For whatever reason, if you have to move a shed, it is best to do your research thoroughly. If you know how to move a shed with pipes, it will make your job much simpler. Let us teach you how to do it.
Moving a shed could be a simple or difficult job, depending on how far you want to move it and the size of the shed. Its current condition also comes into play when you are going to move it.
No matter what your situation is, you have to prepare for the task well because this definitely is a tremendous job. If you mess up something, you could damage the shed.
You might want to move the shed into your new home or into a brighter or darker spot in your existing home. You might have to move the shed for dealing with drainage issues.
How to Move a Shed by Hand?
This method works for sheds that can be moved after they have been disassembled. The chances are that you might not have a shed like this, but if you do, then you can move it by hand.
Disassemble your shed, piece by piece. Read the instructions that you used for assembly and use them in reverse to disassemble.
It is also advised to take a picture of the important places where the nuts or bolts go so that you can assemble the shed again afterward.
After disassembling it, you can simply move it to another place like you would do with your furniture. Assemble it again using the instructions and voila! You have done it.
However, this method is time-consuming, and you will need a lot of patience to put the parts back in place.
Moving Shed with PVC Pipe
This method also requires you to use your hands, but it works for unassembled sheds too. Before you start this, you need to get more sets of hands on board. Ask at least four of your friends to help.
Other than friends to help you with the job, you will need the following tools:
- Floor jack
- Cedar Shims
- Concrete blocks
- 10 pieces of 6-inch PVC pipes (6 to 8 feet in length)
- 4-foot level
Step 1: Inserting the PVC Pipes
First of all, use the floor jacks to jack the shed up and then insert the PVC pipes under the structure. For smaller sheds, three pipes will do, but if you have a larger shed, you will need more pipes.
You will have to exert a lot of force for this step. Lift one side of the shed where you are going to insert the pipes. When you have inserted the pipes, hold the pipes in place.
Tell a buddy to go to the back of the shed, lift it, and insert more pipes there. You will not be able to cover the whole area at once.
Space them out evenly and place them perpendicular to the direction of movement. In this way, the pipes will be able to roll towards that direction.
If the ground underneath is softer, place 2 inches time 10 inches boards under the structure and roll the pipes on to them. You can make a base with 4 inches pieces to make sure that it can take the shed’s weight.
Step 2: Rolling the Pipes
Be very careful when you are rolling the pipes. Slowly, with the help of your buddies, push the structures towards the direction of your destination.
Make controlled movements, and do not rush as it would damage the entire structure. When you push forward, the pipe close to you will pip out from below the structure.
Take it to the front and keep it under the shed so that the shed can roll on to it. Repeat this structure as you move along. Think of it as creating a rail track for your shed.
Keep doing this until you reach your destination. If you have kept wooden tracks under the PVC pipes, you will have to reposition them as you move along.
Move slowly but with the right amount of force. Rash movements will not get you to your destination quicker. They will only mess up the whole job for you.
Step 3: Putting in Down
Once you have reached your desired destination, you can slowly put the shed in its place. Push it off the pipes slowly and adjust in place.
If it is not leveled out, use the cedar shims as they work wonders. You can also use the jack to position the shed into its place. replace all the screws in place using a Kreg pocket hole jigsaw.
Tips and Tricks for Moving a Shed
Moving a shed is not as easy as it might sound. When you start doing it, you will realize this. So, it is best to take the necessary steps beforehand than regret your negligence later.
Empty the Shed
Before moving, empty the whole shed. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to get rid of any junk that you have held on to for ages.
Moving a shed with extra weight inside, it is not a good idea. Also, the material inside is insecure, so it will move around while the moving process and could be damaged.
Clean the Path
If there are bumps or rocks in the way, take them out of the way. Plan your path before you start lifting and also have the right place in mind for the ‘landing.’
Clear out any branches that might be in the way. A skill saw may be of help if the branch is thick. If there is a tree in your way, you will have to steer around it carefully.
Get Help
Do not underestimate the weight of your shed or overestimate your ability to lift the weight. It is best to have help at hand. Even if you do not end up damaging the shed, you could pull a muscle. So, ask someone for help.
Conclusion
Want to move your shed to a brighter area? Use the instructions mentioned in this guide to learn how to move a shed with pipes in just an hour. Remember to stay safe and plan every step. Happy Moving!