Garden Structures | Home & Garden Classifieds

Garden sheds, greenhouses and conservatories all represent great ways to acquire some extra space for different purposes. They also all represent a considerable investment on your part and can be permanent fixtures so it is very important that you make the right choice before you buy. Here is some useful advice as to what to look out for and what to consider before buying a garden shed, greenhouse or conservatory.

What to consider when buying a garden shed

Most importantly, find out if you need planning permission and / or building regulation approval to put up a shed in your garden.
What do you plan to use the shed for? Garden sheds are generally used as storage but just what people actually store in their sheds can vary enormously and this will affect the shed that you buy. Make sure that the shed is big enough for your purposes. Think about whether you need a single door or double doors. If you plan to potter about in the shed or to use it as a bolt hole to escape to then it might be a good idea to have a window or two to allow light in. In contrast, if you plan to store valuable tools in it then a window may not be recommended.
Decide what material your shed should be made from. The most common types are wood, metal or plastic sheds. A wooden shed is more traditional and generally looks better but wood does require maintenance which the plastic and metal sheds don't.
If you decide on a wooden shed find out what timber is used to make the shed. Redwood timber is more expensive than white wood but it will last longer. Ask if the timber is pre-treated as this will ensure a longer life as it will prevent the wood rotting.
Ask if the supplier will deliver and erect the shed and, if so, ask if they charge extra for these services.
Ask if the supplier of the shed will organise the base for you or do you have to have this prepared in advance of the shed being installed?
Try to see some sample sheds already erected so that you know exactly what your shed will look like when finished.
Use a supplier with a good reputation or one that has been personally recommended to you. Find out how long they have been in business for.
If you need a shed that is not a standard size of shape then find out if the supplier will custom-build a shed to your specific requirements.

What to consider when buying a greenhouse

Decide what size of greenhouse will best suit you needs and will also fit into your garden. Most greenhouses come in standard sizes but if you require a specific size then find out if the supplier will custom-build one especially for you. An extendable greenhouse will allow you to add additional sections to it if, at a later stage, you find that you need more space or you have more money.
Decide or ask advice on what is the best type of base for the greenhouse. Flagstones or concrete are commonly used but you may also need an internal base so find out if this is supplied with your greenhouse or if you have to buy it as an extra.
Decide what style of greenhouse you want such as a traditional, free-standing type, a lean-to or a hexagonal or octagonal style.
Greenhouses can be made out of different materials. Glass is more expensive than polyethylene but the polyethylene will need replaced every few years and can be damaged by wind or snow.
The greenhouse frame can be made of wood or aluminium. Woods such as cedar and teak will need regular oiling and, while whitewood is cheaper, it will need to be regularly painted and will have a shorter life span. Aluminium is more durable, needs less maintenance than wood and is now available in a range of different coloured finishes.

What to consider when buying a conservatory

Firstly, find out if you need planning permission to build a conservatory.
Decide on what size of conservatory you want and what will be in keeping with your house. An enormous conservatory added onto a very small house will look ridiculous and will overpower the house. Most good conservatory companies will offer advice as to what size will suit best your house.
Decide on what material you would like your conservatory to be built from and what finish you prefer. Conservatories can be made from hardwood, softwood, PVC or aluminium. Wood looks good but will require regular maintenance. PVC is available in white or wood-effect finishes. The white finish is generally cheaper but, if the rest of your house has wood-effect PVC windows, then do consider spending the extra money so that the conservatory will be in keeping with the rest of the house.
Think about what you plan to use the conservatory for. If you want to use it all year round then opt for a thicker or heat retardant glass or multi-layered polycarbonate as this will help conserve heat. Polycarbonates are available in different finishes such as opaque, opal or bronze which can help reduce glare from strong sunlight.
Think about what shape of conservatory would suit best. A square shape provides most useable space but an octagonal or hexagonal conservatory may suit an older house better.
It is absolutely vital that you choose a conservatory supplier that has a good reputation so that any snags can be properly dealt with after the conservatory has been erected. Make sure you see some sample conservatories already built so that you know what to expect.
Check that the supplier will deliver and erect the conservatory, including building the required foundations or walls. Also check whether electrical wiring and any necessary plumbing or radiator installation are included within the price.
Compare prices between different conservatory suppliers as this is a very competitive market and bargains or ex-display models are often available at the end of the summer.