LGB Insiders
Welcome in. Here's your planning guide.
Five simple steps to choosing the right garden building, from a family business that has helped more than 1,000 customers. We'll email you before our Black Friday prices are revealed.
1. Decide what it's for
Storage, a workshop, a summerhouse, a greenhouse, a garden room or a garage? What you'll use it for decides almost everything else: the size, the timber thickness, the windows and whether you'll want power. If it's a mix, plan for the biggest job.
2. Measure your space
- Measure the spot, then leave at least 60cm (2ft) around the building for treating and maintenance.
- Check where the door will open and how you'll walk to it.
- Look up: overhanging trees and gutters matter.
- Not sure what fits? Try our Find buildings that fit tool.
3. Check planning permission
Most garden buildings don't need planning permission, but the rules depend on height, where it sits and what it's used for. As a rough guide, outbuildings within 2 metres of a boundary usually need to stay under 2.5 metres high, and they can't be used as bedrooms. Listed buildings, conservation areas and some other areas have tighter rules. Use our free planning-permission checker, and if in doubt, check with your local council before you buy.
4. Plan your base
A firm, level base is the single biggest thing that makes a building last. Your main options are a concrete slab, paving slabs, or a timber or plastic base kit. The base should be level and the same size as the building's footprint, or very slightly larger. Many of our buildings have a matching base you can add on the product page. Just ask if you're not sure which suits your garden.
5. Choose your build
- Cladding: overlap is the budget choice; shiplap and tongue-and-groove are tighter and stronger.
- Timber thickness: thicker cladding and framing means a sturdier, longer-lasting building.
- Roof: an apex roof gives more headroom in the middle; a pent roof slopes one way and suits sitting against a fence.
- Delivery and installation: some of our ranges come with free delivery and installation. We'll tell you which.
- Treatment: treat timber when it's installed and every year or two after. It's the cheapest way to add years to your building.
See them for real
Our Display Site at Buzzards Valley, Tamworth B78 3EQ has more than 25 buildings you can walk into. We're open 7 days a week and staffed most days, so ring or book a time if you'd like someone to show you round.
Handy tools
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