Nestled amidst the greenery, your garden room office likely offers a breath of fresh air from the confines of your main house. Whether it's a hub for remote work or a cosy haven for a loved one, this separate space deserves dedicated care to ensure that it is functional for a long time.
This guide provides essential tips to keep your garden room, garden office or granny annexe thriving through every season.
Step 1: Building a Solid Foundation
Walls & Windows: Your garden room or granny annexe will be exposed to the elements of British weather, so regular exterior checks are advisable. Most Rubicon buildings are fitted with zero maintenance composite cladding, so painting and staining is a thing of the past. However, keeping the exterior clean and free from spiders webs will maintain its beauty and enhance your garden. Likewise, regular cleaning of doors and windows is always time well spent to keep things looking nice. Of course, if you’ve had timber cladding fitted then you will need to maintain the exterior by painting or staining the cladding on a minimum bi-annual basis
Gutters & Drainage: Ensure gutters and down pipes are kept clear of leaves and debris as overflowing gutters can be detrimental to a buildings watertightness. Proper drainage is equally important. Always leave 75-100mm of clearance between the base of the building and any hard surfaces such as paving slabs. Fill the gap with decorative gravel. This will allow moisture to drain freely from the walls and drain away without pooling water on walkways.
Step 2: Maintaining the Inner Haven
Temperature Control: It is extremely important to ensure a good interior environment year-round. In chilly months, set the heater timer to start an hour earlier than you plan to occupy the space. Electric heaters are 100% efficient, and with the thermally efficient insulation installed on your Rubicon garden room office, the room will stay warm and cosy throughout the day. In warmer seasons, good ventilation is key. Open windows and doors if possible for natural air circulation. Invest in blinds or awnings to manage direct sunlight and prevent overheating.
Keeping it Bright and Clean: Regular cleaning keeps your garden room free of dust, allergens, and pest infestations. Vacuum carpets and rugs, and wipe down hard surfaces frequently. Deep clean upholstery and furnishings periodically. Natural light is a mood booster, so keep windows dust-free and trim back any overgrown foliage that might block it.
Step 3: Tech Tweaks
Power & Connectivity: Ensuring reliable power and internet access is vital for a functional office or comfortable living space. To ensure continuous supply, check electrical connections regularly and address any loose wires or faulty outlets promptly. Upgrade your Wi-Fi router if you experience connectivity issues.
Security & Monitoring: This is one of the most important things to consider for your garden office because it might be vulnerable to intrusion, being away from the main house. Invest in a good quality security system with alarms and motion sensors. Consider smart bulbs that you can control remotely for added deterrence. If your granny annexe houses an elderly resident, consider fall detection technology for peace of mind.
Step 4: Keeping the Garden Green
Maintaining the Surroundings: There is no doubt that a well-maintained garden enhances the beauty and enjoyment of your home and will do the same for your garden office or annexe. You can bring nature into your space by planting seasonal flowers and shrubs to attract pollinators and add colour. Don't forget about trees! Prune branches when necessary and ensure they don't pose a threat to the structure. To attract wildlife, leave areas wild, so that birds and hedgehogs can nest there. But do make sure that this does not damage or otherwise interfere with the structure of your garden office or annexe.
Paving & Paths: Regularly sweep patios and paths to prevent build-up of leaves and debris. Check for cracks or uneven surfaces that could pose tripping hazards and address them promptly. Consider pressure washing to keep stonework looking fresh.
Step 5: Seasonal Essentials
Spring: As winter loosens its grip, clear winter debris from the garden and check for signs of animal activity. Clean windows and air out the space to welcome fresh air. Prepare for summer sunshine by cleaning outdoor furniture and checking patio shades are in good condition.
Summer: Regular watering and maintenance are key during the growing season. Tend to your garden, trim overgrown plants, and check for insect infestations. Keep an eye on the roof for signs of sun damage and take necessary steps to protect it.
Autumn: As leaves fall, clear them regularly to prevent dampness and slippery surfaces. Harvest any fruits or vegetables grown in your garden. Prepare for winter by checking insulation levels and ensuring that water pipes are protected from freezing.
Winter: Regularly clear snow and ice from paths and roofs to prevent damage. Ensure gutters are free of debris to prevent ice dams. Keep the interior warm and dry to prevent condensation and potential mould growth.
Some extra tips!
Declutter Regularly: Clutter can disrupt both work and relaxation. Schedule regular decluttering sessions to keep your haven organised and stress-free.
Personalise Your Space: Decorate your garden office or granny annexe to reflect your personality and needs. Bring in plants, artwork, or comfortable furniture to create a welcoming and inspiring environment.
Seek Professional Help: For complex repairs or maintenance tasks beyond your expertise, don't hesitate to seek professional help from qualified builders, electricians, or gardeners.
At Rubicon, we not only build garden rooms, we ensure that All our products are Built to Last™, FULLY INSULATED, and offer ZERO Maintenance Wood Fibre Composite or Cedar and Wood Cladding we are constantly seeking new materials in order to enhance comfort, maintainability and aesthetic appeal.
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your garden room office remains a productive, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing space for its users. By following these tips and tailoring them to your specific needs, you can cultivate a sanctuary that thrives through every season, offering a source of joy and well-being for years to come.
For a free, friendly consultation, contact Rubicon today, and we’ll be happy to discuss your garden room office project
For more garden room information, inspiration and advice, read the Rubicon blog…