Frequently Asked Questions
How close can a shed be to a fence?
It needs to sit at least two metres from the boundary of a property, such as a fence or a wall.
How high can a garden fence be?
A garden fence can be up to 2 metres high without planning permission.
How deep should a fence post be?
A fence post should have a depth of 2ft.
How much does a fence cost?
The cost of a fence can vary depending on what type, material, and size of fence panels you choose. However, the average cost to hire a tradesperson to supply and install 6ft fencing is typically around £1,500. This price can change depending on the material of fencing you choose. Also keep in mind that cost of fencing panels could be around £36.50 per panel.
How much does it cost for a shed base?
The cost of a shed base depends on the size of the shed and the type of concrete, but it usually costs anywhere between £300-£500.
Should a shed base be bigger than a shed?
Yes, the base should be built bigger than your shed. On each product page, the shed base dimensions can be seen on the ‘dimensions’ tab. These dimensions are the recommended size that your shed base should be built to. It should also be a minimum of 50mm/2” inch. However, if you are planning on installing a ground anchor, your shed base should be a minimum of 100mm/4” thick.
Do I need a base for my shed?
A good solid and level base is always required for a shed.
Will I need planning permission for my garden building?
Garden Timber Buildings are permitted without the need for planning permission provided they follow a range of conditions, including: It must be single-storey with a maximum overall height of four metres if the building has a dual pitched roof. Any other roof type can have a maximum overall height of three metres. The eaves of the building cannot be any more than 2.5 metres in height. The building cannot include a balcony, veranda or raised platform. Less than half of the available land surrounding the property can be filled with outbuildings.
What type of garden shed is best?
You can have a range of different materials for sheds, such as wooden, plastic and metal. Wood is the traditional type of shed and is very versatile. You can paint, stain, or treat your wooden shed to reflect or contrast with its surroundings. However, it requires a lot of upkeep, as wood will rot if it isn’t adequately protected. As for plastic sheds, they require little to no maintenance. While you cannot change the colour yourself, they are available in a wide range of colours such as natural, green, or brown. At Howarth, we supply Albany and forest green garden sheds, which are some of our bestselling garden sheds due to how durable they are. Our Norfolk Albany shed is our most recommended, with plenty of room inside for storing gardening equipment.
How can I price & purchase an Albany Shed or Summerhouse?
Most of the buildings may now be priced and purchased online using the Albany Shed Designer. Additionally, as a dealer, we can assist you in selecting the finest shed for your needs from our vast selection.
What are the sheds treated with?
We apply a foundation layer of water-based Brown treatment where treatment is required.
Why aren't the sheds tanalised?
We believe that tanalised or pressure treated sheds are frequently portrayed as being maintenance-free, while in our opinion, the best and only correct way to preserve a shed in excellent shape is to apply a regular layer of treatment. Although pressure treatment is required for timber that will be placed in the ground, many in the shed industry feel that it can cause greater shrinkage and cracking than would otherwise occur. If left untreated, any tanalised shed would quickly become an eyesore, appearing drab and unkempt; it will also be more prone to leak in rainy conditions.
Do you use chipboard on floors and roofs?
We use tongue and groove boards, with the exception of the Cottage, which has solid close-boarded timber.
How long will delivery take?
Delivery times vary based on the season, so please order ahead of time. Please also allow more time during the spring and summer months; your shop will advise you on the approximate lead time.
Will my shed come with felt?
Yes, we provide felt, glass, fixings, trimmings, and other components as required.
Can you assemble my shed?
As a merchant, we can offer assembly service.
What do I need to put the shed on to?
To support the shed floor, you'll need a sturdy, flat, level base.
How often do I have to treat my shed?
If the shed was factory treated, we recommend re-treating it within 6 months and then yearly after that. If left untreated, it must be treated as soon as possible. Some models' hardwood doors and windows should be treated as soon as possible with a high-quality solution, such as a Sadolin product.
What should I use to treat my shed?
As previously stated, Sadolin provides certain high-quality materials that we recommend for wooden doors and windows but may also be used throughout the shed. We do not recommend clear therapy.
Can you make a shed to my requirements?
Some models are customisable. We've included information on various choices on each product page, but if you don't find what you're looking for, you may contact us to discuss some options, or you can construct your own using the Shed Designer. We are unable to provide made-to-order unusually shaped constructions.
Are the cladding and framing sizes quoted the finished size after machining?
: Yes, we often quote sizes before machining, so it is important to check.
Which way will the floor joists run on my shed?
It varies according on size and model. Floor plans are available on this page, but if it is important, please double-check and mention on the order that they must correspond to the specified direction, as they are subject to change.
Do you use Redwood or Whitewood?
We use both, but only of a specific grade and from sustainable sources.
Will I need planning permission?
Larger / higher buildings may require planning approval depending on size and location; please check with your local council if uncertain. If required, we may be able to lower some structures to avoid the need for planning approval. It is the customer's obligation to determine whether or not planning is necessary.