Big Sheds Need a Big Concrete Slab
The concrete slab is the most important part of any shed, let alone one that covers over 500m2 of space. A steel building like that needs the right kind of support from the ground up - which is why Stockman focuses on building the strongest foundation possible.
A strong foundation means a strong shed that will take on the Australian climate for decades to come - just like this one out in Cabarlah will. The slab is laid and she’s a real big beauty, coming in at 48.38 metres long by 12-metres wide. We can’t wait to get cracking on this shed - get reading for a quick squiz at what it will look like.
A Site Made for a Big Rural Shed
The rolling hills and red soil of Cabarlah have the classic Toowoomba feel. This block of land encapsulates it perfectly. We’ve already put up one shed on this property, so it's a real honour the owners got us on board for this large shed.
This is a beautiful block of land with stunning views, but like most acreage properties, it isn’t flat. Some digging and compaction was required to get the land ready for the slab. Good earthworks make for a solid slab, and this one needed to be perfect from the moment the machines came on site.
Why Your Concrete Slab Is So Important
A shed is only as strong as what it stands on. A shifting slab will mean the frame and cladding start to fight against themselves and you get warping and sagging. It’s not a good look and it doesn’t make for a durable shed.
A proper slab gives you:
A level base that stays that way
A barrier between moisture and the steel
Protection against movement in the soil
A floor that can handle machinery, vehicles and day-to-day work
A shed that stays square and true.
Like all Stockman Sheds, this one at Cabarlah is built for the long run.
What Sets a Stockman Slab Apart
Our concretors pour all sorts of slabs across South East Queensland. From farm sheds to American barns and oversized workshops, all our sheds come with the right foundation locked in.
These are a few of the things we focus on with the concrete slabs:
High-Pressure Concrete
The Mega Pascal (MPa) is the unit showing the pressure of concrete. A higher MPa means stronger and more resilient concrete. At Stockman, our slabs use 32MPa concrete, which is what you will find used in bridges and roads. It’s designed to take a heavy load. Many shed builders use 20-25MPa concrete, which doesn’t stand up well to rigorous use over time.
Edge Beams
Edge beams run around the perimeter of the concrete slab, helping to reinforce its strength and prevent cracking. They provide a more robust base for the shed walls to lock onto and prevent rodents from burrowing under the slab.
Rebated Edges
A rebated edge is a small step dropped around the outside of your slab. The shed walls sit down on that step, so the bottom of the cladding sits lower than the shed floor. It means there are no gaps for vermin to enter, and grass and weeds can't push their way in either. A nice clean fit and a tight seal mean less problems down the track.
Piers
Piers are concrete-filled hotels beneath the slab that add strength and stability to the shed built on top. At Stockman, we put a pier under every single column. This prevents any shifting of the slab and helps the shed sit solidly for years to come.
Experienced Tradies
Our concretors do this day in and day out. They know what they’re doing and their attention to detail is immaculate. When they build your concrete slab for your shed, they do it right.
The Setup is Complete
With the slab in place, this large Cabarlah shed will start to take shape soon. Our Toowoomba shed building team will be able to crack on with their job knowing the right foundation is in place.
Want to know what it will look like? Here’s a render from our engineers. The shed will have a classic gable roof, with a full-length awning providing a mix of secure walled space out open bays. Practical, functional, tough and resilient - definitely a Stockman.
Thinking About a Shed? Start With the Slab
Are you thinking about a new shed for your farm, acreage or rural block? We specialise in building large sheds that add value to your property and your lifestyle.
And they all start with the concrete slab! Get that right and the rest of the shed follows.
For a fully custom-designed and built shed on a rock-solid concrete slab, get in touch with the Stockman team today. We can answer your questions on layouts, sizes and site prep while guiding you to the right design for your property.
Call us on 0493 791 972 or get a quote here.
