Shed Kits vs Turnkey Solutions

So you’ve got Big Shed plans and are excited to get started – what's next?

Now you have to decide between a Shed Kit or a Turnkey Shed solution. We’re here to talk about some of the pros and cons of both methods. As a huge step forward that requires meticulous planning, we aim to help shed some light on the subject and help you with the decision.

In keeping with our Make Life Easy mission statement, let’s get to it!

‍Shed Kits

‍
Shed kits are often known as a cost-effective choice and solution many Australians have turned to. Kits where you build your shed from pre-cut components offer a set of advantages and perceived ‘disadvantages’ compared to the alternative of commissioning a shed built from top to bottom by shed installers, or hiring a builder to assemble the kit for you.

‍
The Pros of Shed Kits

Cost Savings

One of the primary considerations when starting a project is the budget. Big Shed kits have great potential for significant savings. Call over a group of friends! Get help from the family and turn it into a bonding experience. You can avoid the expenses associated with third party installation, making it not just a budget-friendly option, but a significant investment in building relationships, connections, and... well, let’s not forget about the shed itself!

Freedom to Build at your Leisure

Shed kits empower you with the freedom to build and go at your own pace. From minute size adjustments to unique design elements, they offer a level of personalisation that goes hand in hand with the time you plan on investing, your know-how, and your vision.

There’s no better feeling than looking at the finished product and being able to say, “I built that with my own hands.” Priceless.

Learning Experience

Engaging in the building process enhances your skills and provides an invaluable life experience. They say experience is the best teacher, and when you’re putting together a shed kit, you get firsthand knowledge about tool safety, planning, resource, and time management.

Join a shed group on socials and derive inspiration from people across the country or even the globe! People share valuable insights online, and many shed-owner has turned to the internet, video-streaming sites, and websites to scope out information that will help in their DIY journey.

Armed with detailed assembly instructions that come with every easyshed, you also get our star team and experts’ support. Dial 1300 590 069 and put one of our experts on speaker and they’ll happily walk you through as you work your DIY magic!

‍

The Cons

Time and Effort

Doing it yourself would require an investment of your time. If you have a busy schedule, the building process may prove to be a challenge.

Skill-related Hiccups & Challenges

Most DIY kits are easy and come with helpful instruction manuals. Easyshed kits come with very detailed instructions that are simple and easy to follow. However, there are technical aspects that require preparation and reading through some steps several times. The possibility of botching a step might cause a longer build time but is not something that you can’t recover from.

‍
Turnkey Solutions

‍
Turnkey solutions for shed building usually involve fully commissioned shed kits or hiring a builder to put the shed together. These options offer a relatively hassle-free experience depending on how much you shell out and how closely they can follow instructions or your desired vision

They say convenience comes at a price and it’s a fitting statement for sheds and projects of this nature. Based on info we’ve gathered from customers and tradies, a typical installation job could cost roughly 35-50% of the shed kit’s cost – that's a lot of wasted beer money! 😀  

‍
The Pros of Turnkey Solutions

Convenience

Opting for a fully managed shed project or getting someone to install a shed kit for you offers a certain level of convenience as professionals handle every aspect of the assembly process. Their expertise somehow guarantees that you wouldn’t have to deal with factors that go into building the shed or preparing the tools necessary to get the job done, challenge is, do they have time to fit you in when you want it done. Rule #1: If the builder can fit you in tomorrow, he’s probably not a good one. An experienced builder will be booked up 3+ months in advance.

Time Efficiency

Professional installers are equipped with the skills and experience to complete the construction efficiently. Set a date and timeframe for completion, you would not have to worry about setting time aside to work on the shed yourself. This is particularly beneficial for those with a tight schedule.

Professional Installation

When you opt for a turnkey solution, you can expect two things: a fully managed shed project or simply getting professionals to assemble your shed kit. This gives you assurance that the shed is built correctly and safely, minimising the physical effort required of you for the project.

‍

The Cons

Higher Cost

The convenience and expertise of professional installation come at a higher cost. Turnkey options for sheds involve labor expenses, making them a more expensive option compared to DIY shed flatpack kits. The pricing could go as high as 50% of the kit cost, sometimes more!

Miscommunication

How often in your life have you had to do something yourself because you couldn’t get anyone to get things done precisely the way you want it?

People who have commissioned tradies (or have worked in an office setting, am I right?) are all too familiar with mishaps like this one. Communication is crucial when working with professionals and the potential for miscommunication between you and the shed installer could result in the final product not meeting your expectations.

Moreso when pride gets in the way, some builders are set in their ways and prefer doing things the way they’re used to and refuse to utilise assembly manuals. Worst case scenario: they blame the manufacturer for issues that are caused by a missed step and pit you in a never-ending loop of “Whose to blame?” while your shed sits there unfinished.  
‍

Decision Time: DIY or DI-Why?

Choosing between a DIY shed flatpack kit or a turnkey option for someone to handle the project for you, either via planning the whole thing, or just the assembly boils down to a simple question: Do you want to do it yourself?

If you value savings, have the time to spare, and are interested in putting in a few hours that will earn you valuable and handy life lessons, grab a shed kit and take the first step to a great bonding and learning experience for all involved!

On the other hand, if you don’t have the time or the inclination to put together your shed kit or start a shed project on your own but have put side a significant amount to cover the costs involved, there’s no shame in opting to pay the whole way and let the professionals handle it.

Consider your specific needs and go over the pros and cons carefully.

We hope this blog helps you choose your own shedventure!

Want to learn more? Talk to our Big Sheds experts and call 1300 590 069 or send us your dream shed info here.