KITSET SHEDS, AVAILABLE NOW | LEARN MORE
KITSET SHEDS, AVAILABLE NOW | LEARN MORE
Steel garages and sheds are a preferred choice for their durability and versatility, but the temperatures inside can get uncomfortable during both winter and summer. Garages and sheds that are warmer in winter and cooler in summer better protect your valuable possessions from temperature extremes and damp or humid air. A more stable and comfortable environment inside your garage or shed also makes expanding its use (e.g. to a home office, games room, or workshop shed) more feasible.
This article explores some simple steps to improve the thermal insulation of your steel garage or shed, better protecting your valued possessions and/or making it more comfortable for expanded use.
Steel garage insulation significantly reduces the extreme temperature fluctuations that occur during winter and summer. It also makes it easier to regulate the temperature in your garage, helping protect any temperature-sensitive items stored inside.
Retrofitting insulation isn’t difficult, but it’s much easier to do it right if you plan for it when building your shed or garage. Always tell your shed builder if insulating is a possibility. They can ensure that building paper and/or thermal breaks are included in the design.
When moist air comes into contact with a colder surface (such as metal cladding), condensation can occur. Good natural ventilation draws in drier air from outside, helping avoid condensation while protecting against excessive heat gain in summer. Ventilation can be passive (e.g. ceiling vents) or active (e.g. powered extractor fans).
Several types of steel shed insulation are available, each with unique benefits and applications. Selecting the right one depends on your needs and your area’s climate conditions. When installing bulk insulation, suitable building paper on the cladding side of the insulation is recommended to protect it from moisture.
Reflective foil insulation is the most basic and cost-effective form of insulation. When installed adjacent to an airspace, the aluminium foil surfaces reflect radiant heat, making them most suitable where the principal requirement is to reduce excessive heat gain during summer.
Glasswool insulation consists of pre-cut panels or blankets of bonded glass fibres that fit snugly between wall studs and ceiling joists. It’s popular for its affordability and ease of installation. Glasswool insulation offers both thermal and acoustic insulation, with performance based on thickness and density. For the best results, ensure the batts are installed without gaps or compression. Due to the nature of glasswool insulation, it is necessary to line any walls or ceiling where it is installed to avoid loose fibres in the air.
Polyester insulation is similar to glasswool in installation and performance, but lining walls is not as necessary, as it will not release loose fibres and dust into the air.
Rigid foam boards, made from polystyrene or polyurethane, are known for their durability and high insulation values. These boards can be cut to size and fitted against walls and roofs, although they’re more difficult to install without gaps. Rigid foam is especially beneficial in areas that require a thin yet highly effective insulating layer and is, therefore, commonly installed in conjunction with steel framing to reduce thermal bridging.
Spray foam insulation is a service provided by professional installers around the county. The expanding foam spray fills every nook and cranny of your metal garage, achieving superior air-sealing and insulation values. However, as it often requires professional installation, it will be one of the most expensive types of insulation for garages.
Older sheds were typically built with little consideration for gaps and openings, which can cause drafts and heat loss. Any attempt to insulate an old shed may require the extra step of sealing off any unwanted openings and gaps. Inspect your cladding and flashings and repair or replace any parts as appropriate.
Newer shed construction techniques and materials used by KiwiSpan emphasise quality craftsmanship, eliminating unwanted openings and gaps; any remaining openings are most likely by design, providing passive ventilation to reduce the build-up of heat and moisture. It has become increasingly common for sheds to include both building paper and a thermal break at the owner’s request, helping to future-proof the possibility of insulating or lining the shed/garage. Future-proofing is important if, down the line, you want to transform the space into a sleepout or hobby shed.
If you’re insulating your shed and want to really improve its comfort in extreme temperatures, you might like to consider upgrading your openings. Double-glazed windows and thermally insulated garage doors are common requests for many new KiwiSpan sheds and garages.
As mentioned above, you can take some simple steps to upgrade your shed or garage’s thermal performance and make the environment inside more stable and comfortable.
Taking these steps when building a new shed or garage will ‘future-proof’ it for any later upgrades or changes in use. If you are building a new shed, talk to your builder about your plans for use both now and into the future.
Please note that any significant change in the use of a shed or garage may require council consent and the engagement of a tradesperson (builder, draftsperson, or architectural designer). Please consult with your council before undertaking major projects.
Checking for moisture build-up and mould is important as these can significantly reduce insulation effectiveness and lead to structural damage. However, you typically won’t find these issues in a KiwiSpan shed, thanks to our focus on quality craftsmanship.
If you’re looking for a metal shed to house your vehicles through the cold months, look no further than KiwiSpan. Talk to us about your new shed and how you plan to use it both now and in the future. We will recommend customisations to ensure it is not just built to last but built for your current and future requirements. Get a quote today!
Commercial Shed Business Ideas & InspirationSteel commercial sheds have become increasingly popular for New Zealand businesses, celebrated for their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. These robust, versatile structures provide an ideal solution for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their ventures.
KiwiSpan is setting the standard for quality sheds. Join us as we explore the benefits of our steel buildings and share some inspiring business ideas for sheds.
KiwiSpan sheds are renowned for their durability and strength. Steel can withstand extreme weather conditions, pests, and fire, making it a reliable choice for businesses seeking long-term stability and safety. Moreover, we offer a 50-year durability statement for our structural frame and associated bracketry, provided they are maintained in accordance with our durability and maintenance guide.
KiwiSpan’s steel sheds are highly versatile and can be customised to meet various business needs. Whether your enterprise requires a large open space or smaller segmented areas, we can modify your structure accordingly. They are also easy to expand, simplifying scaling your business as it grows.
If you need a shed for your small business and want to save on costs, a KiwiSpan steel shed provides a low-maintenance solution. These steel sheds require minimal upkeep, significantly reducing long-term maintenance expenses. The savings you acquire will allow you to allocate more of your budget toward other critical areas of your business.
Our steel sheds are incredibly quick to construct. Because we tailor our structures to suit our client’s unique needs, construction times can vary. However, we design every aspect of our sheds to be as quick as possible to build. Although weather, supply delays, and subcontractor availability can delay the project, we aim to work quickly and keep you in the loop on the progress. We have managed to build outstanding sheds in as little as a week.
Our sheds use steel that can be 100% recycled and reused, making them a sustainable solution for businesses. In addition to using eco-conscious materials, we can incorporate energy-efficient designs to help reduce your business’s carbon footprint and lower energy costs. Choosing a steel building is both a smart financial decision and a responsible environmental choice.
In NZ, steel sheds offer large, structurally sound spaces suitable for various businesses. Here are a few types of businesses that can thrive in KiwiSpan’s commercial sheds:
The demand for storage rental facilities is on the rise. Steel sheds are perfect for this purpose due to their security and weather-proof features. Business owners can offer customers peace of mind knowing their belongings are stored in a safe and dry environment. Additionally, we can easily divide our steel buildings into individual units, with the flexibility to expand as demand grows.
Our steel sheds are an excellent choice for an auto parts store. These buildings provide spacious interiors for stocking inventory and ample room for customer browsing. Their strong structure ensures that heavy parts and machinery are safely housed. Additionally, steel buildings offer easy access for deliveries and shipments, making operations smooth and efficient.
Our commercial sheds can be adapted to suit various retail businesses. Whether it’s a boutique outlet or a hardware shop, you can customise your steel structure to create an inviting shopping experience that attracts and retains customers.
Manufacturing businesses require sturdy and safe facilities to house heavy machinery and equipment. Steel offers the perfect solution with its robust construction and customisation options. Business owners can create workshops tailored to their unique needs, ensuring efficient and safe operations.
KiwiSpan’s commercial sheds are the perfect solution for car mechanic workshops, offering the ideal combination of durability, functionality, and space. Our smart structures feature no internal columns to obstruct your workspace, allowing for seamless movement and efficient layout of tools, equipment, and vehicles.
Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? Speak to the KiwiSpan team today to find a solution for your needs.
KiwiSpan is a trusted provider of high-quality steel buildings in New Zealand, offering a wide range of products and customisation options. Our team provides excellent customer service and support, ensuring a smooth process from planning to construction. Contact us today to explore your options and take the first step towards a successful venture.
From Shed to Home: Transforming Spaces with KiwiSpanAt KiwiSpan, we’re passionate about helping our clients achieve their shed dreams. When KiwiSpan Tauranga were approached by these clients, who had a very clear vision of building one of our sheds and using it as their forever home, we couldn’t help but jump at this opportunity.
This is such a cool concept, and it certainly seems to have been a cost-effective way to achieve a great outcome. If you are prepared to do some project management yourself then a project like this could be for you!
Our clients approached us after doing some thorough research on turning the shell of a shed into a home to place on their piece of land in the rural Bay of Plenty. They had a very clear vision which included a gable roof with an extended eave, high pitched ceilings, black steel cladding, large glass windows and skylights. They were impressed that we were able to offer all these features, some of which are exclusive to KiwiSpan.
We sat down for our first meeting and discussed our four different gable roof pitch options available. To get the look our clients were after, the 22-degree roof pitch which was perfect for creating the raked ceiling in the living area. They were super impressed with our extensive range of cladding options and selected the new and trending Reverse Run Slimclad cladding in Flaxpod Matte.
We also discussed a wide range of joinery options, aluminium finishes and tints that would feature throughout their home, including the two skylights to be positioned above the kitchen to maximise light in the open living area.
All of this was the beginning of what is now an incredible home with the WOW factor!
Our design team worked with the clients and an architect familiar with portal systems on the 200sqm house plans. They specifically wanted 100sqm open plan living with the remaining allocated to bedrooms, bathroom, storage, and laundry. We then obtained council consent on behalf of the client, arranged the concrete pad to be prepared and poured so that the clients desired polished floor finish was perfect, constructed the shell and installed the internal steel framed walls and ceilings to lock up stage…
The habitable shed vision was starting to take shape, and our clients were amazed with how fast everything was pulled together!
At this point, we must remind you that KiwiSpan supplies and constructs steel sheds… EXCEPTIONAL ones at that, but we are not a housing company. We are however, more than happy to help out and put you in touch with any of our entrusted team of contractors who can help in areas that we cannot.
From lockup, our clients were able to step in and start the management of the internal fit out, decking and landscaping, allowing them full creative control over how their home would be finished. They were able to save money by reducing management fees and dealing directly with their own contractors, getting more bang out of the budget!
Due to the nature of a shed, steel beam portals are a structural component that cannot be avoided. They are definitely something that should be considered during the design stage, especially when considering a habitable shed. Beams were positioned where they could be concealed within wall spaces, but where strengthening could not be compromised, Karma Construction did a magnificent job of showcasing them. A.One Kitchen & Interiors were even able to conceal part of a beam within their kitchen cabinetry.
Together, we’ve all worked hard to bring this vision to life. The result? A collaboration between our team, our clients and their contractors have created a standout shed and transformed it into a unique home that has exceeded ours and our clients’ expectations.
All KiwiSpan sheds are custom designed, to suit you. Jot your ideas down in a drawing, a rough sketch is perfect enough to help us started for you. Consider your required dimensions and specific needs or features included your dream and contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
Barn & Shed Storage Ideas – Maximising Storage SpaceLifestyle sheds are an extension of your living space and a reflection of your style. They also offer practical solutions for storage needs. The American-style barn, for example, presents a unique opportunity to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, housing seasonal items and recreational equipment while complementing any setting you put it in.
KiwiSpan steel barns and storage sheds are designed to work around your need for additional storage, featuring open floor plans that allow for efficient organisation and easy access to stored items. If you own a KiwiSpan steel storage shed and want a practical solution to maximising storage space, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we share innovative shed storage ideas to optimise your available space, ensuring your KiwiSpan barn or shed is as efficient as stylish.
The first step in maximising your shed or barn storage space is to declutter. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use. Discard broken items, donate unused belongings, and recycle anything you can. Once you’ve decluttered, categorise your remaining items by function or season; this will help you organise your storage solutions more effectively.
A well-thought-out floor plan can significantly impact the efficiency of your storage space. Take stock of what you need to store and plan accordingly. Allocate specific zones for different activities or items, such as workshop tools or recreational equipment. This will help you maintain order and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Maximising the vertical space in your shed can dramatically increase your storage capacity. Vertical storage solutions, such as shelving units, wall-mounted hooks, and hanging systems, allow you to store items off the floor, making them easily accessible while freeing up valuable ground space. Consider installing high shelves for less frequently used items and lower hooks for tools you need to grab on the go.
Alternatively, factor in a mezzanine floor into your shed during the design phase. KiwiSpan will be happy to help. Because of our smart designs, our sheds are built without obtrusive bracing or centre poles, so you can maximise every metre of your shed and enjoy top-to-bottom storage space!
Your walls are prime real estate for storage. Pegboards, magnetic strips, and slatwall panels are versatile options that you can customise to suit your storage needs. Pegboards, in particular, are ideal for organising tools, gardening supplies, and small items, keeping them visible and within reach. Magnetic strips are perfect for storing metal tools and accessories, while slatwall panels can accommodate a variety of hooks, baskets, and shelves.
Furniture that doubles as storage is a game-changer when maximising space in your KiwiSpan storage shed. Consider benches with built-in storage for seating and organisation or cabinets that can serve as workbenches. These pieces not only save space but also add to the functionality and comfort of your barn or shed.
Stackable containers are a space-saving solution that can help keep your KiwiSpan barn or shed organised. Choose clear containers to easily identify contents or label opaque ones for quick access. This approach keeps items tidy and dust-free while making the best use of your available space.
Incorporate mobility into your storage plan with rolling carts and tool chests. These can be easily moved around, providing flexible storage options and allowing you to bring your tools or materials directly to your workspace. This is particularly useful in multi-use spaces or when you need to clear an area for a specific project.
Finally, get creative with your storage solutions. Repurpose old furniture or containers for new uses, such as turning an old dresser into a tool cabinet or using wine racks for storing garden tools. Look for inspiration in unconventional places, and don’t be afraid to do some DIY to fit your specific needs.
Maximising your barn or shed’s storage space is not just about creating more room; it’s about enhancing functionality, improving accessibility, and infusing your style into the space.
Unlock the power of personalisation with KiwiSpan steel sheds! Our 100% customisable designs allow you to create a storage solution that perfectly reflects your style and meets your unique needs. From selecting the shed size to your ideal roofing, doors, and windows, you have complete control over every aspect.
KiwiSpan sheds have no obtrusive centre poles or bracing, allowing for more interior space, so you have the freedom to transform it into a well-organised, efficient, and stylish part of your property. Get started with a KiwiSpan shed and request a free quote today.
6 Reasons You Should Build an Industrial Storage ShedIn today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, efficient storage solutions are essential for businesses to thrive. If you’re a business owner looking for an efficient yet cost-effective solution to secure your valuable business investments, we may have the solution for you. Whether you own a car care centre, run a trucking business, or are in the manufacturing industry, investing in a metal shed can be a game changer for your storage needs. Let’s explore how your business can benefit from building industrial storage sheds.
Do you have a fleet of vehicles or a host of products without the space to store them? Minimal storage space could hinder your business operations, negatively impact productivity, and cost you money. Industrial storage sheds offer an ideal solution by providing ample space to accommodate various items. With a KiwiSpan industrial building or storage shed, you can rest assured that everything will fit. From machinery and equipment to raw materials and finished products, our commercial sheds can house a wide range of assets, ensuring everything is readily accessible when needed. We can deliver clear spans of up to 18m without obtrusive bracing, providing more usable space for your operations from top to bottom.
The security of your valuable equipment and materials is paramount. You can equip your KiwiSpan industrial storage shed with robust security features to protect your assets against theft. In addition to security features, the durability of KiwiSpan sheds stands as a formidable defence against New Zealand’s harsh weather. These tough sheds are built with the highest-quality steel, shielding your assets from harsh elements, UV rays, and moisture while preventing corrosion and damage.
Maintaining a well-organised workspace is crucial in an industrial setting. KiwiSpan industrial storage sheds are incredibly adaptable, making it easy to organise, categorise, and store items systematically. You can utilise additional shelving, racks, and storage bins to optimise organisation within the shed, making retrieval and inventory management more efficient.
While initial construction costs may seem significant, KiwiSpan industrial storage sheds provide long-term cost-effectiveness. Compared to alternative storage options, such as renting warehouse space, our metal sheds often result in substantial savings. With minimal maintenance requirements, your shed remains secure and functional for years to come, eliminating the need for costly repairs or replacements. It is a wise investment that pays off in the long haul.
One of the greatest advantages of KiwiSpan industrial storage sheds is their versatility. You can customise them to meet your specific storage or business needs, tailoring the size, layout, and features to accommodate your unique requirements.
Such a high degree of adaptability not only improves the operational efficiency of your facility but also adds to cost-effectiveness, competitive edge, and customer satisfaction, all of which are vital for the success of your industrial endeavours.
As operations increase and expand, an industrial storage shed becomes a crucial asset to meet customer demand and attract more potential clients. KiwiSpan sheds offer the storage space needed to stock a wider variety of products, appealing to a more diverse customer base. With additional storage capacity, you can also store seasonal items in advance, ensuring they are readily available when customers start looking for them.
With KiwiSpan’s industrial and commercial sheds, your business has nowhere to go but up! Our unwavering dedication to crafting structures of enduring quality sets us apart. Whether you need a spacious warehouse, a state-of-the-art factory, or a meticulously designed workshop, our team has the experience and expertise to surpass expectations.
If you are interested in building an industrial storage shed, try our 3D Builder and start exploring the possibilities today. Talk to the friendly KiwiSpan team to further discuss your storage needs.
Steel Sheds Are Not All The Same – Here’s What You Need To Know Before Buying A New Steel ShedBefore committing to a new steel shed, it pays to get into the nitty-gritty of your quotes and see if you’re really comparing apples with apples. Not all steel sheds are created equal and it’s worth checking the details to understand exactly what you’re getting before you buy.
At KiwiSpan we’re transparent about what you’re getting because we stand by the quality of our buildings. We’re proud of the work we do and believe differences in our buildings make a significant difference to the value of your shed – now and in the future.
When your shed is built with a heavier grade of steel, you can rest easy knowing it’s built to last. KiwiSpan uses a thicker steel that is better able to withstand harsh conditions as well as bumps and knocks. So not only is your shed going to be strong and reliable, it will look good for longer too.
KiwiSpan chooses to use heavy duty bolts rather than lightweight tek screws, giving a stronger connection. All sheds are made up of many parts, and the stronger the connections between those parts, the stronger the overall build is. Our bolts also look a lot tidier than lots of messy screws, giving the inside of your shed a more streamlined visual aesthetic.
With the same dimensions on paper, a KiwiSpan shed will give you more usable space because we don’t use knee braces. Knee braces protrude into the internal space and can limit your storage and manoeuvering area. KiwiSpan’s smart designs allow for bigger sheds to be built without knee braces, optimising your space from top-to-bottom, and helping you make the most of every square meter.
The clear open spans of a KiwiSpan shed also allow for greater visibility with a clean and clear visual appearance.
The team at KiwiSpan are always happy to discuss these features with you, and can show you the parts to enhance your understanding of the impact. With KiwiSpan, you get a steel shed that offers greater usability right away, and retains strong value in the longer term.
Whether it’s a commercial building, a garage, or something in between, KiwiSpan has a customised shed solution for you. Contact us HERE today to get the ball rolling on your next project.
The 2021 KiwiSpan Award Winners
Owning a business is no small feat, and nobody knows that better than our KiwiSpan network. The network consists of over 20 independently owned licenses, that are based throughout the country. Together, they have helped build KiwiSpan’s reputation as one of New Zealand’s most trusted steel shed suppliers.
Here at KiwiSpan, we don’t let hard work go unnoticed. Every year, we hold an annual national Conference to host the network, share company updates, and most importantly, recognise those who stood out for their exceptional work and business savvy. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic we weren’t able to host the Awards Ceremony in person but we look forward to the event taking place later this year in Wellington.
We’re proud to announce the winners of the 2021 KiwiSpan Licensee Awards are:
Licensee of the Year – KiwiSpan New Plymouth
Owner and operator Joel Schrader, alongside his team, are awarded KiwiSpan’s top award for New Plymouth’s all-around commitment to driving success in their business.
Licensee of the Year Runner Up – KiwiSpan North & West Auckland
This award recognises KiwiSpan North & West Auckland’s relentless pursuit of success and their outstanding performance during 2021.
Highest Sales Achievement – KiwiSpan Waikato
This award recognises Waikato’s determination to succeed, and their admirable sales to show for it.
Highest Sales Growth – KiwiSpan Whakatane
Gary and Deb Woollett, along with the Whakatane team, received this award for their ongoing dedication to sales, and their drive to achieve great results.
Operational Excellence – KiwiSpan New Plymouth
Behind the numbers and margins, a great business is operated with integrity and efficiency. Joel Schrader and the New Plymouth team have shown excellence in operations in New Plymouth.
Operational Excellence Runner Up – KiwiSpan Rotorua
Phil Clark and Jacquie Mcleod, demonstrated outstanding leadership and efficiency throughout their Rotorua business.
Regional Marketing Champion – KiwiSpan Wairarapa
Relatively new on the KiwiSpan block, Tonya Harrison and Rowan Thornton from Wairarapa showed creativity and enthusiasm when it came to marketing in their local community and driving exposure for their business.
Regional Marketing Champion – KiwiSpan Rotorua
When it comes to marketing, there aren’t many that do it like Phil Clark and Jacquie Mcleod from the Rotorua region. The Rotorua team showed great initiative, resourcefulness and creative thinking in 2021.
Network Appreciation Award – James Marsh
As the owner and operator of the Wellington and Kapiti Coast licenses, James secured the ‘good bugger award’ by consistently contributing positively to the network and showing support for other KiwiSpan business owners and their success.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Designing a Farm Machinery ShedIf 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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tips For Getting Your Storage Shed Placement Right
If you’ve decided that you want to invest in a storage shed then one of your next decisions will likely be where you’re going to put it. Where you put the shed will of course be influenced by its size, your property as well as building and council requirements but there are a few other elements you should also consider including:
How are you planning on using the shed and what will be the most convenient spot for it to be located based on it’s intended usage? These are two questions that are important to ask yourself when deciding on where to put your storage shed. For instance, if you intend to use the shed to store garden supplies and equipment then it makes sense for it to be easily accessible in your backyard or, if the shed will be for bike storage then you may want to install it closer to the front of your house.
Another consideration for choosing where to put your storage shed is how convenient, safe, and easy it will be for you to access. If your shed is located a fair distance away from your house hidden away behind trees and overgrown shrubbery it’s unlikely that you’re going to be keen on venturing out to it very often, especially if you’re lugging heavy equipment with you. It’s a better idea to have the shed positioned closer to your home in an open area which is easily accessible.
We know that KiwiSpan sheds are a sight to behold but it’s up to you to decide whether you want your shed to take centre stage on your property or if you would like to tuck it away in your backyard. We believe that an appealing and well planned shed can add value to your home, so don’t be afraid to show it off! To help your new shed assimilate into your property you may want to have the shed painted a similar colour to your home or to build a path between your home and the shed.
Whether your shed is located in direct sunlight or a shady spot can have a great impact on how comfortable your shed will be and how often you’ll use it. Having a shed which is in full sun most of the day can have negative impacts on your gardening supplies. Plus, if you plan on converting your storage shed into an office, studio, or workshop down the line then you could find the heat most unpleasant.
By putting careful consideration into the location of your new shed you are bound to get the best use from your structure. KiwiSpan sheds are incredibly durable and custom built to last a lifetime, so give us a call to get the ball rolling on your storage shed project.
