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When deciding to invest in a summer house, you have options when it comes to the type of roof it has. The two most common styles are a pent roof and an apex roof.
Each roof type offers unique features and benefits. This makes the selection process both exciting and challenging. In this guide, we’ll unravel the distinctions between these two types to help you make an informed choice.
Keep reading to find the perfect retreat for your garden oasis!
Pent Roof Summer Houses
A pent summerhouse is a more modern style thanks to its flat, sloping roof. Unlike its apex or hipped counterparts, this type of roof creates a slightly more ‘boxy’ look to the building, which can look extremely stylish in modern gardens. A pent roof slopes in a single direction, typically from the front to the back, meaning that on wet days the rainwater will never have runoff towards the entrance.
Unique characteristics of pent roofs
When you are inside a summerhouse with a pent roof, the highest point of the ceiling is at the front of the building. This allows for tall front-facing windows and the impression that your garden is opening up before you, adding to the relaxing aesthetic.
Advantages
- Modern appeal: A pent roof summerhouse exudes a modern and minimalist charm. Besides contemporary landscapes, it can complement various garden styles.
- Natural light: The ample windows on the front maximise natural light. With this, an inviting atmosphere is guaranteed.
- Functional space: The interior’s layout is versatile. This makes it suitable for various uses, such as a garden library, art studio, or garden bar.
Use cases
A summer house pent roof is ideal for:
- Home garden offices: Providing a quiet, well-lit workspace separate from the main house.
- Art studios: Offering artists an inspiring and naturally lit environment.
- Relaxation retreats: Creating a serene space for meditation, reading, or unwinding.
The pent summerhouse boasts adaptability and modern design. These make it a versatile and appealing addition to any garden. Its presence is key to added aesthetics and functionality for outdoor spaces.
Apex Summer Houses
An apex summerhouse stands as a classic and enduring choice among garden enthusiasts. Its design is cherished for its timeless design and versatility. Moreover, its distinguishing feature is the apex roof, offering a distinct appeal.
An apex roof features a symmetrical A-shaped roof design with two sloping sides meeting at a central ridge. This architectural element lends it a traditional and charming look, but can still fit perfectly well into more modern gardens alongside features such as decking. Overall, it harmonises effortlessly with various garden styles.
Unique characteristics of apex roofs
The apex roof design ensures multi-directional rainwater runoff. At the same time, it allows for a generous ceiling height throughout the structure. This feature makes it well-suited for storage, relaxation, and other purposes.
Advantages
- Timeless beauty: The elegant apex design adds a touch of timeless sophistication.
- Ample headroom: The high central ridge provides plenty of headroom. This makes it ideal for multi-purpose use as you will be able to do more in the middle of the space.
- Versatility: Apex summerhouses can serve as a garden gym, a kids’ play room, a dining area, as well as all the same uses as the pent summerhouses.
Use cases
Apex summerhouses excel in various scenarios, including:
- Entertainment rooms: Serving as a cosy entertainment hub for gatherings and leisure activities.
- Garden gyms: Offering extra vertical space to jump or skip.
- Family eating area: For outdoor dining without the wind getting in the way.
An apex summerhouse strikes a balance between aesthetics and utility. Its enduring elegance and durability also make it a cherished addition to any garden.
Key Differences
Pent and apex summerhouses differ primarily in their roofing styles. This greatly influences both aesthetics and functionality.
Roofing styles
- Pent summerhouse: Features a single-sloped roof, offering modern aesthetics and excellent natural light. Efficient rain runoff maximises interior space.
- Apex summerhouse: Showcases an ‘A’ or ‘V’-shaped roof, exuding timeless charm. The high central ridge provides ample headroom and versatile use.
The choice between the two ultimately hinges on personal taste and specific requirements. Consider your garden’s style, intended use, and design preferences. Both types offer unique advantages, ensuring a tailored fit for every outdoor space.
Factors to Consider
- Garden size: Assess your garden’s dimensions. This way, you can determine the space available without overcrowding the area.
- Intended use: Define the purpose. Will it be a home office, entertainment space, or relaxation retreat?
- Visual preferences: Consider your garden’s overall style and your design preferences.
- Natural light: Determine how much natural light you desire inside. A pent summer house can potentially offer more, while an apex building will often have more shade around the ceiling.
- Budget: Evaluate your budget. Compare costs for construction, maintenance, and any additional features.
- Maintenance: Consider the upkeep requirements of each roof style.
- Local regulations: Check local zoning and building regulations that may impact your choice.
Make sure to weigh these factors carefully. But remember, the ideal choice depends on your unique garden and lifestyle needs.
Explore Garden Buildings Direct’s extensive selection of garden summerhouses. In addition to the two mentioned types, we also offer a variety of other captivating designs. Don’t miss the chance to discover our insulated summer houses and log cabin summerhouses.
Still not sure which to buy? Check out our complete guide to summerhouses.
