How to calculate materials for shed build?

[Paul8]

Hi All

The first time I will attempt to build a structure, my question is how to calculate materials I need to build a shed for storage in metric.

I also want to make sure that the subfloor will hold heavy items, so I need to use the correct materials. 

Thank you in advance for your help. 

[EricL]

Hello @Paul8

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. Thank you for joining us and sharing your question about building a shed.

If you are storing heavy items on your shed floor I suggest getting a cement base. There are many choices for steel sheds and timber sheds. However, if you are planning on building your own I suggest going to your local council to get a list of their regulations when planning on building a shed. Each state has its own rules regarding the size and height of a shed. 

Would it be possible for you to post a plan for your shed?  By looking at your plans our members can make recommendations on what materials to use.

Here is one of our popular featured projects: Studio and shed in the making by @DIYgals

Let me tag our experienced member @JDE for their recommendations.

We look forward to seeing the plans for your shed.

Eric

[JDE · Accepted solution]

Paul8

Having just completed 2 sheds. First a kit from greater value sheds 6x6.5m colourbond on a concrete slab - my workshop. Second 6.5x7.5m from scratch my design fibro weatherboard around timber frame on concrete slab - wifes art studio. If you are using it for storage building a steel framed shed kit is from my experience quicker, easier and cheaper. For heavy items concrete is probably best Concrete slabs here in Tamworth NSW run at about 100 - 110 dollars m2 for a standard 100mm thick raft. If you buy a kit they normally come with the engineers specs you need to get through council and some suppliers will at a cost even do your council submission. While building a shed from scratch is not that hard, draw yourself a plan then break that down into individual walls, roof etc make a materials list and then off to Bunnings and cost it out, getting past council can be a pain. While wall frames are simple if you are doing a gable or hip roof I would suggest getting a truss place to make them again they come with engineers specs for council. If you can stay below size requiring council approval then cladding on a simple frame becomes a much better proposition. How big a shed are you thinking? Im about to help a friend who only needs a smaller" shed 3mx3m and in his case we are using a garden shed around $800 from Bunnings and using pallets (free check facebook) with sheets of ply on top of them for heavier stuff bolted to shelving bolted to walls. I his case no council approval needed and he can take it with him when he moves.

JDE

[Paul8]

Hi JDE

I hope you are well. Thank you for your response; great information. 

Regards

Paul

Take care & stay safe 

[Paul8]

Thank you