Garden sheds are used for various reasons. They could be used for storage or a hobby collection. They can serve as a children’s play area or as a workshop. They can also be a good investment, as they can enhance the value of your property. When choosing a garden shed, always consider Australia’s climate. You need to make sure that the shed will stand the test of time and you have the right materials. Here are 9 things to look for when purchasing a garden shed.

1. Quality over Price

Sometimes, the best choice is not the cheapest option. It may look like you are spending less, but you also have to consider how long it will take before you will need to begin repairs on the shed. You also need to ensure that the parts you need are readily available for you. Some cheaper options do not have parts available and you may end up ordering a brand new shed instead of just replacing parts of it. Look for longevity and strength, like heavy-duty timber over larch lap cladding.

2. Delivery and Installation

Is delivery included in the retail price or will you still have to spend more to cover shipping and delivery costs? It is always best to ask the merchant if the shed will be delivered to your home, or if there are any additional charges. You will save time, money and effort if specialist installers will install your shed. This will also eliminate unwanted errors.

3. Size and Design of the Shed

Before purchasing a garden shed, consider what equipment you will need to store. Make an inventory of the tools that you will be keeping and how you are going to contain them. A good garden shed should be at least 8 feet x 10 feet in size, with double doors to eliminate concerns of bringing in large equipment like lawn mowers.

4. Base and Floor

Before buying a garden shed, decide where it will be installed. Consider safety, convenience and light. Once you have decided, look for a base that is either concrete or made of paving slabs for smaller sheds. Look for a strong and durable floor like timber and not pressed wood or soft, quick growing trees like birch, as these may bend and rot. Floors should also be pressure-treated and spaced sufficiently to support the floor. You may also opt to have the floors insulated.

5. Windows and Doors

Toughened glass is a good option for windows. It is less likely to break compared to horticultural glass, which breaks easily and could be unsafe around children. Make sure that the joinery of the shed is good to ensure that panels do not become misaligned. Misaligned panels will compromise the structure and doors and windows will not close properly.

6. Sidings

Natural wood is the most attractive siding for garden sheds. Cedar wood has natural resins that make it rot-resistant even after being exposed to water for a long period of time. You may still want to coat it with a sealer and apply clear stain in order to preserve its natural beauty. Steel siding is susceptible to rust, especially when exposed to rain and sun. A good garden shed should be 0.30mm to 0.35mm thick. Rust-free aluminium is a better option over steel. Plywood is a cheap option for siding, but this is not ideal in areas where it rains heavily.

7. Roofs

Because of the different weather conditions in Australia, you need to ensure that your roof withstands rain, snow and the heat. You may opt to get shingle tiles that are easy to fit and are waterproof. You may also choose the same materials as your sidings. The roofing style, whether it is a flat roof, a gable roof or a sloping roof, should be based on the function and the location of your garden shed.

8. Building Laws

Before you start looking for a garden shed, check building restrictions in your local council. If you plan to build a large shed or intend to use it as a dwelling, you will need council approval. Whilst it is a small structure, it still has to be built according to the standards of the Building Code of Australia. In most areas, a small garden shed lower than 2.4 meters in height does not require council approval.

9. Prices

It is also important to get different quotes from different suppliers and compare what is included in the quotation. Make sure that the height, width, and length meet your required size. A garden shed in Bunnings ranges from $156 for a 1.5 x 0.8 x 2.0 meters to $615 for a 3 x 3 x 2.4m. You may also have a special order for a cedar shed for $2979.

Storage Solution

If you do not wish to purchase your own garden shed, you may also rent storage space from Spacer. You may store furniture, cars, clothes, pallets, or office docs in these spaces. You may choose from the thousands of available storage listings in your area. Visit Spacer now!