## Safety First
Before you begin, please follow these safety guidelines:
- **Wash hands** thoroughly after handling pressure-treated timber
- **Wear appropriate PPE**: protective gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots
- **Use power tools correctly** and follow manufacturer safety guidelines
- **Keep your workspace clear** of obstacles and tripping hazards
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## Tools & Materials Required
### Tools You'll Need
- **Cordless Drill** — For driving screws
- **Pencil** — For marking positions
- **Tape Measure** — For accurate measurements
- **Spirit Level** — To ensure level base
### Materials Supplied
- All pre-cut pressure-treated timbers
- Full screw kit included
> **Note:** The example shown is an 8ft × 4ft base. Sizes vary but the installation steps are identical for all timber base kits.
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## Step 1 — Layout the Base Sections
Prepare your workspace and organise all components:
1. Lay out all the supplied timbers in your workspace
2. Form two frame sections (e.g., two 4×4 frames for an 8×4 base)
3. Ensure all posts are facing the correct way and lengths match
4. **Optional:** Mark pilot hole positions with a pencil for easier assembly
💡 **Pro Tip:** Take your time during layout — correct positioning now saves time later.
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## Step 2 — Assemble Each Frame
Build the outer perimeter and internal supports:
1. Build the outer perimeter frame first
2. Hold corners at 90° angles and screw the posts together securely
3. Insert and screw the centre cross-member(s) in place
4. Once each frame is assembled, check squareness before proceeding
💡 **Pro Tip:** Use a carpenter's square or the 3-4-5 triangle method to verify 90° corners.
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## Step 3 — Check the Frame is Square
This step is **critical** — an out-of-square base will cause problems with your building.
### How to Check Squareness:
1. **Measure diagonally** from corner to corner (like an X)
2. Both diagonal measurements **must match exactly**
3. If measurements don't match, push or pull the frame until they do
4. Re-check both diagonals after any adjustments
The diagonal measurement method ensures your frame is perfectly square and will provide a solid, level foundation for your building.
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## Step 4 — Join the Two Frames Together
Connect the sections to create the complete base:
1. Lay both halves side-by-side on level ground
2. Align all edges neatly and ensure frames are flush
3. Screw both halves together along the full length of the join
4. The frame should now be one solid, sturdy rectangle
💡 **Pro Tip:** Have a helper hold the frames in position while you secure them.
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## Completion
🎉 **Congratulations!** Your timber base is now ready for your building.
Ensure the completed base is:
- Level in all directions
- Square (re-check diagonals)
- Positioned correctly for your building placement
If you have any questions about your timber base installation, please [contact our team](/contact) for assistance.
