Question 1

What's included in a steel shed kit from Global Sheds?

Accepted Answer

Every Global Sheds kit includes all structural steel framing (columns, rafters, purlins, girts), BlueScope Colorbond or Zincalume roof and wall sheeting, complete fastener pack, roller doors and PA doors as specified, engineer-certified structural drawings for your site, and assembly instructions. Concrete slab and site preparation are not included and arranged separately.

Question 2

What wind rating do I need for my shed in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Australia has four wind regions under AS/NZS 1170.2: Region A (normal), Region B (intermediate), Region C (cyclonic), and Region D (severe cyclonic). Your required wind rating depends on geographic region, terrain category, shielding from nearby buildings, and topography. Most of southern Australia is Region A or B. Northern Queensland, northern WA, and NT coastal areas are typically Region C or D requiring cyclone-rated construction.

Question 3

Do I need a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating for my shed?

Accepted Answer

If your property is in a designated bushfire prone area and your shed is within 6 metres of a dwelling, it must be built to the same BAL rating as the house under AS 3959. Sheds further than 6 metres from dwellings may not require BAL-rated construction. BAL ratings range from BAL-Low to BAL-FZ (Flame Zone), each with specific construction requirements. Check with your local council or use state planning portals to determine if your site is bushfire prone.

Question 4

How long does delivery take for a steel shed kit?

Accepted Answer

Delivery typically occurs 4-6 weeks after manufacture payment is received. This allows time for custom fabrication to your specifications. Rural and remote locations may require additional delivery time. For regions outside standard delivery zones, customer collection may need to be arranged, though we always try to accommodate delivery where possible.

Question 5

Should I insulate my steel shed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, insulation is highly recommended for sheds across Australia regardless of climate. Uninsulated steel sheds become extremely hot in summer and cold in winter. Insulation provides comfortable working conditions, protects stored items from temperature damage and condensation, reduces rain noise, and is essential for mancaves or workshops. Retrofitting insulation later is difficult and expensive - it's much easier to install during construction.

Question 6

What is the difference between Colorbond and Zincalume steel?

Accepted Answer

Both are Australian-made BlueScope products. Zincalume has a zinc/aluminium alloy coating with a metallic silver appearance - it's cost-effective and performs well inland. Colorbond has the same protective coating plus a durable paint finish in over 20 colours. Colorbond offers better UV protection, aesthetics, and longer warranties in most applications. For coastal areas within 1km of salt water, Colorbond Ultra or stainless fasteners may be required.

Question 7

Do I need council approval for a shed in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most sheds require building approval. You can obtain approval through local council or a private building certifier. Small sheds under 10m² may be exempt in some areas, but always verify with council. Engineer-certified drawings are typically required. If your shed exceeds allowable design criteria for setbacks or height, a relaxation application is needed which incurs additional fees and can take 6 weeks to 6 months.

Question 8

What warranty comes with BlueScope steel?

Accepted Answer

BlueScope offers warranties of up to 15-20 years for Colorbond and Zincalume steel used in shed roofing and walling when located more than 1km from marine environments. Warranty periods vary based on product type, application, and distance from corrosive coastal conditions. Warranties cover corrosion to perforation and paint peeling. Register your warranty through the BlueScope warranty system after installation.

Question 9

Can I build my shed as an owner builder?

Accepted Answer

Yes, owner builder options exist in all Australian states but requirements vary. NSW requires a permit for work over $10,000, QLD requires course completion and permit, VIC requires registration for work over $16,000, WA requires approval for work over $20,000. Steel shed kits are well-suited for owner builders with bolt-together construction and pre-punched holes requiring no welding.

Question 10

What size shed should I build?

Accepted Answer

Buy as big as you can afford without dominating your yard. The most common regret from shed owners is not building big enough. Draw a floor plan showing vehicles, workbenches, storage and movement areas before ordering. Consider future uses and ensure door widths accommodate your largest equipment. You will never regret extra space.

Question 11

How do I prevent condensation in my steel shed?

Accepted Answer

Install anti-condensation blanket (such as Bradford Anticon) directly under roof sheeting during construction. This creates a barrier between warm moist air inside and cold steel, preventing condensation forming. Combine with adequate ventilation - windows on opposite walls create cross-flow. A vapour barrier under the concrete slab also helps control moisture. Without these measures, condensation can cause corrosion and damage stored items.

Question 12

What concrete slab do I need for my shed?

Accepted Answer

Slab requirements depend on soil classification under AS 2870 (Classes A through P based on soil reactivity) and shed size. Engineer-certified drawings specify thickness (typically 100mm minimum for residential), reinforcement mesh type, edge beam depth, and hold-down bolt positions. The slab must incorporate natural fall for drainage per the National Construction Code. Engage a concreter familiar with shed slab requirements.

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