A veranda is a fantastic addition to any home that enjoys spending time in the garden. It offers shelter, shade, and a stylish outdoor living space where you can enjoy meals, or an early morning coffee. They bridge the gap between the inside and the outdoors.
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But before you dive in, there are some important things to think about before getting the tools and timber out. Is your veranda the right fit for your property and lifestyle?
What do you need to know before investing in a veranda?
1. Purpose and Lifestyle
Ask yourself the important question. What do you want a veranda for? Is it to enjoy summer evenings and barbeques? Do you desire a covered dining space overlooking your garden? Or, is it simply to provide protection from the elements when you’re out the back in your dressing gown?
Your intentions will inform the size, design, and the materials you choose.
2. Planning Permission
For the most part, verandas fall under permitted development. However, it is always worth checking with your local authority. Check your local planning regulations before committing to making changes to your property.
There could be factors such as your property boundaries, listed status, or conservation areas that may require formal permission. It is always worth a little check before cracking out the hammer and nails.
3. Materials and Style
Verandas are not solely wooden walkways with handrails. They can be built in aluminium, timber, or steel with roofing options ranging from glass, polycarbonate, to tiled finishes.
Each choice affects the look and feel of your veranda. And it affects durability, maintenance, and cost. Ideally you will match the veranda style to your home’s existing architecture for a seamless appearance.
4. Size and Position
The shape and orientation of your garden will shape exactly how your veranda is used. A veranda that faces south offers maximum sun but might need additional shading. A north-facing one might prioritise shelter.
Think about size too. If it’s too small, it might not serve its purpose. Too large, and it could overwhelm your garden or outdoor space.
5. Budget and Installation
Your budget is important. It’s not just the veranda you’re paying for but also installation, groundwork, and possible extras like heating, lighting or sliding glass walls.
Whilst you might be the local Handy Andy, it’s always best to consult with an expert, and pay for professional installation to guarantee safety and longevity. Your veranda needs to survive the winter months.
6. Maintenance and Longevity
Different materials demand different levels of care. Powder-coated aluminium, for example, is a low maintenance solution. However, you might prefer the timber aesthetic which will need regular treatment to protect against weathering.
Consider how much time you want to donate to the upkeep of your veranda.
7. Added Value
A well-designed veranda is capable of enhancing your lifestyle and your property value. If you are looking to sell, prospective buyers often see a veranda as a premium feature, especially if it extends usable living space all year round.
If you are still interested in purchasing a veranda, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 07392 084 425 for more information.
If you would like to learn more about how a garden room can benefit your home.
If you would like to receive a no obligation quote, please call us on 01604 947146 or complete our short contact form.
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