Blog | Logspan

Many people think that once a log cabin has been built on a certain spot, it must remain there forevermore. 

It is, however, entirely possible to move these structures, and there may be times when this is necessary. Examples of this could include if the owner is planning to move home, or the location where the garden cabin room is currently located becomes unsuitable.

To move outdoor huts and gazebos, there are a couple of options available. A compact building like a small BBQ hut could be relocated by creating a rolling foundation. This is achieved by raising the structure with jacks and inserting rounded poles like scaffolding or metal fencing posts underneath it. These can then be used to roll the BBQ shed to its new position or setting.

A larger garden cabin room can also be moved, though it is usually a more time-consuming process. Typically, the wooden structure will need dismantling. It is important to ensure there are no rotting logs or damaged elements before this is done. The roof and floor must be carefully removed, and extra attention to safety undertaken. Keeping track of each part and numbering each one is a good way of making the reassembly quicker and easier. 

A new base for a garden office cabin should be even and sturdy. Concrete is normally the recommended material to use for this.

Make contact with us here at Logspan today, and take advantage of our years of expertise to help you with any log cabin queries you may have.

Nearly all timber log cabins need to have a finish on the outside to protect and preserve the wood. 

This is a worthwhile investment, and it is advisable to review the options and select the ones that are the most appropriate for a particular structure. 

Using a high-quality finish for bespoke log cabins has many advantages and in the long-term can save money on maintenance.

A good quality finish will enhance the appearance of any garden cabin room. If a tint or colour has been added, then it will increase the visual impact further. On the other hand, a clear coating will enhance the natural tones of the wood and help create the rustic-looking retreat many people desire.

The longevity of the finish is usually increased when a better quality product is used. The ingredients present in more luxurious finishes will often help to repel dust and dirt, making the barbeque hut or school cabin easier to clean and maintain. A UV repellent is also a common factor, and one that will prevent sun bleaching and damage over time.

For those who have a passion for the environment, using a high-quality finish on their BBQ hut can minimise the carbon footprint. Lower levels of VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) are used, as well as minimal or no formaldehyde. 

Speak to us here at Logspan, and our staff members will be happy to provide the best advice available on outdoor huts and gazebos, as well as how to look after them.

Choosing a roof for bespoke log cabins can depend on several factors. There are advantages to most types, so it is important to consider carefully exactly what is needed for the structure.
 
For example, shingles can give the type of rustic appearance that some people want to achieve. They are also affordable; however, they also require regular maintenance, which may be off-putting for many, depending on time constraints. 

For those who prefer a low maintenance approach to their garden cabin room, a roof membrane made from rubber could be the answer. This material is also highly waterproof, so is ideal for climates that are often wet. This roof covering may not be appropriate for a more traditionally designed barbeque lodge or garden office cabin, however. 

Owners of log cabins who want a long-term solution to roofing issues can opt for a metal pantile roof. These are durable and can add extra security to the building. One disadvantage – or advantage, depending on personal preference - is that this material would amplify the sounds of rain. There will be those also who do not like the more modern appearance they create on the likes of hot tub garden rooms.

Other options could include synthetic slates and wooden shingles. Again, each will produce a specific look, so having an idea of how you want the final exterior to appear is usually advisable, so the best choice can be made.

Here at Logspan, we have the expertise to give you the best advice available on our range of outdoor huts and gazebos. Contact us now to discuss your options.

Bespoke log cabins are often used as places of escape. They are special spaces created to embrace tranquillity, and are an opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural environment.

There are a number of ways to increase this sense of calmness, including making sure that windows are large and uncluttered. Keeping items away from the glass will ensure that natural sunlight is unobstructed.

Other ways to create a natural ambience in log cabins is to select a neutral colour scheme with plenty of taupe, creams and oatmeal tones. These shades are usually associated with peace and serenity. These colours can also be introduced in fixtures and fittings, as well as decorative touches like blankets and throws.

A garden cabin room or office will always benefit from comfy seating areas. Large cushions and plump sofas and chairs are extremely inviting, and offer the chance to get comfortable and relax.

Light bulbs should be of a warmer tones, and this could include those used on lamps and wall lights. Having dimmers is another way of adjusting the light to create a particular mood.

Another easy way to make buildings like hot tub garden rooms more relaxing spaces is to remove any clutter. Household items like rubbish bins can be easily disguised and hidden away, while adding plants and room fragrances will be highly impactful when creating an ambience.

Speak to us today here at Logspan and ask a team member for advice on our extensive range of outdoor huts and gazebos.

Choosing a log cabin can depend on several factors, and it is worthwhile taking time to make your decision based on well thought-out points. 

For example, choosing a spot for the location is key. You will need to consider if there is adequate space for the size of the log cabin you need, as well as assessing the key access points. It can be a good idea to also assess noise levels and privacy on the plot.

Choosing the right outdoor huts and gazebos will also depend on the style you want. Often, ensuring the structure fits in with the main house is key. There are many types of log cabins available, ranging from ultra-modern to rustic and traditional, and matching the style with your home will enhance the overall space.

When choosing a garden cabin room, checking local planning permission and building regulations should form part of the decision-making process. If you want a more complex structure with bedrooms and other facilities, it could mean additional costs and paperwork.

Other issues to consider when choosing a structure such as a garden office cabin is budget and the intended purpose of the building. The types of timber, coatings and finishes must also be considered, and whether you have the time to spend maintaining and repairing it. For instance, you may want a low maintenance barbeque lodge or similar structure that takes minimal time out of your routine to service. 

Speak to us at Logspan today, and request more information about the range of bespoke log cabins we have available. 

Garden office insulation may seem overwhelming at first and new territory for most people, yet it needn’t be. 

Firstly, the purpose of garden office insulation is to keep the building a comfortable temperature year-round. It is essential for seeing the user through the cold winters, but insulation also prevents overheating in the summer months. 

Whether you’re building a glamping site, an extra garden room for your office or family or are a school needing some extra space, it is paramount to get insulation right.

When buying your structure, you must check the specification to ensure the design will allow for insulation in the walls, floor and ceiling. Most garden offices will come with this feature, however log cabin style structures don’t always necessarily allow for this.

Is it like building a house?

Your extra garden home will be the same as your house. The modern market of garden offices in the UK today has insulation techniques like houses. This means that similar materials and goals are used to ensure the structure is thoroughly insulated.

Does this mean my office needs to comply to building regulations?

Unless the office provides sleeping accommodation or is larger than 30sqm, then it does not need to comply with Building Regulations. However, the specifications set out in building regulations are often used and exceeded by garden office companies to ensure outstanding insulation quality.

How is insulation rated?

The performance of insulation is rated using a u-value. A u-value is the rate at which heat can pass through a material; thus, the higher the value the quicker the heat loss. U-values range from 0.1 to 1.0, so when considering which garden office to purchase, aim to have the lowest u-value you can afford. You will be able to find these details in a supplier’s specification sheet. 

What needs to be insulated?

As stated above, cabins are built in line with the principles of house building. Therefore, all walls and the roof and the floor must be insulated. 

This is important when selecting a log style cabin as they tend to not possess a cavity to insulate the walls. This is due to the fact they are built using a crisscrossed timber pattern, leaving gaps in insulation and the creation of cold spots. 

Some may argue that wood is a good enough insulator in itself; however, if you want to be working in your office year round, this is typically not recommended. 

Instead, structural insulated panels, also known as SIPs, are much more effective at insulating a garden office. These panels ensure that the insulation is continuously wrapped around the structure, preventing heat escaping.

What are the types of insulation?

Many alternative materials may be used when it comes to garden office design, so it is important for you and your supplier to consider factors, such as u-value, cost, how quick it can be installed and the environmental impact of the material. 

This is because while the act of preventing heat escaping or absorbing into a building is environmentally friendly, as it reduces the energy needed to heat or cool it, some materials may be more costly to the earth in their production process. 

Most used are rigid insulation boards that possess a high u-value, yet are thin. Materials such as XPS, EPS or the better performing PUR or PIR, which use a reflective foil, can be used.

What are the other types of rigid insulation?

SIPs may be filled with XSP, ESP, PUR or PIR. However, there are also other types of insulation these panels may come with. 

Mineral wool 

More of this material is typically needed to achieve the same u-value, so thicker walls are needed. 

Reflective foil

Foil facing creates an unventilated cavity, creating a thin wall.

Sheep’s wool 

This material is eco-friendly as it’s mostly manufactured in the UK, and has the advantage of being a natural product. 

Recycled plastic bottles 

The fibres of used plastic bottles can be spun into mats.

Hemp insulation 

This is eco-friendly, as it absorbs CO2 in the growing process before being made into mats.

In conclusion, there are many ways to insulate your garden office. While the cheaper alternatives may seem appealing, it may end up costing you later. 

The amount of energy required to heat or cool your office is dramatically reduced by the type of insulation you select. At Logspan, we have the largest show site in the UK for timber buildings. We stock garden offices as well as BBQ huts, log cabins, huts, gazebos, school cabins and hot tub garden rooms. We are here to answer all your queries on your brand-new garden office and its insulation. 

People are now more aware of the importance of their health and fitness. 

One way of addressing any concerns they may have is to convert their bespoke log cabin into a fitness studio. One of the main advantages of doing this is creating the convenience of having the space and facilities needed to improve fitness levels within easy reach of the main house.

It is important to assess the space available in any outdoor huts and gazebos to decide what equipment can be brought in to optimise the area. A single space may be best but equally, having separate dressing and showering facilities could also be advantageous, if you can accommodate it.

One of the benefits of using a garden cabin room as an exercise or yoga space is the ability to harness natural light. Often, these structures have larger windows that allow sunlight to flood the area. This will enhance the experience of exercising or doing other wellbeing-related activities like mindfulness and meditation.

The natural smell and feel of wood will ensure that any activities associated with wellbeing will be maximised with the association with nature and the outdoors, which have been shown to improve mental health and overall internal balance. The peace and quiet offered by garden rooms in the UK will also make these structures a pleasure to relax in.

Speak to us today at Logspan and ask for details about our range of bespoke log cabins, which can be converted for use in an array of purposes. 

Double skin log cabins are those that have two layers of wood to create a small space in the walls. 

This increases the insulation properties of the building, making them more economical to heat and ultimately increasing its environmental credentials.

Not only do double skin outdoor huts and gazebos keep the structures warmer, but they also improve the sound insulation. These sorts of cabins are therefore perfect for areas that may be nosier or less secluded than others.

Having this increased density allows the space to be used for relaxation and hobbies away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The double skin technique is also ideal for school cabins or a garden office cabin.

Since these bespoke log cabins have a double thickness of walls, they immediately become more durable. This means they can withstand harsher weather conditions while being a long-term investment for owners. If they are maintained properly, they can last many years.

Like many other types of log cabins, these double skinned varieties could be used for many purposes from barbeque sheds to hot tub garden rooms. They could also be easily customised as desired, with outdoor porches and shaded areas, for example. 

Indoors, they could accommodate an open plan design, versatile room layout or even a range of features like fireplaces and luxury kitchens and bathrooms.

Contact the team today at Logspan, and one of our experts would be happy to discuss our range of bespoke log cabins with you. 

There are many different styles and types of bespoke log cabins, but some of these trends are more enduring than others. 

For example, the rustic look always seems to be popular and is considered an iconic look for these buildings. Often, it includes exposed wood, high windows and natural light.

Other established movements are the sustainability trend. Usually, outdoor huts and gazebos have lower energy costs and a minimal carbon footprint, both during their construction and consequent periods of time when in use. Having off-the-grid barbeque sheds is also on trend.

Open plan interiors allow owners to use the space in a versatile and practical way. The inside can be easily adapted to meet needs, whether the building is used as a hobby area or as a school cabin. For log cabins used as homes or holiday accommodation, the uninterrupted space allows for socialising, as well as letting in more light.

An outdoor area can act as an additional dining or entertainment space, and this can be especially important for indoor barbeque rooms. Multi-functional log cabins can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of the owner. Rooms like attics or lofts can be converted into an additional bedroom or storage space and changed again to a bathroom or craft room as the need demands.

High tech accessories like energy management systems or alarms can also be added to log cabins.

Talk to us here at Logspan today and ask us about our range of bespoke log cabins. 

It is important to understand the impact that log thickness has on bespoke log cabins. The planks used in the construction will determine the appearance, strength and insulation properties of the finished building.

As a general rule of thumb, the thicker the logs, the more stability the log cabins will have. 70mm thick logs can offer maximum protection from harsh weather and dampness, while more slender options, such as the 35mm planks, are better suited to warmer locations, since their thermal proprieties are lower. 

Using planks made of thicker wood can drastically reduce energy and heating costs long term and are ideal for residential log cabins.

Overall, a heavier, thicker wood will ensure that a garden cabin room is stable and has little or no movement in severe weather conditions. These heavier logs also provide more security, as they are stronger and harder to damage or break into. This means they are well suited for out-buildings that contain expensive equipment, such as BBQ cabins or hot tub garden rooms.

Aesthetically, a thicker wood will also appear more pleasing on completed bespoke log cabins. Additional decorative touches may be added without compromising their stability, and log cabins made from heavier wood will easily accommodate additions like a porch. Overall, these cabins look stronger and have a more rustic appeal. 

Talk to our experienced team at Logspan today, and request the advice of one of our staff members on a range of topics relating to outdoor huts and gazebos.