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As a leading shed supplier in Australia, we manufacture and sell a wide range of steel sheds every year. Many of our customers use their sheds as supplied, but some install air-conditioning, insulation, electrical outlets and running water so they can use their shed as a studio, workshop or peaceful retreat. For these people, the idea of an eco-friendly shed project is very appealing and considering the potential benefits, such a project could be a very worthwhile proposition if you have the time and money available. To find out how to make your own green garden shed, continue reading this simple guide.

Benefits of Going Green with Your Shed

Among the most important benefits of creating a sustainable shed are the reduced impact of your shed-based activities on the environment and lower utility bills.

• Environmental Impact – By running HVAC equipment and other electrical equipment in your shed, you are increasing the size of your household carbon footprint. However, this additional environmental impact can be largely neutralised with eco-friendly and energy-saving modifications to your shed. The result? A green shed that has little to no environmental impact.
• Cost Savings – A sustainable shed costs less to run because it is more energy efficient. You will need less energy to heat and cool a green shed than a conventional, unmodified shed. By adding innovative features such as a rainwater collection system, you can cut your water bills too.

There are other, less tangible benefits associated with an eco-friendly shed project, such as the satisfaction of knowing you are doing everything you can to reduce carbon emissions. Some people simply enjoy the thought of having a peaceful retreat in their garden that doesn’t place any greater burdens on natural resources or their finances.

Designing a Green Garden Shed

A great green garden shed starts on the drawing board. The size and position of the windows, the type of insulation to be used, and the type of water-saving system you wish to install should all be noted on your plans.

Maximising Natural Light

By maximising the amount of sunlight that reaches the interior, you can cut down on winter heating bills for your sustainable shed. Whether you’re starting with an agricultural shed, an industrial shed or a garden shed, more window space will help increase natural light. However, it’s important not to go too far, or you will lose the beneficial insulating properties of the solid walls. Remember, it’s a green shed, not a greenhouse.

Incorporating Insulation

The easiest way to add insulation to a modern steel shed, whether constructed in the style of an American barn, traditional farm shed or general storage shed, is to install fibreglass batts on the walls. However, be sure to leave a space for air to circulate to avoid condensation issues if using fibreglass wool to insulate your green shed.

Using Rainwater Harvesting Systems

A rainwater harvesting system can easily be added to almost any type of outbuilding, from a triple garage to an open bay shed. The water you collect can be used for irrigating your garden, taking outdoor showers, washing garden tools and more. If you live in an area that’s susceptible to droughts, an eco-friendly shed with a rainwater harvesting system could prove to be a wise investment. All states and territories encourage the use of rainwater tanks in Australia for this very reason.

Energy-Efficient Features for Eco-Friendly Sheds

Among the energy-efficient features you might like to add to your green shed, the following are most likely to perform well:

Solar Panels

The cost of solar energy installations has decreased substantially over the last few years, making such an addition to a sustainable shed a very attractive proposal. Depending on the size of the structure, the solar panels you install could provide power for more than just the electrical appliances and equipment in your green shed. You could generate enough electricity to run a pool pump and filter system if you are lucky.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

Fitting energy-efficient lighting is a no-brainer when kitting out an eco-friendly shed, whether it’s in a residential garden or a commercial shed. You won’t save hundreds of dollars with more environmentally friendly lights, but you will reduce your overall carbon footprint, and every little makes a difference. As with all types of electrical installations, make sure your lighting is fitted by a qualified professional. No matter how confident in your abilities you may be, regulations state that all such work must be performed by credentialed professionals.

Ventilation Solutions

Two main types of ventilation solutions are suitable for a steel shed: mechanical and natural. A mechanical ventilation solution might incorporate exhaust fans, powered roof ventilators and HVAC equipment. A natural solution would make use of well-positioned windows, louvres and vents to create sufficient airflow inside your green garden shed. Natural ventilation is preferred where possible.

Building Your Green Shed

Once you have finished your plans and decided which features to add to your sustainable shed, it’s time to get started on the construction work. If you don’t already own a shed, we recommend ordering a custom shed. as it will give you greater flexibility in terms of the layout and design. If you’re not sure whether to install it yourself or hire a builder, check out our blog post on choosing between a professional or DIY shed installation.

Maintaining an Eco-Friendly Shed

Once your eco-friendly shed is up and running, it’s worth creating a simple shed maintenance schedule to follow. This will help you avoid future problems due to equipment failure or neglect.

Regular Inspections

Take a walk around the outside of your sustainable shed every couple of weeks to check for any signs of damage. If you fitted a rainwater harvesting system, check that all components are still firmly in place.

Let’s Recap!

It’s not difficult to turn any steel shed into a green shed in Australia, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive undertaking either. Of course, starting with the best shed is the best way to guarantee the success of your project, so don’t be shy to request a quote before you leave.