Garden Building FAQs
Below are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions we receive from customers. However, our team is here to help should you need some advice, information or guidance.
Are your garden buildings suitable for coastal areas?
Yes, our pressure-treated timbers and robust construction perform well in coastal environments - our construction methods have been developed over 30+ years to ensure that our buildings are designed to stand up to the British weather.
Do you offer bespoke designs?
While we offer a range of standard sizes online, our team can also put together a bespoke design and quote based on your exact requirements. You’re welcome to give us a call, or you can build a tailored quote online using our quote builder - once you reach the final step, our team will review everything and come back to you with prices.
How should I maintain my garden building?
The cladding and exterior timbers are high-quality and pressure-treated so that they can weather naturally and resist rot. You don't need to treat the timber unless you're doing it for aesthetic reasons - just keep the gutters clear and ensure there's good airflow around the building.
Can my garden building be dismantled and moved?
Certainly - while possible, our buildings are designed as permanent structures, so moving them requires professional dismantling and reassembly.
What glazing is supplied as standard?
In short, most of our buildings come with 14mm double-glazed units for improved insulation and security.
Can I install lighting and sockets in my garden building?
That’s no problem - most customers choose to have electrics fitted. We recommend using a qualified electrician for installation.
Can you match my new garden building to my existing property?
That’s no problem - we offer a choice of cladding types, roof colours, and you can always paint or stain your building for a coordinated look. If you’d like help choosing options or adapting the building to suit your space, our team is always happy to advise.
Do you offer insulation for garden buildings?
Yes, and wall, floor, and roof insulation options are available to ensure year-round comfort.
What timber do you use in your garden buildings?
We use premium-grade, sustainably-sourced, pressure-treated softwood for strength, durability, and resistance to rot and decay.
Who do I contact for support or enquiries?
You can reach our customer service team by telephone or via the enquiry form on our website. Our team is always happy to offer help and advice.
How does the five‑year workmanship guarantee work?
All of our garden buildings come with a five‑year workmanship guarantee, giving you confidence in long‑term quality and support.
Is maintenance required?
We use high-quality and pressure-treated timber for cladding and exterior wood which is designed to weather naturally and resist rot. You don't need to treat the timber unless you're doing it for aesthetic reasons.
What roofing options are available?
Our standing roofing is lightweight Onduvilla tiles, but we also offer felt tiles, Tapco, cedar shingles, or Onduline in a range of colours to suit your preferences. We can even prepare your roof ready for clay tiling, although this would need to be installed by your own roofing contractor.
Are your materials sustainably sourced?
Certainly - the premium-grade, pressure-treated timber we use for strength, durability, and resistance to rot and decay is responsibly and sustainably-sourced.
Can I customise my building specification?
While we offer a range of standard sizes online, our team can also put together a bespoke design and quote based on your exact requirements. You’re welcome to give us a call, or you can build a tailored quote online using our quote builder - once you reach the final step, our team will review everything and come back to you with options.
How is delivery and installation handled?
Our professional team will deliver and install your garden building nationwide (UK mainland) - assembly by our skilled team is included in the price. We confirm delivery access and schedule once your order is placed.
Can I opt for a DIY building kit?
Yes absolutely - we offer DIY kits which include all the panels, materials and fixings for a 20% discount on the base price. We provide panel plans and support to guide you through the process. If you’d like help choosing options or adapting the building to suit your space, our team is always happy to advise. See our guide to DIY Garden Room Kits.
What base does my building require?
Most Chart Garden Buildings — including garden rooms, summer houses and pavilions — require a solid, level concrete base to ensure long-term structural stability and to protect the timber from ground moisture.
The base should be properly prepared with a compacted sub-base, damp-proof membrane and reinforced concrete slab. This provides a flat, durable platform for installation and helps prevent movement over time.
For full specifications and preparation guidance, please see our groundworks guide.
Do I need planning permission for a garden building?
Many of our buildings fall under permitted development, but requirements can vary. We recommend checking with your local planning authority. If you’d like some advice, our team is here to help.
Still have questions?
Get in touch with our team.