How to Anchor a Shed to the Ground Without Concrete

There are five primary methods for securing sheds to the ground without concrete.

1. Looping a cabled anchor around a ground frame.
2. Looping a cabled anchor over an inside structural member.
3. Bolting a cabled anchor to the outside of the shed.
4. Using large Penetrator anchors under the ground frame for both support (replacing footings) and as a hold-down.
5. Using smaller Penetrator anchors with L-brackets for securing sheds into asphalt and for temporary building installations.

The specific method, and the number and placement of anchors, will depend upon shed size, soil conditions, and your preference.

If a larger shed needs support as well as hold-down (requires footings), the large Penetrators can provide both functions with the same anchor. The largest (46") can replace poured concrete as an easier, faster, equally effective, and less expensive alternative.

For the best holding strength, anchors should be installed at a minimum spacing equal to the depth of the anchor, in order to avoid each other’s “cone of soil” — the region of soil that contributes to an anchor’s holding strength. This applies to both cabled anchors and Penetrator (screw-type) anchors.

Depending on your preferred method, you’ll need the following tools for installation:

Drive rod and sledge or demolition hammer for cabled anchors.

Impact wrench or power take-off (PTO) for Penetrator anchors.

For complete instructions, download the Shed Anchor Installation PDF.