Jamaica Cottage Shop

Hand-crafted cottages and sheds created by Vermont artisans in the post-and-beam tradition.
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SALE ENDS 9/19/22

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Knowing how your food is produced can make you feel confident in its wholesomeness. Many are turning to old-fashioned farming as a way to get in touch with how their food is grown. Plus learning these skills can be quite an enjoyable lifestyle. An abundance of home-grown veggies, fruits, meat, and honey rules! Lastly, it goes without saying, nothing's cuter than farmyard animals like chickens, piglets, and sheep. That is where planning a mini-homestead for urban farming comes into play.


City dwellers and those with minimal backyard space might think this lifestyle is impossible. In reality, this is false. Each year mini-homesteading and urban farming enthusiasts find new ways to make their dreams come true. Read on for some tips to plan out your mini-homestead for urban farming with the help of some post and beam buildings.


How Much Space Do You Have?

If you are in this situation, you can put together a scaled-back homestead. With a bit of planning it's a snap. First, you should measure out the space you have to work with. Next, decide what areas you want to use for this purpose. Do you want to use both your front and back yards? Or are you going to designate your garden and livestock shelter to one corner?


What Animals Are You Going to Raise?

Once you have figured out the layout of the land, you can decide what kind of animals you will raise. Most people who venture into urban farming start with chickens or other fowl like quail or ducks. That's because they take up a small amount of space. Plus gathering fresh eggs is a bonus. Quail are a bit quieter than chicken, ducks and geese, making them ideal if you have close neighbors. Our 4x6 Coop is a great beginner building with a tiny footprint, perfect for the smallest of yards. A roomier selection would be our 8x8 Coop, enclosed with hardware mesh, it's airier for free range birds. 

The more adventurous homesteaders will enter the realm of sheep, goats, pigs, or llamas. Of course, these types of animals will need more space. Your yard might not have enough room for a barn-styled shed or run-in. Don’t rule it out quite yet. If there is a specific reason you want to raise a particular animal, you might be able to make it work. For example, yarn spinners might want to have some sheep around. In other instances, a yoga teacher might find it beneficial to keep dwarf goats for their goat yoga classes.


A Run-In Basic or Vermonter provides shelter in smaller footprints for these types of animals. Stick with birds or bunnies if space is too cramped or if you don't have a good reason to have larger animals. 

8x10 Storage Shed with double doors and Ramp

Before commiting to any specific livestock, check with your municipality first. Some types of animals might not be allowed, and you will want to avoid any trouble with your neighbors. If you decide to keep animals, be sure that you can commit to properly caring for them. Providing adequate shelter is an absolute must. Have a plan for feeding and grooming them. 


Fruit, Veggies, and Honey

While you raise chickens, you could have a garden growing too. Strategically placed raised garden beds need little space and provide flexibility in placement. Anything you can do to save space, and increase efficiency of your next growing season will help provide a larger harvest.

8x14 Weston Potting Shed painted gray with white trim and Charcoal Gray Roof

When planting consider the following:

• Geographical location and climate - pick out plants that thrive in your local environment.

• Your skill level - if you are a beginner, choosing plants that are easy to grow will be encouraging.

• Try companion planting - research the different types of plants that compliment each other. This gardening technique can deter pests, attract pollinators, and improve the fertility of the soil in your beds.


A Greenhouse is a sturdy little building that can be used for storage and getting your seedlings started. Another option is to choose a multipurpose building like the Weston Potting Shed. This shed comes with an open side for gardening, and an enclosed side for storage. If you are keeping bees, some people opt for a small shed. Keeping the hive protected from predators will ensure a long life for your colony. 

Our 8x10 Greenhouse is a great building to get a headstart with planting

Set up a Farm Stand

Once you start collecting eggs and growing an abundance of food, you will probably find that you have more than enough. Instead of letting all of that good food go to waste, you might as well share with your neighbors. You can set up a farm stand in your front yard where people can buy your fresh eggs and other goodies. You can preserve the food you grow by pickling and turning it into jams or salsas to sell too. In New England, it is common to find a small shed set up with a tin can for collecting cash on farms. Soon you will find that your products are in high-demand.


We love how this farm in Vermont set up this vending booth for selling honey and other goods created. Once delivered, they added shelving to their Saltbox shed. Now they simply open the solid pine double doors when they want to sell. 

5' JCS Built 2" thick Pine Double Doors on 4x8 Saltbox. Interior view. Black Turn Latch.

Community Gardens & Farms

We understand many people reading this might live in an apartment without access to land. That is ok. You can still live out your farming dreams. Many communities in cities have shared community gardens or farms where you may be able to rent a small plot. In many cases, volunteers are encouraged to help out in exchange for some freshly grown goods. The great thing about a community garden or farm is that you can cooperate with other people involved. You will lean on their expertise and learn as you go. Also, if you need to go on a vacation, a luxury many farmers forego, you could probably time trade with another member. This way everyone makes sure their plots are taken care of during an absence. It is a win-win situation really.


Your individual plot might not have enough space for a shed. If this is so, you may be able to work with your community to get some post and beam buildings set up. Working together to build a small barn kit or greenhouse is very rewarding. Plus, the finished buildings can benefit the entire group.


8x12 Saltbox Storage Shed with Fenced Garden

Conclusion

Urban homesteading can be a very satisfying lifestyle. You will learn many valuable skills that will improve your quality of life. Plus, you might be able to make some income by selling the goods that you grow. Don’t know where to start? Check out our Barnyard Bundle, a curated selection of DIY building plans with homesteading in mind.


If you want to delve deeper into the world of urban farming, here are some additional resources you can check out:


Guide to Urban Homesteading – Find more quick tips to get your gears turning.

Urban Agriculture Tool Kit – From the USDA and contains practical information to help you do it right.

How to Start a Backyard Farm – Learn how this household set up their farm on one acre of land.

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Frosty mornings and snowy days ahead mean it is time to close up your greenhouse, or at the very least, weatherize it. Adding this winter greenhouse maintenance to-do list to your end-of-fall duties will ensure that your greenhouse is tidied up for the winter. Plus, you’ll be prepared to get that green thumb working lickity-split when spring rolls around!


Potting Shed with built in potting bench with cabinets.
This post and beam garden shed comes with a built in potting bench with cabinets.

Harvest Your Bounty

Before you start cleaning, you will want to pull out any veggies and flowers that won’t make it through the winter. If your harvest is bountiful, this is a good time for canning, dry freezing, and baking! Enjoy some fresh bouquets or pull out your flower press. If you have more than you can handle, sharing with friends, family and neighbors is always an appreciated option. Potted plants that can live indoors should be brought inside your home unless you plan on weatherizing and heating your shed.


6x8 Greenhouse with built in workbench, clearpoly roof and lots of barn sash windows that hinge out. It is a good idea to clean it out as a winter greenhouse maintenance step.
This 6x8 Greenhouse is filled with light thanks to the numerous windows, clearpoly roof and glass/screen combo door.

Clear Everything Out

Taking everything out of your greenhouse will make it quick and easy to clean. Move everything out to start with a clean slate for efficient organization. Pull out all of your pots, watering cans, tools, and bags of soil. NorthernHomestead.com mentions leaving perennials inside. Perennials will bounce back when spring arrives. Anything prone to rotting should be moved out to lower the chances of disease and pest attraction.



6x8 Greenhouse being used by a skilled gardener
The 6x8 Greenhouse workbenches provide plenty of room for planting lots of flowers, veggies and plants

Freshen Up

Thoroughly cleaning out your building is a top winter greenhouse maintenance tip. Freshen up your greenhouse by giving it a good scrub. Clean any glass and clear poly roof panels. Ensure sunlight access by removing dust, dirt, and cobwebs. Wipe down any fixtures, pots, and tools with a non-toxic, plant-friendly cleaner. Once everything is glistening, you can move your supplies back inside.



Maintain for Preservation

Maintaining your building, inside and out, will lengthen its lifespan and keep it looking spiffy. Now is the time to fix any leaks and cracked windows. Applying paint, stain, or linseed oil to the interior and exterior is simple when everything is already clean. Do it now, if it is time, so you can focus on gardening instead of chores.


Exterior door handle that comes with the deluxe door hardware kit.
Oil your door and window hardware to keep latches and hinges functional.

If your windows and doors are sticking, you should oil the hinges. An unlevel building can also cause sticky windows and doors. Check that your foundation isn’t sagging anywhere, and add shims as needed. Also, window and door hinges should be functional, or else snow and rain might sneak in on a windy day.


Spruce up any garden beds that are staying. Cover the soil with compost or woodchips as a mulch. Finally, improve your garden bed ecosystem by adding worms to the dirt.


Boost UV Rays and Warmth

Weatherizing a greenhouse can make winter growing possible in any climate. Adding insulation might be tricky if your shed is already built, but this isn’t impossible. Or start with a new building and customize with insulation and energy-efficient windows and doors. Caulk windows, doors, and cracks to prevent cold air from entering. You can also use foam foil insulation as a temporary solution. Since sunlight is needed for photosynthesis, you’ll want to remove any insulation covering windows, doors, and roofing during the day.


Interior of a shed turned into a potting area.
The New Yorker can be turned into a greenhouse by adding lots of windows and a clearpoly roof.

Running a space heater is one way to keep everything in the greenhouse warm in winter but won’t be energy efficient if you don’t have insulation. Try some passive heating techniques instead. For example, keeping a black rain barrel inside will absorb heat from the sun. Compost piles and lava rocks also generate heat. If you live in a near-arctic climate, these passive heating techniques won’t work on ultra-cold and cloudy days, but they can help reduce energy costs for the long haul.


Conclusion

Following these five simple winter greenhouse maintenance steps will ensure your greenhouse continues to be a haven that promotes a healthy environment for your seedlings. The best part? Many of these tasks do not need to be completed every year as long as you inspect your building. Do you have some greenhouse maintenance tips that we missed? Share them here.

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Everyone loves sticky, sweet maple syrup on their pancakes and mixed with ice cream. Others pour syrup in coffee as a sugar substitute. Production of this saccharine condiment takes place in most of New England, the Midwest, and Canada. If maple trees grow in your area, you can make maple syrup. While you may be able to DIY a small batch in your kitchen, you will also want a sap house if you plan on making batches to sell. Our post and beam Sugar Shacks make excellent space for small-time hobbyists or larger operations alike.

maple syrup production in an affordable sugar shack
An evaporator sits on the concrete slab foundation in this post and beam sugar shack.

Many people might think that they can just use any old shed for boiling sap. This misconception usually gets corrected after the first boil, but can be avoided in the first place. Heavy equipment for boiling means that the floor system needs to hold enough weight. Moisture needs to escape buildings filled with steam and smoke.

Here we walk you through four Sugar Shack building essentials and components that you will want to consider before construction.

Take a tour of a Sugar Shack in the process of being finished!

1. Floor or No Floor?

 We can cut to the chase here and say we don’t recommend getting a floor system if you are boiling sap. First, your evaporator is going to be very heavy. You will probably want to store some firewood inside for convenience, which also strains the floor system. And there will probably be some spillage. Nothing is worse than sticky wood floors! Instead, order the building with a treated sill plate, and your foundation will be the flooring. Many people settle for a gravel pad, a simple and affordable choice that works great. Concrete slabs will be stronger and easier to keep clean.

Run In Basic Interior
A treated sill plate sits right on a gravel pad or concrete slab for a fire-resistant ground.

When you order a Sugar Shack from us, the default option will be a treated sill plate. If you insist on having a floor system, we suggest upgrading the floor weight rating when you order. You may also want to install some kind of flame-retardant surface decking under and surrounding your evaporator too.

2. Vital Ventilation for your Sugar Shack

Boiling sap produces a LOT of steam, and this isn’t just regular steam. Sap condensation is tacky and can coat the walls and ceiling of your building. Add in the abundance of moisture build-up and you have created the perfect environment for rot. We have three components that combat these issues in your Sugar Shack:

• Integrated Venting Cupola
Cupolas are used on Sugar Shacks for maple syrup production.
These hinged vents can be opened when sap is being boiled so the steam can leave the building.

The cupola that comes with one of our Sugar Shacks is designed to integrate into the roof. We frame out a 4-foot-by-8-foot rough opening. Installing the cupola on the roof it creates a second structure that houses the steam. Vents, installed on the two long sides open and close using a rope system.

Our Sugar Shack design comes pre-framed for the integrated venting cupola. They come with aluminum flashing to direct water away from the rough opening. Our other sheds will not have the rough opening for the cupola pre-cut or outlined in our plans. Be sure to work with a contractor, in the first place, if you want to make this type of change to a building that is not one of our Sugar Shacks.

• Wood Louvered Vent

Wood Louvered Vents come with nearly all our post and beam Sugar Shacks, barns, and storage sheds. These small, square vents, built under the roof, and are installed on the back gable wall. They have hardware cloth, a mesh material, that keeps most insects out.

• Barn Sash Windows

Barn Sash Windows are offered hinged, which provides airflow when your Sugar Shack gets extra steamy and hot. Therefore, syrup producers will be grateful for them when they need a breath of fresh air.

12x16 Sugar Shack with door upgrade
A side entry door was added to the bearing wall of this 12x16 Sugar Shack.

3. A Grand Entrance, or Two

Obviously, a door is a prerequisite for any building. Here is why you need barn-style doors in a Sugar Shack. Large evaporators need enough width for accessibility inside the building. A set of pine, double doors will make wheeling in a cartful of sap buckets, and loads of firewood, quick and easy. Finally, being able to safely escape your building in an emergency is also a must. For this reason, adding a single door on the opposite side of the double doors is a smart move. If hinged doors aren’t your style, consider sliding barn doors instead.

6-Inch Wood Stove Roof Flashing
Our woodstove roof flashing may be installed on any of our sugar shacks.

4. Flashy Flashing

Sap boiling evaporators are basically oversized, wood-burning stoves. They have pipes that exit the building, usually through the roof. Cutting a hole in the roof for a chimney will expose the interior to the elements. We can install woodstove flashing or a wall thimble in any of our fully assembled sugar shacks. We also sell them separately to ship with pre-cut kits too. Flashing sits on top of the roof and sheds water and snow away from the chimney. This prevents water from seeping into the building.

Conclusion

Set your Sugar Shack up to be safe and efficient. A proper foundation and ventilation system will help you maintain your building for a long life too. If you are looking for more tips, we found this handy list of other provisions that you will need to stock your Sugar Shack up with for a productive season.

We would love to see photos of you at work in your Sugar Shack. If you’ve got ‘em send them to us via our photo-sharing form in your account dashboard.  

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The Barnyard Bundle is a package of DIY building plans for farm structures.

Some of our favorite post and beam livestock shelters were designed with our furry and feathered friends in mind. Newbie urban farmers and experienced homesteaders alike will need shelters for their farm animals. Giving your chickens, ducks, goats, pigs, sheep, and horses a dry place to rest will keep them healthy year-round. Storage for their feed, cleaning supplies, and other farming equipment is necessary too. If you are starting out, you might not know which designs you should build first. Alternatively, if you have been farming for a long time, you probably want to expand and improve your setup. Well, we came up with a solution that can work for everyone…the Barnyard Bundle!

This package deal combines three of our most popular livestock DIY building plans for a discounted price. We include the 16x30 Barn, 8x8 Chicken Coop, and 10x14 Run-In Standard designs. Beginner carpenters were kept in mind when we designed our do-it-yourself building plans. You can use the plans to build with your locally sourced materials. Many in our community pre-purchase the DIY building plans to prepare for a pre-cut kit order too. 

In addition to the step-by-step instructions, the plans come with a shopping list, a cut list, and rafter templates. Use the shopping list to comparison shop between purchasing your own materials or buying a pre-cut kit. The cut-list outlines how each piece of lumber will be cut, and what part of the building it is used for. When you buy these kits, keep the handy cut-lit around for inventory tracking purposes. Trace the rafter templates onto your lumber to ensure that your roof pitch will be correct. 

BUY THE BARNYARD BUNDLE

A Big Ol' Barn

16x20 Barn (post and beam livestock shelter) that has been painted red with a wooden Country Store sign installed on it.

The 16x30 Barn provides 480 square feet of interior space, plus a loft great for storing hay and cleaning supplies. A set of solid pine double doors on the gable end creates an entrance large enough for most horses. Or use it for storing equipment, a place to sell your harvested produce, meat, and eggs, or a workshop where you can make repairs.

Three-Sided Livestock Haven

The 10x14 Run-In is a three-sided shed design decked out with a kickplate and steel corner brackets for towing around the pasture. This building was designed as a horse or cattle shelter but could also be used as a farm stand, equipment storage, or housing smaller animals. Some have even used it as a firewood enclosure or for sheltering motorcycles. Watch this video for a closeup of one of our Standard Run-Ins.

Happy Hen House

8x8 Chicken Coop

Chickens are pretty much a prerequisite for any farming situation. The 8x8 Coop provides an open-air environment for your hens, roosters and chicks. Nesting boxes keep your fowl snug and sound through the night. The hardware mesh siding means they get all the fresh air and sunshine they could want. A 12-inch by 12-inch door drops down to a ramp so your chickens can visit a larger open area for exercise.

Conclusion

Once you have received the livestock shed plans, you can start ordering your materials and get building. Or you might find out that our time-saving and affordable pre-cut kits are the way to go. Whichever path you take, we want you to know that we would love to see the photos of your progress and finished post and beam masterpieces. Then pat yourself on the back for a job well done!

You might also like these other plan bundles for your cottage village:

Homesteading Plans Package - Collection of DIY Building Plans
The Gardner Package - building plans for landscaping
The Camper Collection

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When buying any kind of post and beam building it is very important to understand how to prepare for and get building permits. The last thing you want to have happen is to buy a prefab shed, or cottage kit only to find out you won’t be able to install it due to your local zoning laws. Ignoring your local laws can come back to bite you later on. This is why it is strongly recommended that you understand what is required to obtain a permit before buying a post and beam building.

Make sure you know how to prepare for building permits before you build a Vermont Cabin.
Before you start building a timber frame home make sure you have the proper permits in place to avoid potential hardships.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Permitting Process

It might be tempting to skip over obtaining a permit for your shed or cottage.  We do not recommend doing this, so here are some of the benefits of getting a permit. When you go through the process of obtaining a permit with your local town office, you may learn important information about your property. Finding out about setbacks, environmental factors, and local rules should be at the forefront before you start building. Knowing this information will help protect your new building, your land, and the existing buildings on your property. Making sure you follow the local rules will keep your neighbors happy, too.

Skipping the permit process can create hardships after your building is erected. No one likes to pay fines, so why tempt fate? Worse, you could be required to tear your unpermitted building down or make hefty repairs to make sure the building meets the local building guidelines. Save yourself the trouble in the beginning and take care of this step before you take delivery of your order. Better yet, get your permit before you order to avoid cancellation fees and disappointment. 

First Things First

The first step in figuring out how to prepare for a permit is to call your local town clerk. If you don’t know their number do an internet search for your town or city office to get their number. You might even find any necessary documents and forms on your town’s website. If you live in a small town, they can probably forward the permit application to you directly. In larger municipalities, the town clerk might need to direct you to the town building inspector or zoning department. If you are lucky, you might find out that a permit is not needed. Some counties are lax on building codes or allow for small, portable sheds to be built permit-free. 

What are the Requirements?

Mainly, when a new building is constructed on a property, you will need to know about setbacks and size limits. A setback is the minimum distance away from your property line that you are allowed to build. You might be limited to the footprint size or overall height of the building as well.

12x20 Sugar Shack built on a stone foundation.
Before this sugar shack was built the customers applied for a permit and made sure the stone foundation was allowed.

Environmental factors are also very important to understand. Do you live in an area that is prone to flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy snowfall, or earthquakes? You might need to obtain engineered stamped plans to ensure your building meets the local code. You might also be required to install particular foundation types that will work with the environment. Even if you don’t live in an area that is prone to any environmental factors your town might still require engineered stamped plans or have a stringent permitting process. It is best not to make assumptions.

 If you reside in a historic zone or HOA you might need to pay close attention to design, materials used in construction, and size to match up with the local aesthetic.

Learn how to prepare for a building permit by calling your local town office.

Get Your Ducks in a Row

Before you order make sure you fill out your paperwork. Obtain engineered stamped plans if they are required. Many of our customers will purchase our step-by-step plans first to see if those will be sufficient. They can help plan out your foundation, plus we credit the price you bought the plans for when you move forward with a pre-cut kit purchase.

If engineered stamped plans are required, a couple options are available. You might want to work with a local architect. They can use our step-by-step building plans as a reference to draft up the elevations and work out any calculations. If modifications must be made to meet the codes, you will know in advance. You can then work with your contractor to order extra materials (if needed). They should also know how to make any other modifications.

We also work with an engineering company that drafts engineered stamped plans for nearly any zip code in the United States. These plans can be ordered online as an add-on when you are shopping for your project. Or contact our sales team for a quote if you want to start that process before you buy your building project.

You Have Your Permit, Now What?

Once you have the permit in your hand you can start with the fun stuff! Getting your site prepared means you are one step closer to getting your amazing post and beam building. Plus, you will be able to begin envisioning your cabin, cottage, or shed in its new home.

Start shopping for your building. Are you getting a kit or prefab structure? What kind of roofing, siding, windows, and doors are you going to choose? Do you want to get some other goodies like flower boxes or wooden furnishings? How are you going to decorate the interior? What about landscaping?

All the while, keep close communication with your contractor. They should be most helpful during the building process. Interpreting engineered plans or zoning laws is not everyone’s forte, so working with professionals can be very enlightening.

Did You Hit a Bump in the Road?

Sometimes building a structure on wheels will eliminate the need for a permit if portable structures are allowed.
A garden shed on wheels might not need a permit. Check with your local town office before making assumptions.

If your building project was not approved, have no fear. You might need to reimagine your project. Usually, some small tweaks will turn it around. You might need to reinforce the frame, add more rafters, or pick a different foundation option. In some cases, choosing a design that is a few sizes smaller, or installing the building on wheels will eliminate the need for a permit altogether.

If you are finding the process is taking longer than anticipated, but don’t want to miss a big sale, communicate with our sales team. We will do our best to work with you. For questions and concerns contact our sales staff by calling 866-297-3760 or contact us via this form.

Conclusion

Permitting might not be the most glamourous step. It is, in most cases, necessary. The benefits outweigh the costs when you consider fines or potential repairs. Opting for engineered plans will ensure your building will stand up to your region’s environmental rigors. All in all, your permit is meant to protect your investment. A long-standing building and harmony in the neighborhood are both priceless.

Remember that it is your responsibility to obtain a permit for your building. We tried to cover as much ground as possible but realize that laws are constantly changing. They differ from state to state and county to county. If you know of other factors not mentioned here, please share with us!

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This stunning cabin was constructed with a full foundation

We at Jamaica Cottage Shop know that a successful build starts with a good foundation. Whether you are adding a small shed or cottage to your yard, or planning something more on the scale of a garage or large cabin, knowing how to properly prepare your building site will save you time and money in the long run.


Do You Need a Permit for Your Building Site?

Each town is different, and the permit you need will depend on the size and type of building you are planning for. Most towns do not require a permit for a building less than 150 square feet. A set back of 25 feet from the property line is common. Jamaica Cottage Shop leaves all local and state requirements for obtaining a permit to be the responsibility of the client. We suggest that you contact your local town clerk to get started.


Ask the following questions:
1. What are the required set backs?
2. What is the maximum size building allowed without a permit?
3. How much will a permit cost?
4. Are engineered stamped plans required for my project?
5. What foundation types are allowed on my property?


Choosing the Right Site

Choose a site that is both level and accessible. Take into consideration water drainage from both the land and the building. Pitch the water away from the shed. Moisture will cause decay and
rot, significantly reducing the life of the building. Remove any shrubs, trees, saplings and other plants that are growing on your building site before starting.


Building site preparation
The site preparation begins for one of our Florida Room cottages

How to Prepare your Building Site

Whether you’re expecting a Fully Assembled Building, Building from a Pre-Cut Kit, or even building from scratch, proper site preparation is key. Each site is unique and specific preparation requirements do vary, but one constant, is to make sure your site is level. A building that is not level will cause the doors to stick and the ramp to not fit correctly.


When leveling your site, the area should be as solid as possible, so once your site and building are level, they stay that way. Minimize the chance of the building sinking out of level by removing any sod, soft dirt or weeds along the way. For best results, use a transit when leveling your site. If one is not available you may also use a 8’ level. After digging and leveling, you complete the bed by adding 3 to 4 inches of compacted gravel. Digging out and leveling the area in which to place the gravel will leave you with a bed that is level and flush with the landscape, as opposed to appearing as a mound above the landscape. When leveling your site, it is also important to take into consideration your shed entrance and ramp.


Pro Tip:

The site must be level for approximately 5’ in front of your entrance door so that the ground that your ramp sits on is level with the building. If this area is not level, your ramp may not fit properly or may be too steep for its intended use.


Laying the Bed

If using a gravel bed, we recommend compacted gravel as opposed to loose. This is, again, to minimize the chance of the building shifting or sinking out of level. The changes in the seasons can cause the earth to heave and give, pushing the shed out of level. If this happens, you can re-level the building by manipulating the site or using wood shims.


Poor drainage can be overcome by first laying a gravel bed regardless of the foundation options you choose. A 3 to 4 inch gravel bed is best. Poor drainage will result in a reduced building life. Proper site preparation is encouraged; hire a professional excavator before the building arrives to prevent the cottage from being “perched”. An improperly prepared site will void the Jamaica Cottage Shop warranty.


Gravel Pad installed to prepare build site for foundation
We always recommend installing a gravel pad to prepare for your foundation

Pro Tip:

It is advantageous to install a gravel pad no matter what your foundation type is. This type of foundation preparation encourages proper drainage. 


Further Considerations

Who to Hire:

For most people it is best to leave site preparation to professionals. Ask your landscaper or property maintenance team for recommendations on who to hire for the job. We have a list of recommended site preparation professionals as well and assemblers.


Site Visits:

Local clients who would like to purchase a fully assembled building may pay a fee to have one of our drivers do a site visit. They can determine if a fully assembled unit can be delivered to the site, or will let you know if it makes more sense to purchase a kit. Photos of the site and path to the site may be emailed for us to consult first. 


Fully Assembled or Pre-Cut Kit:

One thing to consider when choosing a foundation is what type of project you are ordering. With a kit you can prepare your site with any foundation type you choose, since you can build on top of that. If you are ordering a fully assembled project the foundation cannot be higher than our truck bed (preferably less than 12” high). Gravel foundations are ideal for kits and fully assembled projects.


Choosing a Strong Foundation

Different foundations have different best use cases. Here are a few of the most commonly used foundations, and what benefits they can offer your structure.


Site preparation where a cement block is being installed as part of the foundation of a cottage.
A cement block is being installed at one of the points of the future building.

Cement Blocks:

Durable and economical

Light and simple to install

Supports the most weight due to more intricate structure


We use 4x8x16” solid concrete blocks when delivering fully assembled buildings, and recommend these for kits as well. Each building will require a certain number of blocks depending on how many points the building has. For fully assembled buildings we include the minimum required blocks. 


If installing on a slope, or uneven ground, additional blocks may be needed. These can be purchased at a hardware store. We also supply them on delivery for $10 for each additional block needed. 


Jamaica Cottage Shop Vermont Cottage with concrete piers as the foundation
Concrete piers give this Vermont Cottage a lift!

Concrete Piers:

Lower chance of termite infestation

Allows open access to electrical and plumbing systems

Easier solution for a sloped or uneven lot


Cement piers that reach below the frost line are fine for the foundation of your new shed. This choice requires playing with concrete and having the ability to square the tubes. A deck that is not square will cause the entire structure to be untrue. 

When placing an order for your cottage, shed, barn, or cabin, ask for the dimensions for the concrete piers that will correctly fit your size building.


Poured Concrete Slab:

Prevents rodents and other pests from nesting under the building

Easier to waterproof

Easier to access for those that have difficulty climbing steps

Eliminates need for a wood floor


This concrete slab has been poured at the future site of a Jamaica Cottage Shop Vermont Cottage

Dig out 12” then pour gravel and compact it to a 6” minimum depth before you lay your slab. The slab should be a minimum of 4” thick in the center, reinforced with wire mesh, and at least 6” thick on the edges where it will bear the weight. 


Our buildings weigh an average of between 3,000 and 6,000 lbs. A 6x6 pressure treated sill plate can be used instead of a hemlock floor system. Therefore, these buildings will not go anywhere unless you are in an area with extremely high winds. If you do find it necessary to fasten your building to your slab we suggest that you use metal strapping.


Make your slab the same size as your building. For example, if you are buying a 12x20 Sugar Shack the slab should be 12’ x 20’ in size. When your slab is poured you can have flexible metal strapping installed to fasten the building to the concrete slab. If you have an existing concrete slab that you would like to attach your building to, we recommend attaching with a ramset, a high-powered nail gun.


More Foundation Types

Full concrete foundation with small windows.
Installing a full foundation gives you the benefits of a basement!

Full Foundation

Ideal for cabins, cottages, or any building where a basement would be beneficial. Can be used as dry storage, additional living space or as a work area.


Pour foundation slab so it has 12” deep Rim Footer and 12” deep footers under the support posts. Cast a pocket for beam to sit in. Allow extra depth to so the beam can sit on a piece of Pressure treated lumber to isolate it from the elements. Set the finish height to match the Sills. Cast J- bolts into the top of the foundation, to attach the sills to. Use Sill sealer between the Foundation and the sill plates.


Helical Piles

Helical piles are giant metal screws that are installed in the ground. They have a similar function to concrete piers, but are adjustable. This makes them a great choice for areas that experience frost heaves. Additionally, they can be reused easily if the building site needs to be relocated, and have minimal environmental impact.


For helical piles we recommend working with GoliathTech. For over 15 years they have been an industry leader of helical pile engineering and manufacturing. Visit their website to find a certified installer near you.


Block Wall

Block Walls can be used to achieve a taller wall height for buildings that do not have a floor system. A block wall can be created using concrete, cement blocks, brick or stone. They work well with Jamaica Cottage Shop pre-cut kits, since they can be built at any foundation height. For taller wall heights, get a building with a treated sill plate.


Foundations for a Tiny House on Wheels

Jamaica Cottage Shop Tiny House on Wheels with a green roof and decorative American flag
Even a Tiny House on Wheels needs the right support to ensure longevity.

One of the advantages of a Tiny House on Wheels is that you do not necessarily need a foundation! However, finding a level spot to park will increase the longevity of your small, wheeled home. Not only that but your comfort level will increase. Tie downs and scissor jacks are typically used, but if you can find a concrete slab to park on, that’s even better. Lifting the building up with jacks will save your tires from going flat. 


Pro Tip:

For colder temperature climates you may want to consider adding an insulated skirting to your home to prevent any water pipes from freezing and bursting.


Proper Care and Maintenance

Protect your investment by preserving the building. Choose a paint or stain to match your tastes, but will also provide the right protection for your structure.


24x36 Equipment Shed - Three Bay Storage Barn Garage
The 24x36 Equipment Shed is a post and beam building with three bays, with a concrete foundation that will make it last for years to come.

For a deep rich natural finish we recommend a clear coat preservative such as linseed oil that will enhance the rustic charm of the product. This will leave you with a fully protected building from moisture, decay and insect contamination. We suggest the cottage be left to cure for a season before treating and be maintained with a coat every five years. The materials we use are rot resistant, but wood is a natural substance that will fall prey to Mother Nature if not taken care of. 


Keep It Clear

It is important to make sure that the trees, saplings and shrubbery do not overgrow your shed. You want your new cottage to maintain as much airflow as possible to allow it ample ability to dry out. If your building will be in a heavy snowfall area you should take into consideration the pine trees surrounding it. If your shed sits under pine trees, the sap from these trees will inhibit the roof from properly shedding the snow. This can cause serious damage to your shed if the snow gets too heavy and is not removed.


You should never stack firewood, or anything else that will prohibit airflow, up against your shed. Never leave your shed’s doors open in the rain. Also, do not allow debris such as mulch, grass cuttings, etc. to pile up in or around your building. Anything that holds moisture should be kept away from your cottage. 


The cottage is strategically placed off the ground to prevent moisture build up and encourage air circulation. Many clients have opted to use lattice to shield the sight of the foundation supports, however we suggest a field stone foundation dry laid under the perimeter walls. This will enhance the aesthetics and give an impression of a much more substantial look. The false dry laid foundation will fit in with the decor and the authentication of the building materials. A true country charm is created.


Pest Protection

Termites are one of the most devastating pests you can encounter. Luckily, aluminum termite shields can be a great solution to thwarting an infestation. Place them on top of your concrete blocks before building your floor system. They require no maintenance, and contain no harmful toxins or poisons, making them an easy and practical solution!


Aluminum Termite Shield to prevent termite damage to your wooden shed, cabin, cottage or barn. 18.5"x10"x2".
Aluminum Termite Shield to prevent termite damage to your wooden shed, cabin, cottage or barn. 18.5"x10"x2".

The shield is installed between the cement blocks and the skids and it should extend 2” out from the cement block on all sides and then descend on a 45 degree angle, extending another 2”. This forms a metal barrier that will prevent termites from building their mud tunnels up the foundation. 


In order to keep pests from making their homes in your new shed, Jamaica Cottage Shop suggests a solar powered pest repellent using ultra sonic sound. You can also make structural choices that make it harder for pests to find a way into your building. Choosing a solid sheathed roof or asphalt shingles instead of corrugated metal can help deter critters.


Creepers, climbers, saplings, shrubbery and other vegetation should not be permitted to overgrow the building. Likewise pushing the cottage tight to a fence, building or tree will inhibit air circulation and or create a passage for insects. 


Want to have this guide on-hand as you prepare your building site? Download our Site Prep Guide PDF