Poured concrete base vs. gravel base for a 10x12 shed? I'm torn after my last one sank.

I built a shed in my backyard in Ohio about 3 years ago. Went with a gravel base because it was cheaper and everyone said drainage would be better. But after two harsh winters that thing shifted almost 4 inches to the east. Now I'm starting a new 10x12 build and I keep going back and forth. Concrete is solid but costs way more and if I mess up the pour I'm stuck with it. Gravel is easier but I don't want to level it again next spring. What did you guys go with on your sheds and how did it hold up long term?

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andrew_jackson2d ago

You ever notice how people always try to save a few bucks up front and then end up paying double later on? I see this all the time with driveways, fences, even cars. Same thing with your shed. Gravel is just kicking the can down the road, especially in Ohio with that freeze-thaw cycle. I poured a 4 inch slab for my 12x16 shed about 8 years ago and it hasn't budged a millimeter. Yeah, concrete costs more and you gotta get the forms right, but once it sets you're done worrying. My neighbor did gravel and now he's out there every spring with a shovel and a level like it's a hobby. Spend the money once and forget about it is my rule for anything that sits on the ground.