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About our apex summerhouses
Apex summerhouses feature a traditional peaked roof that gives maximum headroom at the centre. The symmetrical pitch sheds rain and snow evenly to both sides, making them the most weather-efficient roof design. This classic shape suits established gardens and blends naturally with older properties.
The peaked roof creates extra internal height at the ridge line. This makes the interior feel spacious and airy, even in smaller models. Most apex summerhouses include glazed double doors and side windows as standard. Tongue-and-groove timber construction and felt roofing are fitted on all models.
For a lower-profile alternative, browse our pent summerhouses with single-slope roofs. If you want a contemporary flat-roof style, see our modern summerhouses. To make use of a garden corner, try our corner summerhouses. Add outdoor seating from our garden furniture collection.
Why We Chose This Range
"Apex roofs give the most headroom and shed rain efficiently. They are the traditional choice for a reason. We have been supplying apex summerhouses for over 12 years. The peaked roof design has stood the test of time because it simply works. Rain runs off cleanly and snow slides off rather than pooling. The extra height inside makes a real difference to how the space feels."
, Matt, Founder of Greenhouse StoresTypes of apex summerhouses we offer
Compact apex summerhouses
6x4ft and 8x6ft models for smaller gardens. The peaked roof still provides generous headroom. Glazed double doors and side windows give a bright interior. Suitable for a reading room, hobby space, or quiet retreat.
Large apex summerhouses
10x8ft to 12x8ft models with space for furniture and storage. Room for a sofa, desk, and bookshelves. The apex ridge gives over 2m headroom at the centre. Works as a garden office, entertaining room, or yoga studio.
Insulated apex models
Double-glazed windows and insulated walls for year-round comfort. The peaked roof accommodates thicker insulation at the ridge without reducing headroom. Add a 2kW panel heater for winter warmth. Ideal for garden offices and therapy rooms.
Apex summerhouses with veranda
Extended front canopy provides a sheltered seating area. The apex roofline extends over the veranda for consistent rain protection. Pair with garden furniture for an outdoor dining area. The veranda adds character and frames the entrance.
Quick Guide: Apex summerhouses look best positioned centrally against a fence or hedge. Face the glazed front towards the house for easy visual connection with your kitchen or living room. Allow 500mm clearance on all sides. The ridge height is the tallest point, so check overhead tree branches before choosing your location.
Matt's Installation Tip: Ridge Line Alignment
The apex ridge must be perfectly level for the doors to operate smoothly. If the base is even slightly uneven, the two roof halves twist and the ridge warps. We always check with a spirit level along the full ridge length after assembly. Use paving slabs on compacted sand rather than concrete. Individual slabs can be shimmed if the ground settles over time.
Apex summerhouses are the classic choice for gardens that suit a traditional building profile. The peaked roof provides the best headroom, rain shedding, and visual appeal of any roof style. For a dual-purpose building with attached storage, see our summerhouses with side shed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is an apex roof on a summerhouse?
An apex roof has a symmetrical peaked shape like an inverted V. The ridge runs along the centre of the building. Rain and snow slide evenly off both sides. This design gives maximum internal headroom at the ridge line and a traditional, classic appearance.
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How much headroom does an apex summerhouse have?
Most apex summerhouses offer over 2m headroom at the ridge. The eaves (side wall) height is typically 1.7-1.8m. The peaked roof adds 300-500mm of extra height at the centre. This creates a more spacious feel than flat or pent roof designs of the same footprint.
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Do apex summerhouses need planning permission?
Most fall under permitted development if under 2.5m at the eaves. The overall ridge height must not exceed 4m for a dual-pitched roof. The building must be single-storey and not cover more than half the garden. Conservation areas and listed buildings have extra restrictions. Always check with your local authority.
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Which is better: apex or pent roof summerhouse?
Apex roofs give more headroom and a traditional look. Pent roofs have a lower profile and suit boundary placement. Choose apex for a freestanding position in the middle of the garden. Choose pent when the building sits against a fence or wall where height matters.
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What base does an apex summerhouse need?
A level paving slab or concrete base is essential. Build it 50mm larger than the building footprint on all sides. Paving slabs on compacted sand allow adjustment if the ground settles. The base must be flat across the entire area. Uneven bases cause the ridge to twist and doors to stick.
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How do I maintain an apex summerhouse?
Apply wood treatment or stain every 1-2 years. Check the roof felt along the ridge line annually for splits or lifting. Oil door and window hinges each spring. Clear leaves from guttering. The apex ridge is the most exposed point, so inspect it closely after winter storms.