Building a storage shed is an excellent way to add functionality, versatility, and value to any commercial or residential space. But if you really want to maximise the value of your space, you’re going to want to keep an eye on the costs.
In this article, we’ll look at the various factors that affect the price of your storage shed and how you can control these costs. This includes both aspects of the shed itself (materials, design, accessories) as well as how you choose to build the shed (permits, custom design, DIY vs professional build).
Once you master both of these aspects, you will be able to build a cheap storage shed that doesn’t sacrifice on quality.
Storage Shed Applications: What Is It Being Used for?
The first thing you need to know is what you intend to use your shed for. This will directly impact on the costs as the storage shed in your back garden is likely to be cheaper than your commercial storage shed.
The different storage sheds to consider include residential, commercial, warehousing, and industrial storage sheds. Identify what style of storage shed you need and the applications your shed must fulfil. These must-haves will determine how expensive or cheap your storage shed will be.
What Materials Will You Use for Your Storage Shed?
When it comes to materials for your storage shed, the two main contenders will be steel and timber. Generally speaking, timber is more affordable than steel both in terms of production and labour.
However, another thing to consider is the longevity of your materials. In the long term, steel-framed sheds will be stronger, more durable and will require less maintenance. This often makes them a more affordable long-term option.
When you build with quality steel materials like Colorbond, Zincalume, and BlueScope Steel, you can build a stylish, cheap storage shed that will look great for years to come.
When It Comes to Cost, Size Matters
The bigger your storage shed is, the more expensive it will be to manufacture and erect. For this reason, it is important to plan and design your shed to make the most of your space. In some cases, building several smaller storage sheds rather than one large shed may represent better value. Look into this before you commit to the size of your shed.
Photo by Historic Shed
How Will Your Location Affect the Price of Your Storage Shed?
Your storage shed may vary in price depending on the features of your land and how they affect the design and installation process.
For example, if your storage shed is being built away from other structures, it may require extra support, which will cost more money. Additionally, if there are concerns with sloping land or other land features, this could impact on the cost.
To reduce these costs, consider building your storage shed in another location on your property (if possible).
What Accessories Do You Need for Your Storage Shed?
Depending on how you will be using your storage shed, you may need a range of different accessories. When it comes to accessories, the first thing to consider is what comes standard with your shed and what you need to pay extra for. This will depend largely on your shed provider. Shop around and find a provider who offers the best value-for-money in terms of standard inclusions.
Some of the accessories you may need for your storage shed include:
- Insulation
- Mezzanine walls
- Partition walls
- Ventilation
- Skylights
Shed Security
Security additions are some of the most important accessories for your shed. Additional security accessories you may need to pay for include:
- Remote control access
- Security screens
- Additional roller doors
- Steel sliding doors
Design, Supply, Manufacturing, and Installation Costs
The price of your shed is about much more than the shed itself. The professionals you work with and the processes they follow will also affect the final cost.
The number one tip for lowering the price of design, supply, manufacturing, and installation is to get one team to oversee the entire process. This ensures you don’t need to deal with multiple providers and it also gives you greater control and accountability when it comes to quality.
With the same team handling the whole process, costly mistakes are less likely to be made, and the same team can be held accountable should a mistake occur.
The DIY Option
If you’re looking to save on the cost of installation, consider installing your storage shed yourself. To do this, look for a provider who offers DIY shed kits. With these kits, you can get quality materials that have been precisely manufactured and professionally designed. All you need to do is follow the instructions provided to erect the shed yourself, saving on installation costs and providing you with a cheap storage sheds.
Photo by M Valdes Architects PLLC
Storage Shed Permits
Remember to factor the cost of permits into your storage shed budget. The vast majority of storage sheds will require a permit and this will come with a fee. Talk to your shed builder to see if the cost of building permits is included in their price.
Don’t Sacrifice on Quality When It Comes to Your Storage Shed!
While you should always be looking to save money on your storage shed, never do this at the expense of quality. Ensure your shed has been designed and built to meet Australian Standards and the Building Code of Australia. You should also look for storage sheds that come with ShedSafe Accreditation for your peace of mind.
While these assurances may come at a premium today, they will safeguard you against dangerous and costly mistakes that will only cause problems down the track.
But with all these considerations in mind and the right shed designer and builder on your side, you will be able to build a quality, long-lasting, and affordable storage shed.