Shed Base Kit: The Complete Australian Guide for Premium Colorbond Sheds

24 Oct Shed Kits

What is a Shed Base Kit and When Should You Use One?

Definition — Shed base kit: A pre-engineered sub-floor or ground support system (often galvanised steel frame, adjustable piers, or modular foundation blocks) designed to support and anchor a shed when a full concrete slab is not required.

In Australia, a shed base kit can be a smart alternative to a full slab for small to mid-size DIY shed kits, garden storage, or where access for concrete trucks is tricky. Premium installations—like a custom-built double garage in Perth or farm machinery storage in regional NSW—often still use an engineered slab or pier-and-beam system for performance and resale value.

Common shed base kit types

Galvanised steel sub-floor frames with adjustable feet
Modular foundation blocks (e.g., high compressive strength deck blocks)
Ground screws/helical piles with bearer system
Timber bearer and joist systems (H3/H4 treated pine) on concrete piers

When a shed base kit is ideal

Level to moderately sloping sites where you need airflow and drainage
Garden shed base kit scenarios where a lightweight floor suits storage
Locations with tree roots or services where slabs are impractical
Coastal sites where you want the shed off the ground to reduce corrosion risk

Definition — Tie-downs: Engineered connections (anchors, hold-down bolts, cyclone rods) that resist wind uplift and shear as per AS/NZS 1170.2.

What Are the Best Shed Materials for Perth’s Climate?

Perth’s hot, dry summers and coastal air demand materials that resist heat and corrosion. Colorbond steel sheds in lighter colors (Surfmist, Shale Grey) reduce heat absorption, while Zincalume is a popular, cost-effective option inland. Add sarking or insulated roof panels for comfort.

Definition — Colorbond: Pre-painted steel by BlueScope designed for Australian conditions, with baked-on finish and corrosion-resistant substrate.

Colorbond vs Zincalume — Which is better for WA conditions?

Colorbond vs Zincalume for WA
Factor	Colorbond	Zincalume
Coastal corrosion resistance	Excellent with correct grade and maintenance	Very good inland; more care needed near marine environments
Heat reflection	High in lighter colors; helps reduce internal temps	Reflective in bare metal look; heats up faster in direct sun
Aesthetic options	Wide Colorbond palette (heritage and contemporary)	Limited (metallic silver-grey)
Cost	Higher upfront	Lower upfront
Warranty	Long manufacturer warranties when installed per spec	Strong warranties when installed per spec

Pro Tip: Did you know using insulated roof panels can reduce internal shed temperatures by up to 10°C in summer? Combine with eave vents and a whirlybird for best results.

Australian Standards and Wind Ratings You Must Know

Any shed base—kit, slab, or piers—must be engineered for your wind region and terrain category under AS/NZS 1170.2. Cyclonic design is mandatory in parts of QLD and WA. Added 2024 WA wind-rating compliance notes

Definition — Wind regions: AS/NZS 1170.2 maps Australia into Regions A, B, C, D. Region C is cyclonic (many QLD coastal zones). Region D is severe cyclonic (north-west WA).

AS/NZS 1170.2 — Wind actions
AS 3600 — Concrete structures (slabs and footings)
AS 4100 — Steel structures
AS 2870 — Residential slabs and footings
AS 1684 — Timber framing (if timber sub-floor used)
AS 3959 — Bushfire construction (check BAL in fire-prone areas)

If you’re in Townsville or Cairns, insist on wind-rated sheds for cyclonic areas with engineered tie-downs. In Karratha or Port Hedland (Region D), your engineer will specify heavier base connections and more robust anchoring.

Base Options Compared: Shed Base Kit vs Concrete Slab vs Pier Footings

Shed base kit (steel frame or modular blocks)

Speed: Fast install, minimal excavation
Best for: Garden shed base kit uses, small DIY shed kits, coastal airflow
Costs (typical): $45–$120/m² plus anchors and flooring sheets
Anchoring: Chemset or screw anchors to concrete pads; or ground screws with brackets

Concrete slab (thickened edge, mesh reinforced)

Best for: Custom Colorbond garages Perth, workshops, heavy loads
Costs (typical): $120–$220/m² for 100–120 mm, site dependent
Benefits: Ultimate rigidity, clean floor, termite resistance