Summer houses are quite a favorite for many people during the harsh and hot summertime. People often utilize the presence of summer houses to relax and unwind during summertime.
Summer houses are permitted properties, and they don’t require any extra permission. The maximum height allowed for the summer house, including the roof, is that it has to be under 2.5 meters. Additionally, your summer house should be within 2 meters of the property boundary.
Why do you need a summerhouse?
A summer house is quite the essential and favorite of many people. Additionally, people even plan and construct summer house to have a place where they can relax and enjoy free time. People who like painting or writing with being close to nature often make the most of the opportunity and get a summerhouse built in their garden.
What are the things that should be looked out for?
Certain factors should be kept in mind when building a summer house. Gathering the right information and the right material will ensure that your summer house will be built on solid foundations.
Wood for the summer house
The first thing that should be decided is the kind of wood. Summer houses are built with wood, but the type of wood can vary from one summer house to another summer house. It should be kept in mind that wood has expansion properties with the increase of humidity. Giving the wood a little space while building the summer house will be a wise option in days of humidity.
Many northern countries have pinewood as the best option for the summer house. Timber is another widely popular option for the construction of a summer house. High-quality wood is essential to make sure that the summer house has a strong foundation and a safe space to occupy.
Doors, windows, and roof
The second factor is about doors, windows, and roof of the summer house. Strong doors, roofs, and windows are essential. A good way to make sure that everything is strong is to pick the right quality of wood with the correct finish. Insulation should also be kept as a priority.
Ventilation of the summer house
The third factor that should be given priority is the ventilation of the summer house. Ventilation is key in making sure that the summer house can be properly utilized during the summer season. A summer house that has proper ventilation passages will be much more used than one that is poorly constructed and has little or no ventilation.
Do you require building regulations for a summer house?
One of the best aspects of building a summer house is that there are no regulatory measures that are required. In most cases, you don’t need any prior permission from the authorities. But it should be noted that any building that is over 30 squares meters will require permission from building regulation and authority.
Is it possible to build a summer house on your own?
Many people are handy with construction and can build a summer house from scratch. Although, there are a few things that should be kept in mind before you decide to take such a big project on your own. With the right planning and the right knowledge, it is very much possible to save money that will be spent on outsourcing the construction or getting a ready-made summer house.
Subsequently, time can also be a restraint. Projects like these should be started with a proper allotment of time and planning. It will only help you in getting big chunks of work done in the allocated time.
Why is building a heightened summer house prohibited?
Several reasons imply that it is discouraged to construct summer houses above a certain height – 2.5 meters to be precise. Most building authorities don’t allow a height that exceeds 2.5 meters. Additionally, houses in the neighborhood can also complain about the height of your summer house to relevant authorities. Don’t let your summer house be the reason that natural light is blocked for your neighbors.
What are the common mistakes when building a summer house?
There are a few errors that can completely ruin the vibe and purpose of your summer house. Making sure that you stay away from such errors is vital.
1. Poor future planning
Before you even start to build the summer house, you need to properly visualize its use in the future. Ideally, you should plan a summer house that can withstand changes and can be upgraded or modified to meet new or changed requirements. Plan a summer house that has great durability and good insulation. This way, it can even be used in winters by you or your family.
2. No-compliance of building authority and regulations
It is unwise to spend so much money, time, and effort on building a summer house that is not in alignment with the rules of building authorities in your city. You should contact your local planning office and gather information about all the dos and don’ts beforehand. It will save you from throwing your money down the drain.
In case you have plans to build a bigger summer house that can accommodate your future requirements as well, then get all the necessary paperwork done before you start.
3. Low-quality material
Picking up low-quality material so that you can go cheap and built under a budget can cost you more than you anticipated. It is true, and it has happened to many people. Summer houses built with poor wood will also be at the mercy of rain. Additionally, it can also be a target for insects and rotting of the wood. Poor quality wood will also get rather quickly affected by strong sun and wind. Picking up wood that is durable and will last the test of time is essential in building a summer house.
From making sure that the height is within the allowed boundaries to a strong foundation and proper ventilation, many factors play a crucial role in the success of a summer house. Making sure that you have covered all the areas will result in the summer house of your dreams.