If you plan to build an arbor, you should also think in advance about how the house will be used in the future. For example, would you like to overwinter flowers in it, use it as a second living room in the cold season or use the space you gained for your hobby? Depending on the intended use, a different design is advisable.
How do I make my garden house winter-proof?
To make a garden house winter-proof, you should choose sufficient wall thickness, install additional insulation, care for the wood and take weather protection measures. In winter, regularly check for damage and remove snow from the roof.
The wall thickness
If you are planning a simple tool shed, a wall thickness of around two centimeters is sufficient. But if you occasionally want to celebrate or spend the night in the house in the summer months, we recommend slightly thicker walls of at least four centimeters. On hot summer days you can take advantage of the insulating properties of the wood because it stays at a pleasant temperature in the house.
Perhaps your garden house is on a recreational property and you would like to stay there regularly? Even if the arbor is used all year round as a hobby or fitness room, the wall thickness should not be less than seven centimeters. With integrated heating you can achieve almost the same level of comfort as in your normal apartment.
Additional insulation
You can also make the garden house winter-proof with optional insulation:
- The external walls can be insulated all around using a multi-layer insulation system.
- The interior walls can also be covered by filling the wall with insulating material in front of the wall.
- When insulating, don't forget the base, because cold penetrates primarily through the floor.
- Effective roof insulation prevents the heat from dissipating here.
Good care ensures weather resistance
In order for the garden house to be winter-proof, you need to care for it properly right from the start.
- Treat all wooden parts with a weather protection glaze before assembly (€32.00 on Amazon).
- You should renew this coat of paint every two to three years.
- Continually check the house for damage that could allow water to penetrate.
- Regular ventilation ensures that any condensation that forms can escape.
Winterproofing the uninhabited house
If you only use the garden house in the summer months, you have to winterize it in autumn:
- Check the arbor for damage before saying goodbye to it for months.
- Turn off the water and, if necessary, the electricity.
- Empty the rain barrel so that it cannot burst in the event of frost.
Tip
In the winter months, check occasionally and clear the roof of heavy snow loads. This way you can prevent uninvited visitors from setting up shop in your arbor.
