Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What kind of base do I need for my building? A flat, solid, level base is required. There are several different options - concrete pad, slab base, timber framed base, decking, sleepers, Eco base. The base ideally should be at least 50mm above the existing ground level. We would recommend base’s to be the same size as the building.
Do I need planning permission? We would always advise to check with your local planning office. This will be dependent on the placement and overall size of the timber building. In general, the following rules apply for planning:
· If the building is situated within 2.00m of your boundary, it cannot be no higher than 2.50m
· If the building is situated with a 2.00m gap to the boundary it can be no higher than 4.00m for an Apex, or 3.00m for a mono pitch
· If the property Is listed or in an Area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB site)
· If the building is situated forward of the principal elevation of the property
· In a Conservation area – If the building is situated forward of the principal elevation or the side elevations of the property
· The building cannot take up more than half area of the original curtilage of the property
For more information please refer to Planning Portal link (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/43/outbuildings). we do offer an in-house planning application preparation and submission -POA, please note we cannot guarantee approval by the local authority
Do I need building regulations? Many Timber buildings do not need building regulations. This will be dependent on the overall size of your building. Please refer to Planning Portal link (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/43/outbuildings/2). If in doubt check with your local authority.
What is the difference between planning permission and building regs? Planning Permission deals with the appearance of the proposal and the effect it will have on neighbouring properties and the general environment while Building Control deals with the technical and construction details of the building works.
How are the buildings delivered? Our buildings are delivered on a 3.5T flatbed truck with a 5.00m long trailer. Please make sure appropriate parking is allocated at the address of delivery on the day.
What services do you offer?
We offer a full Delivery and Installation service within 75 miles from NR10 3DD. We can go further afield if required. We also offer a full groundwork service for our buildings in Norfolk.
Do you have a show site where I can view your products? Yes, you can view a wide variety of products at our show site in Norwich, where we have over 40 buildings on display from Garden Sheds to Mobile homes to a Commercial office. Please click the link for details https://scottsheds.com/contact
Can I design a building to suit my own individual needs? Yes. Our buildings are made to order to ensure you receive a unique product that meets your own specifications and requirements.
What type of timber are your products made from? Our timber buildings are made from Scandinavian softwood, using a variety of species. We can also offer a variety of cladding options – Western Red Cedar, Composite or Fibre Cement. It is important to remember that timber is a natural product, you may get some warping, expansion, shrinkage or shake due to different weather conditions. All our suppliers are FSC or PEFC Certified. FSC certification (Forest Stewardship Council) is considered the ‘gold standard’ designation for wood harvested for forests that are responsibly managed, socially beneficial, environmentally conscious and economically viable.
PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), is a leading global alliance of national forest certification systems. As an international non-profit, non-governmental organisation, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification.
How to maintain your garden building tips
Timber buildings need regular maintenance to keep them looking as good as new. A well-maintained building can last for years to come. Here are some tips to help you along the way, starting from the bottom…
Base - It is key to get the foundation right for the future of your building, which is why we won’t erect a building onto a unlevel base. We would recommend that the base is the same size as the building so that downpour water can drip away. Clear any debris away from around your building that may prevent air flow underneath the floor or rain from pooling onto the foundation.
Treatment - One key part to maintenance is treatment. You need to treat your building with a high-quality wood preserver, we can sell this to you from our Longwater show site if required. We supply all our garden buildings with a temporary preserver which you will need to retreat after 6 months from installation and then annually after this (unless you have upgraded to a colour finish). Treating your building regularly will help ingress of water, protected the timber from rotting and will keep your building watertight. All our log cabins are supplied untreated, these will need treating immediately after installation.
Doors, Windows, Cladding - Timber is a natural material which can warp, shrink, expand and twist in different weather changes. This can affect the openings of your windows and doors, we have done all we can to prevent this from happening but occasionally you may need to adjust these. You may get condensation on the glazing and collecting on the window sill, you will need to dry this and the surrounding areas. You should also check your boards/logs for any cracks that may appear. Small cracks can be filled and then painted.
Roof - Another key part to maintenance is to check that nothing is coming into contact with your building walls or roof i.e. branches/bushes etc. as this can cause damage to the roofing material. Check your roof regularly for damages and replace as soon as possible if any are found. Clean off any build-up of debris. If you have guttering installed on your building, make sure you clean these out regularly.