When planning your dream garden room, you might be wondering, “Do I really need foundations?”

The simple answer is yes, foundations are essential. They play a crucial role in making sure your garden room remains solid and stable for years to come – no one wants their lovely garden room subsiding after a few years do they?!

This post takes a closer look at why foundations are so important, plus the best options available to support your project.

Why do garden rooms need foundations?

You can’t see them, but foundations are the backbone of any garden room. They provide the underlying stability and support needed for a secure, long-lasting structure.

Whether you’re building a modern garden office, an at-home gym, a work studio or want some extra garden entertainment space, your room will need foundations. Here are the main reasons why they’re essential:

1. Structural support – A solid foundation prevents your garden room from shifting, sinking or becoming uneven over time, especially in areas prone to ground movement.
2. Level base – Foundations create a flat, stable and even surface for construction. This makes sure things like your doors and windows work as they should.
3. Protection from ground conditions – Foundations lift the garden room off the ground. This reduces exposure to dampness, flooding and soil, which helps to protect the structure from water damage and increases its lifespan.
4. Longevity – A well-installed foundation provides the durability needed for your garden room to stand for many decades, giving you peace of mind.

Types of foundations for garden rooms

The type of foundation you choose will depend on your garden room’s size, weight, and the conditions of your site. Here are the two primary options:

1. Ground screws

Ground screws are a modern and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional concrete foundations. These large, stainless steel screws are driven directly into the ground to provide a strong and stable base without the need for digging or heavy machinery. Installation is fast and efficient, often completed within a few hours, and can be carried out in all weather conditions, even on frozen soil.

One of the biggest advantages of ground screws is their eco-friendliness. They emit up to 60% fewer carbon emissions than concrete, and because they don’t require excavation, they leave the surrounding soil and ecosystems intact.

Best for:

• Faster builds
• Less mess and garden disruption
• Eco-conscious builds

2. Concrete foundations

Concrete is a traditional choice for garden room foundations, as well as that for most buildings. It offers good durability and is ideal for larger, heavier structures.

The process of laying concrete foundations involves multiple steps. First the site needs to be excavated, prepared and lastly poured – all of this can be quite messy and time-consuming. While a good option, concrete is not the best choice for the environment because of its high carbon emissions and soil disturbance.

To learn more about these options, check out our detailed guide on concrete vs ground screws for garden rooms.

Choosing the right foundation for your garden room

Selecting the right foundation depends on a few key factors:

Size and weight

You may here that larger and heavier garden rooms may require concrete and that smaller or standard builds can be supported by ground screws. This isn’t the full picture.

Ground screws can withstand large loads of around 630kg per screw (depending on the type). If you have a large garden room size, you’ll just need more ground screws. For example, a big 5x5m² room can be supported by 25 ground screws that can take 18,270kg in weight. This ground screw calculator tool is very handy.

Soil type

The type of soil in your garden can influence the choice of foundation. Ground screws perform well in most conditions, including clay, sand and compacted earth, but may require additional support in extremely loose or rocky terrain.

For soils with challenging characteristics, ground screws can often be reinforced with specialised screw designs, making them versatile across a wide range of garden sites. Concrete foundations are also suitable for various soil types but often require extensive preparation, such as excavation and compaction to ensure stability.

Environmental impact

If sustainability is a priority, ground screws are the clear winner. They emit up to significantly less carbon emissions compared to concrete and eliminate the need for resource-intensive materials like cement, which has a significant environmental footprint. Additionally, ground screws cause minimal disruption to the surrounding soil and ecosystems, preserving your garden’s natural balance.

Budget

When it comes to cost, ground screws are often more cost-effective than concrete. Their faster installation reduces labour expenses, and the lack of heavy machinery or extensive site preparation means fewer additional costs.

While concrete may be necessary for certain projects, the long-term savings and eco-friendly benefits of ground screws make them the smarter choice for most garden rooms.

So, what foundations should you go for?

No matter the size or style of your garden room, a sturdy foundation is crucial to the long-lasting success of your space.

At Lux Garden Rooms, we specialise in installing ground screws and are experts in getting this right for you. Take a look at our gallery for previous projects we’ve completed and you can also find out more on our way of working and process.

Get in touch today to get a free quote or to discuss your garden room plans in more detail.

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FAQs

1. Do all garden rooms need foundations?

Yes, foundations are essential for all garden rooms. They provide structural support, ensure the room remains level, protect against dampness and ground movement and increase the lifespan of the structure.

2. What is the best foundation for a garden room?

The best foundation depends on your needs. Ground screws are a modern, eco-friendly option that’s quick to install and suitable for pretty much all garden rooms. For larger or heavier structures, concrete foundations may be preferred for added stability but ground screws can easily do this job.

3. Can I install a garden room without digging up my garden?

Yes, ground screws are a non-invasive option that eliminates the need for excavation. They are installed directly into the ground, causing minimal disruption to your garden.

4. How much do garden room foundations cost?

Foundation costs vary depending on the type and size of the garden room. Ground screws are generally more cost-effective due to faster installation and reduced labour, while concrete foundations may cost more due to materials and time.

5. Can foundations be installed in winter or bad weather?

Yes, ground screws can be installed in any weather, including frozen ground, making them a great choice for year-round projects. Concrete foundations, however, require dry conditions for proper curing.