The foundation or base of your garden room plays a crucial role in the building’s longevity and stability. This blog will explore the different options available and will look at what you need and why.
Is the base of the garden room important?
Yes, foundations are crucial for any garden room. They help ensure the stability, durability, and longevity of the structure. Proper foundations can prevent issues such as subsidence, movement, and damp penetration. The type of foundation needed may vary based on factors like the size of the garden room, the intended use, the local soil conditions, and local building regulations.
Types of garden room bases available;
Concrete Slab Foundation
A concrete base involves waterproof membranes and then pouring a thick slab of concrete. This type of foundation is highly durable and provides the most stable and level base for garden rooms of all sizes. It is essential for larger structures or those requiring significant insulation and moisture protection. Cosy Garden Rooms fit a concentrate base as standard.
Timber Pegged Frame Base
A pegged timber frame base involves building a wooden frame on which the garden room sits. Timber bases usually consist of a wooden frame with wooden or composite posts buried into the ground and held firm with postcrete. They prevent damp from developing in your garden room as they have space for water to drain off while underneath it lets air circulate freely. A timber base is usually cheaper and easier to compensate for uneven ground without additional levelling. On the down side the building will be more susceptible to movement and there is the chance that you may get vermin underneath the garden room.
Ground Screw Foundation
Ground screw foundations use large screws drilled into the soil. This method is less invasive than laying a concrete slab, making it a good option for environmentally sensitive areas or gardens with difficult access. Ground screws can be adjusted to level the base on uneven ground, and they provide stability without the need for extensive excavation. Installation is quick and causes minimal disruption to the garden. Ground scans are essential to ensure that the ground screws do not cause damage or get obstructed by buried objects such as pipes or rocky areas this makes it a particularly expensive base.
Pile Foundations
Pile foundations involve driving deep piles (long, sturdy poles) into the ground to support the garden room. This method is ideal for very soft or uneven ground where other types of foundations might not be suitable. Piles can be made of wood, metal, or concrete and are driven deep into the ground to reach a stable layer of soil. This foundation type is highly durable and will provide support for heavier structures, but it requires specialised equipment and expertise to install often making it cost prohibitive plus the machinery is likely to cause damage to the wider garden area.
Things to consider when choosing a garden room base;
Assess your garden: what material does the ground consist of? Is your garden on a slope? What kind of access do you need? Will you need to protect tree roots or not disturb local wildlife? Most reputable garden room builders will consider and advise on this when they conduct a site survey as part of the design process. Here at Cosy Garden rooms; we offer a free survey and design service.
Make sure you measure the area properly and know the measurements of your building: if your base it too small the garden room will not be properly supported, while if it’s too large, surface water could cause problems. Make sure the base can support the weight of the structure, especially if you intend to put heavy items in it; a gym for example.
If pouring concrete, ensure it is completely even and flat by not pouring excessive amounts. Professional installation is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best base for a garden room?
The ideal base for a garden room depends on the structure's size, the ground condition, and specific requirements. A concrete slab is often preferred for its durability and moisture resistance, making it suitable for most garden rooms. However, for smaller structures or where installation speed is important, alternatives like timber frame bases or ground screw foundations are practical choices, offering ease of installation and minimal environmental impact.
How deep should a base be in a garden room?
The depth required for a garden room base varies with the foundation type and soil condition. Typically, a concrete slab should be at least 100mm (4 inches) deep. The depth for ground screw and pile foundations will depend on the structure's needs and the soil's characteristics, potentially extending several feet to ensure stability. Consulting a professional is crucial to determine the appropriate depth for your specific situation.
What are the options for a summer house base?
For summer houses, options range from concrete slabs, which provide a solid and durable foundation, to timber frame bases that are cost-effective and quick to install. Ground screws offer a flexible solution for uneven terrains without extensive groundworks. Alternatively, pavers or gravel can suffice for smaller, lightweight structures, though they may not offer the same stability as more robust foundations.
Cosy Garden Rooms specialises in bespoke garden rooms that seamlessly integrate with your lifestyle and outdoor environment. Our garden rooms are built on concrete bases, ensuring a solid, durable, and level foundation.
For any questions or advice, contact Mark at 0115 7722715
or email mark@cosygardenrooms.co.uk
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