Do you need an outbuilding to store your stuff?  Aeroplanes, tractors, classic car collections, farm animals, grain storage, the list of reasons you need a storage building is endless.

Steel has been the material of choice for generations.  What do you need to know to proceed with confidence on your building project?

Size & Dimension

This is determined by what you want to store, and the size of your property. A good rule of thumb is to plan more storage than you think you need.  It’s almost a natural law, that any unused storage will get filled by somebody.  Your wife, your buddy, and family members, all may contribute ideas about what you should keep in your storage area.

Build a small lean-to on the back or side to hold items you want quick access to.

You have to consider doors to your building.   What are you going to be moving in and out?  If you want to store an aeroplane, for example, the doors will have to be large enough to accommodate it.

Material

Outbuildings can be made from timber, steel, concrete and plastic.  Each material has its own characteristics that make it right for some projects, but not others.

Wood is easy to work with, and is popular with the Do-It-Yourself crowd.

Steel is durable and able to stand up to the seasons.  Steel buildings are resistant to pests and fire.  It can be more expensive than other materials, but it will last longer.  If you need steel design or fabrication services contact steel suppliers in Dandenong.

Plastic is great for small sheds and storage units.  You can buy many of these from your local building supply store.  They are inexpensive compared to other choices.  You can have a plastic shed assembled in an afternoon.

Pick the right material for your specific needs, and your shed or outbuilding will last for years.

Foundation

Your foundation establishes the base of your building.  It will ensure your building is level and stable.  Take a good look at where you want to build. It is level?  Is it accessible?  Do you have access to the area? What is the soil type and formation?

These are all points to assess before you select a material for your foundation.

Materials you may consider are gravel, a concrete slab, concrete blocks, pressure-treated wood, or piers.

Gravel is cheap and easy to work with.  It also guarantees easy drainage to keep things dry.

A concrete slab is used for larger sheds, barns, and other outbuildings.  Concrete will give you a level surface and provide stability for the rest of your building.  If you choose concrete you need to address your water drainage as well.

Concrete blocks and pressure-treated wood can be used as simple, yet affordable foundations.  These are both suitable for small sheds.

Piers are used on hillsides and slopes.  You have to put concrete or steel posts in the ground to make a level base for your foundation.

Planning Permission

Some outbuildings will require planning and building permits.  If you are uncertain whether your project needs a building permit, you must contact your local building department before going ahead.