Summerhouse Buying Guide

Garden Summer Houses
Garden Summer Houses
Traditional Summer House
Traditional Summer House

A garden retreat-like summerhouse is ideal for those who love outdoor living. Stylish and beautiful, summer houses are a perfect place to unwind, have fun or take in the view of your garden. Delight in a garden hideaway or burn energy in a lively entertaining area, a garden summer house transforms garden use. Varying between small nooks to large outdoor rooms, choose from our summer house designs to fit your style and requirements.

Your enjoyment depends on reviewing the best summer houses and picking the right fit for your needs. With the options available, making an informed choice means you will find a structure that is exactly right for you.

 

This summer house buying guide provides a step-by-step basis of all the aspects to consider before you buy a garden retreat. We investigate summer house size, summer house materials, planning permissions, shed installation, etc. Everything is covered!

 

A summer house selected with all the criteria in mind, will enhance your lifestyle and your property. Use this summer house buying guide to identify everything you need when buying a summer house.

 

 

This summer house buying guide discusses these subjects. Simply click on any subject to zoom to the topic discussed.

 

Eleven Garden Summer House Uses and Benefits

Summerhouse Decision 1: Summer House Size

Summerhouse Decision 2: Summer House Treatment

Summerhouse Decision 3: Summer House Cladding Ideas

Summerhouse Decision 4: Cladding Thickness

Summerhouse Decision 5: Roofing and Flooring

Summerhouse Decision 6: Windows and Doors

Summerhouse Decision 7: Other Style Features

Summer House Bases

Summer House Cost

Is Planning Permission Required for a Summer House?

Delivery of the Summer House

Summer House Installation

Contact Us

 

 

Eleven Garden Summer House Uses and Benefits

 

One of the main benefits of a garden summer house is its versatility. It is for this reason that the benefits below fuse into uses, as the more flexible a summer house can be the more beneficial it is:

Shire Chatsworth Summer House with Georgian Style Windows
Shire Chatsworth Summer House with Georgian Style Windows

1)    Design to Suit Your Style


A summer house offers endless summer house style options to complement your taste and garden. Whether you prefer a classic design with Georgian windows or a modern look with bifold doors, there is a design to suit everyone. When you buy a summer house you have options for roof styles, cladding options, and finishes to make it unique. Customisation options like paint colours, flooring and decorative trims, let you make it yours.

 

Forest Garden Summer House
Forest Garden Summer House

2)    Enjoy Outdoors with Weather Protection


The British weather is unpredictable, but a summer house provides shelter from the rain, wind or sun. With good ventilation, it is cool in the summer, and on colder days, a small heater warms a summer house up and make it more inviting. Enjoy the outside without worrying about the weather changing suddenly.

 

Forest Beckwood 7x5 Pressure Treated Summer House
Forest Beckwood 7x5 Pressure Treated Summer House

3)    Extra Living Space


A summer house provides additional room without the need for expensive home extensions. It might serve as a quiet retreat, a hobby room or even a garden office. The space is versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your naeeds as they change over time. Unlike indoor rooms, a summer house lets you enjoy your garden while remaining sheltered. With the right garden furniture and décor, it feels like a true extension of your home.

 

Woodstock Traditional Summer House
Woodstock Traditional Summer House

4)    Garden Focal Point


A summer house adds personality to your garden. Whether you choose a traditional or modern summer house, it enhances outdoor spaces and the overall aesthetic appeal. With features like verandas, window boxes or smart roofing it becomes a focal point. Choose the right design and it will blend in with your existing garden style. A summer house is a functional and decorative addition to your outdoor space.

 

Palmako Garden Office
Palmako Garden Office

5)    Garden Office


With remote working becoming more popular, a summer house is ideal for use as a productive home office. It gives you a separate workspace, away from household distractions. Having a dedicated space improves focus, efficiency and work-life balance. Add extras such as ergonomic furniture, lighting and technology to make it more comfortable. A summer house office is like having an office outside but still at home, without the expense and time of travelling to work!

 

Shire Bucknells Summerhouse Garden Storage
Shire Bucknells Summerhouse Garden Storage

6)    Garden Storage Solution


A summer house doubles as an attractive storage space for garden tools, outdoor furniture, or seasonal decorations, etc. Unlike a standard shed, it provides a stylish and practical solution for keeping items organised. Why not install shelves, cupboards or hidden storage to maximise space? This keeps your garden tidy while maintaining a clutter-free living area. A dual-purpose summer house blends functionality with aesthetics.

 

Forest 4Life 12x8 Garden Summer House
Forest 4Life 12x8 Garden Summer House

7)    Increased Property Value


A well-maintained summer house adds value to your home. Buyers see it as a bonus space without the inconvenient renovations of an extension. A quality build with insulation, lighting and electrics will increase a home’s resale value. Even if you do not plan to sell, it adds to the overall appeal of your property. A stylish functional summer house is an enhancement in lifestyle and property value.

 

Forest Mendip Log Cabin Summer House
Forest Mendip Log Cabin Summer House

8)    Perfect for Entertaining


A summer house makes hosting more fun, a stylish and secure space to enjoy. Whether it is barbecues, tea parties or evening drinks, it is a dedicated entertaining space. Guests are free to relax in comfort and still see the garden. In colder months, heaters or soft lighting create a warm and welcoming space. Entertain without running the risk of disturbing the main house!

 

Palmako Claudia Summer House Garden Office
Palmako Claudia Summer House Garden Office

9)    Versatility for Multiple Uses


A summer house is a highly adaptable space, which serves various purposes throughout the year. It might function as a garden office, a relaxation retreat, a gym, or even a guest room. Unlike fixed home extensions, a summer house is rearrangeable as your needs change. With the right furnishings and décor, it seamlessly transitions between different uses. This flexibility ensures that your summer house remains a valuable and functional part of your home.

 

Forest Harwood Log Cabin Summerhouse
Forest Harwood Log Cabin Summerhouse

10)    Wellbeing Space


A summer house is a haven for relaxation, meditation, and overall wellbeing. It is a quiet space for yoga, reading or just unwinding after a long day. Surrounded by nature it helps to reduce stress and encourages mindfulness. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and calming colours, help to create a relaxing atmosphere. A summer house is a personal retreat for both body and mind.

 

Forest Xtend Insulated Summer Houses
Forest Xtend Insulated Summer Houses

11)    Year Round Use with Insulated Summer Houses


With insulation and heating a summer house is usable all year round. Insulated summer houses keeps warm in winter and cool in summer. Add double glazing, draught proofing, and a small heater, and it is comfortable all year round. It is a cosy winter retreat or a cool summer lounge. Insulation is an investment in comfort and energy efficiency.

 

 

 

Summerhouse Decision 1: Summer House Size

How much space do you have for your summer house?
How much space do you have for your summer house?

Calculating Available Space


A garden has a limited amount of space. A summerhouse should be chosen to enhance the area without overwhelming it.

 

There should be 1-2 feet of free space surrounding the summerhouse for maintenance and access purposes. Additionally, consider the necessary space for both windows and doors to open properly.

Inside a garden office summer house and dining room
Inside a garden office summer house and dining room

Summer House Potential Uses and Purposes


A summer house can be used for reading, as a space for painting or a home office with no distractions. It might be a coffee nook in the morning, a children’s playroom in the afternoon and a summer party venue on the evening. With so many uses, a summer house changes with your needs and adds to your home and lifestyle.

 

What is the Best Location for a Summer House?

 

The best location for a summer house depends on a range of factors including:

  • Accessibility - is important, place the summer house close enough to your house for convenience, but far enough to feel like an escape!
  • Consider corners – the corners of gardens are often an ideal place. They can otherwise be awkward to fill and provide a good level of privacy
  • Ground - make sure the ground is level and well-draining, so no structural issues emerge over time
  • Planning approval - and lastly check for any restrictions, planning permission or boundary rules before you finalise the position
  • Sunlight - a sunny spot will keep it warm and cosy, some shade will stop it from overheating in summer
  • Views - place it where you have the best garden views, so it is a retreat from the day-to-day pace of life
Top tip: Check the precise measurements in the summer house specification
Top tip: Check the precise measurements in the summer house specification

Helpful advice - Always review the exact summer house dimensions in the specification details.

 

Summer House Measurements


Summer house dimensions are more complicated than they seem. Not all 8’x8’ summer houses are 8’x8’, and the same applies to all other sizes. These are rounded for simplicity and are only a guide. Always check the specification on each product page for actual summer house dimensions.

 

Overhanging eaves, roof finials, and decorative trims extend beyond the main body of the summer house and affect how much space it takes up. If a model has built-in seating, or internal partitions, these will reduce the usable floor space. Corner summer house designs are space-efficient, but the measurements are different from standard rectangular models.

 

If a model has attached storage or verandas, check if these are included in the dimensions. If you are unsure about any of these details, our UK-based call centre is happy to help.

 

What are the Most Popular Summer House Sizes?

 

7x5 Summer House
7x5 Summer House
7x7 Summer House
7x7 Summer House
8x6 Summer House
8x6 Summer House
8x8 Summer House
8x8 Summer House
10x8 Summer House
10x8 Summer House
12x8 Summer House
12x8 Summer House

 

Summerhouse Decision 2: Summer House Treatment

 

The next decision is summer house treatment. Choose from either dip treatment or pressure treatment, which we explain below.

About Dip Treatment

 

Dip treatment is a process where summer house panels are submerged in a preservative solution, before summer house assembly. This provides a surface coating that protects against rot, fungal decay and insect damage. Dip treated panels will give initial protection but require re-treatment every year to remain effective. Many dip treated summer houses come with a shorter guarantee if not retreated as recommended. This is a low-cost option, so is ideal for cheap summer house buyers.

 

Shop dip treated summer houses

 

About Pressure Treatment?

 

If you want to “install and forget” all about annual timber preservative retreatment, then pressure treated panels are for you. The process this time, inserts the panels deep in preservative, which penetrates the inner fibres of the timber.

 

Pressure treated panels have a lighter colour and are often seen initially as mild green or blue/green in patches. This excess preservative leftover will diminish and fade over a few months. The preservative changes the chemical attributes of the wood and in doing so extends its lifespan.

 

Here at Buy Fencing Direct, you will receive a guarantee of 25 years on all pressure treated summer houses.

 

Shop pressure treated summer houses

 

Summer Houses with Dip Treatment and Pressure Treatment
Summer Houses with Dip Treatment and Pressure Treatment

Which treatment should I choose?

 

It is an upfront cost vs long-term cost decision. A dip treated summer house will always cost less upfront for the same size and features as a pressure treated summer house equivalent.

 

In total lifetime costs though, pressure treated models are cheaper as you will save the time and cost of annual preservative.

 

Summerhouse Decision 3: Summer House Cladding Ideas

 

The construction style of cladding for a wooden summer house plays a key role in its strength, insulation and visual appeal. Selecting the appropriate cladding guarantees that your summer house stays robust, resistant to the elements and aligned with your financial considerations and requirements.

 

Comparing Overlap, Shiplap, Tongue & Groove, and Interlocking Logs Cladding

 

Cladding may be the external or internal wall panels of a summer house, but the term is most often used to describe external wall panels. The cladding varies according to how the timber panels (sometimes called boards) are constructed. We now walkthrough the four most popular types of wooden summer house cladding, which are overlap, shiplap, tongue & groove and interlocking logs (for a log cabin-style summer house).

Overlap Cladding
Overlap Cladding

Overlap Cladding

 

Discussed below are five attributes of overlap cladding:

  • Affordable – available at low cost, this cladding is a surefire winner for buyers with a lower budget
  • Basic – the most basic of the four cladding types, but still offering basic weather protection and durability
  • Traditional style – more traditional in style, the wooden panels overlap one another
  • Ventilation – reduces the build-up of moisture by enabling the natural flow of air
  • Weight – overlap is lighter, this aids during summer house installation by making panels easier to move around
Shiplap Cladding
Shiplap Cladding

Shiplap Cladding

 

Provided below are five attributes of shiplap cladding:

  • Contemporary aesthetic – often used in modern summer houses, as it delivers a modern and sleek aesthetic
  • Exceptionally durable – enjoys a longer lifetime, designed with durability in mind, no gaps or warping
  • Improved insulation – the shiplap design is a form of insulation that regulates internal summer house temperatures
  • Interlocking design – this is based on a historic ship hull technique, to create absolute water tightness in ship hulls. Fitting snugly, the wooden boards are smooth and provide a robust solution
  • Weather resistance – can be guaranteed to resist the worst the British weather can throw at it
Tongue and Groove Cladding
Tongue and Groove Cladding

Tongue and Groove Cladding

 

Discussed below are six attributes of tongue and groove cladding:

  • Improved insulation – enhances the internal summer house temperature
  • Minimal maintenance – largely “install and forget” with minimal gaps and almost non-existent maintenance requirements
  • Precision cladding – the wooden boards slot together neatly through the tongue and groove design, which provides a solid and sturdy solution
  • Smooth finish – like shiplap this is smooth, it works well in both modern and traditional summer houses
  • Superior strength – ultra-strong, which helps thriving in the long-term through unrivalled durability
  • Weather resilience – contends well with adverse weather including rain and wind
Interlocking Logs Cladding
Interlocking Logs Cladding

Interlocking Logs Cladding


Here are five attributes of interlocking logs cladding:

  • Log cabin effect – this is a perfect cladding for those looking to buy a log cabin summer house
  • Natural insulator – trust Mother Nature’s great insulator - wood. This natural resource delivers a great insulator
  • Powerful durability – expect a solution that will last for 25+ years whilst needing minimal maintenance
  • Sturdy design – with thick logs, this design is sturdy and strong, delivering excellent durability with minimal gaps due to the solidness of logs
  • Superior weather resistance – copes well with adverse weather, if this survives in Scandinavia, the UK is a synch!

 

Summerhouse Decision 4: Cladding Thickness

Why is cladding thickness important for a summer house
Why is cladding thickness important for a summer house

Why is cladding thickness important?

 

Cladding board thickness is a crucial factor, as thicker boards provide enhanced insulation. This contributes to a more comfortable experience internally.

 

Typically, standard summerhouse walls are 12mm thick. This thickness is adequate for comfortable use, in most cases, even in the hottest spells of warmer summer months. Furthermore, if the weather is particularly warm in spring or autumn, this standard will still ensure a comfortable environment. If the weather is particularly warm in spring or autumn, then you will still be comfortable.

Top tip: Look out for interior upgrades on some of our Summer Houses
Top tip: Look out for interior upgrades on some of our Summer Houses

Top Tip: Look out for interior upgrades on some of our Summer Houses

 

Some of our more premium summer houses, such as the Palmako Sally 4.8m x 3.9m Log Cabin Summerhouse offers an extension as an optional upgrade, this gives more interior space.

Summerhoue House Heaters and Solar Power Kits
Summerhoue House Heaters and Solar Power Kits

Can I heat my summer house?

 

Yes! Various choices are available, such as:
1)    Mobile propane heater
2)    Solar-powered unit with a 12V heating device
3)    Garden room is wired to the main house electricity supply for powering an electric heater

 

It is essential to exercise caution when using heating inside a summerhouse:
a) Never leave any heat source operating without supervision
b) Adhere to ALL safety guidelines provided by the heater manufacturer

 

What if I want to use my summer house throughout the year?

 

If you require an all-year garden room - for a home office, garden gym or simply extra living space, we recommend you look at our log cabins.
 
With cladding thickness generally starting from 28mm, a log cabin offers better insulation. If you want a garden room that will withstand winter, aim for a log cabin with cladding from 42-70mm or with logs instead of boards.

 

Summerhouse Decision 5: Roofing and Flooring

 

OSB or Timber Flooring for a Summer House
OSB or Timber Flooring for a Summer House

OSB or Timber?

 

Next up, the floor and roof materials need to be considered. OSB (oriented strand board) is a frequently used material for both summerhouse floors and roofs. They are particularly popular in cheaper summer houses. Tongue & groove or timber boards for floors and roofs are variable in thickness and stronger. They will also resist sagging and are sturdier and last longer than OSB.

 

Before buying a summer house we recommend that you check both the thickness and materials used for floors and roofs. For more details about OSB board, we recommend our blog article - What is OSB Board (Solid Sheets)? Strength of OSB vs Plywood

The Roof Design

 

The main three roof types are apex, pent and reverse apex.

Forest Beckwood 8x6 Apex Summer House
Forest Beckwood 8x6 Apex Summer House

A gable roof (or apex) is the best-selling roof style we offer (on summer houses). It has a classic angled roof with two inclined sections that join along a central peak. This roofing structure allows for greater ceiling height in the middle and is well-known for enhancing the sense of space. Gable roof garden rooms have a timeless look and offer superior rainwater runoff, making them both a long-lasting and practical option.


Shop apex summer houses

 

8x6 Forest Beckwood Pent Summer house
8x6 Forest Beckwood Pent Summer house

A slanted-roof (or pent) summer house is a well-respected choice. These garden buildings have a one-piece sloping covering, which tilts either from front-to-back or side to side, with orientation being a key factor. Seen as a stylish design, angled roofs allow effective water runoff while also delivering a modern and minimalist look. Slanted-roof summer houses work well when placed against boundaries like walls or fences and frequently incorporate expansive windows and broad doors to enhance natural light.


Shop pent summer houses

 

Forest Blakedown Reverse Apex Summer House
Forest Blakedown Reverse Apex Summer House

A front-to-back ridge (also known as reverse apex) summer house has a roofline where the ridge runs along the length rather than the width. This gives more clearance inside the summer house and makes the room feel larger. Front-to-back ridge summer houses often have large front-positioned windows and wide-opening double doors to let in lots of light.


Shop reverse apex summer houses

 

Palmako Claudia Log Cabin Summer House with Felt Shingle Roof
Palmako Claudia Log Cabin Summer House with Felt Shingle Roof
Palmako Veronica Log Cabin Summer House with Felt Shingles
Palmako Veronica Log Cabin Summer House with Felt Shingles

The Roof Covering

 

The majority of summer houses will have roof felt as their standard roof covering. Certain garden summer houses offer enhanced wooden roofing options. These include felt shingles, which provide greater longevity and are widely regarded as aesthetically superior.

 

Summerhouse Decision 6: Windows and Doors[

Opening Windows and Bifold Doors
Opening Windows and Bifold Doors

Naturally, you will want some form of glazing in your summer house, whether through windows or at a minimum, glazed doors. Consider how many panes you prefer; increased glazing means more daylight entering the interior.

 

Are opening windows necessary?


Windows that can be opened are a great advantage, as ventilation helps manage the temperature inside. However, keeping the doors open can also provide airflow.
Factor in the opening range of windows when planning your layout. Some designs open from the bottom instead of the side.

 

Why are bifold doors so sought after?


Bifold doors have gained popularity in both gardens and homes. They typically feature full glazing, maximising sunlight within the summer house. Their biggest advantage is that they fold away completely.

 

This creates a seamless flow between the interior space and the garden, allowing you to relax in your summer house while still feeling connected to your outdoor surroundings.

Summer House Windows and Door Latch
Summer House Windows and Door Latch

What will my windows and doors be glazed with?


Polycarbonate and styrene have become increasingly popular as they offer a safer option than traditional glass and are simpler to install. Unlike glass, these materials do not shatter -an important consideration for households with children, grandchildren or unexpected footballs flying over the fence.

 

Modern glazing alternatives are typically UV-resistant, ensuring they do not discolour or turn yellow over time.

 

You may find real glass glazing provided with some models. This has better insulation properties, especially if double-glazed. It is, however, more common with log cabins where insulation is a greater priority.

 

How will my doors be kept secure?

 

Three security options are usually used:
1)    A turn button fastener - is a small metal latch that rotates to prevent the door from opening unexpectedly. Doors typically have one positioned at both the top and bottom
2)    A hasp and staple - consists of a closing latch that fits over a loop, allowing you to attach a padlock of your choice. Some doors, particularly double doors, may also include internal bolts for extra security
3)    A mortice lock or rim lock - provides key-operated protection for enhanced safety. If you plan to store valuable furniture, electronics or other belongings in your summerhouse, these are the most secure options

 

Top Tip: Add style touches such as curtains or window boxes
Top Tip: Add style touches such as curtains or window boxes

Top Tip: Add style touches such as curtains or window boxes.

 

Add style touches such as curtains or window boxes to make your summer house extra special. Pretty fabric at the windows, window boxes full of flowers and a doormat will all give your summer house extra character and make it feel like an extension of your home.

 

Summerhouse Decision 7: Other Features for Choosing the Best Summer Houses

Summer houses are more than a practical and economical way to add living space to your garden. In themselves, summer houses have outstanding natural-looking garden features. You can “Go the extra mile” though by adding extra decorative features that perform as a charming finishing touch.
 
With so many designs and styles to choose from, there really is a summer house for every taste, purpose and garden. So, continue reading for our final list of features that will help you when browsing the best summer houses for your needs.

Summer House with Veranda
Summer House with Veranda

Verandas

 

A summer house with a veranda offers more space, more shelter and more charm. It is the ideal spot for kicking off shoes before heading into the summer house or for displaying planters. Pop a deck chair on the veranda and make the most of this vantage point from which to enjoy your garden.

 

Summerhouse with Overhanging Roof
Summerhouse with Overhanging Roof

Overhanging Roofs

 

Much like a veranda, an overhanging roof provides more sheltered space. It also protects the interior from glare from the sun and various other weather events. As a design feature, an overhang adds dramatic impact.

 

Traditional Summer Houses
Traditional Summer Houses

Traditional Summer Houses

 

Octagonal summer houses tick all the right boxes if you prefer a more traditional style. Partially or fully glazed, these pretty garden buildings will offer you super views of your garden. Look out for Georgian-style windows, roof acorns and antique-style door furniture for maximum effect.
 
Scalloped barge boards also provide a traditional touch. Barge boards run along the gable edges of garden buildings. Often completed with a finial shape at the peak, barge boards add a sense of quality. When scalloped, they add traditional charm too.

 

Forest 4Life Contemporary Summer House
Forest 4Life Contemporary Summer House

Contemporary Summer Houses

 

With features such as sleek pent roofs, tall glazing and bifold doors, a contemporary summer house will be perfect for your modern garden. With an emphasis on light and space, these modern garden rooms offer a calm, clutter-free space in which to relax, entertain or work.

 

Shop Contemporary Summer Houses

 

Shire Barclay Corner Summer House
Shire Barclay Corner Summer House

Corner Summer Houses

 

As mentioned previously, corner summer houses are a great space-saving choice. It offers excellent views of your garden without sacrificing too much outdoor space. With modern and traditional models to choose from, that neglected corner could soon be a garden hideaway.

 

Shop corner summer houses

 

Palmako Veronica Octagonal Summer House
Palmako Veronica Octagonal Summer House

Octagonal Summer Houses


These models boast a distinctive eight-sided layout, providing ample space and stunning panoramic views of your outdoor space. With expansive windows and an eye-catching design, they create a bright and airy atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the outdoors. These structures can also be placed in corners, and optimising space in areas where conventional designs may not fit.

 

Available in both traditional and modern styles, depending on the materials and finishes, octagonal summer houses cater to a variety of tastes. Traditional designs may feature decorative timber cladding and intricate trims, while contemporary versions often highlight sleek lines and modern summer house materials such as glass and steel. No matter the style, octagonal summer houses offer both charm and practicality, making them a perfect addition to any garden.

 

Buy octagonal summer houses

 

Traditional Wychwood Summer House
Traditional Wychwood Summer House
Shire Highclere Summer House with Unusual Design
Shire Highclere Summer House with Unusual Design

Unusual Designs


Focusing on the unusual, why not consider the Traditional Wychwood or Shire Highclere? These attractive summerhouses feature Alpine-style wings. The Palmako Solveig has a completely flat roof for a truly modern summer house design. Or how about the Shire Orchid with its curved roof?

Summer House with Side Shed
Summer House with Side Shed
Summer House with Side Shed Storage
Summer House with Side Shed Storage

Summer House with a Side Shed and Storage


Who said you could only have a shed or a summer house? The ultimate combination of style and practicality, a summer house with a side shed and a dedicated storage area is the best multi-purpose option. A summer house shed enables you to store those cushions, outdoor games and tools out of sight while you relax in your new garden sanctuary.

Painted Summer House
Painted Summer House
Painted Summer House with Side Shed
Painted Summer House with Side Shed

Give it a fresh coat of paint!


Selecting the right colour palette completely revamps your summer house, making it a reflection of your personality and garden style. There is a wide selection of shades available at DIY retailers. Some outdoor wood paints also include a preservative, offering both protection and a vibrant new look.

Top Tip: Add Solar Lighting to your Summer House
Top Tip: Add Solar Lighting to your Summer House

 Top Tip: Add Solar Lighting to Your Summer House

 

Our Solar Lighting Kits include a choice of floor lamps, table lamps, pendant lights and strip lights – all designed to extend your time in your summer house and make you feel at home!

 

Other things to consider:

Summer House Bases

 

A solid foundation is essential, every summer house must be on a solid, level base. Without one, the structure will move, and doors and windows will be misaligned, and ultimately the whole garden building will be unstable. The ground should be completely level and clear of obstructions like tree roots, stones, or other debris. If on grass, a base will be needed. But on a flat hard surface like concrete or paving slabs, a base is not required.

 

Choosing the Right Base for Your Summer House

Concrete base and slabs
Concrete base and slabs

A concrete base is the strongest but most expensive option. Concrete slabs are a good alternative but must be laid tightly together to form a solid, gap-free surface.

 

Both concrete bases and slabs must be laid over a layer of sharp sand and hardcore to allow drainage and prevent water pooling. Whatever you choose, the base must be level for stability. 

 

Plastic Probase Summer House Base
Plastic Probase Summer House Base

Plastic Probase Summer House Bases


A ProBase plastic base is a lightweight, easy-to-assemble option that raises your summer house above damp ground and allows air to circulate underneath.

 

Made from 100% recycled plastic, ProBase is an eco-friendly solution that can be reused if you decide to move your summer house. The interlocking panels make installation simple, but the structure is strong and durable.

 

To ensure a solid base, ProBase must be installed as per instructions, including ground preparation, using the provided membrane and pea gravel for larger summer houses. Once assembled, the base must be totally level.

 

Plastic Summer House Base
Plastic Summer House Base

Is a damp membrane required?


When using a synthetic base, a moisture barrier is crucial, and it comes with the Probase package.

 

For cement bases, or paving stones, incorporating a membrane is strongly suggested to minimise damp-related issues.

 

If in doubt about a summer house base, call our friendly UK based Customer Service Team
If in doubt about a summer house base, call our friendly UK based Customer Service Team

What if I am Still Uncertain?


On the Buy Fencing Direct product pages, you can check the options section to determine whether plastic bases are suggested for your chosen garden building. If you are still unsure, do not hesitate to contact our team, who can assist. We advise against using any alternative base materials, as they might not handle the UK climate or potential soil erosion effectively. A summer house should never be positioned on top of grass, soil or sand. For best results, we recommend that the base is assembled by a qualified tradesperson.

 

 

Step 8: Summer House Cost

  • Purchase price:
  • Small summer houses - (up to 8'x6') costs vary between £490 and £1,920
  • Large summer houses - (from 8'x'6 up to 14’x14' in summerhouse size). Summer house prices vary between £680 and £4,630
  • Cost and options for installation - when selecting a summerhouse, your choice between assembling it yourself or hiring professionals will greatly impact the overall price. In addition, the size and complexity of the summer house installation will affect the total expenses
  • DIY installation – if you have experience with DIY projects, building small summer houses alone may be feasible. For large summer houses, you will need two people to help move and assemble the heavier sections. Choosing the DIY route cuts down on the cost of a summer house, which mainly consists of buying or renting tools and performing some minor cleaning afterwards. These costs generally fall between £50 and £300
  • Expert installation – The cost for professional installation varies based on factors like the summerhouse size, assembly complexity, and location within the UK. Labour charges typically average £25 per hour: 
  • Smaller models (sizes to 8’x6’) – between 10 and 16 hours (£250 to £400)
  • Larger models (above 8'x6' up to 14'x14') – between 16 and 60 hours (£400 to £1,500)
  • Manufacturer installation options – for further details, visit individual product pages. When buying one of our garden summer houses for sale from Buy Fencing Direct, the summer house installation cost may possibly be included in the overall product price. Installation service availability depends on both the manufacturer and the product

 

Garden Summer houses Enhancement Options


When purchasing a summer house from Buy Fencing Direct, be sure to check out the available upgrades and optional additions. These options may vary depending on the manufacturer, and the following are examples:

  • Forest Garden - include a wooden base or opt for installation with or without base fitting.
  • Palmako - choose a roof felt underlay or upgrade to felt roof shingles
  • Traditional - upgrade from dip treated to pressure treated cladding, select a heavy-duty floor, add life-extending floor bearers, or include a veranda upgrade
  • All brands - select an appropriately sized plastic base kit or a solar lighting kit

 

 

Is Planning Permission Required for a Summer House?

 

In most cases, planning approval is not needed.

 

However, planning permission will be required if:

  • The height exceeds 3m with a pent roof
  • The height exceeds 4m with an apex roof
  • It is intended for non-domestic use
  • It is within 2m of the house and over 2.5m high
  • It is positioned forward of the main property's front wall
  • It covers more than half the garden or leads to over 50% of the surrounding land being occupied
  • Listed buildings, conservation areas, and national parks may have further restrictions
  • If uncertain, consult your local planning authority.

 

 

Cheap Summer Houses for Sale


Are budget-friendly summer houses available? Absolutely! We offer over 35 affordable or cheap summer houses for sale, all priced at £1,200 or less, a fantastic deal!

 

 

Warranty Duration


The length of cover for a summer house differs when purchasing from Buy Fencing Direct. Guarantees range from a single year up to twenty-five years, with the exact duration clearly detailed in each product’s specifications.

 

For dip-treated models, yearly reapplication of treatment is necessary to maintain guarantee validity. Some units may arrive uncoated, requiring immediate preservative after the summer house installation.

 

 

Delivery of the Summer House

 

Summer House Delivery
Summer House Delivery

Delivery Information


Many products allow you to select a delivery date before purchase, with availability shown on the product page.

 

If this pick-a-day delivery option is not offered, check the product’s lead time for an estimated dispatch date. The manufacturer will contact you to arrange a suitable delivery.

 

Making changes to your order after payment may alter the delivery schedule, so double-check before confirming your purchase.

Delivery Costs


While free delivery applies to many areas, some remote locations may incur additional charges. Use our postcode checker to confirm coverage and any extra costs.

 

 

Summer House Installation

 

Summer House Installation
Summer House Installation

If assembling your summer house feels overwhelming, the Forest Garden skilled team can take care of the whole project, giving you extra time for other priorities.

 

For Forest models with an installation option, check the product page under Installation Services and add it to your order (where available).

 

We provide a professional fitting service across most of the mainland UK. Use the coverage map to confirm if your location is included. Any bookings outside the designated areas cannot be processed.

Postcode Areas not covered by our Pro-Installation Service: BT Postcodes, GY Postcodes, HS Postcodes, IV Postcodes, KW Postcodes, IM Postcodes, JE Postcodes and ZE Postcodes.

 

Find more details on our Pro-Installation Service page.

 

 

Contact Us

If in doubt, call our friendly, UK based Customer Service Team
If in doubt, call our friendly, UK based Customer Service Team

We hope you have enjoyed this summer house buying guide. It will answer many questions, but if you still need answers to other questions, we can help here at Buy Fencing Direct.

 

Our informative and friendly team can be contacted when you dial 0333 003 0515. Speak to us in real-time by using our orange 'Live Chat - Ask a Question' pop-up, which is located at the bottom left of your screen.