Prefab Garages

Time to replace the UK's old Prefab Garages

Neil O'Sullivan from Compton Garages lets us know how to go about replacing old prefab garages.

What motivates people to buy new prefab garages? The chances are they know they should replace their old prefab garages built in the 60s and 70s. Common problems with old prefabricated garages include turning shabby, leaking and falling down or just too small to accommodate the lawnmower and bike as well as the cars built nowadays.

Whatever the reason, new prefab garages could add more than 10% to the value of your property, as well as giving you a distinct advantage over other properties when it comes to finding a buyer.

Manufacturers of prefab garages are now well and truly established in the 21st century with a mouth watering range of options and styles that meet the needs of the modern consumer.

So what's holding the owners of those old prefab garages back? Probably the question: "What should be done with the old garages?"

Before you begin choosing from the current set of shapes, sizes and styles of the modern set of prefab garages, don't forget that you will need to arrange for your old garage to be removed and a base for your new garage need to be laid or repaired.

At this point your local Compton Garages agent can become your best friend. When looking for new prefab garages, concrete sheds, etc, ask the agent for their base laying service or for advice on removing old garages.

Displays of prefab garages can be found throughout the UK and are manned by agents with experience of selling these garages throughout the local area. Agents help customers to choose prefab garages that are right for their homes in addition to offering other services.

Just because a garage wwas there before, it doesn't necessarily follow that the foundations will be suitable for a new garage. The modern breed of prefab garages is made from concrete that is much heavier than previous timber or corrugated iron garages, and so they will need stronger concrete bases.

New prefab garages are only as good as their foundations and you'll need a concrete base, which is designed to suit local soil conditions. It should stand slightly higher than the surrounding ground so that water does not drain from the ground onto the base, where it could get under the garage panels causing problems with damp.

In the vast majority of cases for prefab garages, you will not need to apply for planning permission. However, it's best to check out the planning regulations at the outset, rather than having a new garage installed only to find out that you did need planning permission.

As a general guide, if prefab garages are covering more than half the land around your house, then you will need permission. Also, if your house is a listed building, in a conservation area, or if you will be using prefab garages for business, you should check out the regulations.

Most people who are looking to buy new prefab garages go to a local display because they really need have a good look at the building, inside and out, before they spend any money. It's best not to rely on brochures for a true picture of these garages, but instead see for yourself the space and features available, such as doors, windows and finishes, as not all prefab garages are the same.

It's a good idea to use a local dealer so that you can make as many visits as you need and have more time to think about your choice. What else of this value would you buy from a brochure without seeing it first?

Our website provides links to local agents and answers to all the questions you might have about prefab garages - click here.

Neil O'Sullivan ­ Compton Garages