When it comes to building a garden room, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right base. While concrete bases may seem like a popular option, there are several drawbacks that you need to consider. In this blog, we will discuss the pros and cons of concrete versus elevated garden room bases.
Concrete Garden Room Bases
Concrete bases have been used for centuries and are a popular choice for garden buildings. They are sturdy, durable and relatively cheap to install as a garden room base. However, they have several disadvantages that you need to consider.
One of the major problems with concrete bases is that they are rarely insulated, which means that cold from below can meet warmth above and cause dampness. Those of us that have seen sheds sitting on concrete know that rot from the ground upwards is common. This rot can lead to a reduced lifespan for your garden room.
Concrete bases can also be disruptive to gardens, as the lorries that are needed to move materials in and waste out have a big carbon footprint. In addition, the lime used within concrete affects any adjoining soil, which can damage and even kill many plants and trees.
Elevated Garden Room Bases
Elevated bases, on the other hand, are becoming increasingly popular for garden buildings. These bases keep timber away from damp and cold surfaces, which can prevent rot and extend the lifespan of your garden room.
Elevated garden room bases work by allowing the timber to breathe, a lesson learnt and applied for hundreds of years of building. The use of staddle stones and air bricks can keep buildings dry and well-ventilated.
Elevated bases are quick, clean, and efficient and have more of a dusting than a carbon footprint. They are also recommended by arborists and tree protection offices, who would usually direct you away from concrete bases and the environmental harm they can cause.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a garden room base for your garden room, there are several factors to consider. While concrete bases may seem like a popular option, they can have several drawbacks, including a reduced lifespan for your garden room and environmental harm. Elevated bases, on the other hand, are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to keep timber away from damp and cold surfaces, and their ability to let timber breathe. So, if you want to ensure the longevity of your garden room and protect the environment, an elevated garden room base may be the best option for you.
For more information on garden room bases, please feel free to contact us.
