| Useful info to help you choose the best frame... |
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Our Frame Optimiser automatically selects the most cost effective frame
for your shed kit. But we understand that other issues, such as bay width or footing type,
may be more important for your situation. Below are some points to consider that may help
you choose the best frame for your shed.
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| You decide |
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Wider bays require larger stronger portal frames. Generally stronger
purlins and girts will also be necessary.
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Narrower bays use lighter portal frames, but you will need to assemble and stand
more frames. Generally lighter purlins and girts can also be used. The frame will require a greater number
of footings which is a cost to consider apart from the shed kit.
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Of course if you require wide openings in the side wall for equipment
access, choose wide enough bays to satisfy your requirement.
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The sheeting type you selected on the previous page will impact on the number of
purlins and girts, thus affecting price. If you require wide bays, you may wish to choose stronger
roof and wall sheeting that can be supported with fewer purlins and girts.
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Embedded footings significantly increase the
capacity of the portal frame columns, thus reducing the shed kit
cost. Construction involves pouring an initial footing 350mm below the final
footing level and adding reinforcing bars to the bottom of the column. The
portal frame is fixed to the initial footing. The shed frame is completed
and the remainder of the footing is poured.
Embedded footings are not practical if you do not
intend to pour a concrete slab for your shed.
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| Purlin and girt overlaps |
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Did you know that the cost of purlins and girts are
typically around one quarter of the total cost of a shed kit? Our
experience is that there is a tendency for some shed companies to cut
corners in this key area.
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Our consultant engineers are light steel framing
specialists. Their recommendation is that we exceed the manufacturers'
requirements for purlin and girt overlaps. We use at least 18% overlap at
the portal frame joins. This ensures a safety margin for strength in this
key area. The overlap increases the strength of the purlin or girt.
When comparing quotes, bear in mind that shedsales.com.au
gives you 18% overlaps on purlins and girts for added strength.
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