Centrepole Shed vs Clearspan Shed: Which Is Better?

Have you ever wondered how much a centrepole really impacts your shed’s usability? Or if a clearspan design is truly worth the investment? Choosing the right shed structure goes beyond just picking a place to store your assets — it’s about finding a setup that maximises space, offers durability, and ultimately brings you peace of mind. 

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between centrepole and clearspan sheds, helping you determine which style best suits your needs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of the benefits, limitations, and unique qualities of each option. 

• What is a Centrepole Shed?  
• What is a Clearspan Shed?
• When Is a Centrepole Shed the Better Choice?
• When Is a Clearspan Shed the Better Choice?
• Which Shed Type Is Best for Different Use Cases?
• How Do You Decide Between a Centrepole and Clearspan Shed?
• What is Best For Me?
  
  

What is a Centrepole Shed?

A centrepole shed, as the name suggests, features one or more internal columns (centre poles) supporting the roof structure. This type of design is often associated with traditional, straightforward construction and typically has a lower up-front cost. 

While centrepole sheds can effectively support a roof over large spaces, the central poles may limit movement inside the shed and reduce the overall usable floor area. For farmers or contractors who need open spaces to manoeuvre equipment or vehicles, these poles can present logistical challenges. For others, centrepoles may not pose a problem, especially when storing smaller items or using the shed as a workshop with distinct, divided sections. 

What is a Clearspan Shed?

A clearspan shed design is all about maximising space and eliminating internal obstructions. In a clearspan structure, the roof is supported by external walls and structural rafters rather than internal columns. This creates a fully open, spacious interior without any poles or supports in the middle, allowing for seamless movement and storage flexibility. 

Clearspan sheds are especially popular among those who require a large, adaptable area, like farmers storing multiple pieces of equipment or contractors needing wide, unobstructed space for larger implement storage. 

When is a Centrepole Shed the Better Choice?

Centrepole sheds are a popular choice for those looking to save on kitset costs or who plan to use the space for purposes where open, unobstructed floor area isn’t essential. Let’s explore the main advantages and disadvantages of this design.

Benefits of Centrepole Sheds

• Perform Well in High Snow Loaded Areas
  Timber centrepole sheds make for a very strong structure with excellent snow-loading capabilities.
  
  
• Adequate for Small Storage Needs
  If you plan to store smaller items or use the shed as a workspace with dedicated areas (like tool benches or supply shelves), the internal poles may not interfere with your layout. This setup can work well for smaller properties or less intensive storage needs.

Drawbacks of Centrepole Sheds

• Reduced Usable Space
  Internal poles reduce flexibility, especially if you need to store large machinery, vehicles, or other bulky items. Poles break up the interior space which not only limits your storage layout, but it also becomes difficult to manoeuvre equipment. Internal supports can also become a nuisance in smaller workshops such as a wood-working workshop, where you are swinging lengths of timber around.
• Costly Installation
  While centrepole sheds can be a cheaper kitset option, they are often more expensive in terms of installation. The reason being is you need to dig more holes, and more concrete is required for the centrepoles. You then need to make up all the timber beams and screw on the joist hangers which is time consuming and requires a lot more labour.

While centrepole sheds offer functionality for certain storage uses and lower up-front costs, the costly installation and certain limitations make them less ideal for those needing maximum space flexibility.

When is a Clearspan Shed the Better Choice? 

Clearspan sheds are designed to offer a wide, unobstructed space, making them a top choice for those with large storage needs or requiring greater flexibility. Here are the main benefits and potential downsides to consider.

Benefits of Clearspan Sheds

• Maximum Usable Space
  Clearspan sheds eliminate internal poles, giving you a fully open floor area. This layout is perfect for storing large equipment, vehicles, or bulk materials, as well as providing an ideal workspace without any obstructions.
• Versatile Applications
  Whether you need a farm shed, a large storage area, or even a workshop, clearspan sheds provide unmatched flexibility. Their design allows you to reconfigure the layout as needed over time, which is an advantage for properties with evolving storage or functional needs.

Drawbacks of Clearspan Sheds

• Higher Initial Cost
  Clearspan sheds typically come at a higher upfront cost due to the advanced engineering and structural reinforcements required to support the roof span without internal poles. For those on a tighter budget, this can be a limiting factor.

Clearspan sheds, while more costly, deliver excellent value for those seeking space and adaptability whilst providing an excellent long-term solution.

Which Shed Type Is Best for Different Use Cases?  

The best shed design often comes down to what you need to store and how you plan to use the space. While both centrepole and clearspan sheds have their place, some uses require more open, unobstructed space than others. 

Machinery and Vehicle Storage

Clearspan sheds are generally better suited to large machinery, farm equipment and vehicles. Without internal poles to work around, you have more freedom to move equipment in and out, manoeuvre inside the shed and make full use of the available floor space.

Bulk Storage

For storing bulk materials such as grain, fertiliser or animal feed, a clearspan design offers greater flexibility. The open interior makes it easier to configure storage areas, access materials and adapt the space as your storage needs change.

Workshops

Either design can work well for a workshop, depending on how you plan to use the space. A centrepole shed may suit a smaller workshop with clearly defined work areas, while a clearspan shed gives you more freedom to move equipment, vehicles or longer materials around.

General Storage

If you’re mainly storing smaller items and internal poles won’t interfere with access or organisation, a centrepole shed can be a practical option. For larger or more varied storage needs, a clearspan shed is more user-friendly. 

Multi-Purpose or Changing Needs

A clearspan shed is generally the more adaptable option if you expect your needs to change over time. With no internal poles restricting the layout, you can more easily reconfigure the space as your farming, storage or workshop needs evolve. 

How Do You Decide Between a Centrepole and a Clearspan Shed? 

Choosing between a centrepole and a clearspan shed ultimately depends on how you plan to use the space, your budget, and flexibility requirements. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision: 

Space Requirements

If your primary goal is maximum usable space, a clearspan shed is ideal. The open layout allows for easy storage and movement of large machinery, vehicles, or bulk items, and it provides flexibility to adapt the layout over time. For smaller storage needs, or if your setup doesn’t require unobstructed floor space, a centrepole shed can offer a more budget-friendly option.

Budget Considerations

Centrepole sheds are generally a lower upfront cost, which can make them appealing if budget is a primary factor. However, centerpole sheds are often more costly to install due to the extra holes and concrete required, and the time required to make timber beams and screw on joist hangers. Alpine’s clearspan sheds can be more costly upfront, however, you save time and money with the installation, and the space efficiency and usability offer better long-term value for those prioritising longevity and functionality. 

Future Flexibility

Clearspan sheds are ideal for those who anticipate changing storage or functional needs over time. The open layout can easily be adapted for different uses, from equipment storage to workshops or garages, whereas centrepole sheds provide a more static layout with limited adaptability.

Which Shed is Best for You?

Want to Find the Right Shed for Your Property?

A shed is a long-term investment, and choosing the right one ensures it serves your needs for generations, to come.  

For expert advice, custom designs, and sheds built to endure New Zealand’s diverse conditions, contact Alpine Buildings to discuss your ideal shed. 

FAQs

What is the difference between a pole shed and a clearspan shed? 
A pole shed uses posts as part of its supporting structure and may include internal poles, while a clearspan shed is designed without internal support columns. This gives a clearspan shed a completely open interior, providing more usable space and flexibility for machinery, vehicles and storage. 

Is a clearspan shed more expensive than a centrepole shed? 
A clearspan shed will generally have a higher upfront kitset cost than a centrepole shed. However, centrepole sheds can require more holes, concrete and labour during installation, so it’s important to consider the overall cost rather than the kitset price alone. 

Can a clearspan shed be customised? 
Yes. Clearspan sheds can be designed around your property, storage requirements and intended use. Alpine can help you create a shed that provides the space, access and functionality you need.