Shire Gorilla Base DIY 8 Ground Screw Kit - Max 11.52M2
The Shire Gorilla Base DIY 8 is a complete ground screw foundation kit designed to create a strong...The Shire Gorilla Base DIY 8 is a complete ground screw foundation kit designed to create a strong, raised, and ventilated base for sheds and garden buildings, without the need for concrete. Installation is quick and mess-free, with no digging and no curing time, allowing most customers to install the base and assemble their building on the same day. The kit is delivered directly to your door and can be installed using standard household tools. It includes pre-cut structural timber, ground screws, a reusable driving handle, structural fixings, layout guidance, and clear step-by-step instructions (print and video).
The kit creates eight structural frames, each measuring approximately 1.2m x 1.2m, providing a total coverage of up to 11.52 square metres (Nominal shed size approx. 8ft x 16ft). This makes it ideal for larger garden buildings such as workshops, log cabins, and garden offices. Timber can be trimmed for bespoke sizing, and many customers use any extra space for a decked area or access platform.
Compared to concrete, Gorilla Base has a much lower environmental impact. Ground screws require minimal ground disturbance and can be removed and reused if the building is relocated.
Nationwide delivery is available, with dispatch typically within a few working days. After purchase, the Gorilla team will contact you to confirm suitability and provide any installation support needed. Dimensions: 15 x 240 x 480cm.
Shire Gorilla Base - Ground Screw Foundation Kit - 8 Pack - DIY Shed BaseFree delivery in 1–3 days£1,079.00Visit shop →
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Full details
The Shire Gorilla Base DIY 8 is a complete ground screw foundation kit for securely installing raised, ventilated bases for garden buildings without concrete. It's ideal for DIY enthusiasts looking for a quick, mess-free, and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional foundations, enabling same-day building assembly. A potential caveat is the need for suitable ground conditions for optimal screw installation.
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Brand
Shire
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FAQs
Do I need any special tools to install the Gorilla Base?
The kit is designed for installation using standard household tools. A sturdy lever or extension might be helpful for driving the ground screws, and basic tools for timber assembly will be needed.
How deep do the ground screws go?
The depth will vary depending on ground conditions, but the kit provides screws designed to reach a stable load-bearing layer. Follow the installation instructions carefully for recommended driving depths and visual cues.
Can I use this base on a slope?
The system is best suited for relatively level ground. While some minor slopes can be accommodated by adjusting screw depths, significant gradients will require professional site preparation or a different foundation solution.
What is the environmental impact compared to concrete?
The Gorilla Base has a significantly lower environmental impact. It involves minimal ground disturbance, no concrete production or disposal, and the ground screws are reusable if the structure needs to be relocated.
How long does installation typically take?
Installation time varies depending on user experience and ground conditions, but many customers can install the base and begin assembling their building on the same day.
Is the timber treated?
Yes, the structural timber included in the kit is typically pressure-treated to provide resistance against rot and insect attack for outdoor use.
What happens if I encounter an underground obstacle like a pipe or cable?
It is crucial to survey the ground for any underground services before installation. If an obstacle is encountered, you must stop installation in that spot and reposition the screw or foundation point. Shire cannot be held responsible for damage to underground utilities.
Troubleshooting
Ground screws are difficult to drive.
Ensure the ground is not excessively hard or rocky. Soaking the area with water might help. Check for obstructions below the surface. For very hard ground, consider professional installation or a different foundation method.
Frames are not level after installation.
Adjust the height of the ground screws if possible by carefully re-driving them slightly. Minor adjustments can sometimes be made by shimming between the ground screw head and the timber frame, although this is not ideal. Ensure initial screw installation was as level as possible.
The kit seems insufficient for the desired building size.
Re-check the maximum coverage area (11.52 sq m) and the nominal shed size (8ft x 16ft). If your building is larger, you may need to purchase additional ground screws and timber separately or consider a larger kit.
Timber components arrive damaged.
Contact Shire customer support immediately with photographic evidence of the damage for replacement parts.
Pros and Cons
Pros
No concrete required, saving time and mess.
Fast installation enables same-day building setup.
Environmentally friendly with minimal ground impact.
Suitable for relocating structures due to reusable screws.
Provides a strong, durable, and ventilated foundation.
Comprehensive kit with all necessary components included.
Cons
Requires suitable ground conditions for effective installation.
May require significant physical effort for screw driving.
Not suitable for extremely uneven or rocky terrain without preparation.
Timber components may require treatment for longevity depending on location.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Site Preparation: Clear the intended area of debris and mark out the desired footprint according to the layout guidance provided.
Ground Screw Installation: Use the provided reusable driving handle and potentially a lever (e.g., a long piece of timber through the handle) to screw the ground screws into the earth at the marked locations. Ensure screws are installed to the recommended depth and are level.
Frame Assembly: Assemble the pre-cut structural timber pieces on top of the installed ground screws to create the foundation frames.
Structural Fixings: Secure the timber frames to the ground screws and to each other using the provided structural fixings.
Building Placement: Position your garden building directly onto the assembled Gorilla Base.
Compatibility:
The kit is designed for use on firm, level ground. It is compatible with most soil types but may require adjustments for very soft, waterlogged, or rocky ground.
The system provides a base for structures up to approximately 11.52 square metres (nominal shed size 8ft x 16ft).
Timber can be trimmed to accommodate bespoke building dimensions or to create additional decking areas.
Care:
Regularly inspect the foundation for any signs of movement or damage.
Keep the area around the base clear of vegetation to ensure proper ventilation and prevent moisture buildup.
The treated timber used in the kit is designed for outdoor use, but applying additional wood preservative can extend its lifespan, especially in damp environments.