Frequently Asked Questions
Plain-English answers to common questions about Iron Country Sheds, design, engineering, pricing and delivery.
Designing Online
How does the online shed designer work?
The online designer lets you configure your building — location, type, dimensions, roof style, doors, windows, colours and accessories. It produces an initial 3D design that you submit for review. Your design is then assessed by our team and a site-specific quotation is prepared.
Is the online design a final price?
No. The online design is an initial concept. Final pricing depends on site-specific engineering, delivery location, wind and soil requirements, selected components and current material costs. You receive a formal quotation after design review.
Can I save and come back to my design?
Once you submit your design, it is saved to your MyJob account, where you can come back to view it, along with your quotation and drawings as they are prepared. If you want changes, ask one of our specialists and they will update the design for you. The updated design then appears in your MyJob account.
What if I don't know the exact dimensions?
That's fine. Give us your best estimate and we can help refine the design. You can also contact us before designing if you'd like guidance on what dimensions suit your intended use.
How big a shed do I need?
Start with what you will keep or do inside. Measure your largest vehicle, boat or machine, then allow room to open doors, walk around it and work. Think about what you might add later, such as a lean-to, awning or mezzanine. If you are unsure, submit your best estimate and we will talk it through with you.
Can I change my design after I submit it?
Yes. Your design can be revised while we review it and prepare your quotation. Engineering documentation is prepared together with your quotation, and you review both before anything is ordered. Once you have approved them, any further changes need an engineering review and may change the price and timing.
What is a bay, and why does it matter?
A bay is the section of the building between two main frames. The number of bays multiplied by the bay spacing gives you the length of the building. Bay spacing affects the size of the framing and where doors can sit, so it is worth discussing if you need wide openings.
What is the difference between a gable and a skillion roof?
A gable roof has two slopes that meet at a ridge in the middle. A skillion roof has a single slope. Gable roofs are the classic shed shape. Skillion roofs are common on attached sheds and where you want one side of the building taller than the other.
Can I add a lean-to, awning or verandah?
Yes. Lean-tos, awnings, eaves and verandahs can be added in the designer and are engineered as part of the building. They are a practical way to add covered space for vehicles, equipment or outdoor work.
What doors and windows can I add?
Roller doors, sliding doors, personal-access doors and windows can be added in the designer. The quotation lists exactly what is included for your design, so check the door and window schedule before you approve it.
Can I live in a steel shed?
Only if the building is designed, engineered and approved as a dwelling. That means meeting the residential (Class 1a) requirements and having council approval. A standard shed is not automatically approved for living in. See our Shed Homes page for how this works.
Engineering and Approvals
Do I need council approval for a shed?
In most cases, yes. Requirements vary by council, location, zone, building size and intended use. Most sheds require at minimum a building permit. Contact your local council to confirm what applies to your project before ordering.
Who provides the engineering?
Iron Country sheds are designed through the HiTen CFBS platform, which includes engineering documentation prepared by qualified structural engineers. Site-specific engineering is prepared with your quotation, so you can review it before you approve and order, and it is finalised before manufacture.
Are sheds engineered to Australian standards?
Yes — all sheds are engineered to applicable Australian standards for the project's wind region, terrain category and occupancy. Engineering documentation is provided with every order.
Can I use Iron Country's engineering for my council application?
Engineering documentation produced for your project can be submitted as part of a council application. Requirements vary by council — some require certification by a locally registered engineer. Discuss this with us during the quotation process.
Who lodges the council application?
The owner, their builder or their certifier lodges the application. Iron Country supplies engineering documentation for your building to support it. Requirements differ between councils, so check what your council needs before you apply.
Can I order before I have council approval?
We recommend having your approval sorted, or at least your application lodged with the engineering documentation, before you order. If a council requires changes after you order, the engineering and the price may need to be revised. Talk to us about timing so you do not get caught out.
What is a wind region?
Australian standards divide the country into wind regions (A to D) and also consider terrain and shielding at your site. These set the wind loads your building is engineered to resist. This is why we ask for your project address before anything else.
Do I need a soil test?
Footings are designed for the soil on your site, so some sites need a soil classification report. Your certifier or council will tell you whether one is required. Let us know if you have one, as the engineering is based on it.
Can I build in a bushfire or cyclone area?
Often yes, but these sites have additional requirements. Bushfire-prone land has construction requirements for the area, and cyclonic regions need engineering for higher wind loads. Give us your address when you design so the engineering reflects your site, and check with your council or certifier.
Pricing and Quoting
Why isn't there a price on the website?
Every Iron Country building is custom-designed for the customer's site, wind region, soil type, selected components and delivery location. A published price would be misleading. You receive a site-specific quotation after your design is reviewed.
What affects the price of a shed?
The main factors are building dimensions, framing system (cold-formed or hot-rolled), wind and site requirements, selected doors and accessories, cladding selection, and delivery distance. Iron Country supplies the kit only — installation is arranged separately.
Is there an obligation to proceed after receiving a quote?
No. Receiving a quotation is not a commitment to proceed. You decide whether to approve and proceed with the order.
How do I get a quote?
Design your shed online and submit it, or send us an enquiry with your location, building type and approximate size. We review your design and site, then prepare a site-specific quotation.
What is included in a quote?
Your quotation lists exactly what is included: the building kit components for your design, the engineering documentation, and delivery if it is part of the quoted scope. If something is not listed, it is not included, so read the inclusions carefully and ask us about anything that is unclear.
Are there other costs I should plan for?
Yes. Plan for the slab or footings and any earthworks, council and certifier fees, an installer or builder, plumbing for downpipes and tanks, electrical work, and any optional extras that are not in the kit. Remote or difficult sites may also add to delivery costs.
How long is a quotation valid?
The validity period is stated on your quotation. Material and component costs can change, so prices may be revised after that date.
Delivery and Installation
Where does Iron Country deliver?
Building kits can be delivered across Australia. Delivery costs and options vary by location. Contact us to discuss delivery for your site.
How long does delivery take?
Manufacture and delivery timelines depend on building type, size, current production schedules and your location. We will provide an indicative timeline as part of the quotation.
Can I build the shed myself?
Yes — kit sheds are designed for assembly. All components are accurately detailed and engineering documentation is provided. Some sheds are within the capability of experienced owner-builders. Confirm licensing and permit requirements for your area before starting construction.
Do you build the shed for me?
No. Iron Country supplies the custom engineered steel building kit only. You can install it yourself, engage your own builder, or ask us to refer you to an independent installer from the HiTen network of 100+ shed builders across Australia. Installers contract directly with you.
How do I find an installer?
Ask us for a referral. We can recommend independent builders and installers from the HiTen network of 100+ shed builders across Australia. They contract directly with you, so you agree the price and scope with them. Iron Country does not coordinate or mark up their services.
Do I need a licensed builder?
Licensing and owner-builder rules differ between states and territories, and depend on the size and type of building. Check with your state regulator or your certifier before you start.
How do I prepare my site for delivery?
Have your slab or footings ready, and make sure a truck can reach the site and there is a clear, level area to unload. Plan for someone to be there to receive the delivery and check the components against the packing list. If access is tight, tell us early so delivery can be planned around it.
Will everything arrive in one delivery?
Not necessarily. Some components may arrive separately from different suppliers. Delivery arrangements are confirmed in your quotation.
What do I need to assemble the kit?
Your installer will need the engineering documentation, suitable tools and, for larger sheds, lifting and access equipment such as a crane, telehandler or elevated work platform. A builder experienced with steel kits will advise what your building needs.
Do I need to arrange a concrete slab?
Most sheds require a concrete slab or engineered footing. Slab design and construction is managed by the owner or their concreter. We can advise on footing requirements as part of the engineering documentation.
Materials and Quality
What steel does Iron Country use?
Iron Country sheds use BlueScope high-tensile steel. COLORBOND® steel cladding products are available across the range.
Are there colour options?
Yes — a range of COLORBOND® colours is available for roofing, walls and trim. Colour appearance varies between screens and physical products. Request a physical sample from your local building supplies store.
What sheeting profiles are available?
Low rib (Corrugated-style) and high rib (Trimdek-style) profiles are available for both roof and walls. Profile options may vary by building type and supplier availability.
What is the difference between COLORBOND® and ZINCALUME® steel?
COLORBOND® steel is pre-painted steel that comes in a range of colours. ZINCALUME® steel is a metallic-coated steel with a natural silver finish and no paint. Both are made by BlueScope. Which finishes are available depends on your design, so ask us when you enquire.
What does 'fully bolted' mean?
It means the frames are assembled with bolts on site, using accurately detailed components, rather than being welded in the field. Fully bolted framing is available and can make assembly more straightforward for your installer.
What is the difference between cold-formed and hot-rolled steel?
Cold-formed steel is sheet steel rolled into shapes at normal temperature. It is light and is used for most sheds. Hot-rolled steel is formed hot into heavier structural sections, such as universal beams, and is used where spans or loads are larger. We can design either, or a mix of both, and will recommend what suits your building.
Can my shed be insulated?
Yes. Insulation and ventilation options are available to help with heat and condensation. The scope is agreed with you at quotation stage.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us directly and we'll answer your specific questions.
Design Your Shed Online
Start with your dimensions and customise every detail — colours, doors, windows, awnings and more. Submit your design and receive a site-specific quotation.
Design Your Shed Online