Contact us 01889 597 283 | contact@oaktimberstructures.co.uk
Contact us 01889 597 283 | contact@oaktimberstructures.co.uk
All home renovation projects come with questions. Assembling a solid oak garage kit on your land is no different. When considering the purchase of an oak-framed garage, it's natural for common concerns to surface. Let’s discuss those queries.
As industry leaders, we've got a wealth of experience. Simply, through the years, we’ve heard it all! So in this article, we'll answer your common garage-related questions head-on. We’ll lay out the facts with proven sources. Read on and get informed.
An architects responsibility is the propose designs that are structurally sound for the building you are looking to create, our 3D online designer fulfils this aspect as anything you design on our product pages will be strong enough to support itself. Whilst we have the building itself covered, it is recommended that you consider professional guidance on other aspects outside of our control.
Fact: Garages sit on a small brick wall, so although we can help with the frame and other features, you'll need a professional to help with the footings and the brickwork. Often builders can advise on this, though.
Source: Oak Timber Structures Online Garage Designer.
Talking of self-design, you may wonder what features are changeable. We understand that every property and homeowner has unique needs. That's why, at Oak Timber Structures, every oak garage is bespoke. Read more on tips for designing yours here. But here's a quick look at some customisations available:
Fact: Truth is, we can make any garage you want! If you've got the vision, then we've got the skill set. Just picture your dream garage. Oak Timber Structures will bring it to life with precision and care.
Source: Oak Timber Structures Online Garage Designer.
First, you’ll need to pick the ideal location for your garage. And yes, a stable foundation is crucial for any structure, including oak garages. The foundations will support the garage and prevent any structural damage.
Fact: Ensuring a uniform ground level is essential for the stability of your garage. Furthermore, as reported by the NHBC Standards website, concrete foundations should have a thickness of at least 100 mm on top of 100 mm of compacted hardcore with edge thickening. Such a sturdy base can handle the weight distribution of the structure.
But remember, no garage is the same, so this is a generalisation to give you an idea. You should consult a trained professional for tailored advice. Land quality, nearby trees, size of garage and other factors result in different needs.
Source: NHBC Standards
Planning is a confusing topic. A detached garage is seen as an outbuilding and there are specific rules for this type of structure. UK planning permission for an outbuilding depends on key factors, including size, location and more.
Fact: The Planning Portal is your place to go for the facts. Here you can read what makes a garage a ‘Permitted Development’. A ‘Permitted Development’ means you don't need planning permission and you can often achieve this by:
Be sure to check the link. We highly recommend consulting with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with the regulations. This will give you peace of mind as laws do change and your unique location can cause stricter rules.
Source: Planning Portal
Yes, outbuildings increase the value of your property. Our oak garages boast sublime craftsmanship and top-quality oak. The visual enhancement brings the wow factor. At the same time, a garage is a practical addition. Homeowners can use the space as storage, workspace, and more. Such potential appeals and thus increases home value.
Fact: Property experts confirm the added value. According to Property Market Intel, you can see an estimated value increase from 10 to 15%. However, such an increase is an estimate. As we’re sure you know, the property market is ever-changing. Market trends such as interest rates, economy and more mean property values change over time.
Source: Property Market Intel
Oak is a durable timber. It's a wood naturally resistant to rot and water, making it excellent for outdoor use. You can read more about this in the article 'Is Oak The Best Timber for a Garden Structure?'
Fact: Oak's natural qualities ensure a long lifespan. There’s evidence across the world from ski chalets to historic churches.
Take St. Andrews Church, Greensted as an example. It's one of the oldest wooden churches in the world. Oak logs make up the church's nave to date. While restoration work has helped the structure over the years, the original oak parts prove the longevity.
Of course, this is a remarkable oak story and doesn't apply to all oak buildings. But, you can be confident our oak garages are built to last. Since 2015, we've crafted many garages that’ll stand for decades to come.
Source: Greensted Church
It’s understandable to have environmental concerns! The truth is, using oak is super sustainable. We make sure we source all our oak from sustainable European sources. So, not only are oak trees replenished at source, but timber also doesn't travel far to reach our Hixon base. Click here to read more ‘Environmental Benefits of Oak’.
Fact: The environmental benefits of oak are significant, some key points include:
Source: Creating Tomorrows Forests
When installing an oak garage, you may wonder what steps a builder needs to take. Here lies a key reason garage kits save time and money. With the frame already cut to precision, assembly is much less laborious.
Fact: Timber frame buildings are faster to build compared to traditional brick constructions, saving both time and money.
Source: Yell Reviews
Investing in an oak garage from Oak Timber Structures is full of benefits. Our high-grade sustainably sourced oak possesses durability and timeless style. Not forgetting the work of our skilled team. They’ll craft your bespoke design with precision, ready to pack into an easy-to-assemble kit. Of course, then you’ve got a functional space oozing tradition.
We hope this guide has clarified the key aspects of installing an oak garage. Give our friendly team a call if there's anything not covered here. We're always happy to chat. We must stress that this is general guidance. No oak garage is the same. Moreover, no land is the same. So, tailored advice from a professional builder about foundations and planning will make sure the entire glow-up is a breeze.
Ready to transform your property with an oak garage that stands the test of time? Visit our Oak Garage Page and start designing your bespoke garage kit today!