Are you planning to build a shed for extra storage in your backyard in Australia? Check out these 7 design and building considerations.
It seems like modern homeowners in Australia don’t have enough storage on their properties, with attics, closets, basements, and garages overflowing with extra stuff. If you’re experiencing similar problems, a storage shed may be the solution you need. No, we’re not talking about those old, dingy, ad tiny wooden garden sheds on farms surrounded by mud and grass. We’re talking about a modern, well-maintained, practical shed built using long-lasting materials like vinyl and steel. You can use this additional storage space in your backyard or next to your garage for multiple purposes, such as a home office during the COVID-19 era, storage for garden tools and personal belongings, or even a spare bedroom, etc.
However, building a storage shed in Australia can be a significant undertaking regardless of its size or purpose. It’s not like you can gather wood from the nearby bush and start hammering away. It would help if you made several considerations regarding designs, layouts, and materials before starting.
In this post, we’ll share seven factors to consider when designing and building a storage shed in Australia. Read on to learn them!
7 Residential Shed Design and Building Considerations in Australia
Permits
Before making any decision regarding constructing a storage shed on your property, you need to consider the regulations and different standards in Australia, such as the National Construction Code. According to the most recent laws, you’re allowed to build a shed up to 10 square meters in area and 2.5 meters in height without a permit. So, if you’re planning to build a bigger one, you’ll need to get a building permit. Otherwise, you’ll be fined or ordered to remove the shed from your property at your own expense. For example, if you live in a rural area in New South Wales, you cannot build a shed larger than 50 square meters. To obtain a permit, you’ll have to visit the council in your state with your shed design, statement of purpose, backyard layout designs, and other documentation as per their requirements.
Materials
Once you’ve figured out the permit situation, the next thing you need to consider is the build material of your shed, as this will determine its quality in terms of strength and durability. Wood has been the go-to choice for Australians for centuries. However, it is subject to rot and pests. Plastic and vinyl are inexpensive options but are not suitable for areas that experience inclement weather. Metal such as Aluminium and steel are modern options that offer more design and building flexibility. However, they can be more expensive.
Budget
There’s no point in dreaming of a Colourbond steel shed with a budget that can only get you plastic or all-wood options. So, think about how much money you can or are willing to spend, the resources you have, and the purpose of the shed. Your budget will influence every aspect of the design and construction, including its size, type of material, and extras you want to include, such as furniture, air conditioning, lighting, and even Wi-Fi.
Purpose
You need to think carefully about why you’re building a storage shed, as this will influence its size, design, and the material used. For example, are you simply using it to store your garden tools? If yes, then how many? Is your shed a place to park a cycle, motorcycle, scooter, or boat? Or, are you planning to use the shed as a workshop, recreation room, studio, or extra bedroom?
Project Time
Like any other project, you need to set an estimated deadline for completion. For example, if you want a shed before the next cyclone season in South East Tasmania, which typically runs from November to April, you need to start building it before winter’s end in July and August.
Style
Are you looking for something traditional or a modern design to enhance your curb appeal? Do you want to purchase a small prebuilt shed that can be delivered to your site? Or, do you want to build a custom shed with personalized specifications by hiring professionals?
Should I Go the DIY Route or Hire Professionals?
You need to think about your options here. Do you have the expertise and skills to design your storage shed? Do you have the required tools, equipment, and materials to take the DIY route? If not, you should leave this job to the professionals. You can choose from several shed building companies in Australia. However, you have to be careful regarding the company you pick. Do they have the expertise and experience to bring your vision to life? Are they certification-holding professionals? Do they boast a solid reputation? So, whether you’re considering the Shed Company, SteelCorp, or checking out sheds from Fair Dinkum, it’s a smart idea to shop around.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it – Seven factors to consider when designing and building a storage shed in Australia. As you may have noticed, there’s more to the design considerations than getting the dimensions and materials right. So, whether you need to store your power tools or a place to park your motorcycle, make sure your residential shed’s design suits your current requirements as well as your future needs.