Creating Liveable Space Within A Shed
Need more space? Perhaps a home studio or family room for the kids? Maybe a granny flat out the back? Building a shed with a liveable space could be the solution.
Liveable Spaces In The Block Sheds
The Block: Tree Change 2022 contestants have been given the task of creating a liveable space within their large Stratco Gable Roof Sheds. All sheds are not equal, so in planning for this space, there were a few important things they had to consider which are worth knowing if you're creating your own liveable space within your shed.
Standard sheds used for storage, workshops, or private garages are classified as 'Class 10a' non-habitable buildings or structures in accordance with the National Construction Code (NCC) of Australia. However, if you plan on making all or part of your shed liveable, you may require your structure to be upgraded to a 'Class 1' habitable building. It is important to check with your local council or private certifier to determine if this is the case and confirm all necessary requirements.
Class 1 Habitable Structures Vs Class 10a Sheds
If you are planning on converting a shed into a liveable space, depending on the proposed building use, your local council or private certifier may require an update in building classification as per the NCC definitions below.
The Class 1 classification includes two sub-classifications:
- A Class 1a building is more associated with sheds and is a single dwelling being a detached house; or one of a group of attached dwellings being a townhouse, row house or the like.
- A Class 1b building is a boarding house, guest house or hostel that has a floor area less than 300 m2 and ordinarily has less than 12 people living in it. It can also be four or more single dwellings located on one allotment which are used for short-term holiday accommodation.
Here are some of the key differences between a Class 1 habitable structure and a Class 10a non-habitable building.
Engineering And Frame Design
Class 10a shed frames are designed and engineered to withstand local weather conditions. Class 10a sheds are generally not internally lined or incorporate large glass windows or door openings, so the frame can flex and move through storms and strong winds without causing damage.
A Class 1 habitable structure has additional requirements, and you will need to engage a professional home builder or architect to assist with implementing these requirements in conjunction with Stratco’s structural engineering*, these requirements include:
- fire safety (including smoke alarms)
- energy efficiency (such as insulation/double or triple glazed windows)
- power ratings
- damp and weatherproofing
- safe movement and access
- health and amenity provisions
- specialised slab designs including damp course
- internally lined walls
- multiple glass windows and/or doors.
*The Stratco engineering team can assess your building proposal and provide specific requirements for additional rigidity to reduce frame movement to avoid cracking and damage to the internal lining, doors and windows, tiling, etc.
Stronger Foundations
A standard Class 10a shed foundation (concrete slab) does not necessarily meet the requirements for a Class 1 habitable building. A Class 1 liveable shed typically requires a stronger foundation and more substantial footings to prevent movement in the frame.
Comfort And Energy Efficiency
If you're building a liveable shed space, you should consider natural lighting, access & egress, ventilation and insulation needs.
Design For Easy Internal Lining
With a standard Class 10a shed, you generally don’t need to think about internal linings. However, if you don't design your Class 1 liveable building in a way that makes it easy to attach linings to the wall and roof framework, it can lead to complex and costly internal building works when it comes time to line your shed. Our Shed experts will help you design a shed that is easy to line from the outset with additional girts and purlins as required.
If required, Stratco can also customise the design of your shed or garage to allow for nearly every type of external linings, including blue board, weatherboard or fibre cement board.
Installation Of Glass Doors And Windows
If you plan on installing glass windows or doors, additional strap bracing may be required to restrict movement and avoid cracking the glass panes. Our engineering team will determine the bracing requirements based on the location of glass doors and/or windows, specific to the site wind speed.
Other Considerations
Other issues to consider include; using steel instead of timber for termite proofing, vermin barriers, fire protection, waterproofing, stormwater, local council requirements, slab design and more. Stratco can also supply an engineering letter and layout upon request, to cover structural requirements, as well as relevant state certifications, including, Form 15 (QLD), Section 40 (NT), Regulation 126 (VIC) or Regulation 61 (SA) certificates for presentation to your local council/shire or certifier, if required.
See The Stratco Experts For All You Need To Know
Lucky for The Block contestants, Stratco experts were on-hand when it came to creating their magnificent sheds. We're here for you too - our friendly shed experts are available in-store or online with all the knowledge and HowTo advice to help you navigate all of the requirements for creating amazing liveable shed spaces.
So, if you're trying to decide whether to build a granny flat, a shed, a rumpus room, or studio in your backyard, come and see us! As you might have seen on The Block, with a Stratco Shed you might not have to choose. We can help you do it all under the one Stratco roof.
Get a free quote for your own Stratco shed today, simply fill out the quote request form below, call us on 1300 165 165 or visit your local Stratco store.
Stratco Liveable Sheds