How Do You Choose The Perfect Garden Room For Your Project?

Last Updated on August 2, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

The garden is a living space in its own right and the garden room is an ideal addition to it, as it can become a real extension to the house. Whether it’s a workshop, office, playroom or summer kitchen, these wooden constructions are versatile and accessible to all needs and projects. They are increasingly popular. If you are tempted by a garden room, follow this guide of detailed features to refine your project.

There are garden rooms to suit all tastes and styles: chalet, modern and contemporary, etc. Although they vary in size, all garden rooms have the following features:

  • A floor
  • Windows and doors
  • A roof

All these points need to be considered, as do the anchoring to the ground and the interior design. Serious garden room sellers offer a lot of information about the roof and windows on their website and even offer to order them directly together with the garden room. It’s very practical, but you have still to know what to choose!

The size of the garden room

garden room

The surface areas of garden rooms are listed under various names and correspond to a specific floor area.

  • The overall area includes the entire area of the garden room in the space as if you were trying to fit it into a cube. This includes the eaves and ridge.
  • The external area or external dimensions are the external dimensions of the garden shed, i.e. the measurements taken from the fronts of the walls (but without the eaves).
  • The usable area or interior dimensions are the usable area inside the cabin. 

When choosing the floor area, consider your needs: take a look at these 12 m2 garden room www.quick-garden.co.uk/garden-rooms/4mx3m/ and try to imagine if one of them fits your project. Detailed plans are available to help you.

Fixing and anchoring to the ground

Do not neglect the anchoring of your garden room, whether it is on the ground or against your house. Every year, many wooden constructions are blown away by the wind because they are not properly secured and this can cause considerable damage. Do not hesitate to use mounting plates and brackets that are securely fixed to a concrete slab with lag bolts or dowels.

It is possible combine these fixings with an anchoring kit consisting of strapping or wire, tensioners and quick links, also known as an anti-storm kit. You can also make a chain link with breeze blocks and/or concrete under the outline of the shed. Apply bituminous paint to the blocks to prevent capillary rise.

Flooring

The choice of a floor depends on several criteria

  • the function of the garden room
  • the nature of the ground and/or the presence of a slab;
  • the level of comfort desired.

The preferred material for the floor is wood, but it can be made of PVC or polypropylene. It can be purchased separately and does not require a slab. Otherwise, the floor resting on a concrete slab provides additional insulation and protection against rising damp.

It can also be covered with parquet or any other floor covering for a better finish and more comfort (laying an underlay between the covering and the floor improves insulation). The installation of a waterproofing film protects against capillary rise.

Windows

Choose a garden room with several windows if you need light and cannot install outdoor lighting.

Several window configurations are possible:

  • Fixed window, seen as a light source
  • Opening window, recommended if you use your garden room as a workshop for dust removal and ventilation
  • Single or double windows, small or large, if you expect to spend a lot of time in the garden room, for example as an office
  • Hinged window where clearance is needed or sliding window to optimise space

You can also install shutters if you use your garden room as a studio or guest room.

The door

If you plan to put large furniture in your garden room, choose a double door. For example, if you are using it as a gym, be aware that some weight machines will not fit through a single door. Also consider that a sliding door can save you space and do not require you to clear the ground if your land is slightly sloping. 

A swing door requires clearance to open and slams in the wind. The door can be glazed and fitted with a handle of various finishes depending on the quality of the garden room. Finally, don’t forget the lock!

Types of roof and roofing

The design of the roof of your garden room is obviously not to be taken lightly, otherwise you may end up becoming a roofer’s apprentice before your time. Several roof configurations exist:

  • single slope 
  • double slope
  • flat roof

In terms of materials, the roofing differs from one garden shed to another, depending on the materials of the building:

  • flat bitumen felt rests on waterproof wood panels such as OSB;
  • shingle is similar to flat tiles and is also laid on waterproof OSB panels or even roof boards
  • tarred sheets are similar to Roman tiles and can be laid on a lighter, one-piece framework

Think smart: choose your roofing according to the exposure. If the area is damp, avoid steel sheeting and prefer tarred sheets. And if the shed is exposed to all winds, make sure you stick the shingle on.

For the more eco-friendly persons, there are even garden sheds with green roofs that allow you to recover a few square metres of greenery. Also, and especially on large garden sheds, the installation of gutters is a plus as it ensures a better evacuation of rainwater and allows to collect water.

Assembly

Now that you know more about the garden room, you need to think about the set-up. If you are sufficiently handy and equipped, you can assemble it yourself within a week. All the necessary screws and bolts are provided. If you do not have the necessary assembly skills, call in a professional to ensure that the longevity of your wooden construction is not compromised. If you encounter a problem or have any questions during assembly, do not improvise and contact the manufacturer.

Once you have assembled your garden room, you can make the interior fittings to suit your needs and enjoy your sports room, games room, summer kitchen, pool house and much more!

FAQs

Is a garden room a good idea?

A garden room can be a great way to add extra living space to your home. They are typically less expensive than adding an extension and can be built relatively quickly. Garden rooms can also be

What is the difference between a garden room and a summer house?

Well, there are a few key differences between garden rooms and summer houses. For starters, garden rooms are typically built on the ground floor of a home, while summer houses are usually standalone structures.

Garden rooms also tend to be smaller and more intimate than summer houses. They’re typically used as an extension of the home, for things like extra storage or a home office, while summer houses are more like a separate getaway, used for things like entertaining or relaxation.

Garden rooms also tend to have more windows and be better insulated than summer houses, making them perfect for year-round use.

What is the difference between a garden room and conservatory?

A conservatory is typically defined as a glass-enclosed room that is attached to the main house. A garden room, on the other hand, is a freestanding structure that is not attached to the main house. Garden rooms can be built from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and PVC.

Conservatories are typically used as additional living space, while garden rooms are more often used as a relaxation space or an office.

There are a few key differences between garden rooms and conservatories. Garden rooms tend to be better insulated than conservatories, so they can be used in colder months without the need for extra heating. They also usually have more windows and doors, making them brighter and airier. Garden rooms can be customized to your specific needs, while conservatories are often mass-produced.

If you’re looking for extra living space that can be used year-round, a garden room is a great option. If you want a light and airy space to enjoy the outdoors, a conservatory might be the better choice.

Can I sleep in my garden room?

Yes, you can sleep in your garden room, but you may want to consider a few factors first. Garden rooms are typically not as insulated as traditional homes, so it may be colder at night. You’ll also want to make sure that your garden room is well-ventilated to avoid condensation and mold growth. Finally, if you have any pests in your garden, you may want to keep them out of your sleeping area.