The hidden costs of shed construction you must know

Shed construction is a significant project that requires careful planning and consideration. Like any construction project, there are hidden costs that can potentially throw your budget off balance. Understanding these hidden costs is crucial to ensuring the success of your project. Let’s explore six hidden costs in more detail.

Building and planning permits

Shed construction might seem as easy as hiring professionals to create and assemble the structure, but you will also need to factor in the potential costs of building or planning permits. Local and state governments each have their own requirements, so it’s important to check the regulations in your region. If you need help or guidance, we have an in-house permit specialist that can help with securing the permits you need.

Site preparation

Site preparation is a crucial yet often overlooked expense in the process of building a shed. Clearing the site of any brush, trees, and debris is fundamental, to ensure the area is free from obstacles that could hinder or impact construction. After clearing the site, grading and leveling the soil using heavy machinery helps to create a level surface for the foundation to be built on. It can also help to improve drainage and prevent the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.

Site preparation costs can vary greatly depending on the size of the site, machinery, and labour required to complete the job. It’s not uncommon for site preparation to be more expensive than the cost of the shed itself, especially if the site requires extensive grading and leveling. For this reason, it’s important to factor in this cost when budgeting.

Configuration matters

The physical configuration of your shed can significantly affect your shed construction costs. Consider how you will use the space and what elements you need to include to best serve your needs. For instance, if you plan to store heavy equipment, you may require reinforced flooring or shelving to support the weight. Similarly, if you need to divide the space into separate sections, adding additional walls or doors will influence the overall cost of your shed. Ensure you take these into account when budgeting.

Custom design features

Custom design features are yet another expense often overlooked in the construction process. If you wish to add custom features or other distinctive elements, this will increase overall material and labour costs. If you have a particular colour or finish in mind, this will also add to the final cost of the project. Consider the trade-off between the cost of these custom features and the value they bring to your shed.

Building materials

The cost of building materials is one of the most significant expenses of shed construction that can easily be overlooked. The type of building materials you choose can greatly influence the final cost of the project. For instance, using high-quality galvanised steel will result in a greater initial cost compared to lower-quality materials. However, using low-quality materials will result in greater maintenance costs over time.

When budgeting, carefully consider your return on investment over time, especially when selecting building materials. Building with high-quality and durable materials may cost more upfront but will reduce maintenance and replacement costs in the long term. Research and compare the costs of different materials, weighing quality, durability, and longevity against price, to strike the right balance between cost and value for your project.

Design complexity

When it comes to building a new shed, it’s easy to focus on the cost of building materials or labour, while forgetting about the complexity of the shed design. A complex and poorly designed shed can lead to a range of problems like construction errors or inefficiencies. By contrast, a well-designed shed can maximise the use of space, reduce construction costs, and ensure the overall structure is safe and secure.

Start construction of your new shed

Shed construction is a significant project with hidden costs that can impact the overall cost of your project. From permits and site preparation to custom design features and complexity, ensure you factor in these costs when budgeting for your shed project. With proper planning and budgeting, you can build a high-quality shed that meets your needs without overspending.

Looking to begin shed construction? With over 40 years in the industry, we have built a reputation for designing and building lasting steel structures. Contact our shed specialists and get an obligation-free quote today.