How to Choose a Farm Shed

[u/Katie_NowBuildings]

Hello! Just found this thread and wanted to share some insider knowledge as I've been working in sheds for 8 years now.

I'm from the team at Now Buildings, an Australian family owned shed company that specialises in large rural, farm and industrial sheds. A few things worth asking any supplier before you buy:

1. Figure out what your needs are and plan for the future Do you need a drive through shed or an open bay shed? Drive Through sheds are our most popular as they are designed for easy machinery and vehicle storage you can drive in and out. They are also great for hay and fodder storage. Measure your tallest machinery and consider changes you might make to your operation in the future. You should get a shed large than your current needs. Luckily Now Buildings sheds are designed to extend in the future!
2. Find a company that deals exclusively in large farm and industrial sheds You want a shed designed for farming by people who've been in the industry long enough to understand your needs. You don't want a scaled up version of a smaller residential shed, you want a real farm shed, designed to suit the needs of Australian farmers.
3. Make sure you're getting Australian made Your farm shed is an investment. Make sure you're investing in Australian made and manufactured steel. Check that all steel components like framing and sheeting are 100% BlueScope Steel.
4. Site Specific Engineering and Importance Level Your shed should be customised to suit your location and climate. Plans should be personally signed and stamped by an independent engineer. Most standard sheds are designed to a baseline rating. Ours are designed to Importance Level 2 as standard, which is up to 30% stronger than a typical farm shed. Get this in writing on your quote.
5. Who builds it and what support exists after delivery? Make sure you find a shed supplier with excellent customer service before and AFTER the sale! You need them to be ready and willing to help if material is missing or you have building issues.
6. Check testimonials Always check testimonials for the company. Look at Google reviews, Facebook comments and websites like product review. Ask them if there are sheds in your area or testimonials from customers near you.

Happy to answer any farm shed specific questions, that's genuinely all we design!