If you work from home, you may be considering transforming your steel garage, or purchasing a new garage for use as a home office. If you are planning on transforming your outdoor structure into a place of work you will need to consult your local council to see what they will legally require from the building in order for you to do so.
Not only will you need to speak with your council, but you will also need to consider how you can make this area a more comfortable environment for you to work out of.
BCA Approved Insulation
If you want to be comfortable in your new home office, then you will want to invest in BCA approved insulation in order to keep the temperature of your steel garage at a much more comfortable level.
Ventilation
Again, if you want to work in a comfortable temperature, it is highly advisable that you invest in the appropriate ventilation.
Air Conditioner / Heater
As with the above two points, a reverse cycle air-conditioner may be required in order for you to comfortably work in your old or new steel shed.
Electricity
And if you are going to install an air conditioner, and have a computer, printer and fax, along with better lighting, then you will need additional electrical points.
Flooring
Most steel garages have concrete for flooring, and concrete can get very hot in summer and cold in winter, so if you are planning to convert your garage into a home office, then you may want to consider upgrading your flooring to carpet, tiles or vinyl.
Lining and Sealing
Protect yourself and everything inside your shed from spiders and rodents and make sure you line your shed with gyprock. Keep the natural elements out, and reduce condensation by sealing your thoroughly.
While it is recommended that your shed be engineered for this in the first shed, you can contact a local building certifier to see how you can convert your shed in to a home office safely. It may end up being a costly exercise, but well worth the investment if it means you will be comfortable in your new office – and you might even be able to write it off on tax.
