What is a Grilling Cabin?

Grilling cabins, often called BBQ huts, are becoming increasingly popular in Scotland and beyond. These unique structures provide a perfect space for outdoor cooking and socialising, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors while staying sheltered from the elements or midges!

In this blog post, we will explore what grilling cabins are, their benefits, and why they have become a sought-after addition to gardens across Scotland.

The Concept of Grilling Cabins

At their core, grilling cabins are small wooden structures designed specifically for barbecuing and outdoor dining. They typically feature a central grill or fire pit surrounded by seating areas where friends and family can gather. The design often incorporates windows or open sides to allow for ventilation while still providing protection from rain and wind.

Grilling cabins come in various sizes and styles, catering to different needs and preferences. Some may be simple wooden huts with basic amenities, while others can be more elaborate with additional features such as built-in storage, lighting, or even electricity. Regardless of the style, the primary purpose remains the same: to create an inviting space for enjoying food and companionship outdoors.

The Benefits of Grilling Cabins

Year-Round Use

One of the most significant advantages of grilling cabins is their ability to be used year-round. In Scotland's unpredictable weather conditions, having a dedicated space for barbecuing means you can enjoy outdoor cooking regardless of rain or chilly temperatures.

Social Hub

Grilling cabins are an excellent social hub for gatherings or parties with family and friends. They create an intimate setting where people can come together over delicious food without the distractions often found indoors. Whether it's a summer barbecue or a winter feast by the fire, these huts foster connection and camaraderie among guests.

Versatile Cooking Options

While grilling is at the heart of what these cabins offer, they also provide versatility in cooking options. Many grilling cabins can have various cooking appliances beyond just grills—pizza ovens, smokers, or rotisseries. This versatility allows users to experiment with different cuisines and cooking methods throughout the year.

Aesthetic Appeal

Grilling cabins add aesthetic value to any garden or outdoor space. With their charming wooden designs and rustic appeal, they blend seamlessly into natural surroundings while providing a focal point for outdoor living areas. Many homeowners appreciate how these structures enhance their property’s overall look while offering functional benefits.

Choosing Your Grilling Cabin

When considering adding a BBQ hut to your garden in Scotland, there are several factors to keep in mind:

Size Matters

The size of your grilling cabin should reflect your needs—how many people do you typically entertain? Do you want ample space for cooking and seating? Measure your available outdoor area before making any decisions so that you choose a cabin that fits comfortably within your garden's layout.

Design Preferences

Grilling cabins come in various designs, from traditional Scandinavian styles to modern interpretations featuring sleek lines and contemporary materials. When selecting your BBQ hut, consider what aesthetic best aligns with your home’s exterior design.

Features & Amenities

Think about what features would enhance your experience within the cabin—do you want built-in storage for utensils? Would additional lighting make evening gatherings more enjoyable? Some models can have integrated sound systems! Assessing these aspects will help ensure you choose a grilling cabin tailored to your needs.

Popularity in Scotland

The rise of BBQ huts in Scotland reflects broader trends towards enhancing outdoor living spaces amidst changing lifestyles post-pandemic, where many people seek ways to enjoy nature safely without venturing too far from home comforts. As Scots embrace al fresco dining culture year-round despite variable weather conditions, it’s no surprise that grilling cabins have gained traction across gardens nationwide!

Conclusion: Embrace Outdoor Living

In conclusion, grilling cabins represent more than just functional spaces; they embody an ethos of embracing outdoor living regardless of seasonal challenges in Scotland! By investing in one of these charming BBQ huts, Scotland residents can elevate their culinary experiences while creating lasting memories surrounded by loved ones—all within the comfort (and shelter!) provided by their very own grilling cabin!

So, if you're looking for ways to enhance your garden experience this year, consider exploring options available near you! Embrace those long summer evenings spent around good food and great company; the joy found in shared meals is timeless!

Are Barbecue Huts Worth It?

Barbecue huts have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in places like Scotland, where unpredictable weather can dampen outdoor cooking plans. But are these charming wooden structures worth the investment?

In this blog post, we’ll explore barbecue huts' benefits and drawbacks, helping you decide if they’re the right addition to your garden or outdoor space.

What is a Barbecue Hut?

A barbecue hut is a hexagonal or octagonal wooden building for outdoor cooking and socialising. Typically featuring a central grill or fire pit, these huts provide shelter from the elements while allowing you to enjoy cooking outdoors. They can come in various sizes and styles, catering to different needs and preferences.

The Appeal of BBQ Huts in Scotland

Scotland's climate can be pretty unpredictable, with rain and chilly winds often interrupting outdoor activities. This is where barbecue huts shine (even if the sun doesn’t). They offer a unique solution that allows you to enjoy barbecuing regardless of the weather conditions. Here are some reasons why BBQ huts are particularly appealing in Scotland:

Year-Round Usability

One of the most significant advantages of barbecue huts is their year-round usability. Unlike traditional barbecues that may be relegated to summer months, a hut allows you to cook outside, even during colder seasons. Imagine hosting friends for a cosy winter barbecue while staying warm — an experience many Scots cherish.

Social Experience

Barbecue huts create an intimate setting for gatherings with family and friends. The design encourages conversation and interaction, making it easy for everyone to participate in cooking and enjoying food together. This increased social interaction builds us into better family units as we usually eat alone.

Unique Aesthetic

A well-designed barbecue hut can enhance your garden's aesthetic appeal. With their rustic charm and natural wood finishes, these structures can blend seamlessly into various landscaping styles. Whether you have a modern garden or a more traditional Scottish landscape, a BBQ hut design will likely complement your space beautifully.

Considerations Before Investing

While there are many benefits to owning a barbecue hut, it’s essential to consider some factors before investing:

Cost

The price of BBQ huts can vary significantly based on size, materials used, and retailer. While some may find them affordable as an investment in their outdoor space, others might see them as an unnecessary expense—especially if they only plan on using them occasionally.

Maintenance

Like any wooden structure exposed to the elements, barbecue huts require maintenance to ensure longevity. Regular treatments with wood preservatives will help protect against rot and weather damage. If you're not prepared for this upkeep or prefer low-maintenance options for your garden furniture, then investing in a BBQ hut might not be ideal.

Space Requirements

Before purchasing a barbecue hut, consider whether you have enough space in your garden or outdoor area. These structures can take up considerable room; hence it's crucial to measure your available area carefully before making any decisions.

Alternatives to Barbecue Huts

If you're unsure about investing in a BBQ hut but still want an enjoyable outdoor cooking experience regardless of weather conditions, there are alternatives worth considering:

Gazebos with Grills

A gazebo equipped with grills offers shelter while allowing more flexibility than traditional BBQ huts regarding layout and design options. You can also choose different styles that suit your taste without committing fully to a permanent structure.

Portable Fire Pits

For those who prefer something less permanent yet still want warmth while barbecuing outdoors during chilly evenings or rainy days—portable fire pits could be an excellent option! They offer versatility as they can easily be moved around depending on where you'd like them set up at any given time.

Conclusion: Are Barbecue Huts Worth It?

Ultimately, whether barbecue huts are worth it depends on individual circumstances and preferences. For those living in Scotland who love entertaining outdoors year-round despite unpredictable weather conditions, a well-placed BBQ hut could provide immense value both socially and aesthetically! However, potential buyers should weigh costs against maintenance requirements along with available space before diving into such an investment.

If you're looking for ways to enhance your outdoor living experience while enjoying delicious grilled meals no matter what Mother Nature throws at you, consider exploring options available within the realm of BBQ huts Scotland! With careful planning and consideration tailored specifically towards personal needs/preferences, you may find that investing in one truly pays off over time!

Using outdoor huts and gazebos as barbeque sheds is becoming increasingly popular. 

Not only can well constructed log cabins be aesthetically pleasing, they could also add value to the home in the event of a sale, as well as providing hospitality spaces for friends and family throughout the year.

It is important though that before constructing a barbeque lodge, you measure the garden or outdoor space where it will be placed. It must fit perfectly into the area without it either looking overwhelmed if it is too small, or disproportionate if it is too large. You many also need to seek planning permission if it meets local planning requirements.

A small BBQ hut, when well-designed, can still hold the appropriate grill and spaces for food storage and for BBQ hut accessories. Larger versions can also have the space to add luxury fittings like an integrated seating area and full kitchen fixtures and fittings.

Since the weather is often unreliable, having a waterproof roof is essential. This must be fitted with enough ventilation to allow smoke and cooking smells to escape, especially if it is an enclosed structure. Constructing a good, sturdy base for an outdoor BBQ hut is essential for health and safety. Options usually include foundations made from concrete for a permanent cabin, or for a more temporary structure, a wooden base can be used.

For more information on our range of products, plan a visit to the friendly team here at Logspan today.

Having an outdoor BBQ hut can enhance your enjoyment of your garden, and offer you the chance to entertain your friends and family. 

It is important, however, to properly maintain these sorts of log cabins. Below are some simple steps to make this task easier.

Building these sorts of bespoke log cabins should start with the foundations, and preparing the construction by choosing a site that will allow the addition of a ventilation system is essential. Having a solid base will also help these outdoor huts and gazebos last longer, and helps avoid dampness or weather damage.

Having doors and windows that open easily and extend outwards to allow smoke and smells to escape are essential. It's also important to ensure there’s a quick exit in the event of a hazard. It’s a good idea to conduct regular inspections of these structures, to ensure their safely in the event of a fire or extreme smoke.

Creating plenty of room around the grill inside your BBQ hut shed will help prevent accidents. Building a barrier around it, or locating it in a place away from the main dining or entertainment areas, will also help. 

Paints and varnishes that are fireproof and have a minimal odour could increase the enjoyment of your Swedish BBQ hut. These come without strong smells to distract from the food, and the safety of the structure is increased.

At Logspan, our expert team members are on hand to offer you help and support. Contact us today for more information on our products. 

Many BBQ huts are made up of the basic components to create a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor dining and cooking space.

However, there are a number of ways to elevate these outdoor huts and gazebos to make them even more welcoming and user-friendly.

An easy way to make sure a BBQ hut shed is a striking structure is to add an overhang or side extension. These may be used in a number of ways, such as a place to provide shade on sunny days, and to add extra space or more defined areas to the log cabins.

Adding an outdoor bar to bespoke log cabins will create an even more desirable space to entertain guests. Installing luxury items like pizza ovens or an outdoor kitchen can extend the use of the building and allows hosts to cook whatever they want, both indoors and outdoors, no matter what the weather is like.

Other items that could be added to indoor barbeque rooms include pergolas to create additional space to bespoke log cabins, or a garden fireplace, perfect for those cooler days and evenings.

Internally, adding timber counters and shelves can help to create a natural looking space within your BBQ hut, while remaining practical stylish. This also makes sure that any items are left outside due to lack of space, therefore exposing them to adverse weather conditions. 

For more information about the products and services we provide, call or visit our team at Logspan today.

Having a BBQ lodge has many advantages. It gives you the opportunity to entertain friends and family at home, while enjoying outdoor dining away from the main residence. 

However, it is important to make sure that preparation work is carried out before any construction on your outdoor BBQ hut starts, and finishing touches are carefully considered.

Firstly, the layout and location of your BBQ hut is important. It must be in a position to prevent smoke and strong smells from entering your home, while at the same time being close enough to access services such as gas, electricity and water.

A flat surface is normally recommended for safety and comfort, and to ensure that any cooking equipment is secure.

Your BBQ lodge should, if possible, be positioned away from other wooden structures and walls. Adequate ventilation is an essential safety measure, and all installations, such as a gas supply, must be checked by a professional. It is also worthwhile thinking about additional safety measures, such as fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.

Additional storage in your BBQ shed for cooking utensils, foodstuffs and BBQ hut accessories will enhance any hut in the UK. Other finishing touches, such as dining room furniture of an appropriate size, can be a great bonus to further enhance the experience for your guests.

For more information about our BBQ huts, or for more details about our range of bespoke log cabins, call or visit our team at Logspan today.

Having a barbeque lodge has many advantages, and can increase the value of your home. 

Many standard BBQ huts in the UK provide all of the shelter and comfort needed to enjoy outdoor dining, but there are ways to improve these spaces.

Installing a dedicated food preparation area in your BBQ hut can improve the cooking and eating experience. Having a space in your BBQ shed to complete these tasks also means that guests can enjoy their time without it feeling too crowded, and it also means that the area can easily be cleared and made safe.

To improve the functionality of your open BBQ hut, think about adding a sink and plumbing for a dishwasher if there is room. These facilities can add an extra dimension of convenience; cleaning and chopping food will be easier, and clearing up afterwards can be done inside the structure without having to carry dishes to the main residence.

Other additions that may help your guests enjoy your BBQ hut shed even more could include outdoor awnings, to provide shade and comfort. 

By adding solar panels, you can reduce the running costs of your barbeque shed even further, decreasing your environmental impacts. 

Additional storage for wood, coal and other fuels, as well as BBQ hut accessories bought in the UK, is also advisable.

Speak to our team members at Logspan today for more information about our range of BBQ accessories, as well as our other outdoor structures and bespoke log cabins. 

You can enjoy your indoor barbeque room for many years to come as long as you keep it well-maintained and address any potential problems as soon as they arise. 

Read on to find out how to keep yours in tip-top shape.

Keep your hut treated

You should ensure your hut has been treated with a premium timber treatment as soon as you can after purchase. 

Your hut should be treated on an annual basis after the initial treatment to ensure longevity, but huts in wetter areas or those standing in direct sunlight, wind or rain may require reapplication of treatment more frequently. 

Staining your hut will help prevent moisture and damage from ultraviolet light. Even when treated, wood will still naturally change appearance slightly over time, but this is nothing to worry about; cracks will occur as the wood moves, and gradual changes in colour tone are normal. 

Make sure to regularly reapply seals to doors and windows to out moisture and draughts.

Structural checks

Ensure you perform routine structural checks that include inspection of the foundations, windows and doors. Uneven floors and doors and windows that cannot be closed or opened properly should be fixed to avoid the elements getting inside to cause damage, and securing them will help increase security.

Stable foundations are essential to a secure hut. The wooden structure of an open barbeque hut should be kept clean to maintain hygiene in the cooking space and to deter pests that could cause structural damage.

Maintaining the roof

Check the roof and ceiling for any issues that might prevent easy ventilation of smoke or strong smells. Replace any loose or damage shingles you find as soon as possible. 

Buildups of moss and other debris should also be removed immediately as these will retain moisture and could lead to rot. In the colder months, check for snow build-up on the roof and remove as soon as possible to prevent structural damage.

Maintain locks and hinges

Invest in decent locks and make sure that they are oiled at least once a year to ensure mobility and to combat rusting. If your BBQ hut is closer to the coast, hinges may require more frequent treatment.

Check for moisture

Moisture can cause damp which, in turn, can cause mould, so it is imperative to identify and treat any build-up as soon as possible. 

By regularly inspecting any wooden boards for discoloration or dampness to the touch, you can eliminate the problem and keep your BBQ hut comfortable and hygienic. Consider investing in a dehumidifier, as these can help keep humidity levels down, especially during wetter periods. Airing out the hut and regular use of the fire will help keep dampness at bay.

Electricals and plumbing

To ensure you get the best out of your barbeque hut and maintain safety and cleanliness, you must ensure any electrical or plumbing components are inspected on a regular basis. Electricals should be kept up to code, and be sure not to overload any circuits.

Safety first

Familiarise yourself with the layout so you know which surfaces will come into contact with flames. Make sure not to leave anything flammable in a position where it could get too hot and cause a hazard. 

Make sure to take care of children and anyone else in the vicinity of the grill whilst cooking. Be aware of any sharp edges attached to the grill, and keep cooking utensils such as knives, prongs and skewers out of reach. 

Ensure fire safety equipment is up to standard and that all visitors and guests understand how to use them properly in the event of an emergency. It can be a good idea to install CO2 monitors and smoke alarms and conduct regular tests to ensure efficiency. 

Keep fuel and fire-starting equipment somewhere safe, and clean the grill regularly to avoid potentially flammable build-ups of fat and grease.

It’s also recommended to maintain a well-stocked and up to date first-aid kit and keep it readily available. Any tools should be kept in good working condition and any damaged, worn-out or otherwise defective items should be replaced to ensure effectiveness and safety.

Enjoy your BBQ hut!

Following our handy guide will make sure you get the best out of your barbeque hut throughout the seasons and over the years. If you would like more personalised advice, the team at Logspan can provide you with the most up to date information on our range of barbeque huts and log cabins as well as offer guidance on maintenance. Visit us today to find out more. 

Grillkotas - also spelt as Grill Kota or Grill Cota - are small wooden huts that you can use for BBQs. 

You may associate barbecues with hot parts of the world, but Grillkotas actually come from Finland. They are a traditional part of food and culture in the Scandinavian nation. 

What are Grillkota’s made from?

The traditional construction of this type of Scandinavian BBQ hut is all-wood. 

They are manufactured from wood such as birch, pine or spruce. Wooden planks are used to build the walls and roof, overlapping in a distinctive pattern and offering Grillkota inhabitants shelter from the wind, rain and any other challenges the weather throws up. 

Wooden boards usually comprise the floor of the Grillkota, and screws or nails hold the structure together. It may sound simple, but building a Grillkota is best left to those with experience.

Grillkota purists may maintain that no glue, or any kind of chemical, should be used in the manufacturing process. However, modern Grillkotas may use treated wood. 

The history of Grillkotas 

For years, hunters and forest workers in Finland have used temporary shelters to cook meals while staying away from the harshest elements of the Nordic weather. 

This is where the Grillkota concept comes from; a covered enclosure that houses a grill where meals can be made.

As time went on, Grillkotas came to appear in back gardens, becoming a focal point for family and social gatherings. In the latter part of the 20th Century, their popularity soared in Finland, and then spread to neighbouring Norway and Sweden - countries with the same climate. 

After making their mark in Northern Europe, in recent years, more of the world has discovered the joys of having a Finnish or Swedish BBQ hut. Here in the UK, and across the pond in the US and Canada, the functionality, charm and intrigue of Grillkotas have appealed to everyone from adventurous homeowners to BBQ enthusiasts. 

How do Grillkotas work?

Grillkotas vary in size and structure. 

One thing they have in common - aside from the wooden build - is that the BBQ is the centrepiece of the structure, and directly above the BBQ is usually a chimney that allows the smoke from the grill to escape easily. 

How much seating you have around the BBQ, if you have seating at all, and the luxury of that seating, will also differ from Grillkota to Grillkota. Some Scandinavian huts will be large enough to install sofas around the sides, while others will accommodate more basic benches. 

Many people enjoy the ‘smoky’ aroma that you can acquire inside the wooden structure, and this can even lend food cooked in a Grillkota having an infused, smoky taste. You’ll find that BBQs and metal grates also double up as a heating system, warming the Grillkota up nicely as people around the perimeter eagerly await their food.

Do you need planning permission for a Grillkota?

In the UK, whether or not you need planning permission for a Grillkota in your garden will depend on its size and how it is built. 

A typical Grillkota would fall under the category of BBQ huts, and in general, owners of private residences don’t need planning permission. Grillkotas, BBQ huts and the like are usually permitted developments, meaning that you don’t need to apply for permission to install them in a garden on your property. 

There are exceptions, and these include properties on land designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty, or on national parks. If you are installing a large Grillkota that could potentially accommodate you or your guests overnight, this throws up other considerations, and you may need to check with your local authorities to see if you do need planning clearance. 

Spice up your summers, warm up your winters

The truth is, having a Grillkota to visit in your garden can be a joy at any time of year. 

In the summer, the Grillkota becomes a social focal point, giving you every excuse to invite friends over, or congregate with your immediate family on long evenings. Give the kitchen a miss for a few weeks, and make the most of every bit of good weather with alfresco dining.

Come the colder months of the year, your Grillkota certainly has its place, too. Thanks to the comforting warmth it generates, there’s nothing to stop you from wrapping up warm and making the most of your outdoor grill now and then. The shelter will protect you from the worst elements of the weather, and a family adventure to the end of the garden for supper can break up your usual routine nicely. 

Before long, you might be craving the unique setting and smoky scent that only a Grillkota can offer. 

At Logspan, we offer over two decades of experience in unique, garden buildings and timber products. Our friendly team are here to answer your questions, so reach out today. 

Although there are many different styles and designs to choose from when you are looking for a barbeque lodge, most have specific features that make these outdoor structures a comfortable and convenient place to enjoy outdoor and family dining.

Usually, the grill is placed in the centre of the outdoor BBQ hut, to easily enable smoke and strong smells to escape, and allow plenty of room to navigate around the cooking area. Generally, there is usually also a chimney or smoke stack that helps to keep the space well-ventilated and comfortable.

Most larger BBQ cabins will have some form of seating installed, too. Not only does this allow diners to eat their meals in a comfortable and social way, it also allows people to enjoy their BBQ hut shed all year round, even during the colder and more wintry months.

Often, a good quality Swedish BBQ hut will have walls over forty millimetres thick at a minimum. This will help keep the BBQ shed better insulated, and will also ensure the heat generated by the cooking facilities will be retained within the structure. Having these sturdier planks of wood will provide much more stability and strength to the shed.

Other elements of BBQ cabins that are common include double glazed windows and doors, along with a full timber floor offering a safe, solid base for cooking and eating equipment.

For more advice and guidance on your options and choices from our range of barbeque sheds, contact our team at Logpan today.