How to build a backyard shed?

[Harvez2222]

Hi I’m planning on building a shed with decking in my backyard, total floor dimensions are 3000mm X 6000mm  (I loosely use the word shed, more like an outdoor room with decking at the front, entertaining area) is it possible for Bunnings to show me what materials to use on the subfloor, I just need to obtain an approx price before I submit plans to council..

the room will be 3000mm X 4000mm and the decking area is 3000mm X 2000mm

i do not have any images right now, but happy to upload progress shots.

[EricL]

Hello @Harvez2222, 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your shed and deck flooring.

The rules for building a deck frame and an interior flooring frame for a room are similar in fundamental structure but differ significantly in materials, design considerations, and compliance requirements due to their environments and intended use.

Deck frames are exposed to the elements, so they must be constructed using treated timber or materials that are rated for exterior use. This includes hardware like galvanized or stainless-steel nails, bolts, and connectors that resist corrosion. Deck frames also require specific allowances for water drainage, ventilation, and movement due to thermal expansion and contraction. Joist spacing is often wider (commonly 450 mm to 600 mm centers), and the frame usually sits on posts and footings designed to withstand outdoor conditions.

Interior flooring frames, on the other hand, are built within a controlled environment, treated structural-grade timber is usually sufficient. The joist spacing is often closer (such as 450 mm centre's or less) to support flooring materials like plywood or particleboard sheeting. The internal floor frame must also integrate with other structural elements of the building such as walls, subfloor insulation, and HVAC penetrations. It must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) in terms of load-bearing requirements, fire safety, and acoustic performance.

The range of the timber size can start from 140x45 and up, sometimes larger sizes will be required as it will need to be load bearing. Because you are submitting this plan to the council, I strongly recommend engaging the services of an engineer or drafts person to draw up your flooring and decking frame plans. They will need to pass both the local council's rules and regulations along with the NCC. It would be best to do it correctly on the first submission rather than re-submitting a plan that has not been designed correctly.  

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric