Are you looking to add storage space to your residential or commercial property? Not sure what type of structure to opt for? Scared to commit to something that you may want to change as your storage needs change?
Whether you’re looking for farm sheds or spaces that can be used as commercial storage for backup inventory, the good news is that a shed made from Australian steel may just be what you’re looking for. Keep reading as we explore a few tips that will help you choose the perfect storage space. We’ll also highlight a few options to consider.
What to Know When You’re Choosing a Storage Solution
When you start thinking about the type of storage space you want to create, you may already have a vague idea of what you need. There are, however, a few key pointers to keep in mind when you’re drawing up your shortlist:
- Usability: The first pointer to consider is the exact use of the storage space. Knowing exactly what you want to keep in there will be the deciding factor about the accessories and features selected. For instance, a machinery shed may require a concrete floor so that the vehicles and machinery have stable, dry ground to start on. Closed hay sheds often have ventilation to keep the space dry and mould-free. Commercial storage sheds may feature lighting so that inventory can be easily located, packed, or inspected. Knowing what you want to use the shed for will also help you decide how big or small it needs to be.
- Access: How you access your shed will depend on what you’re going to store in it. A shed for regular gardening tools requires a standard door. Machinery sheds for large farm equipment require larger doors or drive-through features.
- Materials: Storage sheds can be built from just about any type of material. Keep in mind that Australian-made steel is more durable and weather-resistant than timber or brick. Suppliers that offer you BlueScope and COLORBOND should be top considerations.
- General maintenance: You’ll want a storage shed that’s easy to maintain and keep clean. This is especially important if you’re storing hay, food, machinery, and tools in the space. Keeping the shed clean and dry will keep the contents and shed in good condition, especially in areas of high rainfall.
- Future scalability: This refers to whether or not you may want to expand your shed in future. Opting for Australian steel will make it easy to add panels or higher the roof if your business expands or you buy larger machinery.
- Overall budget: The cost of your shed depends on the size, design, and material chosen. Speak to your installer for the best options.
A Wide Range of Options to Choose From
It’s easy to find the best shed for your storage needs because there are so many options available. You can also design your shed from scratch with a range of features and accessories. Some common choices are listed below.
1. Hay Sheds
Hay sheds are popular on farms and can be designed in a host of different shapes, sizes, and heights. These sheds can be fully closed or open on two or three sides. How open you want your shed to be depends on the climate and rainfall in the area. Many farmers use hay sheds to also store small machinery.
2. Machinery Sheds
Machinery sheds are large farm buildings that can be open on one side or completely closed. These sheds usually feature a concrete floor and have wide spaces and high roofs to accommodate machinery and vehicles of all sizes. You can also add lockable doors to reduce the risk of theft, vandalism and other damage. Machinery sheds can also be created with a drive-through feature that can make it easier to store and move your machinery.
3. Barn Sheds
Barn Sheds are typically designed for animal and equipment storage. Keeping your farm animals safe from predators can be challenging. Make the process simpler by investing in a barn shed. These are usually closed and can feature insulation if needed to keep animals warm in cooler climates.
4. Skillion Sheds
Skillion sheds refer to those that have a sloped roof and are ideal for farm use. Rain and snow will easily run off the roof, preventing pooling water that can cause damage or mould growth. Skillion-roof sheds are also ideal for rainwater harvesting systems because the water will run off more easily. Keep in mind that you can add skillion roofs can be added to any shed design.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a storage shed for your garden tools in your backyard, or a bigger hay shed on your farm, the good news is that you can easily find the best solution for your needs. Use our considerations to help you choose the right storage for current and future needs. Opting for quality products and professional installation will ensure that you have a storage space you can use for years to come!