Not only does your shed height affect the storage space and the feel of your shed (spacious verse claustrophobic), it is particularly important when it comes to the clearance through your doors. In the design of many sheds, particularly in commercial settings, it is crucial to consider how the height of the shed impacts clearance requirements.
While some shed companies talk in terms of door heights (which we believe can be misleading), we give you the exact clearance height so you can be sure there’s room for your car, 4WD, boat, caravan or excavator.
Understanding Shed Height Regulations
When it comes to shed height regulations in Australia, one size does not fit all. These regulations can vary depending on your local council or government, each having its own set of rules to ensure structures meet safety standards and do not obstruct views. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with the relevant authorities, such as your local council, to understand the specific height guidelines for your area.
The height of your shed can significantly impact its functionality and efficiency. For instance, a shed with a low gutter height might not provide enough room for a standard family car, whereas a higher gutter height could be more suitable for large equipment or even commercial buildings. When planning your shed, consider what you intend to store inside—whether it’s a car, boat, or heavy machinery—and ensure the height accommodates these needs.
Additionally, the type of roller door you choose plays a role in determining the overall height of your shed. The roller door drum requires a certain amount of clearance above the desired opening height, which can affect the shed’s total height. Therefore, it’s essential to factor in both the clearance height and gutter height when designing your shed plans to ensure the structure meets safety standards and provides enough room for its intended use.
Shed Door Height
A standard 2.4m high kit shed will usually come with a roller door that has the capacity to open to 2.120m. However, the actual clearance height will be limited to just 2m by the height of the shed (perhaps even less depending on the pitch of the roof and positioning of the door). The remaining capacity of the door will remain unused and wrapped on the drum.
We encourage you to consider raising the height of your shed by 120 mm, which allows your door to open to its full capacity of 2.120m.
Depending on the size of your shed this may only add $100-$200 to the overall cost – a small price if it means you don’t have to remove your 4WD aerial every time you drive into your garage.
Raising The Roof
Need even more clearance? No problem. Raising the height of your shed further will only incur an incremental cost of the extra material. In other words, if you want an extra 200mm you only pay for the price of 200mm worth of material. And on most sheds this may be just a few hundred dollars.
When deciding the clearance height, it’s important to know roller doors are made in horizontal panels. Increasing the clearance is as easy as utilising the door’s full capacity or adding an extra panel or two.
Design and Building Considerations for Shed Height
Designing and building a shed involves several key considerations to ensure the height is appropriate for its intended use. One of the primary factors to consider is the type of equipment or vehicles you plan to store. For example, if you’re storing large equipment or commercial vehicles, you’ll need a higher gutter height to provide sufficient clearance.
The type of roller door you select is another crucial consideration. Roller doors come in various sizes and styles, and the required clearance height can vary depending on the door type. It’s important to account for both the clearance height and gutter height in your shed plans to ensure the structure meets safety standards and offers enough room for your needs.
Shed height also impacts the available storage space and overall functionality. A shed with a low gutter height might not offer enough storage space, while a higher gutter height can provide more room but may also increase construction costs. Balancing these factors is essential to create a practical and cost-effective shed.
Moreover, compliance with local council regulations and building codes is vital. The Building Code of Australia and local district regulations should be consulted to ensure your shed meets all safety standards and legal requirements.
In summary, shed height is a critical aspect of shed design and construction. By considering the purpose of the shed, the type of equipment or vehicles to be stored, the type of roller door, and local council regulations, you can ensure your shed is both functional and compliant with safety standards.
Standard Roller Door Drum Sizes
The following chart lists some roller door sizes to give you an idea of what’s available:
Getting the shed height and door clearance right means you’ll enjoy years of practical use from your shed. Getting this wrong could cause daily inconvenience or render your shed unusable (i.e. your 4WD won’t fit).
When opting for more clearance you may like to consider a remote control (as it can become difficult to reach a high roller door).
During your Free Custom Design and Quote Session your Shedologist will help you choose the right height for your needs and a design that gives you the best value for money. They can also help you with door width and placement
