So I have this older 12×24 shed built on skids (built off-site and transported here). I've done some modifications to it over the years, and one of the things I want to do is be able to drive my garden tractor in. The 6×6 skids along the long axis edges prevent this. Well, I could do it with ramps, but that would be a long term storage option. I'd like to use this space daily for the tractor. Would cutting out this part of the skid compromise the structural integrity of the building? I'm having a hard time imagining how the load would change without this section of runner here. Is it a really bad idea to take this piece out. I'd use a chainsaw, digging a little space underneath the cut first. Red lines are approximate cut lines.
by MyBlueMeadow
8 Comments
that framing is, in part, keeping your shed square. Not sure if it is anchored anywhere, but I’d just do the ramp thing.
Technically yes you would compromise the integrity of the structure since it looks like that skid is basically acting like the sill plate for the entire structure. The risk you run is that the doorway will start to open at the bottom over time and/or the walls will move in or out from the plane which they are currently in and the entire structure could theoretically come out of square.
In reality, it will probably be completely fine. Although I can’t say for certain without seeing the whole structure in person.
I’d probably personally just build a permanent ramp. But if you really want to do this and really dont want to worry, you need to find a way to anchor those studs on either side of the opening solidly to the ground. Whether it be pouring a little footing on each end of the door way and then installing a post on top, or driving a huge piece of rebar or something down through the skid and into the ground….idk I’m not a rocket surgeon but that’s what you’d need to do to ensure no movement.
I think it would need a couple studs where you cut to give support. Otherwise, ramps would be the option
Ramps are the option here.
You will have to anchor the base on each side of the opening with either some kind of foundation to attach the walls to or some kind of drive in piles.
When you cut that skid out you’ll have a chance of the walls kicking in or out without any kind of foundation attaching it solid to the ground.
If it were me I would leave it and just fill it in with gravel up to the top of the skid and make a permanent ramp outside with gravel so you can just drive over the skid
If you were on a slab foundation I’d go for it. But on dirt, just use ramps
Ramp it up!
Ya… if it works for you and doesn’t fall down