A simple arbor, without a water connection or electricity, is no longer appropriate for many people. Maybe the house has just become unsightly and needs a new coat of paint, or the roof is leaking. But what is the best way to proceed with the renovation?
How can you renovate a garden house?
To renovate a garden house, you should check the roof and repair it if necessary, sand and repaint the side walls, insulate the house and install a heater. Optionally you can also integrate a floor covering.
The roof
Many garden houses are covered with bitumen shingles or roofing felt. If the roof leaks, which becomes apparent through discoloration or even puddles inside, you can seal the damage or install a completely new cover, depending on the extent. Take this opportunity to check the stability of the battens and replace any damaged wood.
The side walls are weathered
While garden houses made of metal or plastic often last for decades and still remain visually beautiful, wooden models require regular painting. Proceed as follows:
- Clean the facade with a brush and the garden hose or a high-pressure cleaner.
- Allow to dry thoroughly.
- Sand the wood with the belt or orbital sander (€187.00 at Amazon).
- Finish with steel wool and/or sandpaper.
- Apply primer and allow to dry.
- This is followed by at least two coats of weather protection paint.
Insulate garden house
Modern insulation ensures that the interior of the house does not heat up excessively on hot summer days. At the same time, it keeps frost away and, provided the arbor is also equipped with a heater, ensures a comfortable living atmosphere in winter. Should be insulated if possible:
- the floor
- the walls
- the roof
- Windows and doors.
When taking this measure, make sure that no cold bridges form. Moisture condenses in these areas, which subsequently leads to the formation of mold.
Install a heater
If you would like to use the garden house as a second living room in the winter months, you should also integrate heating during the renovation. There are various options available here:
- Mobile oil radiator
- An electric heater
- A gas heater powered by propane gas
- Pellet or wood heating
- Solar heating.
When taking this measure, remember that safety regulations must be observed depending on the type of heater. You also need approval from the responsible building authority when integrating a fireplace.
Tip
As part of the renovation, it is worth integrating one of the floor coverings into a gazebo without a floor. Matched to the intended use, this ensures that the arbor has a homely appearance.
