Moore Liberty Buildings • Chad & Amanda Moore • Thousands of structures built since 2015. MooreLibertyBuildings.com • 512-548-6474
When planning a new shed, man cave, she shed, carport, RV cover, boat cover, ADU, garage, workshop, or barn, one of the first decisions you’ll face is the foundation. The question people ask most often is: Concrete or road base pad? Both options have their merits, and the right choice depends on your needs, budget, and long-term goals. Let’s break it down to help you decide.
Concrete: The Sturdy, Long-Term Choice
Concrete is the gold standard for durability and stability. A properly poured concrete pad provides a level, solid surface that can support heavy structures like garages, workshops, or ADUs. For steel or wood buildings, concrete ensures a secure anchor, reducing the risk of shifting or settling over time. This is especially critical for larger structures or those housing valuable items like boats, RVs, or vehicles.
Concrete excels in areas with heavy rainfall or poor soil drainage, as it resists erosion and moisture damage. It’s also low-maintenance—no need to worry about weeds or gravel displacement. For homeowners envisioning a polished look, concrete can be finished with textures, stains, or even stamped designs to elevate the aesthetic of a man cave or she shed.
However, concrete comes with a higher upfront cost and longer installation time. It requires skilled labor, proper site preparation, and curing time (typically 7 to 28 days) before you can build. If your budget is tight or you are planning a temporary structure, concrete might feel like overkill. Also, cracking can occur in extreme climates if not reinforced properly, so consult a local expert to ensure quality.
Road Base: Affordable and Flexible
Road base pads, typically made of compacted gravel or crushed stone, are a budget-friendly alternative. They’re ideal for smaller or lighter structures like sheds, carports, or barns, whether built from steel or wood. Installation is quick — often completed in a day or two — and doesn’t require specialized equipment or curing time. This makes road base a great option for homeowners eager to set up their workshop or RV cover ASAP.
Another perk? Road base is adaptable. If you decide to relocate your structure later, a gravel pad is easier to dismantle or re-purpose than concrete. It’s also permeable, allowing water to drain naturally, which can be a plus in areas prone to standing water. For eco-conscious homeowners, this permeability reduces runoff compared to concrete’s impervious surface.
On the flip side, road base requires regular maintenance. Over time, gravel can shift, and/or erode, creating uneven surfaces that may affect your structure’s stability. Weeds can sprout, and heavy equipment or vehicles may cause ruts. For heavier steel buildings or permanent ADUs, road base might not provide the robust support needed without significant reinforcement.
Making the Call
So, which is best? Consider your structure’s purpose, size, and permanence. For a long-term, heavy-duty garage or ADU, go with concrete for its strength and longevity. For a flexible, cost-effective solution — like a shed or carport — road base often does the trick.