Steel shed construction in Australia has undergone a significant transformation over the past six decades. From simple framed structures using mixed materials to fully engineered, high-tensile steel systems designed for specific wind regions, the industry has evolved dramatically.
Since Shed City commenced operations in 1965, we’ve had a front-row seat to that evolution—and in many cases, played an active role in shaping it.
The Early Days: Mixed Materials and Basic Framing
In the 1960s and early 1970s, shed construction often relied on angle iron or tube steel frames, timber purlins and girts, and basic corrugated steel cladding. Engineering certification was minimal.
While functional, these buildings were limited in strength and durability. Timber components were susceptible to moisture and degradation, and frame connections were labour-intensive. At the time, sheds were primarily viewed as simple storage structures—not engineered investments.
The Shift to All-Steel Framing
By 1973, Shed City developed one of its early C-section framed garage and farm shed systems. Incorporating galvanised steel C-sections, haunch plates for load distribution, and steel hat section purlins, this was a significant advancement.
Moving to an all-steel frame delivered greater structural integrity, improved manufacturing consistency, and a longer lifespan. At a time when many were still using timber, this represented a major step forward in durability.
The Rise of Pre-Punched, Bolt-Together Systems
In 1975, the introduction of pre-punched, bolt-together systems further modernised the industry. Rather than relying on on-site fabrication, sheds could now be manufactured with precision and delivered as complete kits.
The Rosebud Garden Shed line became a hallmark of this evolution. This pre-manufacturing philosophy—doing the hard work in the factory so the assembly is predictable—later extended to our garages, carports, and farm sheds.
Fabrication vs. The "Stick Building" Compromise
As the industry evolved, a clear divide emerged between True Fabrication and what is known as "Stick Building."
- True Fabrication (The Shed City Standard): Just like large-scale commercial and industrial buildings, our sheds are pre-fabricated. We pre-punch and pre-drill holes in the factory. This ensures perfect alignment, faster assembly, and structural certainty. The strength comes from heavy-duty bolts through mathematically aligned factory holes.
- The "Stick Building" Compromise: To reduce costs, many modern competitors have moved backward. Instead of a precision kit, they supply "stick components"—raw lengths of steel that must be cut and drilled on-site by the installer.
Often, these "supplied" kits rely on tek-screws to hold connectors in place, with a few holes drilled on-site to claim it is a "bolted" structure. In reality, these are just raw materials, not a manufactured building. At Shed City, we believe a shed should be manufactured in the factory, not fabricated on a ladder.
Engineering Becomes Central
Over time, building codes became more sophisticated. Modern steel sheds are now designed with consideration for wind region classification, site exposure, and structural bracing. Engineering moved from being optional to essential. Today, these are no longer simple “add-ons”—they are engineered structures designed to perform for decades.
Advancements in Materials
Material technology has also improved. Earlier galvanised coatings have been enhanced with high-performance coatings like zinc and painted zinc based steel. These provide improved corrosion resistance and longevity. Profile development, such as 38mm high-rib systems, has increased sheet strength and wind resistance without adding excessive weight.
From Storage to Multi-Purpose Buildings
Another key evolution has been how sheds are used. What began as machinery storage or basic garages has expanded into workshops, trade buildings, rural infrastructure, and lifestyle spaces. Today’s steel buildings must balance structural strength, visual appeal, and long-term value.
Looking Forward
Steel shed construction will continue to evolve through improved manufacturing precision and more refined engineering. However, the core principles remain the same: practical design, structural integrity, and honest value.
From the angle iron frames of the 1960s to the engineered, pre-punched bolt-together systems of today, Shed City continues to lead the way in manufacturing sheds built for the toughest Australian conditions.
