If you’re looking to install a new shade shelter or shed on your property, getting the hold downs right is key. After all, they’re quite literally the foundation of your entire structure! To help ensure your installation is a success and stays rock-solid for the long term, we’re covering everything you need to know about shed hold downs.

What Are Shed Hold Downs?

Think of shed hold downs as the boots your shed wears. They connect your structure to the ground and keep it firmly anchored so it can’t get whisked away during high winds. Proper hold downs ensure your shed stays level, stable, and secure, especially during those wild summer storms we often cop here in Australia.

Why Getting the Right Shed Hold Downs is Vital

Choosing the right hold downs for your shade shelter (or any other ground-securing requirements for sheds you must meet) is about more than ticking boxes for council approval. Getting shed anchors right means you’re ensuring your investment stays protected. Here’s why proper hold downs matter:

Prevent movement and shifting during strong winds
Stop water damage by keeping your shed above ground level
Ensure your shed stays level, preventing door and window issues
Meet local council requirements and building codes
Protect warranty coverage

Different Types of Shed Hold Downs Available

When it comes to shed anchors, you’ve got several options to choose from. At QLD Shade Sheds, we offer three main types: saddle and bolt sets, concrete pier kits, and ground anchor sets. We sell our shade shelters and sheds as a complete kit with everything you’ll need for installation. For sheds under 5.9m wide, we offer all three options. For larger products, you can choose from concrete piers or saddles and bolts instead.

1. Saddle and Bolt Sets

Perfect for when you’ve got a concrete slab ready to go. The base rails sit directly on your slab, with saddles securing everything in place. The saddles sit on top of the base rails and get bolted to your concrete slab.

It’s worth noting that our sheds are engineered for specific concrete slab sizes. So, you’ll need a slab with:

400mm wide x 125mm deep thickening for larger sheds
For sheds 5.9m wide or under, you can get away with a 100mm thick slab (but extra saddles and bolts will be required, which come at an additional cost)

2. Ground Anchor Sets

Looking for a no-fuss, concrete-free option? Ground anchors are your go-to, especially if you might need to relocate your shed down the track. They’re:

Quick to install
Certified for cyclone-rated areas
Perfect for sheds under 5.9m wide
Fully removable if needed

With this hold-down option, the anchor hammers into the ground while the base rails of your shade shed or shelter lay between the exposed ends (similar to the concrete pier option below) and are secured with a saddle. Note that ground anchors aren’t suitable for sheds 5.9m wide and over, so for larger products, you’ll need to use saddles and bolts for a slab or concrete piers instead.

3. Concrete Pier Sets

Want something more permanent than ground anchors but don’t fancy a full slab? Concrete piers might be your best mate. They’re:

Great for uneven terrain
More economical than a full slab
Perfect for areas with specific foundation requirements

To install concrete shed piers, you need to dig your hold downs to the necessary width and depth (see info on depth below), locate your piers, and cement them in. The base rails of your shade shed or shelter will then lay between the exposed ends of the pier. They are secured with a saddle too.

How Deep Should Shed Hold Downs Be?

Many people wonder about the depth needed for concrete pier hold downs for sheds in Australia. This is one of the most common questions we get, and fair enough too! Depth depends on several factors:

Your local soil type
The size of your shed
Local building regulations
Whether you’re in a cyclone-prone area

For concrete piers, dig the hold downs to the required depth and width as outlined in your supplied Footing Layout. Then, position your piers and secure them with cement.

Professional Tips for Success

Here’s some insider knowledge to help you nail your shed installation:

Always check for underground services before digging
Consider drainage when positioning your shed
Take your time with measurements – measure twice, install once
Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure about anything – simply call us for some advice

Ready to Get Started?

Getting your shed hold downs right doesn’t have to be a headache. With over 10 years in business, our team at QLD Shade Sheds knows exactly what it takes to ensure your shed stays sturdy and secure for years to come.

Get in touch for a chat about your shed needs or get a free quote for the best shade shelter or shed and hold-downs for your property. Our expert team is ready to help you choose the perfect hold down solution to match your new shed. With our engineer-certified designs and 10-year structural warranty, you can trust you’re in good hands with us, whether you live in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, or further afield.

How To Choose The Right Shed Hold Downs