ORDER YOUR KITSET NOW FOR DELIVERY IN JANUARY! | LEARN MORE
ORDER YOUR KITSET NOW FOR DELIVERY IN JANUARY! | LEARN MORE
Looking to upgrade your outdoor space? At KiwiSpan, we believe your steel shed should be just as stylish as it is practical, becoming a natural part of your landscape. Discover some simple yet impactful ideas for landscaping around your shed to create a cohesive, inviting outdoor area.
Creating a stylish landscape around your metal shed helps integrate it with your surroundings. Here are a few ways to achieve this:
The often-overlooked space between your shed and fence can be transformed into a functional area. Consider these ideas:
Leaving enough space around your shed is essential for practical use, maintenance, and the structure’s longevity. Here are some considerations:
Are you unsure how much space you should leave around your shed? We are here to help. Talk to the KiwiSpan experts about any questions you might have.
If you already have a beautifully designed landscape and want to add a shed that complements it, look to your garden for inspiration. Consider elements like colour, texture, and plant choices when designing a customisable shed that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Use our 3D shed builder to bring your vision to life and create a shed that enhances the natural beauty of your outdoor space.
At KiwiSpan, we use high-quality steel to build durable, low-maintenance sheds tailored to your lifestyle. We are sure that our stylish shed designs will inspire many landscaping ideas. Whether you’re looking for a modern garage, storage shed, or barn house, KiwiSpan sheds offer a functional, stylish, and customisable solution. Our lifestyle and residential shed options include:
At KiwiSpan, we believe in giving our customers creative control. We put you in the driver’s seat by providing fully customisable structures, allowing you to tailor your shed to suit your needs—whether it’s a garage, workshop, or storage solution. If you prefer a hands-on approach, we also offer kit sets so you can assemble your structure.
We always focus on delivering practical, high-quality solutions that enhance your property’s functionality and value, making KiwiSpan a trusted choice for steel-building projects nationwide. For a shed that combines style and durability, get a quote today.
Shed vs Sleepout vs House: What’s the Difference?Understanding the difference between a shed, a sleepout, and a house comes down to how each is built, used, and regulated by the building code. We’re here to break it down for you!
The New Zealand Building Code categorises buildings into different importance levels (IL) from IL1 to IL5, based on the risk to human life and the purpose of the building. This determines the building standards required for construction.
At the lowest risk level (IL1), buildings like sheds, farm implement sheds, and garages are classified as low-risk because they are entered infrequently. These structures do not require the same level of strength and safety features as a home or sleepout. For instance, if a shed is damaged in an extreme weather event, the risk to human life is minimal.
In contrast, IL2 buildings—such as homes, sleepouts, and business premises—are designed for regular occupancy. These buildings need to meet stricter building standards, including deeper foundations, stronger materials, and enhanced weather tightness. Because people sleep in both houses and sleepouts, the same structural standards apply, making IL2 structures more costly to build but much safer.
When a shed includes both storage and living spaces, like a workshop with an attached sleepout, the entire structure must meet IL2 standards. This ensures the sleeping area remains safe in case of a structural failure in the storage section.
Buildings at IL3, IL4, and IL5 levels—such as hospitals, power stations, and emergency services buildings—are subject to even more stringent building standards due to their essential nature and the greater risk to human life.
When does a shed become a sleepout?
You can add a toilet, shower, and basin to an IL1 shed, but once it includes cooking or sleeping facilities, it’s considered a habitable IL2 structure and must comply with IL2 building standards.
Is a “shed house” cheaper than a regular house to build?
No, a “shed house” must meet the same building code requirements as a traditional house. While the appearance may differ, the costs are likely to be similar due to the same construction standards. This is a common misconception about shed houses!
Can I live in my IL1 shed while my house is being built?
No, the council will require your shed to meet IL2 standards for it to be used as accommodation, even temporarily.
Can I convert my IL1 shed into a sleepout without telling the council?
No, it is illegal to do so. If discovered, you could be fined, and the structure may need to be demolished. Also, without the required compliance documentation, selling the property later could be problematic.
Can KiwiSpan provide an IL2 habitable building kit?
Yes, KiwiSpan can supply an IL2-compliant building, but you will need a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) to construct it and sign off that it meets building code standards. For any restricted building work, such as drainage and plumbing, the appropriate professionals must be involved to ensure everything is fully compliant.
Can KiwiSpan build the IL2 shell, and I do the fit-out?
Yes, this is possible with an LBP to sign off on the fit-out. Availability may vary, so check with your local KiwiSpan team.
Can KiwiSpan build a complete sleepout or house?
While we primarily specialize in IL1 solutions, some KiwiSpan teams offer complete solutions, including sleepouts and homes. Availability may differ depending on your local KiwiSpan licensee.
Please contact your local KiwiSpan team to discuss your shed project and they will be happy to provide more information.
Steel Garage Insulation: Make Your Garage or Shed More Comfortable
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!
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.
New Shed Designs to Take Inspiration from in 2024Steel sheds in NZ have long been a versatile and popular choice for outdoor storage. However, new shed designs have evolved beyond mere functional storage spaces. Today, KiwiSpan sheds captivate architectural expressions that blend utility with aesthetic appeal.
As we step into 2024, a plethora of cutting-edge shed designs promises to redefine the concept of outdoor structures. Are you envisioning an expansive farm shelter, a modern workshop space, or a combined home office and storage space? The possibilities are vast. Let’s explore the latest trends in KiwiSpan steel shed design and construction below.
Sustainability is a big trend across many industries, and steel shed design and construction are no exception. Sustainable construction aims to minimise environmental impact while creating energy-efficient, eco-friendly structures.
Choosing construction materials that are kinder to the environment will continue to be a priority in 2024. As one of the world’s most recyclable and durable materials, more people are choosing to use steel in their new shed designs. At KiwiSpan, we’re proud to use locally manufactured steel products for all our farm, lifestyle, and commercial and industrial sheds.
The demand for greater flexibility in construction is growing. This need is driven by various factors, including rapidly changing market dynamics, evolving project requirements, and the desire for sustainable and adaptable structures.
Steel plays a vital role in creating flexible, versatile structures today. This strong material is highly adaptable to various architectural designs. The combination of steel strength with KiwiSpan’s bracket systems provides wide, open spans – a blank canvas to design your perfect space or shed layout. Steel’s flexibility also enables us to adapt designs in the future as our customers’ needs change. This means we can easily add new extensions or modify your structure without compromising your shed’s structural integrity.
On-trend colours shift slightly from year to year. Right now, various shades of grey, including slate, charcoal and black, are trendy due to their and modern aesthetic appeal. Modern finish types, such as matte, are also popular right now because of their stylish, fresh look. Colour popularity, however, can differ by industry. For example, red is always a favoured choice for horse stables or steel barns in the agricultural sector.
At KiwiSpan, we understand that colour is not just a visual aspect but also plays a crucial role in functionality and branding. That’s why we allow our customers to choose from various colours designed specifically for New Zealand conditions. Your local KiwiSpan team can guide you on the colours coming into popularity.
Cutting-edge technologies and materials have transformed how we approach roofing solutions. These advanced roofing solutions have improved the durability and strength of steel sheds while unlocking new design and functionality possibilities.
At KiwiSpan, you can choose between adjusting the height and the pitch or adding lean-tos depending on your needs. With a more durable and efficient approach to roofing, you can easily create a steel shed that is expansive, durable, and maximises every inch of space.
Maximising natural light in sheds has gained popularity for various reasons. Primarily, natural light contributes to a more inviting and pleasant interior. It also reduces the need for artificial lighting, making it a more energy-efficient choice.
There are various strategies for maximising natural light, including the strategic placement of windows or openings that allow for more natural light to enter, as well as expansive views of the outdoors. At KiwiSpan, we can tailor your windows depending on your requirements and what fits your shed best.
Textured coatings bring depth and visual interest to steel sheds. In 2024, you can expect textured finishes like etching and embossing to take centre stage. These textures add character to metallic surfaces.
At KiwiSpan, we’re embracing textured exteriors with our steel cladding solutions. We offer MODNCOLOUR® and COLORSTEEL® cladding in a range of profiles to add depth and style to your shed exterior. These innovative cladding solutions add visual appeal while bringing strength and durability to your shed.
In 2024, the possibilities for new shed designs are virtually limitless. These are some of the key trends we’re seeing now, and there will undoubtedly be more changes as the shed design and construction industry continues to evolve.
If you have any ideas you would like to bring to life, we can help. You can design your KiwiSpan steel shed using our online 3D builder and learn what’s possible. Choose the size, cladding, doors, windows, roofing, and colour scheme to create a custom structure that perfectly suits your needs. We’ll guide you through any shifts and changes when choosing a shed for your needs.
The heart of what we do is giving you a shed that fits your needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s a garage shed, personal workshop, or commercial shed, KiwiSpan has a customised solution. Contact us today to get the ball rolling on your next steel shed project.
The 2021 KiwiSpan Award WinnersOwning 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.
An Industrial Steel Frame Shed Is The Way To GoIf you’re considering a new industrial shed or building then you’ll want to make sure you’ve weighed out all your options before you start building. One of your most important decisions is the material it will be made from.
When it comes to industrial structures, steel is becoming an increasingly popular material to use. It is widely used across the construction industry for durable structures such as high rise buildings and bridges due to its strength, versatility, and robustness.
Find out the benefits of using steel for your next industrial shed project below.
Industrial sheds can be a hub for a vast range of activities and house various types of machinery, so it’s important that they’re built to stand the test of time. Steel is an excellent material which requires little maintenance and has more durability than other materials such as timber. It is a high quality material capable of withstanding tough weather conditions including extreme heat, snow, rain, and wind making a great choice for building in New Zealand’s more varied climates.
Additionally, due to its composition steel is less likely to warp, split, or break, and beams constructed from steel won’t sag or bend meaning that your building will hold its form for years to come.
Due to the high durability of steel, you’re going to save yourself maintenance costs in the long run. A well constructed steel shed won’t require any repairs or replacements for years (if they ever do at all) making them a great choice for those wanting to avoid unexpected maintenance costs.
Plus, another benefit of steel is that unlike timber, it is incredibly difficult to penetrate so you’re less likely to find that insects or animals have made themselves at home in your shed! This will also save you time and money from having to call in pest control to protect your building and remove unwanted inhabitants.
Structural steel can be fabricated into a variety of shapes while still maintaining its strength. Our industrial sheds are all fully customisable to include any features you require, ensuring that the final product is safe, resilient, and perfectly tailored to your needs.
Plus, it’s easy to future proof steel buildings as they are more conducive to structural modifications to additions such as renovations, increasing the size of the building or adding features.
Steel is 100% recyclable and one of the most environmentally friendly construction materials available. It can be reused and repurposed over and over again without losing any structural quality or integrity. Meaning that even if you do end up removing or demolishing your shed the steel won’t be dumped in a landfill as it can be used for another project.
As we look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and be kinder to the planet, remember that using steel instead of a material such as timber is significantly better for the environment. It takes approximately 20 pine trees to build a timber frame home, and it will take at least another 20 years for new trees to grow to the same size. Steel is a better alternative because it requires no logging or deforestation which helps lower carbon emissions and create cleaner air.
When it comes down to it, KiwiSpan are leaders in building industrial steel structures. 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 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.
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.
