Well… As per usual the British summer has not been as sunny as we would have liked. This is exactly why many gardeners use a summer house to enjoy their garden even when the weather turns.
These idyllic buildings can also make excellent garden offices for those who work from home, and self employed people may also be able to recover some of the cost on their tax return.
If you’re ready to invest a bit of time and creativity, we’ve got some clever tips to help you acquire your summerhouse without paying too much.
Reasons Why You Should Choose a Budget Summer House
Imagine turning your garden into your own zen space. A peaceful escape, a stylish entertaining zone, a raucous DIY bar, or a productive home office. We’ve got some wallet-friendly ideas that mean you could enjoy all the benefits of a summer house without creating too much of a financial burden. Let’s get into it.
1. Affordable Summer House Options
Prefabricated Kits
So, who doesn’t love a bit of a flat-pack mission? A really easy way to get your summer house but on a strict budget is by buying a prefabricated kit. These come with all the materials you need, and they’re designed for easy assembly, even if you’re not a DIY expert.
Prefabricated kits are available in so many styles and sizes. You will have no issue finding one that suits your garden, and your needs, and fits your aesthetic.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Timesaving
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Might not be as sturdy as other options.
- You do actually have to do it yourself!
Considerations:
- It depends on what you want it for… Do you need electricity or water plumbed in there? Does it need specific insulation? Do you need planning permission? A more bespoke service would go through these questions with you, or you could always seek the advice of a landscape gardener. They know a lot about such things.
DIY Construction
If you’ve already got a shed full of tools and know your way around a DIY project, building your own might be for you. You can choose your own materials and construct it on a time frame that suits you. This way you can save money and really make it your own. Plus, you get big pride points when people come to check out your skills.
Pros:
- Full control over design
- Potential for higher quality materials
- Satisfaction of building it yourself
Cons:
- Time-consuming
- Requires DIY skills and tools
- Could be costly if something goes wrong
Considerations:
- We love DIY…. Do we finish all our DIY projects in a timely manner? NO. Be realistic and get used to the banter of people hilariously querying if you’ve finished it yet.
Repurposed Inexpensive Garden Sheds
Another budget-friendly option is to repurpose an existing garden shed into a summer house. With some creativity and a bit of work and patience, you can transform a basic, cheap garden building into a cosy and stylish retreat.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Environmentally friendly
- Can be a fun DIY and scavenging/thrifting project
- Is already in situ so no delivery times.
Cons:
- Limited space and design options
- May require modifications that an older structure might not support
Considerations:
- Transforming an old garden shed can be a rewarding project, but it’s essential to assess the condition of the existing structure. Consider the need for insulation, possible repairs, and whether the shed can accommodate any necessary utilities like electricity or plumbing. Consulting with a landscape gardener or a DIY expert can provide valuable insights.
Summary: Choosing the right affordable summer house option depends on your budget, DIY skills, and specific needs. Prefabricated kits offer a quick and easy solution, while DIY construction provides maximum customisation. Repurposing a garden shed is an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice but may require more creativity and effort. Assess your requirements and resources to find the best fit for your tranquil garden escape.
2. Cost-Effective Materials and Construction Methods
Recycled and Upcycled Materials
Using recycled or upcycled materials is a fantastic way to cut costs and can add a great deal of character. This means your affordable summer house won’t look like it was bought straight off the peg.
Look for reclaimed wood, old windows, and doors that can be given a new lease on life. Websites like Freecycle / Facebook Marketplace or local salvage yards are great places to find these materials.
We’re sure that you can’t have failed to notice the boom in people sharing their upcycling projects on pretty much any social media platform. This is a good place to start if you like the idea of getting creative but don’t entirely know where to start.
Tips:
- Prep is key, it might seem like a nuisance while you’re doing it, but it will save time and effort in the long run.
- Ensure your materials are in good condition and are safe for use.
- Sand and treat reclaimed wood to prevent rot and pests and get rid of any old nails.
Lightweight and Affordable Construction Materials
Lightweight materials have come a long way and ultra-modern building materials offer up a whole world of design possibilities. There are many attractive and affordable options out there for you to choose from.
One example is oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood for the walls. These materials are affordable and easy to work with, ideal for DIY projects, especially if you anticipate there being a degree of trial and error! Insulate the walls with affordable insulation boards to keep your summer house comfortable year-round and take precautions if you are removing previous materials.
Tips:
- Of course, you’ll need to use weather-resistant paints and sealants to protect your materials.
- Corrugated metal or polycarbonate roofing are good options for both durability and cost-effectiveness. They come in a range of colours and finishes to suit your design preference.
3. DIY Projects to Personalise Your Summer House
Creative Paint and Decor
Just like in your own home, it is amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do to refresh your summer house. Choose light, bright colours to make the space feel larger and more inviting. Behave as if you were doing up your living room, for example.
You could create a feature wall in a different colour or in an interesting wallpaper for a more personal touch without spending a fortune. Hardware stores do trial pots of paint for very little cost and could be enough for a feature wall. Depending on the size of your summer house of course!
Tips:
- Use exterior-grade paint for durability.
- Potted plants and fairy lights are the perennial favourites for creating a cosy atmosphere.
Furniture Hacks
As we mentioned before for choosing building materials, instead of buying new furniture, consider upcycling old pieces. A coat of paint, new cushions, and a bit of creativity can turn an old bench or table into a stylish addition. Furniture recycling charity shops like Emmaus are a good place to start or of course the usual online marketplaces like Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace.
Tips:
- Sanding! Yes, we know we said it before but we’re quite serious about the importance of prep. Then paint your new old furniture to match your summer house or garden shed aesthetic.
- Use outdoor fabric for cushions and upholstery to withstand the elements and add longevity. This should help the fight against the UK damp.
4. Maintenance and Longevity of Budget Summer Houses
Regular Maintenance
To ensure your budget summer house lasts for years, you need to perform regular maintenance. If you think about how often you look after your house, give your garden buildings the same love too. They are under more pressure from the elements than a modern home after all. This means looking for signs of wear and tear, checking any potential points of water ingress, and treating any exposed wood. Keeping the structure clean and dry is the name of the game.
Mice and similar like to move into places like this, especially if only used sporadically or have left a packet of something tasty lying around! They also really like taking cushion materials to make their nests. So if you’re planning on leaving your garden shed locked up for a while – maybe put the cushions away somewhere safe.
Tips:
- Reapplying paint or sealant every few years is always a good idea for garden buildings and structures.
- Cleaning the gutters and roof regularly will go a long way to preventing water damage.
- Make checking for pests part of your routine and then treat them accordingly. They have no manners and will come around any time, with no invitation.
Weatherproofing
We all know the challenges that UK weather can bring. Protecting your summer house from the elements is a key step in your journey and future you will thank present you for your efforts when you take good weatherproofing steps.
Draught excluders, weather-resistant paint, sealing any gaps or cracks or even creating a simple roof structure/shelter to cover it are all good examples. DO GARDEN BUILDINGS DO SOMETHING SIMILAR? This will prevent against leaf fall or excess standing water.
Tips:
- Install a weatherproof membrane under the roof.
- Silicone sealant is your friend, apply liberally around windows and doors to prevent leaks. Loads of good YouTube tutorials cover these steps.
5. Inspirational Ideas and Case Studies
Jane’s Beach Hut Summerhouse
Introduction:
Recently, Jane shared her delightful experience of transforming her garden with a beach hut-style summerhouse.
Jane’s Challenge:
Jane had a tricky spot in her garden that was perfect for a summerhouse, but it had odd proportions. Undeterred, she began researching the perfect summerhouse. After months of visiting garden centres and scouring the internet, Jane found the ideal summerhouse at Garden Buildings Direct.
Purchase and Delivery Experience:
Jane was thrilled with the easy and straightforward online purchase process. The delivery arrived exactly as scheduled. “It was so easy and straightforward to buy online, and delivery arrived exactly when scheduled,” she said. With some help from a friend, Jane and her partner assembled the summerhouse.
Decorating the Summerhouse:
Jane decorated her summerhouse in a charming beach hut style. The exterior boasts a blue and white colour scheme, complemented by rustic chairs, seaside cushions, and beach hut accessories. Inside, it’s adorned with mini beach hut ornaments, maritime bunting, and their two cute dogs.
Final Thoughts:
Jane and her family love their new summerhouse. “We love it – everyone who comes to see it asks where it came from and is now on their to-do lists. We are proud to show our beach hut off to anyone who asks,” Jane shared.
Inspired by Jane’s Story?
If you’d like a beach hut-styled summerhouse like Jane’s, check out our fabulous range of summerhouses.
6. Where to Purchase Budget-Friendly Summer Houses and Materials
Garden Buildings Direct
For those looking for a hassle-free option, Garden Buildings Direct offers a range of affordable summer houses and garden buildings. Products are designed with the budget-conscious consumer in mind, offering great value without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
Creating your dream summer house on a budget is entirely possible with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness. Whether you choose to buy a prefabricated kit, build your own from scratch, or repurpose an old garden shed, there are plenty of affordable options available. You can enjoy a stylish and functional summer house without breaking the bank by using recycled materials, taking on DIY projects, and performing regular maintenance. Happy building!
