There’s something special about having a space of your own in the garden. And if you’re handy (or up for a new challenge), building your own summer house can be one of the most rewarding projects you take on, however, there’s a lot to consider. This guide will walk you through the essentials so you can go into building your perfect outdoor sanctuary with confidence.

Why build a summer house?

A summer house offers a versatile space that can serve as a garden office, relaxation area, hobby room, or even a guest accommodation. With the right approach, you can create a beautiful structure that enhances your property value and provides additional living space without the cost of a full extension.

In Ireland’s changeable climate, a well-built summer house provides a weather-proof retreat where you can enjoy your garden all year-round.

Ready-made kits vs DIY construction: which is the right option for you?

Before you start, it’s worth deciding how hands-on you want to be. There are two main routes to building a summer house: assembling a ready-made kit or building everything from scratch. Both have their perks and what’s right for you depends on your skills, tools and how much time you’re willing to commit.

Ready-made summer house kits

For those who want convenience with quality, prefabricated summer house kits offer several advantages:

• Time-efficient: Most kits can be assembled in a few days
• Predictable costs: Fixed pricing with fewer unexpected expenses
• Professional design: Engineered for stability and longevity
• Simplified process: All components and instructions are included (making it easy for first-time builders).
• Less room for error: everything is pre-cut and designed to fit together.

Summer houses from suppliers like Summerhouse24 come in various styles, from traditional to modern designs. These kits typically include all structural components, doors, windows, and roofing materials. And have optional add-ons like insulation, foundation kits and wood finishes to make the whole job much easier.

Many Irish homeowners find that modern summer houses with side storage offer excellent value, combining living space with practical storage in one structure – eliminating the need for a separate garden shed.

Think of these kits as sophisticated LEGO sets for adults – everything is precisely cut, pre-drilled, and designed to fit together perfectly. For people with limited construction experience, these kits provide the perfect middle ground between buying a fully-built structure and starting completely from scratch.

Full DIY construction

If you have the time, tools, and confidence, starting from scratch gives you total creative freedom. You’ll need to source all your own materials, draw up plans and manage every part of the build, but for the right person, that’s part of the appeal.

Here’s what makes full DIY worth considering:

• Customisation: Build something that perfectly fits your garden and your style – no compromises
• Potential cost savings: If you have connections to source cheap materials locally or reuse what you already have to save (otherwise a prefabricated kit is definitely the cheapest option)
• Personal satisfaction: The reward of creating something entirely yourself
• Learning experience: Develop carpentry and construction skills

There is nothing quite like enjoying an outdoor space you’ve created entirely yourself. And it makes for a great story to regale your guests with.

Just keep in mind that a full DIY build is a much bigger commitment and small mistakes can lead to costly problems down the line. It’s worth critically weighing your skills and the effort required before you pick up the saw.

Cost considerations

The cost of building a summer house in Ireland varies significantly based on several factors:

Price ranges

• Basic structures: Starting around €4,500
• Mid-range summer houses: €7,000-€15,000
• Luxury or larger options: €15,000-€50,000+

Key cost factors

• Materials: Timber structures are more affordable than brick or concrete
• Size and complexity: Square/rectangular designs are more economical than complex shapes
• Features: Glass sliding doors, solar panels and adding indoor plumbing all add costs
• Labour: Professional installation adds €250-€350 per day (higher in Dublin)

Planning permissions in Ireland

Most summer houses in Ireland don’t require planning permission if they meet these criteria:

• Under 25m² in size
• Not used for habitation
• Located at the rear of the property
• Height doesn’t exceed 4m for a pitched roof and 3m for other roof types

However, it’s important to be aware that regulations can vary by local authority, so always check with your county council before starting construction. Converting a summer house for permanent living requires proper planning approval and compliance with building regulations for insulation, ventilation, and fire safety.

The planning application process, if needed, typically costs around €65 for applications, plus €140+ for required newspaper notices, and approximately €126 for site maps, according to research on garden room costs.

Materials guide

Choosing the right materials is one of the most important parts of any summer house build. Ireland’s damp, changeable weather means you’ll need to build with materials that can handle rain, wind and seasonal shifts without warping, rotting, or giving up after a year or two.

Timber options

Nordic spruce is widely used in Ireland for summer houses due to its durability and resistance to the damp climate. Summerhouse24’s garden buildings use slow-grown Nordic spruce, which offers excellent structural integrity.

This timber has naturally occurring resins that provide additional resistance to Ireland’s damp climate. The slow growth of these trees in northern European forests creates a denser wood grain, improving both strength and longevity – important factors in withstanding Ireland’s frequent rain and occasional strong winds.

Foundation choices

A solid base is essential for long-term performance, and the best foundation depends on your ground type and budget. 

Here are a few of the most popular options:

• Strip foundations: Concrete strips spaced 90-100 cm apart
• Paving slabs: Layer of gravel, sand, and slabs for a stable base
• Adjustable pedestals: Ideal for leveling on uneven ground

No matter which you choose, make sure your base is level, well-drained and designed to keep moisture away from the timber.

Cladding and weatherproofing

To protect your summer house from the elements, it’s worth investing in:

• Wood preservatives to protect against moisture and insects
• Damp-proof membranes for additional moisture protection
• Roofing materials like bitumen shingles for waterproofing

For Irish conditions, consider using a breathable membrane behind your cladding. This allows any trapped moisture to escape rather than causing rot within your walls – a common issue in our humid climate.

If your site tends to stay damp, consider raising the structure slightly on beams or using a gravel border to improve airflow around the base. 

DIY construction steps

If you’ve decided to build your summer house from scratch, having a clear plan is essential. While the exact steps will depend on your design, most builds follow the same basic sequence. Here’s an overview to help you get started.

1. Site preparation

• Level the ground and ensure proper drainage
• Mark boundaries according to your plans
• Remove any vegetation or obstacles

Good drainage is particularly important in Ireland. Consider adding a French drain (a gravel-filled trench) around your summer house site if the ground tends to hold water after rainfall.

2. Foundation construction

• Lay foundation slabs or concrete strips
• Ensure the base is level and stable
• Apply damp-proof course to prevent moisture from rising

Use a laser level for accuracy – even a seemingly minor slope in your foundation can cause significant problems as your structure rises.

3. Frame assembly

• Use pressure-treated timber for the base frame
• Secure joists with 400-600mm spacing
• Attach the frame to the foundation securely
• Apply wood preservatives for longevity

Top Tip: Using galvanized fixtures on your frame may cost a bit more upfront, but will prevent them from rusting in Ireland’s damp climate and significantly extend your summer house’s lifespan.

4. Wall construction

• Erect wall frames, creating gaps for windows and doors with 5mm clearance
• Install insulation between studs if desired
• Add exterior cladding and interior wall finishes

If insulating, consider using sheep’s wool insulation – it performs exceptionally well in Irish conditions and is naturally moisture-regulating.

5. Roof installation

• Attach rafters, battens, and ridge board
• Install roofing material (felt, shingles, or metal sheets)
• Add guttering for rainwater management

In Ireland’s rainy climate, proper guttering isn’t optional – it’s essential for preventing water damage to your foundations and walls.

6. Windows and doors

• Install pre-made units or construct custom frames
• Ensure proper sealing around all openings
• Consider double glazing for better insulation

Double glazing is worth the investment for garden rooms in Ireland as it significantly reduces condensation issues common in our climate while improving heat retention.

7. Finishing touches

• Add flooring (timber boards are popular)
• Apply final treatments and paint
• Install any electrical wiring (hire a qualified electrician)

For electrical work, always use a registered electrician familiar with the regulations for outdoor buildings. The slightly higher cost ensures safety and compliance with Irish electrical codes.

Budget-friendly tips

Building a summer house doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning (and a few smart shortcuts), you can create a beautiful, long-lasting garden building while keeping costs under control.

Here are a few ways to save:

• Consider pre-made kits: Kits come with everything you need, so there are no cost surprises mid build. 
• Simplify your design: Opt for square or rectangular structures
• Use standard sizes: Custom dimensions increase material costs
• DIY where possible: Handle site preparation and basic assembly yourself
• Phase your project: Complete essential elements first, add features later
• Compare suppliers: Some suppliers offer summer houses at cheaper prices, look for seasonal sales and special offers and some have free delivery options
• Use a foundation kit: More economical than full concrete foundations
• Purchase end-of-season display models: these can often be 10-20% cheaper 

Maintenance considerations

A well-built summer house can last for decades but only if you give it a little care now and then. Ireland’s damp, windy climate means regular maintenance is key to keeping your structure looking great and standing strong.

Here’s how to keep your summer house in top shape:

• Apply wood preservative (a high-quality product only needs to be reapplied every 6 to 7 years)
• Check and repair roof coverings annually
• Clear gutters regularly to prevent water damage
• Inspect for signs of damp or wood rot
• Maintain good ventilation to prevent condensation and mold.
• In coastal areas of Ireland, consider using marine-grade varnishes or preservatives, which provide enhanced protection against salt-laden air that can accelerate timber deterioration.

Conclusion

Building your own summer house is a rewarding project that can add value to your property and enhance your lifestyle. Whether you opt for a ready-made kit or a complete DIY approach, careful planning and attention to detail will ensure your garden retreat serves you well for many years.

Before starting, assess your skills honestly, establish a realistic budget, and check local regulations. With the right preparation, you’ll soon be enjoying your perfect garden escape, whether that’s a simple design or an elegant summer house with a porch.

If you’d like to start planning your summer house project, the Summerhouse24 team is on standby to help you bring your ideas to life.