How long do garden rooms take to build?
Understandably this is a very common question we are asked here at Swift HQ. Our answer very much depends on a few specific factors about your garden room…most importantly the size and the facilities required.
We would expect to be handing over the keys to the new owner of a typical 4m x 3m Swift Garden Room without plumbing within 2-3 weeks. An annexe or entertainment suite with a bathroom and kitchen/bar we would predict a build time of 4 -6 weeks, depending upon size and design (this does not take into account any planning permission or suppliers lead times, this is specifically referring to how long garden rooms take to build).
There are a few other factors that could extend build time for your new space. For example, specialised cladding/decking requiring a complicated installation, premium bespoke glazing, and complex ground clearance. Other situations, such as extreme weather conditions, illness and unforeseen delivery disruptions, could also potentially add to the build time, but typically your new life-changing space will be ready within the expected time frame.
As all our buildings are bespoke, build times will need to vary according to design, size and complexity, but here is an outline of what to expect and when (for a non-complex 5 x 3m flat roof garden room):
Footings
There are many different footings systems used for our garden rooms, the most common being Helical Ground Screws. The type of footings to be used will be outlined in your proposal. If screws are to be used, we will usually look to get these installed in the week prior to your start date. For warranty purposes, screws are installed by our specialist, trusted subcontractor and typically take around half a day to install – or a little longer for larger buildings.
Week one
On day one our Installation Leader and team will aim to be with you at around 8 am. They will introduce themselves to you and begin unloading the tools and equipment required to build your new room. The first few days there will often be several material deliveries may be made The installation team will co-ordinate these as they will know in advance what to expect and when.
Once your specially designed and cut SIP panels arrive from the factory you will probably be surprised how quickly the ‘box’ (the SIP shell) goes up. Typically, by day 3 the SIP roof is also on and your installers will begin laying your EPDM rubber roof in place. Next your doors and windows will be fitted.
Towards the end of week one our skilled electrical team will arrive to do the ‘first fix’ electrics. Once the initial electrical wiring is done the internal walls of your new building can be boarded and plastered.
Week two/three
Whilst the plaster is given time to dry, the outside of your building will be worked on…wrapped in membrane, battened, and cladded. Decking/ decking step will also be completed. Later in the week ‘final fix’ electrics will be done along with painting, flooring, skirting and any finishing touches.
On the final day, the room and surrounding area will be tidied, cleaned, and handed over to you. The team will walk you through your new building to ensure you are 100% happy with the finish. The team will explain and demonstrate to you how all your Garden Room components work – this will also be an opportunity for you to check that everything meets your expectations. At the handover, your Team Leader will complete our sign off document with you, which will then be sent to us in the post to keep on your file.
Wherever you are on your garden room planning journey, we are here to help. Beyond ‘how long will my garden room take to build’ we answer more of your questions on our FAQ page HERE.
We are also happy to chat through your questions, so please feel free to call 01625 875588 to speak to a member of our friendly team.
