Susan Tester - January 21st 2024 Very knowledgeable and helpful sales staff. Good product. Delivery on time and building quick and efficient. Reasonably priced. All in all very satisfied.
Amarjit Cheema - January 22nd 2024 Happy with the range of summerhouses seen on site. Quality and pricing is good.
It was easy to view and did not feel pressured into buying. Our queries were answered and we went ahead with our purchase, The summerhouse was installed on the date given. No issues. A good shopping experience.
Richard Hay - February 1st 2024 Very positive.
The sales person was attentive, informed, patient and ready to find solutions. Deadlines were respected, so that the shed was erected on time. It seems to be serving it’s purpose well.
Mark Constable - February 17th 2024 Excellent. I visited three firms and set out my requirements.
First Choice Buildings listened carefully, were patient with my changes and I now have a splendid garden office from one of your stock, quality sheds. Perfect.
Mark Watts - February 28th 2024 Very satisfied. Steph was very knowledgeable and
we didn't feel under any pressure to buy. She explained thoroughly what our options were (which were many) and accommodated our changes. The process from having the base created to the installation of the building to the installation of the electrics was very slick and everyone turned up when they said they would. The work was carried out to a high standard and was extremely good value for money. We are very happy with the finished result
Garden workshops are a versatile addition to any home, but are they worth the investment? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll navigate the practicality, materials, and customisation options that make these spaces more than just the perfect place for outdoor storage. Dive in to discover if a tongue and groove garden workshop is the right choice for your needs without unnecessary jargon.
-
Garden workshops offer functional spaces for crafts, hobbies, and home offices, with wooden, metal, and plastic varieties each providing different aesthetic appeals, durability, and maintenance requirements.
-
Modern garden workshops can be customised with various layout options, door and window placements, and modular designs, while installation of electrical fittings and insulation enhances their functionality and comfort.
-
Choosing the right garden workshop involves considering climate, storage needs, and long-term maintenance, with the need to inspect in person before buying and the option of professional installation providing added value.
Garden workshops, whether wooden, metal or plastic, are more than glorified sheds. They are promoted as spaces where creativity blossoms. However, does the reality match these promises? You would hope so, especially when the customer service team at garden centers play such a critical role in shaping customer experiences and delivering on these brand promises.
They are often championed as ideal workshops, dedicated environments for crafts, hobbies, and even as potential home offices. With wooden garden workshops offering a rustic charm and metal workshops promising durability, the choices seem endless. But before we get carried away with the romantic idea of timber workshops at the end of the garden, large sheds or even log cabins, we must ask ourselves: Are these wooden workshop sheds more than attractive garden buildings? Are they really the practical and functional wooden workshop sheds they claim to be? Let’s put them to the test.
Painted Options
Insulated Range
Combo Workshops
Garden Buildings Show Rooms
Assembling a garden workshop isn’t a job for the faint-hearted. It resembles putting together a large 3D jigsaw puzzle, each piece being critical. Every step matters, from detailed planning to securing materials, creating a strong foundation, and waterproofing the roof.
However, don’t be intimidated. Equipped with the right tools, equipment, patience, and hard work, you can certainly build your own workshop. Numerous DIY enthusiasts have successfully built their workshops, thanks to online instructional materials.
Remember that safety comes first. Always equip yourself with proper safety gear and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent accidents.
1st Choice Leisure Buildings has a free installation service for all their timber workshops.
Modern garden workshops, including metal garden workshops, are a testament to architectural artistry and pragmatic design. They are much more than mere storage spaces; they accommodate a variety of activities, making them both a workshop shed and garden room, an invaluable addition to any home. Whether you’re into wooden craft or pottery or even need a quiet space for writing, these workshops are designed to cater to your needs, serving as a perfect workshop shed or hobby room.
In terms of selecting the appropriate material for your garden workshop, there isn’t a universal solution. Each material has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Wooden workshops, for example, offer rustic charm and blend seamlessly with garden surroundings. On the other hand, metal workshops, made from galvanised steel, are robust, fire-resistant, and require less treatment and maintenance. Considering a metal or wooden workshop together, it’s essential to weigh these factors carefully.
Plastic workshops, while durable and low-maintenance, may not offer the same visual appeal as their wooden, timber or metal shed counterparts. However, resin sheds can mimic the look of wood, offering a more varied appearance. The choice, therefore, comes down to your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and, of course, your budget.
Their adaptability is a major benefit of garden rooms and workshops. Today’s modern designs offer flexible door and window placements, modular designs, and a plethora of other customisation options that cater to a variety of hobbies and professions.
Enhancing a garden workshop’s functionality can involve:
-
Installing electrical fittings
-
Insulating walls and ceilings
-
Applying interior treatments for appeal
-
Using specific claddings for exterior walls
-
Layout adaptability, such as varied shelving and storage solutions, allows for a tailored organisation within the workshop that aligns with the user’s unique requirements.
In addition to aesthetics and durability, an outstanding workshop needs to prioritise user-friendliness. This involves many things:
These factors make the space more conducive for work.
Space-saving solutions like wall-mounted shelves and pegboards provide easy access to tools and keep the workshop organised. And don’t forget about lighting. Electrical wiring and proper lighting are fundamental for a garden workshop’s functionality, tailored to suit the specific activities undertaken within.
Once you’ve grasped the design and setup factors, it’s time to evaluate these garden workshops. We’ll be evaluating these spaces on three fronts: durability, usability, and maintenance requirements, considering factors such as weather resistance, natural light, storage solutions, and upkeep.
Durability plays a significant role in evaluating a garden workshop. After all, your workshop needs to withstand the weather conditions of your area. Here are some factors to consider:
-
Wooden workshops are noted for their durability, especially when well maintained, and can endure harsh weather. Selecting a pressure-treated building will help to prevent rot for many years.
-
Metal workshops, while robust, require proper coating to resist rust. Although the SafeStore buildings have anti-rust protection and are fire resistant,
-
Plastic workshops offer weather resistance. Still, they may be less durable and vulnerable in windy conditions.
Thus, choosing the right material for your workshop involves considering your local climate and the workshop’s exposure to different weather conditions. Is your area prone to high winds, heavy snow, or long periods of sunshine? Each of these factors can impact the longevity and performance of your workshop.
Considerations of space and storage are crucial for any garden workshop. Whether you’re storing gardening tools, crafting supplies, or using the space for larger projects, your workshop needs to accommodate your needs efficiently. Workshops with adjustable shelving and customisable storage have achieved higher satisfaction levels among users.
Moreover, storage boxes and cabinets can maximise storage space efficiency and offer secure storage for various tools and equipment. This means that whether you’re using your workshop for woodworking, painting, or any other hobby or craft, you’ll have the space to keep everything organised and within easy reach. The extra storage space will never be wasted.
Owning a garden workshop goes beyond the initial setup and customisation. It calls for a commitment towards its maintenance and upkeep. Regular tasks may include reapplying protective treatments to wood surfaces, cleaning gutters, and inspecting for damage. Choosing a garden workshop constructed with a solid base, strong flooring, and durable roofing can help minimise the frequency and cost of repairs, enhancing its long-term value. Also, safe storage of hazardous materials in proper containers with adequate ventilation and spill control is crucial to maintain safety within the garden workshop.
Regular maintenance ensures your workshop remains a safe, functional, and enjoyable space to create for years to come, with our year anti-rot guarantee
Horizontal T&G Lining
MDF Lining & Insulation
Insulated Ply Lining
Vertical T&G Lining
So, having scrutinised garden workshops, the essential question is: Is the investment worthwhile? Building a garden workshop from scratch can be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-fabricated one, offering savings on material costs and the added advantage of personal customisation. However, it’s important to bear in mind that alternative structures like off-the-shelf sheds, caravans, and shipping containers may require significant additional investment for customisation and functionality equivalent to garden workshops.
Ultimately, the value of a garden workshop is highly subjective and depends on your specific needs, space, and budget. Selecting a garden workshop from a reputable supplier with high-quality materials and guarantees can further validate the investment as a smart purchasing decision. After all, a garden workshop is much more than a building; it’s a space for creativity, productivity, and enjoyment.
Before making the commitment and investing in a garden workshop, it’s vital to inspect the finished product in person. Pictures may be worth a thousand words, but they can’t replace the tangible experience of viewing a workshop in person. You wouldn’t buy a house without touring it first, would you? The same principle applies to purchasing a garden workshop.
Many reputable companies offer display sites where you can inspect their range of workshops, built with the finest quality materials. This lets you evaluate the build quality, aesthetics, and functionality first-hand, helping you make an informed decision. After all, an informed purchase is a smart purchase.
A notable benefit of buying a garden workshop from a trustworthy supplier is the provision of free installation service. This can save you time, effort, and a range of potential headaches with DIY assembly. After all, installing a workshop is a complex task requiring a certain skill level.
Having your garden workshop installed by professionals ensures a secure and sturdy build and provides peace of mind. Knowing that your investment is in safe hands allows you to focus on what truly matters: planning how you will use your new space to unleash your creativity.
To sum up, a garden workshop is a valuable addition to any home. It offers a dedicated space for creativity and productivity, transforming outdoor areas into functional and visually appealing spaces. From choosing the right material and design to ensuring user-friendly functionality and proper maintenance, many factors should be considered when investing in a garden workshop. However, a garden workshop can become a cherished and worthwhile investment with careful planning, research, and a reputable supplier.
Garden workshops are a worthwhile investment as they provide a versatile space for creativity, productivity, and storage, making them suitable for various activities.
Consider your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and local climate when choosing materials for your garden workshop. Wood provides a rustic charm, metal is durable and fire-resistant, and plastic offers weather resistance. However, it may be less durable.
When setting up a garden workshop, it’s crucial to plan the layout, the perfect space, secure the right materials, and ensure safety during assembly. Additionally, consider proper lighting, ventilation, and ergonomic design for a user-friendly space.
To maintain your garden workshop, regularly reapply protective treatments to wood surfaces, clean gutters, inspect for damage, and safely store hazardous materials to ensure your workshop shed is a safe and functional space for years to come.
It is highly recommended to physically inspect a garden workshop before purchasing. Reputable companies often offer display sites for this purpose, helping you make an informed decision. 1st Choice has a huge range of buildings to view and offer free delivery to most areas,