Your garden building questions, answered
Whether you’re in the early dreaming stages or you’re already clearing a spot on the lawn, we know that a few practical questions are bound to sprout up.
We’ve done the heavy lifting, both literally and figuratively to gather everything you need to know in one place. From navigating the intricacies of planning permission to the smooth sailing of our buying process and the logistics of delivery day, we’ve mapped out the journey for you.
Cost & value
Is base work included in the price?
Yes, for all installation packages except Silver. Our chosen method is called a ‘Structural Timber Base’. This entails a post and beam method, where we concrete posts into the ground and lay beams across. This is a lot more cost-effective (and better for the environment) than a full concrete base. This method also allows for…
Can I get a custom size if standard dimensions don’t fit my plot?
Absolutely. While we offer over 160 standard size combinations, our bespoke ranges (like the Custom Studio) allow you to configure dimensions to maximize tricky or unusual garden layouts. You can also book a free home site survey where our team will measure your space and advise on the best fit.
What installation packages are available?
Yes!. Johnsons Garden Buildings offers tiered installation packages ranging from basic shells to fully finished garden offices
Is my garden room covered by my standard home insurance?
Usually, but you must notify your insurer. Most home insurance policies cover “outbuildings” but may have limits on contents value (like laptops) kept in the garden room.
Does a garden room add value to my property?
Generally, yes. A high-quality, insulated garden room can add between 5% and 15% to a property’s value by increasing usable floor space without the cost of a traditional extension.
Comparison & troubleshooting
What size garden room do I need for a home office?
Single desk office: A compact 2m x 2m or 3m x 2m room is plenty of space for a desk, office chair, and shelving. Two-person office: We recommend at least a 4m x 3m room to comfortably accommodate two full workstations and storage.
What happens to the wood in very hot weather?
Wood is a natural product and will expand or contract. In hot weather, you may see “shakes” (small cracks) or slight gaps. These are normal and usually close up when the moisture returns to the air.
What is the difference between a log cabin and a modular garden room?
Log cabins use interlocking timbers that “breathe” and move naturally, whereas modular garden rooms are typically built with a fixed timber frame, multi-layer insulation, and a finished internal wall.
How do I prevent mould and condensation in my garden room?
Good ventilation is essential. We recommend opening windows regularly or using trickle vents. In winter, maintaining a low constant heat can also help prevent moisture buildup on cold surfaces.
What if I find an issue during the final inspection?
Faults should be identified at completion. We will remedy these within a reasonable time before the certificate is signed.
Installation & construction
What if I find an issue during the final inspection?
Faults should be identified at completion. We will remedy these within a reasonable time before the certificate is signed.
Can we pick the colour of our building?
Yes, we offer a variety of colours of specialised treatment paint. Please note: supply of preservative paint does not include the application.
Do the felt shingles come in a choice of colours?
Yes, the felt shingles come in a choice of three popular colours: green, red or charcoal grey.
Are the measurements internal or external?
The measurements are all external and dimensions are taken from the full length of timber, end to end.
Do we get electrics with our garden room?
If you were to choose our ‘Diamond Package’ then, yes, the room will be supplied with electrics to complement the size of the room.
Process & delivery
How much side access do your installers need?
We generally require a minimum of 60cm–100cm clear side access to transport the panels and materials safely from the delivery vehicle to your garden.
Can I choose the direction the door opens?
In many of our models, the door and window configurations can be mirrored or adjusted to suit your garden’s layout. Please confirm this at the point of order.
What happens if I need to change my delivery date?
Requests to change a delivery date will be considered based on availability and may incur an additional charge.
What happens if an “Act of God” delays my project?
Johnsons is not liable for delays caused by events beyond our reasonable control, such as extreme weather or power failure.
Are minor changes to my order allowed?
Minor amendments do not terminate the agreement; all original terms and conditions remain in effect.
Planning & regulations
Can my neighbour object to a Permitted Development (PD) compliant garden room?
They can complain, but if all Permitted Development (PD) rules are strictly followed, the LPA cannot legally take enforcement action on planning grounds.
Can I use a log cabin as a home business premises?
Yes, for “incidental” uses like an office, studio, or treatment room. Check with your Local Authority if client visits or major changes in traffic/parking are involved, as this might require planning permission for a “Change of Use.”
Do garden rooms add value to my house?
Yes. A well-built, year-round, compliant garden room from Johnsons (especially an office/gym) can add between 5-10% to a property’s value, particularly in areas where space is at a premium.
Does Permitted Development (PD) override a ‘restrictive covenant’ on my property deeds?
No. Permitted Development (PD) rights only deal with public planning law. A private restrictive covenant (a limitation placed on the land by a previous owner or developer) is a separate legal matter and must be complied with, even if planning permission is not required.
What is the final piece of professional advice before starting a garden room build?
Even with Permitted Development (PD) rights, always obtain a Lawful Development Certificate (CLOPUD) for your specific build. This provides official, written, legal proof that the garden room is lawful, preventing issues with property sales or enforcement later.
Specific use & design
Can I get a custom size if standard dimensions don’t fit my plot?
Absolutely. While we offer over 160 standard size combinations, our bespoke ranges (like the Custom Studio) allow you to configure dimensions to maximize tricky or unusual garden layouts. You can also book a free home site survey where our team will measure your space and advise on the best fit.
What size garden building is best for a home gym?
For a functional home gym, we recommend at least a 4m x 3m space, which allows room for a treadmill or rack setup. If you plan on housing heavy equipment, a multi-station setup, or floor exercise mats alongside machines, a 5m x 4m or larger building is ideal.
What size garden room do I need for a home office?
Single desk office: A compact 2m x 2m or 3m x 2m room is plenty of space for a desk, office chair, and shelving. Two-person office: We recommend at least a 4m x 3m room to comfortably accommodate two full workstations and storage.
What security features do the doors and windows have?
Our units come with multi-point locking systems as standard, providing high levels of security similar to the doors and windows found in modern homes.
Can I choose the direction the door opens?
In many of our models, the door and window configurations can be mirrored or adjusted to suit your garden’s layout. Please confirm this at the point of order.
Utilities & services
Can I get finance for a garden room?
Yes. We offers and provide finance for all of out garden rooms, including interest-free or low-interest options, similar to large purchases like cars or wellness products.
How do I get internet/WiFi in my garden room?
The most reliable methods are a wired Ethernet cable run underground or a dedicated WiFi Mesh Extender system. Johnsons can install hard wired internet for you, for an additional fee.
How long should a log cabin or garden room last?
A well-built, high-quality log cabin or garden room with regular maintenance (timber treatment, gutter cleaning etc) should last 20 years or more. Garden buildings; built with modern standards should last even longer with regular maintenance and protection.
How do I heat my garden room?
The most popular options are electric wall-mounted heaters, underfloor heating, or a highly efficient air conditioning unit (Air Source Heat Pump) that provides both heating and cooling.
Do log cabins need guttering?
Recommended to manage water runoff and protect the timber base from splashback and damp. Required for flat roofs to prevent pooling. Find out more about Johnsons Guttering.
Good to know
Can I get a custom size if standard dimensions don’t fit my plot?
Absolutely. While we offer over 160 standard size combinations, our bespoke ranges (like the Custom Studio) allow you to configure dimensions to maximize tricky or unusual garden layouts. You can also book a free home site survey where our team will measure your space and advise on the best fit.
What size garden room do I need for a home office?
Single desk office: A compact 2m x 2m or 3m x 2m room is plenty of space for a desk, office chair, and shelving. Two-person office: We recommend at least a 4m x 3m room to comfortably accommodate two full workstations and storage.
What installation packages are available?
Yes!. Johnsons Garden Buildings offers tiered installation packages ranging from basic shells to fully finished garden offices
What security features do the doors and windows have?
Our units come with multi-point locking systems as standard, providing high levels of security similar to the doors and windows found in modern homes.
What is the difference between a log cabin and a modular garden room?
Log cabins use interlocking timbers that “breathe” and move naturally, whereas modular garden rooms are typically built with a fixed timber frame, multi-layer insulation, and a finished internal wall.
Maintenance & aftercare
Can we pick the colour of our building?
Yes, we offer a variety of colours of specialised treatment paint. Please note: supply of preservative paint does not include the application.
Does the building require regular treatment for the warranty?
Yes. You must adequately treat the cabin with a suitable preservative. Failure to do so will invalidate your warranty.
Can I move or modify the building once it is installed?
No. If you or a third party alters or relocates the goods without express consent, all guarantees and warranties will end.
What is the standard warranty period?
We provide a 1-year warranty for the garden building itself, windows, doors, and fittings, starting from the delivery date.
How long is the warranty on the structural timber base?
The structural timber base is covered for 5 years, excluding issues caused by external factors like subsidence or flooding.
Finance, payment & security
Can the price change after my order is confirmed?
The price is set in the Confirmation, but you may be liable for additional costs like insurance or requested alterations.
Will my refund be affected if I received a discount?
Yes. Any refund may be adjusted to reflect discounts given at the point of sale.
How much deposit is required to secure my order?
A deposit of 50% of the total price is required at the time of order to begin the process.
When do I need to pay the remaining balance?
The balance is due upon confirmation of your delivery date or 14 days prior to delivery, whichever happens first.
Should I handle security regarding bank transfers?
If you receive any correspondence regarding a change to bank details for BACS payments, please contact your branch or Aftersales for confirmation.