Excerpt: Wondering what a custom Colorbond steel shed costs in Perth? This 2025 guide breaks down real price ranges for double garages, workshops, carports and rural sheds. Learn how size, wind ratings, materials and council approvals affect your budget—and avoid the hidden extras most quotes miss.
How Much Do Sheds Cost in Perth, WA in 2025?
Indicative prices below are for Perth metro and nearby WA regions. Final pricing depends on site, wind classification, spans and specification. All amounts AUD, GST inclusive.
Typical price ranges (supply-only vs turnkey)
- Garden sheds (2.3 x 2.3 m to 3 x 3 m): $700–$1,800 kit; $1,900–$3,800 installed on prepared base
- Custom-built single garage (6 x 3 m to 6 x 4 m): $6,500–$11,500 kit; $16,000–$28,000 turnkey incl. slab
- Custom-built double garage in Perth (6 x 6 m): $9,500–$16,500 kit; $22,000–$36,000 turnkey incl. slab
- Workshop (7.5 x 6 m to 9 x 7.5 m): $12,000–$24,000 kit; $30,000–$58,000 turnkey
- American barn (approx. 12 x 9 m): $25,000–$42,000 kit; $65,000–$115,000 turnkey
- Farm machinery storage (12 x 7.5 m, open-front 3-bay): $18,000–$32,000 kit; $45,000–$85,000 turnkey
- Double carport (6 x 6 m): $3,500–$6,500 kit; $7,500–$14,500 installed (slab optional)
Concrete slab guide (Perth): $120–$190 per m² for a 100–120 mm slab with thickened edge beams, local access and standard MPA. Example: a 6 x 6 m slab (36 m²) typically $4,300–$6,800.
Quick definitions (so quotes make sense)
- Portal frame: Rigid steel frame system forming the shed’s primary structure.
- Purlins and girts: Cold-formed steel members supporting roof (purlins) and walls (girts).
- Wind region: AS/NZS 1170.2 classification of wind speeds by location (Perth is Region A non-cyclonic).
- Cyclone-rated: Engineered for Regions C/D (e.g., Pilbara, QLD north coast) with higher tie-down forces.
- CDC (WA): Certificate of Design Compliance from a building surveyor for a BA1 certified application.
- BAL rating: Bushfire Attack Level affecting materials and openings in bushfire-prone areas.
- Colorbond: Pre-painted steel with baked-on coating (Thermatech solar reflectance options).
- Zincalume: Aluminium/zinc coated steel for high corrosion resistance in neutral environments.
What Drives Shed Prices in WA?
- Dimensions and spans: Wider clear spans need heavier portal frames, larger base plates and stiffer purlins.
- Wind classification: Region A (Perth metro) vs coastal/topographic effects; Regions C/D require cyclonic detailing.
- Cladding system: Colorbond vs Zincalume, standard vs Ultra/Stainless near surf zones.
- Doors and access: Wide roller doors, motorisation, PA doors, glass, security shutters.
- Roof pitch and style: Skillion, gable or American barn; higher pitch improves runoff and headroom.
- Thermal and acoustic: Insulation blanket, sarking, insulated roof panels, ventilation, whirlybirds.
- Site works: Cut/fill, spoil removal, access, craneage, termite management, stormwater discharge.
- Compliance and approvals: Engineering, CDC/BA fees, bushfire overlays, coastal corrosion zones.
- Fitout: Electrical, plumbing, mezzanine floors, hoists, racking, line marking.
Tip: Ask for a fully itemised quote including engineering, hold-down bolts, vermin flashing, gutters/downpipes and stormwater connection—common omissions that inflate “cheap” prices later.
What Are the Best Shed Materials for Perth’s Climate?
Perth summers are hot and dry with high UV and coastal salinity in sea-breeze corridors. Material choice affects durability, heat build-up and long-term maintenance.
Colorbond vs Zincalume — Which Is Better for WA Conditions?
| Feature | Colorbond Steel | Zincalume Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Coating | Pre-painted, baked-on finish (Thermatech solar reflectance) | Aluminium/Zinc alloy metallic coating |
| Best use | Residential garages, workshops, architectural finishes | Rural sheds, budget builds, non-prominent elevations |
| Coastal performance | Use Colorbond Ultra within ~100–200 m of surf | Use higher-grade or consider Colorbond Ultra near surf |
| Heat management | Lighter colours reflect sun; pair with insulation | Needs insulation to manage heat gain |
| Cost | $$ (higher upfront) | $ (lower upfront) |
| Appearance | Wide colour palette, premium look | Metallic look, rural/industrial aesthetic |
Flat Roof vs Gable vs Skillion — What’s Best for Perth?
| Roof type | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gable | Classic look, good runoff, easy roller door integration | Slightly more materials than skillion | Double garages, workshops |
| Skillion (mono) | Modern profile, simple structure, easy solar array | Watch prevailing wind orientation and drainage | Side-access carports, contemporary homes |
| Flat/patio | Low profile, budget-friendly | Lower pitch requires careful drainage; heat build-up | Carports and patios out of street view |
DIY Shed Kits vs Custom-Built in WA
| Option | Pros | Cons | When to choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY shed kits | Lower cost, quick lead times, owner-builder control | Time, tools, accuracy; you manage approvals, slab and erection | Smaller garages, garden sheds, experienced DIYers |
| Custom-built (design + install) | Turnkey, engineered, warranty-backed, faster approvals | Higher cost; lead time depends on trades and weather | Workshops, council-approved sheds WA requiring engineering |
How to Get Council Approval for Your Custom Shed in WA
Steps that keep projects moving
- Check planning: Setbacks, open space and height rules in your LGA; some need development approval if near boundaries or easements.
- Engineering: Obtain certified structural drawings to AS/NZS 1170.2 (wind) and AS/NZS 4600 (cold-formed steel).
- CDC & BA: Engage a building surveyor for a CDC, then lodge BA1 (certified). Or BA2 (uncertified) direct to council.
- Timeframes: Certified BA1 typically 10 business days; BA2 up to 25 business days.
- Inspections: Slab/footings, final completion as required by permit conditions.
Expect permit and documentation costs of $800–$2,200 including engineering, surveyor fees and council charges for a typical custom Colorbond garage in Perth.
WA Wind Ratings and Compliance
Perth metro is generally Region A (non-cyclonic) under AS/NZS 1170.2. However, local topography, terrain category, shielding and proximity to the coast can increase design pressures. Northern WA (e.g., Pilbara, Kimberley) is Regions C/D and needs cyclone detailing like enhanced hold-down bolts, closer purlin spacing and heavier base plates.
Ask your supplier to provide a site-specific wind report and engineering certificate. This keeps you compliant with NCC 2022 and avoids under-spec frames that fail insurance tests after a storm.
Foundations follow AS 2870 for soil class. For liveable designs and budgets, compare shed homes WA.
Real-World Perth Examples and Shed Pricing
Case study 1: Custom-built double garage in Perth (6 x 6 m)
- Region A, gable roof 10°, Colorbond walls/roof, 2 x 2.4 m roller doors (motorised), 1 PA door
- R1.3 roof blanket, gutters/downpipes to soakwells, vermin flashing
- Turnkey incl. slab, approvals and install: $24,000–$32,000
Case study 2: Workshop in Rockingham (9 x 7.5 m)
- Region A coastal, skillion 5°, Zincalume roof, Colorbond walls, 3.3 m clearance
- Single 3.0 m roller door, whirlybird, 2 glass windows
- Supply-only kit: $15,500–$20,500; Turnkey: $36,000–$52,000
Case study 3: Wheatbelt farm machinery storage
- 12 x 7.5 m, open-front 3-bay, Zincalume cladding, 4.2 m eave height
- Pier footings with moment-resisting base connections, gravel floor
- Supply-only kit: $20,000–$28,000; Installed: $48,000–$72,000
5-Step Buying Guide for Custom Sheds in Australia
- Define use-case: Car storage, workshop, farm machinery storage, home gym or studio.
- Lock in size and access: Vehicle sizes, door clearances, trailer turning circles, ceiling height.
- Choose materials: Colorbond vs Zincalume, insulation level, corrosion class (Ultra near surf).
- Compliance plan: Engineering, bushfire/BAL, drainage, setbacks, council-approved sheds WA.
- Compare apples with apples: Check steel thickness, wind rating, inclusions (vermin seals, gutters, fixings), install warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical “sheds WA prices” for a 6 x 6 m double garage?
Supply-only from $9,500–$16,500 depending on doors and cladding. Turnkey including slab, council approvals and install is commonly $22,000–$36,000 in Perth.
Do I need a building permit for a shed in Perth?
Usually yes for structures fixed to the ground. Small garden sheds may be exempt depending on size and location, but most garages and workshops require a CDC and BA1/BA2. Check your LGA.
Is Colorbond worth the extra over Zincalume?
For most Perth homes, yes—better aesthetics, colour choice and heat management. For rural or budget builds out of sight, Zincalume can be a smart, durable alternative.
How long do approvals take?
With a CDC, councils target 10 business days (BA1). Uncertified (BA2) can be up to 25 days. Complex planning overlays add time.
What about cyclone-rated sheds?
Perth doesn’t need cyclone detailing, but WA’s north does. We also design cyclone-rated sheds QLD and NW WA with Region C/D engineering, upgraded fixings and tie-downs.
Can I DIY the slab?
You can, but precision matters. Incorrect levels, poor compaction or missing thickenings can void warranties and cause door issues. Many owners choose a turnkey slab and frame install.
Related Use-Cases and Keyword Coverage
We design and supply: steel sheds Perth, custom Colorbond garages Perth, council-approved sheds WA, American barns WA, industrial workshops WA, zincalume sheds Perth, affordable carports for Australian homes, DIY shed kits, farm machinery storage, shed erection services Perth, site works and concrete slabs Perth, insulated panel roofing Perth. National comparisons we track: custom carports Melbourne, rural sheds NSW, cyclone-rated sheds QLD.
What the 2025 Market Means for Your Quote
Industry bodies note that steel price volatility has eased from 2022 peaks, but labour and compliance costs remain firm. Allow 5–10% contingency for site surprises and lead-time changes.
Specification Checklist to Put on Your Quote
- Wind region and terrain category noted (AS/NZS 1170.2) and engineer’s certificate provided
- Cladding type and grade: Colorbond/Colorbond Ultra/Zincalume; roof and wall profile
- Frame system: portal spacing, purlin/girt size and gauge, base plate thickness
- Doors: width/height, wind-locks, motor brand, remotes, seals
- Thermal: insulation blanket R-value or insulated panels; condensation control
- Corrosion: coastal distance, fastener coating class, cut-edge treatment
- Drainage: gutters, downpipes, stormwater connection (soakwells or legal point)
- Site works: excavation, compaction, slab thickness and mesh, termite barrier
- Compliance: CDC/BA fees, inspections, As Built documents and warranties