Skid and Runner Foundations in Nashville and Middle Tennessee
Site Prep, Foundations and Permits

Skid and Runner Foundations

Skid and runner foundations of treated timbers set on a level base, a simple, movable foundation for small and medium sheds that may need to move one day.

Skids are heavy treated timbers that run under a building like sled runners. They make a shed easy to move later and keep the floor off the soil. Owners in Nashville choose them for small and medium sheds, rented properties and cases where a future move is possible.

We use timbers rated for ground contact, set them on a level gravel bed or blocks and check spacing and bearing so the floor does not sag. Skids are tied to the floor frame with connectors, and we plan the ends for hooking tow straps or rollers. We explain size limits and how skids differ from a fixed foundation in rules and insurance questions. Skids are simple, but they rely on a stable bed. We level the ground, spread and compact gravel and set the timbers so each bears evenly along its length. The floor frame then ties to the skids so the building acts as a single unit. If you ever plan to move the shed, tell us now, and we will plan strap points and beveled ends so the building can be towed or lifted without damage.

Treated timbers

Ground-contact timbers resist rot and carry the floor frame along their length.

Bearing and level

A leveled gravel bed or blocks keep skids from sinking or twisting.

Connections

Skids are tied to the floor frame so the building and base move together.

Moving plans

Beveled ends and strap points make moving or tilting easier later.

What is included

  • Layout and leveling
  • Gravel bed or blocks
  • Treated skid timbers
  • Floor frame connections
  • Moving points
  • Final level check
Before and after

See the transformation.

Drag the handle to compare.

After: a backyard with a neat board-and-batten shed on a level gravel pad with double doorsBefore: a backyard with bare grass, weeds and an empty corner by the fenceBeforeAfter
A bare back corner, then a finished shed. From bare grass, weeds and an empty corner by the fence to a neat board-and-batten shed on a level gravel pad with double doors.
Why it works

What you get with Skid Foundations

Movable base

Ready to relocate.

Rot-resistant

Ground-contact lumber.

Quick to set

Simple layout.

Level bed

Gravel or blocks.

Strong connections

Tied to floor.

Size limits explained

We are honest.

Try it now

Shed Site and Permit Readiness Checker

Tick what you know about your lot, from slope, drainage and utilities to setbacks, HOA rules and permits, to see how ready your site looks and which pages to read first.

How it works

Our process, start to finish.

  1. 01

    Call and share your idea

    You tell us what you want to build or fix, how you will use it and where it will sit, and we ask about the lot and your timing.

  2. 02

    Visit and measure the site

    We walk the lot, check slope, drainage, access, utilities and setbacks, and take photos and measurements.

  3. 03

    Review the plan and estimate

    You get a plain written estimate with the size, materials, foundation, finishes and schedule before anything is ordered.

  4. 04

    Prep the site

    We mark the layout, clear and level the area, set the foundation and arrange permits, delivery and utilities.

  5. 05

    Build and finish

    The frame, roof, siding, doors and windows go up, then the interior, power and trim are finished to the plan.

  6. 06

    Walk through and care

    We walk the finished building with you, leave a care guide and photos and make it easy to schedule a checkup.

Questions

Skid Foundations FAQ

Can skids support a large shed?

Skids work best for small and medium buildings. Larger or heavy sheds may need piers or a slab.

Will skids rot?

Treated timbers last a long time, and a gravel bed helps them stay dry.

Can I move the shed?

Yes, with the right equipment and a clear route.

Do skids count as a foundation?

Rules vary, and we help you check what applies where you live.

Do I need a pad?

A level gravel bed under the skids helps a lot.

Next step

Get your Free Estimate for Skid Foundations.

Tell us about your lot and your idea and we will call you back to set up a visit.

Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.

Tell us about your building

We will call you back to talk it through and set up a visit.

Prefer to talk? Call (615) 357-7797. We never sell your information.

Call NowFree Estimate