Key Differences Between a Shed and Shed House

Exploring the Difference Between a Shed and a Shed House

When it comes to additional space on your property, sheds and shed houses are two common options that can serve different purposes. Understanding the differences between these structures is necessary before making any decisions, especially in the context of Australian regulations and building standards.

In this blog, we'll delve into the key differences between a shed and a shed house to help you make an informed choice.

Purpose and Function

A traditional shed primarily serves as a storage space for tools, equipment, and other items. It's often a standalone structure used for housing gardening supplies, bicycles, lawnmowers, and similar items. Sheds can also function as workshops for DIY projects or hobbies.

On the other hand, a shed house, also known as a granny flat, studio, or shouse, is designed for habitation. While it may share similarities with a shed in terms of construction materials such as metal or timber, a shed house is insulated, equipped with amenities like plumbing and electricity, and can be used as a guest house, home office, or even a full-time living space.

Size and Design

Sheds typically come in various sizes and designs, ranging from small garden sheds to larger structures suitable for storing vehicles or acting as workshops. They often have a simple layout with a single door and minimal windows, prioritising functionality over aesthetics.

Shed houses are more elaborate in design and can vary significantly in size. They are usually larger than standard sheds and feature multiple rooms, a kitchenette or full kitchen, bathroom facilities, and living areas. Shed houses can be customised to fit specific needs and may include features like decking, outdoor entertainment areas, and landscaping.

Building Regulations and Approvals

In Australia, building a shed typically involves obtaining approval from local council authorities. Smaller sheds may be exempt from certain permits, especially if they meet specific criteria regarding size, placement, and purpose (e.g., a garden shed under 10 sqm.). It's essential to check with your local council or a building professional to ensure compliance with regulations.

Building a shed house is more complex and usually requires planning permission and building approvals. Since shed houses are intended for habitation, they must meet strict standards for safety, structural integrity, insulation, electrical wiring, plumbing, and accessibility. Working with experienced architects, builders, and consultants is a step in the right direction when planning a shed house to navigate these regulatory requirements effectively.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a shed can vary significantly based on factors such as size, materials, customisation, and labour costs. Generally, smaller sheds made from basic materials like steel or wood are more affordable, while larger or more complex designs can be pricier.

Building a shed house involves higher costs compared to a standard shed due to the additional requirements for insulation, plumbing, electricity, and interior finishes. While the initial cost doesn’t seem to be that much, most people who have opted to go for shed houses swear that it can quickly turn into a substantial investment. While it does offer an alternative living space, it is always good to weigh the ‘actual’ savings you’ll accumulate in doing a shed house versus a normal house – in recent times we’ve seen that the savings are not as large as first considered.

Maintenance and Longevity

Sheds are relatively low-maintenance structures, requiring at most, a yearly clean-up.  

For most shed companies, it’s a bit of a coin toss and you’re kept guessing about the quality of the materials used. With Easyshed, you get that Aussie-made guarantee and lifetime warranty with all sheds – instant peace of mind.

One of our garden shed customers, Tom, has a 40 year old Easyshed garden shed that is a testament to that quality. His garden shed speaks volumes about how much simple maintenance can do for your shed. It’s been up since 1983 and still is to this day.

If an Easyshed garden shed can last four decades, imagine just how long a Big Shed will remain standing; strong and unwavering throughout the changing seasons, keeping you and your belongings safe. We're confident that these steel buildings might even outlive us.

Shed houses are no different when it comes to needing regular maintenance to ensure structural integrity, functionality, and comfort. This includes servicing heating and cooling systems, checking plumbing fixtures, inspecting roofing and insulation, and addressing any wear or damage promptly.

Sheducation Complete

That rounds up the key differences between a shed and a shed house. Key elements lie in their purpose, design, regulatory requirements, costs, and maintenance needs. While sheds are primarily used for storing items and workspaces, they can be so much more with the right team and the right people.

Before embarking on any construction project, it's essential to research local regulations, consult professionals, and consider your specific needs and budget to make the right choice.

Should you get a shed or shed house?

If you’re thinking about a place where you can just chill for a night or two or host a backyard party, you might not need a full-blown shed house. You can kit out a shed with the basic quality of life additions like a toilet, or something a little extra like a mini bar with electrical plug-in appliances, or a Mezzanine floor to savor the view.

There are plenty of custom options that you can add to your shed to make it feel like a home without having to go down the expensive route of a shed house that could end up costing more money, time, and energy what with council approvals and continuous building.

Any big questions left on your mind about sheds or shed houses?

Reach out to our Big Shed experts and they’d be more than happy to help answer any lingering questions you might have with an objective viewpoint, leaving you well-informed and more secure about the decision you're about to make.  

Make life easy and talk with a Big Shed expert today. Cheers!