How Much Does a Summer House Cost in the UK?
Summer houses are impressive garden structures that give you extra room to play with and provide a special place close to the outdoors where you can relax.
If you are looking at summer houses for sale to add your property, you need to understand the cost implications. Generally, these are cheaper than log cabins and garden rooms, and there are many affordable summer houses.
However, as with any project like this, the cost ultimately depends on multiple factors, such as the size, materials, extras, and labour involved. Below, I provide a comprehensive guide on summer house costs so you can see if it is a viable option.
Is a Summer House Worth It?
Consider the pros and cons of summer houses and whether you would benefit from one before considering costing.
These simple garden structures have many benefits, mainly because they give you extra room to use. This extra room can be turned into any number of things, such as a bar, lounge, games room, gym, or office.
They are also pleasant to use, and providing there is insulation, they are habitable all year round. The downside is the fact that you lose garden space, and you have to use them regularly to warrant the initial investment.
How Much Does a Pre-Built Summer House Cost?
So how much is a summer house? To give you a quick estimate, base prices for just the summer house and installation range from £1,500 to £9,000, with the UK average being around £3,500. The variance is due to the potential extras you can include, and to be more specific, I have detailed these below:
Extras
The extras and optional upgrades are where you can save or boost the summer house cost hugely. Common extras include:
- Cladding upgrades
- Wood stain
- Upgraded windows
- Gutters & downpipes
- Decorative exterior
You may not need these extras if you want a summer house to relax in during the warmer months. Depending on the size and design, you can spend anywhere from £1,200 to £3,000.
However, if you want it to last and be usable year-round, some extras like insulation and staining become essential.
Wood stain and cladding can help improve the longevity of the summer house, and you can spend anywhere between £500-2000, size-dependent. Floor and internal insulation can cost £500 upwards.
Window upgrades are also a great idea to add more style to your summer house. Many summer houses include double-glazed windows as standard, but these typically have a wooden frame. It is possible to upgrade to PVCU windows, for example, which typically costs an extra £500-1000.
Other extras like guttering, downpipes, and laminate flooring can make your summer house look even more stunning. You can expect to add an extra £1000 for these as a guideline.
Size
You must first decide on the size to get an accurate summer house cost. Size affects every aspect of the cost, from the basic structure price to the insulation, flooring, and stain. Simply put, the bigger you want your summer house, the more you have to pay.
For example, our Platinum Highclere Summer House starts at £3589 for a 6ftx8ft model and goes up to £7419 for a 14ftx14ft unit (not including any extras).
Insulation
If you want to survive the average UK winter temperatures of 2-7 degrees, your summer house needs insulation on the roof and floor. This is usually an extra, and you can have either or both. The insulation cost is directly correlated to the size of the cabin, with a small 6ft x 8ft cabin insulation costing around £500 and a larger 14ftx10ft cabin insulation costing around £1400.
Assembly
Depending on the size, some companies charge extra for summer house installation, ranging from £600 to £ 2000. Our summer house range includes installation at the base price.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Summer House?
If you feel adventurous, consider building your own summer house. Indeed, it may be possible to order a summer house as an unassembled kit if you are adventurous. In this instance, you are essentially saving on the assembly cost, which isn’t much compared to the overall price.
Most of our summer houses include free installation, so building your own summer house isn’t very beneficial.
Calculate Your Summer House Cost and Start Your Next Garden Project
It would help if you now had a clear idea of the factors involved in determining how much a summer house costs. You can find complete information on our summer house page, and we have detailed price brochures, too, listing the various extras mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How Much Does a Summer House Cost in the UK?
- Does A Summer House Add Value UK?Adding a summer house to your property in the UK can increase its overall value. They are highly sought after by buyers looking for additional living or recreational space. These structures create a desirable outdoor living area, which can significantly enhance the appeal of your property. Investing in one can attract potential buyers willing to pay a premium for a home with this desirable feature. The versatility and functionality can make your property stand out in a competitive housing market.
- How Much Does a Summer House Cost in the UK?The cost of a summer house in the UK varies significantly depending on size, location, and materials used. On average, an essential summer house can range from £1,000 to £5,000, while more luxurious options can cost anywhere from £5,000 to £20,000 or more. Factors such as additional features, customisations, and quality of construction can further increase the price. It is essential to thoroughly research and consider all aspects before investing in a summer house to ensure it aligns with your budget and requirements.
- Is It Cheaper To Build Your Own Summer House?Constructing your summer house can sometimes be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-built structure. By sourcing materials independently and doing the labour yourself, you can save significant money. However, it is essential to consider factors such as skill level, time commitment, and potential setbacks during construction. Conducting thorough research and obtaining accurate cost estimates are crucial to determining if self-build is your cheaper option.
- Is It Worth Buying A Summer House?Purchasing a summer house for your garden can be valuable if you seek additional living space or a tranquil retreat close to your home. Having a dedicated structure for relaxation, entertaining, or work purposes during the warmer months can enhance your quality of life and increase the overall value of your property. However, consider your needs and usage patterns to determine if they align with your lifestyle and long-term goals.
