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OK, so I’m building myself a small 3 x 3 x 2.53 m ceramics studio. I bought a 3 walled ABSCO Rural Shed and plan a fixed timber clad 4th wall with a glass door and awning window. The slab been poured (black plastic under to act as a vapour barrier) and I have put together the 80mm shed frame (steel) but not yet clad the 3 sides with the iron sheeting provided. To make the studio waterproof, and comfortable in winter and summer I would like some advice on whether I can install Ametalin Silver Sark for waterproofing, and Ametalin ThermalBreak for insulating. Question 1: Can I install the silver sark on the roof exterior and walls before I put the cladding on, then use the Ametalin ThermalBreak on the back of the board I intend to line the shed with? Question 2: Is this enough insultation? Will this stop condensation forming on the inside of the shed? I’m pretty sure I can’t use batts as the frame is only 80mm and insulation batts require more space than this. Any advice on how to make the shed / studio watertight and cosy during winter and summer would be appreciated.
Hello @MAYNAKATE
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about waterproofing and insulating your shed.
The Absco Structures 3.00m x 3.00m x 2.53m Zincalume Single Open Bay Rural Shed is built much differently from your ordinary Absco shed. Your shed has a steel frame inside while the smaller tin sheds don't. This gives you a distinct advantage as you can use your frame as an anchor point for a standard stud frame wall. Having a stud frame wall means that you can use standard bats which will provide you with superior insulation.
If you were to insulate the shed like a small house, using Ametalin thermal break would be a good start. But keep in mind that Ametalin can't provide the same R values as standard bats. However, it provides a lot of protection which includes radiant heat, moisture ingress, draughts and dust penetration. Since the walls of your shed go over the slab water ingress will not be a very big issue. In regards to your ceiling using Ametalin is also possible. But I would like to point out that again you have a steel frame in your roof which allows you to install a lightweight timber framing. Which again allows you to use standard bats.
When properly installed your shed should provide stable temperatures in any season. My best advice is to include ventilation in your shed plans.
Here are some discussions you might find useful:
I'm sure you'll find plenty of ideas in the discussions on how to insulate the wall and roof of your shed. My only other recommendation is to install a split aircon unit to keep the shed cool in summer and heated in winter.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
