How to Compare Large Shed Quotes: A 10-Point Checklist

When you're investing in a large-scale steel shed, comparing quotes from different suppliers is a critical step. However, without a clear understanding of industry terminology and pricing factors, it's easy to overlook hidden expenses that can derail your budget.

This guide provides a comprehensive checklist to help you accurately compare large shed quotes, understand the specifications, and avoid costly surprises during your build.

Key Checks for Comparing Shed Quotes (TL;DR)

• Structural Steel vs Purlins: Ensure the shed's engineering is appropriate for its size and location, including wind and snow regions.
• Sheeting Thickness: Compare like-for-like by checking if quotes refer to Base Metal Thickness (BMT) or Total Coated Thickness (TCT).
• Corrosion Protection: Verify that columns and trusses are hot-dip galvanised for longevity, especially in harsh climates.
• Hidden Site Costs: Account for groundwork, service connections, drainage, and accessways, which may not be in the initial quote.
• Fixed vs Unfixed Erection Costs: A fixed quote protects you from unexpected costs due to project delays.
• Compliance & Guarantees: Check for included engineering certificates, fire safety compliance, and a formal guarantee on the structure.

How Do You Accurately Compare Quotes?

To accurately compare quotes for a large shed, you must look beyond the final price and look at the detailed specifications. This involves checking the type of structural engineering used (purlins vs structural steel), verifying the sheeting thickness measurement (BMT vs TCT), and confirming that key components like columns and trusses are hot-dip galvanised for durability.

Furthermore, ensure the quote clarifies what is included for groundwork, crane hire, and engineering certificates. Always favour a fixed erection quote to protect against unforeseen delays and insist on a written guarantee for both the structure and workmanship.

Shed Quote Comparison: What to Look For

Feature	Basic Quote: Potential Hidden Costs	All-Inclusive Quote: Transparent Pricing
Structure	Unspecified or lighter purlin frame.	Clearly specified structural steel frame suitable for the shed size.
Cladding	Vague thickness measurement, such as TCT.	Specific Base Metal Thickness (BMT) is listed.
Corrosion Protection	Not specified or painted only.	Columns and trusses are hot-dip galvanised after welding.
Groundwork	Excluded, leaving you to source local contractors.	Costs are clearly outlined, or guidance is provided.
Erection Costs	Unfixed, meaning the price can increase with delays.	A fixed and final price for the entire erection process.
Compliance	Engineering certificate is an additional cost.	Structural plans and relevant certifications are included.
Doors & Exits	Basic doors; compliance with safety codes not mentioned.	Wind-rated roller doors and fire exits are specified.
Crane Hire	Billed separately as an extra cost.	Included in the fixed erection quote.
Guarantee	Limited or no formal guarantee provided.	A formal, written guarantee on the structure and workmanship.

1. Verify the Structural Engineering: Purlin vS Structural Steel

A large shed can be engineered using either purlins (roll-formed sheet steel) or structural steel. Purlin frames may not be strong enough for designs larger than 18 metres, as they cannot handle significant weight or harsh weather conditions.

Structural steel sheds are far stronger, with main frames and roof rafters constructed from solid steel sections that are welded and bolted together. While the initial cost may be higher, their durability, longevity, and simpler erection process often reduce overall expenses. Ensure your quote specifies structural steel if your project demands it.

2. Clarify Sheeting Thickness: BMT vs TCT

When comparing quotes, ask if the sheeting thickness is measured in Base Metal Thickness (BMT) or Total Coated Thickness (TCT).

• Base Metal Thickness (BMT) measures the steel's strength before any protective layers are added, making it a more accurate indicator for structural design.
• Total Coated Thickness (TCT) measures the metal after coatings like paint, primer, and alloy finishes are applied.

Ensure all quotes use the same measurement, preferably BMT, for a true indication of material strength. At Standwell, our quotes reference BMT cladding for all our shed specifications. 

3. Confirm Corrosion Protection: Is the Steel Hot-Dip Galvanised?

A low quote might indicate that the columns and trusses are not hot-dip galvanised. This process involves dipping the steel in molten zinc, creating a protective barrier against corrosion and oxidation. For maximum protection, galvanisation should occur after all welding is complete to ensure the welds are also coated. This step is crucial for protecting your investment against the harsh Australian climate.

4. Account for Groundwork and Site Prep Costs

Many shed quotes do not include groundwork costs like pier hole boring, service connections, drainage, and creating accessways, as these are dependent on your specific location. For an accurate project budget, speak with local contractors to estimate these expenses. Some shed companies can assist with this process by providing a detailed outline of the costs you need to account for.

5. Check Erection Quotes: Fixed vs Unfixed Pricing

Building projects can face delays from weather, material deliveries, or compliance issues.

• An unfixed quote does not account for these delays, meaning your final cost could be much higher than the initial estimate.
• A fixed quote provides an all-inclusive cost for the entire erection process, giving you peace of mind that the price won't change regardless of unexpected delays.

6. Check for an Included Engineering Certificate

The most cost-effective way to achieve compliance is to source your plans from a reputable shed manufacturer that provides all relevant engineering certifications. Some quotes may not include this cost, so confirm whether you are comparing quotes that both include or both exclude this crucial step.

Here at Standwell, we provide the structural plans and can assist with providing contacts that specialise in preparing Development Applications (DA).

7. Factor in Doors and Fire Safety Compliance

Your shed must comply with the fire safety requirements detailed in the National Construction Code. While these rules are mandatory, not all shed companies will specify the associated costs in their quotes. Always ask if compliance with fire exit and door regulations is included in the price.

8. Ask if Crane Hire Is Included

Hiring a crane typically saves money on large builds by increasing efficiency and reducing labour costs for installing roof trusses, steel beams, and prefabricated walls. Some companies own a crane, while others hire a third-party contractor. Either way, ask for this cost to be clearly specified in the quote.

9. Ensure Roller Doors Meet Wind-Rating Requirements

According to the National Construction Code, all roller doors must be wind-rated according to the building's location and wind speed. The shed itself must also be engineered to withstand door failure. Complying with these regulations is a necessary investment, so ensure your quote accounts for these engineering requirements.

10. Review Guarantees and Warranties

A large shed is a significant investment, so a quality guarantee is non-negotiable. Ask for a formal, written guarantee that covers the structure and workmanship. This will safeguard you if any issues arise, ensuring you are covered for compensation, replacements, or repairs. For example, at Standwell, we have full confidence in our frames, which come with a 25-year guarantee. Additionally, we design each shed to exceed minimum Australian standards.

Our shed quotes

Here at Standwell, we’ve been in the shed manufacturing business for decades. That’s why we provide fixed quotes and no costly surprises along the way. The only costs that aren’t included are the concrete for the pier holes and any alterations made after the contract is signed. In fact, all our quotes include the following: 

• Engineering and technical plans
• Installation
• Pier hole boring (excluding the concrete)
• Materials
• Crane hire
• 25-year structural guarantee

Our project coordinators will guide you through the entire build so talk to our team or request a quote today. Let us know which type of shed you need and we’ll send a transparent, no-obligation quote your way.