Common questions
Gravel Pad Questions, Answered
Cost, install time, what #57 stone is, permits, slopes, and where we work. Answered plainly. If yours is not here, just call.
How much does a gravel pad cost?
Gravel pads are priced by finished size: an 8x10 is $1,280, a 10x12 is $1,450, a 12x16 is $1,750, and a 12x20 is $1,950, all fully installed. Final price depends on site conditions, slope, and any extras. Heavy site prep that needs skid-loader grading runs $150 per hour with a four-hour minimum. Every estimate is free.
How long does installation take?
Most gravel pad foundations are completed in a single day. We arrive in the morning, prep the site, build the frame, fill with #57 stone, and tamp everything level. Your pad is ready for shed delivery by the next day.
What is #57 stone?
#57 stone is a crushed gravel roughly the size of a quarter. It is the industry standard for shed foundations because it compacts well, drains excellently, and does not shift under load. We tamp it level for a rock-solid surface.
Do I need a permit for a gravel pad?
In most Maryland and Delaware jurisdictions, gravel pads for sheds do not require a building permit since they are not a permanent structure. Your shed itself may require one depending on size. We recommend checking with your local code office, and we are happy to help guide you.
Can you build on a slope?
Absolutely, it is one of our specialties. We build multi-level pads and retaining walls to handle slopes other contractors will not touch. Slope surcharges may apply for sites more than 8 inches off level, but we quote that upfront.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and Southern Pennsylvania. Our core areas include Baltimore County, Harford County, Cecil County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Carroll County, Kent County (DE), New Castle County (DE), Chester County (PA), Lancaster County (PA), Loudoun County (VA), and Fairfax County (VA). Not sure if you are in range? Just call, we are flexible.
Gravel or concrete, which do I need?
We build both, so we will point you to whichever fits your project. For most sheds, a gravel pad is the smart choice: excellent drainage, installed in a single day, easy to modify later, no cracking from freeze-thaw, and usually no permit required. Concrete is the right call when you need a permanent, load-bearing slab, like a garage, workshop, or anything holding heavy equipment. Our concrete is 4,000 PSI, poured four inches thick with embedded wire mesh over a compacted aggregate base, priced at $15 per square foot. Tell us your plan and we will recommend the best base.
Do you work with shed companies?
Yes, we work directly with shed companies and their customers. We coordinate delivery schedules, build to your exact specs, and make the process seamless. If you are a shed dealer looking for a reliable foundation partner, give us a call.
Still have questions?
Ask an Owner Directly
Call for a free estimate and we will walk you through your specific project.