Step 1: foundation. You need precast cement piers with wooden cap, pressure-treated beams, a shovel, tape measure, gloves and lots of patience. Spray paint and string are optional, but they help.First, lay out the beams on the ground where you will build your shed and get them straight and parallel. Measure between the beams and diagonally to make sure you get a tight box. Set up string as a guide and use visible spray paint to mark the position of your foundation piers.

A helper is invaluable when getting your foundation piers.

Choose location of your future shed

And lay out your foundation materials:

Everything is ready to go.

Measure diagonally to make sure you have a square box.

Start digging. If you ever tried to dig in NorCal soil, you know what’s up. Might as well use a pick-axe. Keep digging. If it’s 100+ outside, take a break, have a beer and resume digging. When you think this shit can’t get any worse, you will hit a thick root or a metal pipe (why the fuck is there a pipe in this location?)

My poor shovel after I hit a few thick roots and a metal pipe.

When you are done, your beams will be resting on the piers guaranteeing no moisture will ever get to your foundation, and your shed will last a hundred years. Tomorrow we’ll be setting them up level and making gravel beds.