Planning Your New Cabin
A little planning before your building arrives makes installation smooth and keeps your cabin looking great for years. Here’s what to consider before you order.
Get it right first time
What to consider
From choosing a size to preparing the ground, these are the things worth thinking through before your new building is made and installed.
Size
There are no precise rules on size, but the space will always get used – so buy the biggest building you can comfortably fit and afford. If you’re replacing an existing building, consider whether to keep the same footprint or go a little larger.
Location
Ideally allow a clear space of at least 18″ on all sides for easy installation and future maintenance. A reduced clearance on one or two sides is often fine – just allow for any roof overhang and cut back nearby shrubs and trees.
Maintenance
Treat the external timber with a good-quality wood preservative every year, including soon after installation, to prolong the life of your building. Oil the door and window hinges as needed to keep them smooth.
Electrical
Providing an electricity supply is normally straightforward. We recommend all electrical work is completed to IEE wiring regulations and BS 7671, by an operator approved under the Part P Competent Person Scheme.
Planning Permission
Most garden buildings don’t require planning permission, and all of ours are 2.5m or less in height – so they shouldn’t normally need it. Contact your local planning department for full guidelines.
The most important step
Your Base
All buildings need a substantial base – paving slabs or concrete are ideal. The base should be no smaller than the floor size of your new building, and no more than a few inches larger.
Solid, square, flat & 100% level
Whatever base you provide, it must be solid, square, flat and – most importantly – completely level in all directions. This single step makes the biggest difference to a smooth installation.
Concrete
A solid concrete base is more permanent and well suited to larger buildings. The average base is 80–100mm deep. There’s plenty of good advice online, or ask a local tradesperson to prepare it for you.
Paving slabs
A great option for many buildings and quicker to lay than concrete – provided the finished surface is solid, square, flat and fully level.
Still have questions?
Our friendly team is happy to help you plan your new building – from choosing a size to preparing the perfect base.
Call 01302 722 641