The Benefits of a Steel Hay Shed
Ensuring that your hay stays dry is undoubtedly one of the most important factors when it comes to hay storage. Investing in a new hay shed is a great way of making sure that your harvest is secure, protected, and safe, but a well designed steel shed can also make you some money down the line!
So, with that being said, let’s dive into some of the benefits of a steel hay shed:
Protection from the elements
Your number one priority when storing hay is making sure it isn’t exposed to moisture. Even the smallest amount of water finding its way into your hay bales could result in mould developing and ultimately spoilage. Similarly, if your hay bales are exposed to high heat for long periods this can also cause damage.
Therefore, proper storage is vital for avoiding these risks and having a shed structure with open bays is ideal for this purpose. Benefits of open bays include providing protection against New Zealand’s weather conditions and allowing for air circulation to keep your hay fresher for longer.
KiwiSpan’s steel hay storage sheds are designed to specifically protect your hay from all kinds of weather conditions, making sure you have minimal waste.
Minimise fodder freight costs
As you’re probably already aware, moving anything to or from your farm can be an expensive feat. If you can store your hay or grain on your property instead of with a third party provider you will be able to save yourself the costs of freight and trucking. Plus, you’ll have the added convenience of being able to use and store fodder without the added logistics.
While a steel hay shed may feel like a large investment, having your own allows you the flexibility of storage on your farm that can be utilised for years to come.
Easy access
KiwiSpan hay storage sheds usually feature open bays along the front of the structure allowing you easy access to your hay. These open bays allow for your farm machinery, feed, and equipment to move easily.
However, the design of your shed is completely up to you. If you would prefer an enclosed structure we can include roller or sectional doors.
Custom-made just for you
Not all farmers have the same needs, which is why KiwiSpan sheds are tailor-made to match your exact requirements. You decide on the width, height, span, colour, and sheeting, and we’ll build your structure to your specifications. Plus you have the ability to add additional elements such as doors, windows and flooring to ensure you have a fully functional hay shed.
Every hay shed we build is designed to prevent moisture traps and ensure proper air circulation so you can rest assured that your hay is always protected.
After all the hard work you’ve put into producing your hay, having somewhere to store it where the quality won’t be affected should be the least of your concerns. At KiwiSpan, we are leaders in building steel structures that will last the distance. Our approach, commitment, and expertise distinguishes us from the rest.
Discover the KiwiSpan difference today, get in touch with your local KiwiSpan team or try out our 3D Designer Tool to kickstart the process.
A Guide to Equestrian Stables
When looking to build an equestrian stable or shed you have many decisions to make to ensure that you end up with a building which is perfect for both you and your horses. Luckily for you, KiwiSpan are experts in designing and building horse stables as we’ve built numerous equestrian structures over the years for clients with varying requirements. From horse stables and riding centres through to commercial covers and stock shelters, we’ve got your equine needs sorted.
A stable is a big investment so you want to make sure you get it right the first time, so let’s look at some things you will need to consider.
Size
The most important thing to think about when designing an equestrian stable is how big it will need to be. The will be dependent on how many horses you have; the more you have, the larger your stable will need to be. Ensuring that your horses have enough space is vital as stalls which are an inadequate size can lead to panic, distress, or poor health.
A stable should be a minimum of 3.6 metres x 3.6 metres for an average sized riding horse, but this is only a minimum recommendation so if you have the resources to build larger stalls you should do so. People tend to opt for more generous sized stalls for mares and foals and this can easily be done by having removable partitions between stables. Even if you aren’t intending on breeding this additional feature can add value to your property.
You also need to consider your horses’ movement within the stable. Breezeways or aisles should be a minimum of 3 metres to allow for horses to pass each other safely and give you plenty of space to work on them.
If you do have multiple horses, you will also need to think about how many individual stalls you will need and also consider that you may want to expand in the future. This way, you can ensure that you have the space you need now, and for years to come.
Design
There are many design choices that you will need to make to ensure that your stables don’t just meet your horses’ needs, but yours too.
Think about how many walls you would like the structure to have – high winds could make your horses uncomfortable so if you are going to have an open side then you will want to face it away from the wind.
As you know, horses come with a lot of gear and equipment so people tend to want to add a tack or storage shed onto their structure to keep equipment needed such as cleaning, grooming, and riding equipment, and feed. Having this equipment easily accessible will make it easier to look after your horses.
While it’s vital you ensure that you have enough space in the stables, don’t forget to consider that your stable will need to have enough ventilation and good airflow to make the space comfortable for your horses.
Location
The next important factor to take into consideration is the location. You will want to avoid building your stable in an area that is prone to flooding or high winds so take your time checking out areas on your property to find the best spot. You may also want to build your structure on a rise or slope to avoid the risk of flooding the stables.
Regarding location it’s also a good idea to make sure that your stables aren’t too far away from your other equine amenities if possible. For instance, if you have a horse arena or equipment shed then you will want to make sure that your stables are close by.
If you care about your horses and want to build them an equestrian stable that will last the distance, get in touch with your local KiwiSpan team today.
Designing a Farm Machinery Shed
If you run a farm then you no doubt have farm equipment and machinery such as tractors, stock feed and tools that you use on a day to day basis. This machinery and equipment tends to be a big investment so it’s vital that it remains as well kept and looked after as possible. One of the best ways to do this is to invest in a shed specifically for your farm machinery and equipment.
We offer a variety of designs and styles of farm storage and machinery sheds. Before you get started you need to take the time to consider what you will use your shed for specifically and how you plan to use it. We’ve been building steel farm sheds for Kiwis since 2003 and we’re experts when it comes to rural and industrial buildings so we’ve put together a few factors to consider when designing your new farm machinery shed.
Your Equipment and Machinery
Likely the most crucial consideration for anyone about to embark on designing a new farm storage or machinery shed is deciding how much equipment or machinery you will be storing in it. To get yourself started you may want to make a list of what you’ll be wanting to store along with the size of each asset and how much space it will require. From there you should have a rough idea of how big or small your new shed will need to be.
While it’s vital to consider the size of your machinery and ensure you have enough space to access it, you may also want to consider allowing for some additional space in case you choose to invest in more machinery in the future. By planning ahead now you can save yourself money in the long run and also save yourself spending double the money building another shed if you run out of space!
The Weather and Climate
Depending on where you live in New Zealand you may face severe weather conditions – from high temperatures and scorching sun to snow and heavy rain. So it’s key that any buildings or structures you build on your farm can withstand the weather which is why our in-house engineers will build your shed to the highest possible standard.
If you are planning on having a shed which won’t be fully enclosed you may want to orientate your shed to be facing away from the incoming direction of high winds or rain. If your farm is in an area that is prone to flooding you may also want to build your shed on higher ground.
Bay Size
A bay is the amount of space between the columns of the shed therefore, the wider this space is the more room you will have to store your machinery inside. This is a great feature if you have large trucks or tractors that you will be storing in your shed.
KiwiSpan sheds are fully customisable and are designed to meet your specific needs. The number of bays and their size is something you can decide on based on how much space you need and the size of your machinery.
Open or Enclosed?
Something vital to consider when designing your shed is how many walls you would like. If you’re planning on accessing the shed often and moving machinery in and out you may want to replace a wall or two with bays or roller doors to make this movement easier.
Not only will an enclosed shed be useful for protecting your equipment from theft or trespassers, but it will also prevent your machinery from being exposed to harsh weather. Plus we can fit sliding or rolling doors to ensure that you can still move your farm machinery in and out of the shed easily.
Designing Your Farm Machinery Shed
If you’re keen to discuss a farm equipment and machinery shed for your property then you’re in the right place! The KiwiSpan team are here to help you to design and build the perfect shed for your farm. We specialise in customisable sheds which are designed specifically for your needs and requirements.
If you’re ready to get started, give your local KiwiSpan licensee a call or request a quote and if you want to take a look at some past farm machinery shed projects you can take a look at them here.
Your Top Shed Questions, Answered
When it comes to building quality sheds for Kiwi’s, KiwiSpan sets the standard.
One of the keys to our success since 2003, is that 100% of our sheds and buildings are made with quality New Zealand fabricated steel. This means they’re built to the highest standard and made to withstand the harshest NZ conditions. It also means that KiwiSpan is supporting the local community and economy as a true kiwi-made product.
There are several questions which regularly come up when we meet with potential shed owners which we will break down for you now:
How long will it take to build my shed?
This is a question we hear quite a lot! Given that every single KiwiSpan shed is tailored specifically to the customer, the time it takes to build each one will always differ. Obviously smaller builds like garages and smaller sheds can be constructed a lot more quickly than larger shed buildings, so size is definitely a factor. We design our sheds to make them as quick as possible to build, and in some instances, they could take as little as one week to build.
However, it’s important to note that elements such as the weather, supply delays and subcontractor availability all play a role in the timeframe that your shed can be delivered. Given the current climate, there are some additional considerations that need to be taken into account regarding steel supply in New Zealand which may cause delays to the process. Not to worry, our licensees are extremely experienced and will make sure your building process goes as smoothly as possible. Plus you can count on us to keep you in the loop and up to date throughout the entire process.
Does KiwiSpan do the council paperwork for the building consent application?
Yes, the KiwiSpan team can help guide you through the entire building consent application process. We’ve helped many customers through this process and all of our licensees have a deep understanding of their local council requirements.
Could we have a look at similar sheds?
Sure thing! You can take a look through a gallery of our past projects based on categories by following these links:
Lifestyle and Residential Sheds
Farm Sheds
Commercial and Industrial Buildings
You can explore these galleries to find inspiration and if you do find one that you like the look of, you can quote the reference number on the image when submitting an enquiry. Plus, each local licensee has a portfolio of sheds that they have constructed for you to browse through.
Does my shed come with a warranty?
When it comes to quality sheds, we’re proud to say that KiwiSpan truly sets the standard. Our premium products are made with New Zealand fabricated steel, built to the highest standards, and made to withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
One of the most important factors to take into consideration with your new shed is what your warranty and durability will cover. Our products are governed by the 2004 Building Act, the 2002 Construction Contracts Act and the 1993 Consumer Guarantees Act, and we also provide a 50-year structural durability statement.
This means that your local KiwiSpan licensee will supply a tailored warranty based on your building use and location which will clarify both your maintenance obligations and warranty terms.
How can I customise my new shed?
Every single shed we build is tailor-made for each customer. We offer a huge range of customisation options including cladding, roof pitches and windows, and you can check out this blog to see all the choices you can make for your new building. So why settle for a standard shed when you could have exactly what you want.
Plus, our 3D Shed Designer Tool allows you to build a visual representation of your perfect shed from the comfort of your home or office. Once done, simply submit it and we will be in touch to make your vision a reality.
Chat to your local licensee about your project and they’ll provide a free quote based on your exact specifications. Contact us today to get the ball rolling on your ideal shed.
Why KiwiSpan is New Zealand’s Shed Builder of Choice
When it comes to quality sheds, you know that you can trust KiwiSpan to deliver on promises. The sheds we build are backed by unrivalled experience, premium materials and products, and an unmatched attention to detail.
In fact, we’ve been creating high quality steel sheds that Kiwis love since 2003. We take great pride in providing an experience which is transparent, straightforward, and cost effective. That’s why we’re the Kiwi choice!
Tailor Made for You
KiwiSpan have been pioneers in the New Zealand shed market since our inception. During this time, there is nothing that our extensive network of licensees hasn’t been confronted with. Think you have an out of the box or hyper specific requirement? Well chances are, it’s something we’ve faced before so you can bet that we can build a shed to meet your needs.
Your KiwiSpan shed will be designed and tailor made just for you. We have a totally flexible approach because our sheds don’t come straight off plans. We customise your shed to the land you have available, what you plan on using it for, weather and environmental conditions, and future purposes. With KiwiSpan, you can have your dream shed.
Built for the Long Run
With KiwiSpan, you’re guaranteed a shed that is built to last. This is why we only use the highest quality materials and products available.
We proudly build our sheds with New Zealand fabricated steel, to the highest standards, and foolproof in even the harshest weather conditions. You can have peace of mind knowing that you’re getting a strong and reliable shed that won’t let you down.
A Team You Can Trust
At the very core of who we are is our people. We have a national network of passionate, dedicated and trustworthy licensees who are equally as proud of their sheds and customer service.
With KiwiSpan teams spanning the country from Northland to Christchurch and everywhere in between, there’s a local shed expert around every corner. Every single one of our licensees has years of building experience, are knowledgeable about the sheds they construct, and are passionate about seeing happy customers.
Our team will be with you every step of the way throughout the process. Right from the first meeting and initial quote through to the building consent, managing the build process, and celebrating with you once your shed is completed; we’ll be there with you throughout the entire journey.
When it comes down to it, we want you to have the perfect shed.
So whether you’re looking for a shed for work or play, or a mixture of both, KiwiSpan should be the first name you think of.
Our approach, commitment, and expertise distinguishes us from the rest. Discover the KiwiSpan difference today, get in touch with your local KiwiSpan team or try out our 3D Designer Tool to kickstart the process.
A Full Build or Kitset Shed? Balancing Your Options
We’ve been pioneers in the New Zealand shed and outdoor building industry for almost 20 years and a question that comes up fairly often is what exactly the difference between the kitset and full build processes is.
Both of these options have their own merits with the key difference being who constructs the shed. KiwiSpan can guide you through both of these processes, whether you choose to let us spearhead the project or have your own licensed builder construct the shed. Ultimately, we want to help you to make the decision which is best for you and your needs.
To clarify on the terms ‘full build’ and ‘kitset’:
Full build: You leave all the heavy lifting to us (literally) and we will have a KiwiSpan contractor construct your shed.
Kitset: You employ your own licensed builder to construct the shed.
If you find yourself conflicted about which route to go down, you may want to sit down with one of our experienced licensees to talk through the different options. However, it’s important to note that there isn’t any difference in materials for either of these processes, you will receive exactly the same materials either way.
We believe in giving you the flexibility to construct your shed in the manner that you please so we offer both kitset and full build options. If you do choose to go with the kitset approach, the KiwiSpan team will be available to support you and/or your licensed builder along the way.
If you do decide to choose the path of a full build with KiwiSpan you will have the benefit of letting our team take care of all the stress. With the full build, KiwiSpan takes care of organising a building team so that you don’t have to worry about the logistics. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of having the experienced KiwiSpan team behind you who have built hundreds of sheds over the years – making your build less of a headache.
As if building with KiwiSpan wasn’t easy enough, we are also committed to keeping to both timeframe and budget. We’ve been building sheds for almost 20 years so we have an established way of doing things and our project managers will always keep you in the loop, helping to ensure that you feel confident about your build.
Still not sure?
Ultimately, the choice between Full Build and Kitset comes down to your own personal preference. So, whether you have your own building team or you would rather use one of ours, KiwiSpan can make your plans a reality and craft the perfect shed for you.
Get in touch with us today so we can work together to make your dream shed a reality.
More Than Just Sheds: Aircraft Hangars, Horse Stables, and Dairy Sheds
KiwiSpan have been leading the pack in the New Zealand shed and outdoor building industry since the early 2000’s. We started out with the kiwi dream of building the best sheds in New Zealand, and over the years we have expanded our range to include a variety of outdoor buildings to suit the kiwi lifestyle. So, not only is KiwiSpan your go-to for sheds, but we also offer a range of aircraft hangars, horse stables, and dairy sheds. Let’s take a look.
Aircraft Hangars
Protecting your aircraft is an absolute imperative for not only your bottom line, but also for your own safety and welfare. KiwiSpan creates bespoke hangars tailored specifically to your aircraft, so whether it’s a helicopter, small plane, or something else, we’ll design the perfect hangar to protect your investment.
When it comes to safeguarding your aircraft from the kiwi elements a KiwiSpan hangar provides the ultimate protection from damaging winds, direct sunlight, rain, and snow as well as pests and wildlife.
With our innovative technology, flexible designs, and of course, the KiwiSpan can-do attitude, we can construct your hangar to your exact specifications. What’s more, our hangars are built with Kiwi fabricated steel, so you can rest assured your hangar will be a durable one.
Explore our aircraft hangars
Dairy Sheds
Looking for a dairy shed that puts in the hard yards alongside you? KiwiSpan’s extensive range of dairy sheds are designed to be tough and hard-wearing, just like the Kiwi’s we build them for.
So whether you’re looking for a milking shed, dairy shed, or stock shelter, our team will work with you to create a high quality steel structure that will stand the test of time. Plus, we are completely adaptable with our building designs and we work with you to ensure that we incorporate the practical features you need to maximise your building’s functionality.
A KiwiSpan dairy shed is constructed from the best quality materials and with an eye for detail, right down to the very last colour-matched screw. Our galvanised steel portal frame means that your dairy shed will be in it for the long haul, helping you to maximise your herds potential.
Explore our dairy sheds
Horse Stables
Whether you’re a recreational horse owner or a commercial enterprise, we have your equine needs covered. When you need a shelter to house and protect your horses along with the food and equipment you need to care for them, we have the customised steel solution tailored exactly to your requirements.
We will be there with you every step of the way from the initial design and planning, all the way through to installation, our solution ensures that every project we undertake is perfectly suited to your unique requirements.
We know that if you need a stable, you’ll definitely want one that will stick around and we make it our mission to deliver strong steel structures that won’t fade with time. That’s why we use only the best quality steel and the most reliable builders around.
Explore our horse stables
Whether it’s a shed, hangar, or stable, KiwiSpan has the solution for you. Contact us today to get the ball rolling on your next project.
Shedquarters: Make Working From Home Work For You
Shedquarters are growing in popularity amongst homeowners across New Zealand, but what exactly is a shedquarter and how could having one benefit you?
The first question you may be asking yourself right now is ‘what exactly is a shedquarter’? Essentially, a shedquarter is just another way of describing a tiny space in your backyard. Unlike a standard backyard garden shed which is typically only large enough to store your tools and maybe a lawnmower, a shedquarter is well constructed and acts more as an office space or retreat room which you can escape to in order to relax or focus.
With COVID-19 forcing many people to work from home and children having to take school classes online, some people found their homes getting a bit crowded and opted to install a shedquarter in their backyard. Despite most of us having returned back to work these backyard offices are still an excellent way to create an inspiring and productive space that is close to home yet totally unique and separate from the rest of your house. They’re great for people who work remotely to have a space to escape to away from the distractions within their home.
When you’re considering the design of the shedquarter it’s important to consider the visual elements including the colour, cladding, personalisations, and how it will fit in with your home and garden. Our environment has a huge impact on our energy levels, moods, and productivity so designing an effective space can be a total game changer.
What style would you want the interior of your shedquarter to be? Is your preferred look cosy and decorative? Or do you lean more towards a minimalist and stylish aesthetic? Do you find yourself captivated by the latest design trends, or do you strive for classic elegance? A good place to begin is by deciding whether you lean towards modern or traditional stylings. If you like patterns, rich velvety colours, and lots of details then a traditional style could be perfect for you. However, if your personal style favours crisp colours, clean lines, and open space then you may be leaning towards modern design.
Your design choices for your KiwiSpan shedquarter isn’t solely limited to the interior. We offer a fully customisable design experience which puts the power of choosing the size, cladding, doors, windows, roofing and colour scheme in your hands. We know that you don’t want to settle for a run of the mill shed, and with us, you don’t have to.
Versatile and functional, KiwiSpan shedquarters are designed and built in New Zealand using high-grade materials and are completely customisable to your needs. With your existing landscape in mind, we work with you to create the perfect space for you to work, relax, and play.
Explore our range of quality steel sheds today
No Consents Required
One of the hardest and most complex parts of building or renovating is the consent process and dealing with the council, but there has been some exciting news for homeowners in late 2020.
Recent changes mean that low-risk building work, such as sheds, carports and sleepouts, in many cases no longer need council consent to be built.
So if you’re considering a new addition to your home or property, it’s important to note that in a majority of cases, for the new building work not to require Council consent, these must be built by a manufacturer like KiwiSpan, or a licensed builder. With that in mind here are some options that no longer require Council consent;
- Buildings up to a maximum floor area of 30 metres – (these still can be built by non-professionals but require restrictions on building materials in accordance with the Building Code)
- Ground Floor Veranda’s or Awnings up to 30 metres
- Carports up to 40 metres
- Single-storey pole sheds and hay barns up to 110 square metres (but only in rural zones).
It’s important to note that any plumbing work to a new or current building still requires a building consent, and any electrical work will still have to be carried out by a registered electrician. Different councils can also have different local by-laws but some, like Auckland Council, have a handy online tool to check if your shed needs consent
For property owners, this has been welcome news, as it will save time and money when thinking about a new building or addition with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) predicting it will cut out the need for over 9000 consents and $18m worth of consent fees for homeowners.
However, it is also important to note that KiwiSpan is available to ensure that whatever your building size, shape or usage, that you will fully comply with the local council regulations before we commence building. Because KiwiSpan builds are entirely customised, we can give you a world of possibilities.
Whether it’s a shed, farm barn or carport, KiwiSpan has the solution for you.
Contact us HERE today to get the ball rolling on your next shed project.
The A-Z’s of Sheds
The dictionary definition of a shed reads as simply “a structure on your property that isn’t connected to your home”. By that definition, the options of what a shed is, and what it can do for you is pretty limitless.
With our customised approach, this is a pretty accurate description. We understand that everyone has different needs, and we pride ourselves on our ability to meet those needs, whatever they may be.
However, sometimes, with such a wide range of capabilities and options, it can become harder to nail down exactly what you want (and therefore need) in a shed. So we’ve put together a rundown of the different basic categories of sheds to help you find a starting point for your next project.
Storage Shed
For those of you that grew up with parents that had a humble shack in your garden to store gardening equipment – that was technically a storage shed (although nowadays we tend to think bigger).
As the name implies, the purpose of these sheds is to, well, store things. The details of what specific features these sheds have will largely come down to what exactly it is you’ll be storing.
However, regardless of what you put in them, these sheds need to be able to protect your stored goods and keep them in pristine condition (read how we protect your valuables from NZ’s harshest conditions here.
Habitable
Another shed type that says what it does in the name – habitable sheds are sheds that can serve as short term accommodation or as an extra, detached bedroom for your main residence.
These sheds can also be combined with other shed types (such as garages and workshops) to serve as an area to relax in between long hours on the workbench (read: mancave).
Barn
We’ve all got an image of an old, red farmhouse when someone mentions the term “barn” (and we probably got it from a painting or childhood storybook).
Unsurprisingly, a barn has traditionally referred to a shed that is specifically for agricultural use. Their trademark shape and design actually come from this original usage, as they were built to accommodate for windy days and getting the most out of the passing sun.
Nowadays, barns can be used for general storage, and their trademark design is more for show (as weather mitigating technology has advanced a bit). With their aesthetically pleasing appearance and spacious interior, they are a great general-purpose asset for storage and vehicle housing, as well as continuing to excel in their traditional agricultural usage.
Has this helped clear things up? You can always contact us for further info or to discuss your next project here.
