Summer House Buyer's Guide
A summer house can provide a delightful escape in your own backyard, offering a place to relax, entertain, or pursue hobbies. If you're considering adding a summer house to your garden, this buyer's guide will walk you through the key factors to help you make the best choice.
Types of Summer Houses
Summer houses come in a variety of styles to suit different tastes and garden settings:
- Traditional wooden summer houses feature classic designs with a homely, natural feel.
- Contemporary summer houses have more modern, streamlined designs, often with additional features like bi-fold doors.
- Corner summer houses are designed to fit snugly into a corner of your garden, maximizing space.
Construction Materials
Most summer houses are constructed from either wood or metal:
- Wooden summer houses are the most popular option, offering a natural look that blends well with garden surroundings. Softwoods like pine are affordable, while more premium hardwoods are durable and weather-resistant.
- Metal summer houses are low-maintenance and hardwearing, but less common than wooden versions. They can have a stylish modern appearance with sleek lines.
Size and Position
Consider what you will use your summer house for and choose a size to suit. Smaller summer houses around 6-10 sq m work well as a cozy garden retreat, while larger models offer space for dining sets, sofas, and more. Think about where you will position the summer house and ensure you allow enough space around it for maintenance. Corner summer houses can help make the most of limited garden space.
Planning Permission
Most summer houses do not require planning permission as they fall under permitted development rights. However, there are some limitations and exceptions. Summer houses are not permitted development if:
- It stands over 2.5m high, when fixed to the property wall
- It covers over 50% of the land around the original house
- The summer house is used as self-contained accommodation
- It is positioned forward of the principal elevation
Customization Options
Many summer houses can be customized to suit your needs and tastes. Common options include:
- Roof material (felt, shingles, or living sedum roof)
- Paint color or wood stain/treatment
- Glazing options
- Insulation for year-round use
- Electrical pack for power and lighting
- Internal shelving or workbenches
Explore the possibilities to create your ideal garden getaway.
Delivery and Installation
Consider the access to your garden when ordering a summer house, as they are usually delivered in sections or panels. While many summer houses come with instructions for self-assembly, some manufacturers offer professional installation services for an additional fee, which can be helpful to ensure your summer house is correctly constructed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a wooden summer house last?
A well-maintained wooden summer house can last for 10-15 years or more. Regularly treating the wood and keeping the roof in good repair helps prolong its lifespan.
Can I use my summer house all year round?
Many summer houses can be used year-round, especially if you opt for insulation, double glazing, and heating options. However, cheaper models may be less suitable for winter use.
What base does a summer house need?
A summer house requires a flat, stable base, usually a concrete slab, paving slabs, or timber deck. A proper base prevents the summer house from warping or sinking over time.
We hope this buyer's guide has been useful in your search for the perfect summer house. Browse our range of garden rooms if you want a larger building, or contact our friendly team for more advice and information.