Whether you're building your kitset shed yourself or getting a builder to do the work, there are common installation issues that can pop up. Fortunately, most of these are preventable with the right preparation and approach.
In this article, you'll discover the most frequent problems people face when installing sheds—and how to sidestep them.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when installing a shed happens before they unpack the kitset. Inadequate preparation can lead to issues that slow down or even completely derail your project. Here are the most common preparation mistakes to avoid:
If your shed has a concrete floor, it is crucial to get the site prep done correctly and accurately. Concrete floors need a base of compacted gravel before any reinforcing mesh is placed. If the gravel is not levelled correctly, you could end up using significantly more concrete which pushes the cost up. Worst case scenario is that the base isn't compacted enough resulting in a base that is soft and can move, which can lead to cracks appearing in your concrete floor.
It may be tempting to jump straight into the installation, but not properly reviewing the plans first can cause you to miss important details or run into problems along the way. Take the time to go through the plans thoroughly before you begin, so you understand the build. This can save you a lot of frustration down the line.
At Easy Kit, a lot of our kitset sheds are consent exempt. However, sheds over 110m2 will require council approval or specific permits before installation begins. Building the shed exactly as the consented plans state is key, and any changes made without approval after the council consent is granted could result in fines or even having to dismantle the shed.
By addressing these common preparation mistakes, you can avoid unnecessary headaches and set yourself up for a smooth, successful shed installation.
You can run into issues if you're not prepared with the right materials and tools. Here's a deeper look into some common pitfalls and how to address them.
One of the most critical factors that can affect the longevity of your shed is the quality of the materials used. If you choose a shed with subpar materials, you risk warping, weakening of the structure, and increased maintenance costs over time. Ensuring your shed is built with high-quality materials from the start, like Easy Kit's pre-dried, graded timber, reduces the chance of needing repairs or replacements and extends the life of your shed.
Easy Kit's timber is strip-stacked and dried over several weeks, reducing the moisture content to ensure it is straight and strong, making installation easier and faster. This prevents issues such as warping, which can affect alignment during construction and compromise long-term durability.
When planning your shed's installation, also consider future expansions or additional features. Some customers regret not opting for a slightly larger design initially, especially if they want to convert part of the shed into a workspace or line the interior at a later date. Choosing the right size and layout upfront gives you greater flexibility down the line, so it's worth thinking about future uses before you order.
Shed installation is more than just following instructions—it requires considering the environment in which the shed will be built. Weather and environmental factors can significantly impact the installation process and the long-term durability of your shed.
Ensure you've chosen a spot with proper drainage as this will reduce the chances of water entering the shed in heavy rain. Elevating the base slightly using gravel or a raised foundation can also help prevent water damage to the shed's floor. Unstable ground with poor drainage can be a health and safety hazard, especially when working at height on a scissor lift or other elevated work platforms.
In coastal areas, some materials can degrade more quickly due to salt-laden wind. This is worth keeping in mind when choosing cladding and fixings for your build, and it's a good idea to check with your supplier about the best options for your site if you're close to the coast.
By taking weather and environmental factors into account, you can extend the life of your shed and avoid many common installation issues that arise from overlooking these crucial elements.
When installing your shed, the choice between doing it yourself or hiring a professional comes down to your comfort level, experience, and the project's complexity.
For those with DIY experience, installing your Easy Kit centrepole shed can be a rewarding project. You'll enjoy cost savings and the satisfaction of building it yourself. Easy Kit's detailed instructions and well-prepped materials, such as their pre-cut and clearly labelled components, make the building process straightforward.
Hiring a professional installer ensures your shed is built quickly and accurately, saving you time and hassle. This is especially beneficial for larger sheds or challenging sites, like uneven ground or areas with drainage concerns. Professional installers bring the expertise to handle complex situations, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with local regulations.
If you're confident in your skills or have family members or mates with building experience, DIY installation might be a good fit. For larger, more complex projects—or if you lack the time or expertise—a professional can save you some potential headaches.
To ensure a smooth and successful shed installation, here are some final tips that can help you avoid some common pitfalls:
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll not only make the installation easier but also avoid potential costly pitfalls.
By ensuring you have the right tools, materials, and an understanding of your environment, you can avoid common pitfalls. Whether you choose to handle the installation yourself or hire a professional, careful planning and execution will help your shed stand strong for generations to come.
With Easy Kit's complete kitsets and customer support, you're in good hands for building your dream shed.
Price your shed instantly with our shed configurator, or get in touch with the team to talk through your project.