed components can be. Soft lawns, especially after rain, can become damaged if not protected. Using boards to spread weight along the delivery route can help preserve lawns and make movement easier.
Avoiding these mistakes is about slowing down and thinking ahead. Taking time to measure, clear and prepare creates a smoother experience and protects both your garden and your investment.
Case Study: A Smooth Delivery Thanks to Good Preparation
James, based on the outskirts of Norwich, recently ordered a mid sized storage shed. Having heard stories from neighbours about delivery issues, he decided to prepare thoroughly. Weeks before delivery, he measured his gate opening, cleared the side passage and levelled the area where the shed would sit.
He chose an eco base system suitable for his clay heavy soil and installed it ahead of time. On delivery day, the route was clear and firm despite recent rain. The shed panels moved easily into place and the building was installed without delay.
James later commented that the preparation made the entire process feel straightforward. There were no surprises and no compromises on positioning. The shed settled perfectly and has remained square and dry since installation.
Case Study: What Happens When Preparation Is Overlooked
In contrast, another customer ordered a shed without checking access properly. The garden had a narrow side gate and a tight corner near the back fence. On delivery day, panels could not reach the intended location without removing part of the fence.
The base had also been left as bare grass, with plans to address it later. Faced with limited options, the shed was temporarily placed in a less suitable position. Within months, the ground shifted and doors began to stick.
Correcting the issues required additional work and expense that could have been avoided with early planning. The experience highlighted how small oversights can lead to bigger frustrations over time.
FAQs
Do I really need to prepare my garden before a shed delivery?
Yes, proper preparation makes a significant difference to how smoothly a shed delivery goes and how well the building performs long term. Preparing the base and access route before delivery helps ensure the shed is installed in the correct position without delays or compromises. It also protects the structure from movement, moisture and misalignment. In Norfolk, where ground conditions vary widely, preparation is especially important. A little time spent measuring, levelling and clearing space can prevent years of frustration caused by sticking doors, uneven floors or damp issues.
What is the best type of shed base for Norfolk gardens?
The best base depends on your garden’s ground conditions and the size of the shed. Many Norfolk gardens have clay heavy soil, which benefits from bases that offer good drainage and weight distribution. Concrete bases provide a solid permanent foundation, while timber and eco base systems offer flexibility and improved airflow. Eco bases are particularly popular in Norfolk because they cope well with uneven ground and water retention. The key is choosing a base that keeps the shed level, raised off the ground and well supported.
Can a shed be installed directly on grass if the garden looks flat?
Installing a shed directly on grass is rarely a good idea, even if the ground looks flat. Grass and soil compress unevenly over time, especially in wet conditions. This leads to movement, trapped moisture and long term structural issues. In Norfolk’s climate, these problems can appear quickly. A proper base protects the shed from ground moisture, keeps it level and significantly extends its lifespan.
How wide does access need to be for shed delivery?
Access needs to be wide enough to accommodate full shed panels, not just a person walking through. Gates, paths and corners should be measured carefully, including posts and hinges. Many delivery issues arise because access feels adequate but is just slightly too tight for panels to manoeuvre. Walking the route in advance and imagining carrying a rigid panel through it is a helpful way to identify potential problems.
What happens if the delivery team cannot reach the intended location?
If access issues prevent panels from reaching the planned location, the delivery may need to be postponed or the shed placed elsewhere temporarily. This can lead to compromises in positioning or additional work later. Preparing access routes and clearing obstacles in advance reduces the risk of disruption on delivery day.
Is winter a good time to prepare a garden for a shed?
Yes, winter is often an excellent time to prepare. With less growth, it is easier to assess drainage, ground level and access routes. Soft spots and puddling become more visible, helping you choose the best location and base. Preparing in winter also means everything is ready when delivery takes place, rather than rushing in spring.
Can poor preparation affect the shed warranty?
While warranties cover manufacturing issues, problems caused by poor base preparation or ground movement are usually not covered. Ensuring the shed is installed on a suitable base helps protect both the structure and your investment.
How far in advance should I prepare before delivery?
Ideally, preparation should be completed before the delivery date is confirmed. This allows time to level the ground properly, install a base and resolve access issues without pressure. Rushing preparation often leads to mistakes.
Ready to Prepare Your Garden the Right Way
Getting your garden ready for a shed delivery does not need to be complicated, but it does need to be thoughtful. Taking the time to understand your ground conditions, choose the right base and check access properly makes the entire process smoother and protects your investment for the long term.
Norfolk Sheds has years of experience delivering and installing garden buildings across the region, from compact city gardens to exposed rural plots. Our team understands the challenges Norfolk gardens present and offers straightforward advice based on real situations, not guesswork.
Prepare properly, plan ahead and enjoy the confidence that comes from knowing your shed will arrive smoothly and sit exactly where it should. A little preparation now saves a great deal of frustration later. And if you're not sure if your garden is shed ready and need some advice, feel free to get in touch and we will advise where possible!