Create storage in your garden with a shed

n It is, of course, crucial that the base is the correct size for the shed. One that's too small is obviously no good, but neither is one that's too big because rain will bounce off the concrete and on to the shed. To get it right, take the exact measurements of the shed floor and subtract 2cm from the width and length to give you the size of the base. The concrete should be around 7.5cm thick, unless you're laying it on soft soil, in which case it should be around 10cm thick. Roughly half of the concrete should be above ground level.

n To prepare the ground, clear it of any plants and debris, remove enough topsoil to allow the concrete to sit at the correct depth (see above) and compact the soil with a rammer (a long-handled metal or wooden tool used for compacting). If the soil's really soft, you'll need to lay a 5cm layer of compacted hardcore underneath the concrete.

:: Before you put the shed together, protect the timbers with two or more coats of wood treatment, preservative or stain, following the instructions on the tin. Ensure that you coat the floor and joists really well, and don't forget to do the internal timbers. As an extra precaution against damp, insert a damp-proof membrane between the base and walls of the shed when you build them.

n When erecting the shed, get someone to help you, allow plenty of time and don't attempt the job if it's windy. Above all, follow the assembly and aftercare instructions carefully and your shed should last for years to come.