Frequently Asked Questions.

Thinking about building a steel-frame shed?

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about clear-span sheds, building consents, pricing, and custom options.

What is a clear-span shed?

A clear-span shed (also known as a total span or open span shed) is a large, open-plan shed built without internal poles or timber framing. The steel frame allows for clear, unobstructed space that’s perfect for workshops, commercial use, storage or farm equipment.

Why choose a steel-frame shed instead of timber?

Steel-frame sheds are stronger, longer lasting, and resistant to rot, pests and warping. With no timber poles inside, you get clear usable space that can be customised to your needs. Steel also performs better in high-wind, seismic and coastal conditions compared to timber.

What are the benefits of no internal poles?

A pole-free design means your shed has full open space for vehicles, machinery, storage, or fit-outs. It also makes future modifications easier, as you’re not restricted by posts inside the shed.

Do Cyclone Buildings sheds meet NZ Building Code & NZ safety standards?

Yes, all Cyclone sheds are engineered to meet or exceed the New Zealand Building Code. They’re designed for NZ conditions, including high wind and seismic zones, and use NZ-made structural steel for proven reliability.

Do I need council consent for a steel-framed shed?

In most cases, yes. Any large shed typically requires council consent. Cyclone Buildings can provide the engineering documents and plans needed for your consent application, making the process straightforward. Contact our local managers to find out more.

Do you handle earthworks and concrete?

Yes, we can manage the entire project including site preparation, earthworks, and concrete slabs. If you prefer, we can also work with contractors of your choice.

Can I customise my steel-frame shed?

Absolutely. You can choose dimensions, layout, doors, windows, cladding, and roof styles. Options include roller doors, sliding doors, bifolds, insulation, mezzanine floors, office fit-outs, and more.

Do you offer kit-set sheds as well as full-build?

Yes. We can supply sheds as a kitset for DIY or contractor builds, or provide full project management including consents, construction and finishing. Our kitset sheds are delivered anywhere in New Zealand.

What warranties are available on steel-frame sheds?

Cyclone Buildings provides a 50-year durability on our steel frames, along with manufacturer warranties on cladding and components. You can have confidence your shed is built to last.

How do I get a quote for a shed?

You can request a quote in two ways:

Use our online Shed Designer app to create your shed and send it directly to us for pricing.
Fill out our Get a Quote form and our team will contact you to discuss your needs.

How long does it take to build a steel shed?

Timeframes vary depending on the size and complexity of your shed. A simple shed may take a few weeks once consents are approved, while larger commercial or rural projects may take longer. Our team will give you an estimated timeline during the quoting process.

How much does a steel-frame shed cost?

Pricing depends on the size, design, and custom features you choose. Because every shed is built to order, we’ll provide a tailored quote once we know your specifications.

Are steel sheds suitable for coastal or high-wind zones?

Yes. Our sheds are engineered specifically for NZ’s harsh environments, including coastal areas, snow zones, and high-wind regions.

Where do you build sheds in New Zealand?

We are Superior Steel Structures Ltd and we are the licensed distributors for Cyclone Buildings in Taranaki and Whanganui – we have local managers who can build sheds anywhere in those regions. We deliver Cyclone Buildings kit-sets nationwide across New Zealand. Find out about us here.

Can I claim a tax rebate on my shed?

Rural and other commercial businesses in New Zealand may be able to claim depreciation or tax rebates on capital improvements such as sheds. We recommend checking with your accountant or financial advisor to see what applies to your operation.

How do I work out what size shed I need?

It depends on how you plan to use it. Wide-span sheds are ideal for large machinery, while high wall-heights improve ventilation and allow easy access. Our team will work with you to design a shed that meets your current and future needs. You can also visualise your shed online with our 3D Shed Designer app.