The Gorilla Base DIY 18 is a complete ground screw foundation kit designed to create a strong, rai...The Gorilla Base DIY 18 is a complete ground screw foundation kit designed to create a strong, raised, and ventilated base for sheds and garden buildings, without the need for concrete. Installation is quick and mess-free, with no digging and no curing time, allowing most customers to install the base and assemble their building on the same day. The kit is delivered to your door and can be installed using standard household tools. It includes pre-cut structural timber, ground screws, a reusable driving handle, structural fixings, layout guidance, and clear step-by-step instructions (print and video). The kit creates eighteen structural frames, each measuring approximately 1.2m x 1.2m, providing a total coverage of up to 25.92 square metres. This makes it ideal for large garden buildings such as workshops, log cabins, and garden offices. Timber can be trimmed for bespoke sizing, and many customers use any extra space for a decked area or access platform. Compared to concrete, Gorilla Base has a much lower environmental impact. Ground screws require minimal ground disturbance and can be removed and reused if the building is relocated. Nationwide delivery is available, with dispatch typically within a few working days. After purchase, the Gorilla team will contact you to confirm suitability and provide any installation support needed.
Shire Gorilla Base DIY 18 Ground Screw Foundation Kit - 18 Screws - for Sheds & Garden BuildingsFree delivery in 1–3 days£1,954.00Visit shop →
Product Information
Full details
The Shire Gorilla Base DIY 18 is for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners needing a robust, raised foundation for sheds, workshops, or log cabins without using concrete. Its key benefit is a quick, mess-free installation that allows building assembly on the same day, eliminating digging and curing time. A potential caveat is the need for adequate space and potentially uneven ground, which may require more effort to level before screw installation.
All features
Model Part Number
Gorilla Base DIY 18
Brand
Shire
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Do I need any special tools to install the Gorilla Base?
No, the kit is designed to be installed using standard household tools. A reusable driving handle is included for the ground screws.
What is the maximum size of a building this base can support?
The kit provides coverage for up to 25.92 square meters, made from eighteen structural frames, each approximately 1.2m x 1.2m.
Can I install this on a slope?
The Gorilla Base can be adapted for gentle slopes. You may need to adjust the depth of individual ground screws to achieve a level frame. Significant slopes may require professional assessment or additional groundwork.
How long does installation typically take?
Most customers can install the base and assemble their building on the same day. The installation time will vary depending on the site conditions and the number of people involved, but it's significantly faster than concrete foundations.
What happens if I need to move my shed later?
The ground screws are designed to be removed and reused. If you need to relocate your building, you can uninstall the base and reuse the components at a new location.
Is the timber treated?
The product information does not specify if the timber is treated. It's advisable to check with the manufacturer or consider treating the timber yourself for longevity, especially if it will be exposed to the elements.
What is the environmental impact compared to concrete?
The Gorilla Base has a much lower environmental impact. It requires minimal ground disturbance and avoids the carbon emissions associated with concrete production and transportation.
Troubleshooting
Ground screw will not turn or goes in crooked.
Check for underground obstructions like large rocks or utilities. Ensure the ground is as level as possible before starting. Use the driving handle with consistent, steady pressure. If encountering hard resistance, consult the video instructions for techniques on difficult terrain.
Difficulty achieving a perfectly level base.
Use a spirit level across the timber frame and adjust the depth of individual ground screws as needed. Minor soil adjustments may be required around screw heads. Ensure the initial layout is accurate.
Timber feels loose after attachment.
Verify that all structural fixings are tightened securely. Ensure the ground screws are fully engaged with the timber and that the timber is correctly seated on the screw heads.
The kit does not seem to cover the required area.
Double-check the layout plan and the dimensions of your intended building. The kit provides coverage for up to 25.92 sqm, formed from eighteen 1.2m x 1.2m structural frames. Timber can be trimmed for exact sizing, but the overall frame count is fixed.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Fast and easy installation without concrete.
Suitable for immediate building assembly on the same day.
Provides excellent ventilation and moisture prevention for structures.
Environmentally friendly with minimal ground disturbance.
Ground screws are reusable for future projects.
Adaptable for custom building sizes and additional decking.
Cons
Requires sufficient clearance for ground screw insertion.
May require more effort on significantly uneven or rocky terrain.
Initial cost might be higher than basic concrete slab alternatives.
Requires manual effort for installation, though tools are provided.
Dispatched within a few working days, not immediate delivery.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Clear and level the intended area for your shed or building.
Use the provided layout guidance to mark the positions for the ground screws.
Insert the ground screws using the reusable driving handle, ensuring they are perpendicular to the ground and at the correct depth.
Attach the pre-cut structural timber to the ground screws using the provided structural fixings to create the base frame.
Trim timber as needed for bespoke sizing or to incorporate decking areas.
Compatibility:
The Gorilla Base DIY 18 is compatible with most standard shed, workshop, log cabin, and garden office kits.
It is designed for installation on most soil types; however, excessively rocky or waterlogged ground may present challenges.
Timber can be trimmed, making it suitable for various footprints up to 25.92 square meters.
Care:
Ensure screws remain secure and the timber base is stable.
Periodically check for any ground movement or loosening of screws, especially after severe weather.
Keep timber elements protected from prolonged moisture where necessary, depending on the building's cladding and ventilation.
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