My Journey to Finding the Perfect Garden Shed in Adelaide
Alright, let me tell you, my backyard was getting a bit out of hand. Tools were everywhere, the kids’ bikes were always in the way, and frankly, it was starting to look like a junkyard. I knew I needed a solution, and living here in Adelaide, with our decent-sized blocks but still wanting to keep things tidy, a garden shed seemed like the obvious answer. It’s not like I was looking for a mansion, just something practical.
Kicking Off the Search
So, the first thing I did, like most folks these days, was jump on the computer. Typed in “garden sheds Adelaide” and boy, oh boy, the options that popped up! Steel sheds, plastic ones, even some fancy wooden ones. Big companies, little local guys – it was a bit much at first. I realised pretty quick I needed to narrow down what I was actually looking for. Just getting any old shed wasn’t going to cut it.
Nailing Down the Details
The biggest thing for me was size. I measured out a spot in the corner of the yard. Didn’t want it to dominate the whole garden, but it had to be big enough for the lawnmower, the whipper-snipper, some shelves for paint tins and all that junk, you know? And the gardening tools, of course. Then there was the material. Adelaide summers can be absolute scorchers, and you get those drizzly winters too. I figured steel was probably the way to go for something that would last and not need a heap of looking after. Plastic felt a bit flimsy for our conditions, and wood, while it looks nice, I worried about termites and upkeep.
I also had a bit of a budget in mind. Didn’t want to break the bank, but I also know you get what you pay for. Finding that sweet spot was key. And, of course, being in Adelaide, I had to think about council stuff. You can’t just plonk a massive shed down wherever you like. More on that later.
Hitting the Pavement (and the Web)
I spent a fair bit of time browsing websites of Adelaide-based suppliers. Some of them had display centres, which I thought was a brilliant idea. It’s one thing seeing a picture online, but actually being able to walk into one, feel the sturdiness, see the colours in person – that makes a big difference. So, I picked a couple of places around Adelaide and went for a drive one Saturday morning. Good thing I did, too. Some sheds that looked great online felt a bit tinny in real life, and others that I hadn’t paid much attention to actually seemed pretty solid.
Talking to the folks at these places was helpful too. Got a feel for their customer service, asked a bunch of questions about installation, warranties, the whole nine yards. You learn a lot just by chatting with people who know their stuff.
That Pesky Council Approval
Before I got too carried away, I knew I had to check with the local council here in Adelaide. Each council can have slightly different rules about shed sizes, where you can put them on your property, if you need approval, all that boring but super important stuff. I gave them a ring, explained what I was planning, and got the rundown. Luckily, for the size I was looking at, it was pretty straightforward, but I was glad I checked. The last thing I wanted was to build the thing and then have the council tell me to pull it down. Imagine that nightmare!
Making the Big Decision
After all that running around and research, I finally settled on one. I ended up going with a local Adelaide company. Their sheds seemed like good quality for the price, they had good reviews, and honestly, I liked the idea of supporting a South Australian business. They had the exact size I wanted, in a colour that wouldn’t look too out of place in the backyard. The salesperson wasn’t pushy either, which I appreciated.
Delivery and the Build – My Weekend Adventure
The shed arrived flat-packed a week or so later, right on schedule. The delivery guys were good, dropped it exactly where I asked them to. Now, the build… that was an experience. I’m reasonably handy, so I thought, “Yeah, I can do this.” My neighbour, bless him, offered to lend a hand, which I definitely took him up on. It came with instructions, pages and pages of them, and a million screws and bolts. It was like a giant Meccano set for adults!
We spent a good chunk of a weekend on it. There was a bit of head-scratching, maybe a few words muttered under my breath when a panel wouldn’t quite line up, but we got there. Lots of coffee was consumed. Having that extra pair of hands was crucial, especially for holding up the walls while bolting them together. If you’re thinking of DIYing it, definitely get a mate to help. Makes it way easier and a bit more fun, too.
The Sweet Result and What I Reckon Now
And now? The shed’s up, looking schmick. All the tools are neatly stored away, the mower has its own little home, and the backyard looks so much tidier. It’s amazing what a difference it makes. It’s been through a few decent Adelaide downpours and some windy days already, and it’s holding up perfectly – no leaks, no rattles. I’m pretty chuffed with it.
So, if you’re in Adelaide and on the hunt for a garden shed, here’s my little bit of wisdom from going through it all:
- Really think about what you need it for. Don’t just buy the biggest or cheapest. Get the right size and features for your stuff.
- Consider the Adelaide weather. You want something that’s going to last through hot summers and wet winters. Material choice is key.
- Don’t forget the council! Seriously, check the rules before you buy or build anything. Saves a massive headache.
- If you can, visit a display centre. Seeing them in person really helps you decide.
- DIY is doable, but get a friend. It’s a two-person job, trust me on that one. Or, if you’re not keen, factor in the cost of professional installation. Many Adelaide suppliers offer it.
It was a bit of a process, sure, but totally worth it in the end. Good luck with your shed hunting!