Built to Last, Designed to Be Easy
We specify every material in our builds with longevity and low maintenance in mind. EPDM roofing that lasts 30+ years with no treatment. Powder-coated aluminium frames that need only an occasional wipe. Naturally durable or composite cladding that ages beautifully without painting.
The result is a structure that looks after itself — requiring about 30 minutes of attention every few months. This guide covers what to do, when, and what to look out for.
Maintenance Schedule
Clear gutters and downpipes
Especially in autumn. Blocked gutters can overflow and cause water ingress around the fascia line.
Check door and window seals
Look for any movement or gaps in the gaskets around door and window frames. Address early to prevent draught or moisture issues.
Wipe down aluminium frames
Powder-coated aluminium is low maintenance but benefits from an occasional wipe with a damp cloth to remove salt, grime and pollution deposits.
Inspect the roof surface
Walk the perimeter and visually check the EPDM membrane for any lifting at edges or around penetrations (roof lights, cable entry points). This is rare but worth checking.
Check cladding condition
Look for any splits, cracks or discolouration. Natural timber cladding will silver over time — this is normal and not a defect.
Clean glazing inside and out
Bifold and French doors accumulate dirt in the tracks. Clean tracks and lubricate with a silicone spray to keep operation smooth.
Oil timber cladding (if desired)
Cedar and larch don't need treatment to remain structurally sound — but if you want to retain the warm tone, apply a UV oil annually in spring. Osmo UV Protection Oil is our recommendation.
Test electrical installation
No specific action needed, but if you notice any RCD trips or flickering, call a qualified electrician. Our Part P electrical cert covers the installation — keep this in your documents.
Redecorate interior if required
Plastered walls hold paint well. Interior repainting is a cosmetic choice based on how the room is used — a home office will need it sooner than a gym.
Check ground screw stability
This should not be necessary but if you notice any movement or settlement, contact us — ground screws are designed to be permanent and adjustable if required.
Cladding Care by Material
Western Red Cedar
25–30+ yearsNone required to remain structurally sound. Apply UV oil annually to retain warm amber tone. Left untreated, weathers to a natural silver-grey in 12–18 months.
Our most popular cladding. The silver weathered look is increasingly desired and requires zero maintenance.
Siberian Larch
20–30+ yearsSame approach as cedar — leave to weather naturally or apply UV oil to slow the process. More resinous than cedar, so slightly more pronounced weathering.
Dense and durable. Common on contemporary-style builds. Ages to a consistent silver-grey.
Thermowood / Kebony
30+ yearsMinimal. Modified timber is highly stable — less movement than standard softwood. Oil occasionally if you want to maintain colour. Otherwise, leave it.
Our premium timber option. Thermally or chemically modified to be extremely durable and stable.
Composite Cladding
25+ yearsAnnual wash with warm water and soft brush. No oiling, painting or treatment required. Colour-stable — won't fade or silver like natural timber.
Zero maintenance. Good option for customers who want consistent colour and no upkeep obligation.
Our 10-Year Structural Guarantee
Every Green Rooms build comes with a 10-year structural guarantee covering the primary structure — SIPs panels, frame, roof system and ground screw foundations. If there's a structural defect, we'll fix it.
Maintenance Questions
How long does a garden room last?
A well-built SIPs garden room should last 30–50+ years. The structural elements are designed for decades — ground screws don't rust, EPDM roofing doesn't perish, and SIPs panels don't rot. Cladding is the most variable element — natural timber softens and silvers with age, composite holds its colour. Our 10-year guarantee covers the primary structure.
Does cedar cladding need painting?
No — and we'd advise against painting it. Cedar is naturally durable and oils are far more suitable than paint, which can trap moisture and eventually peel. If you want to maintain the warm amber colour, apply a UV oil (like Osmo UV Protection Oil) once a year. Otherwise, simply leave it to weather to a natural silver-grey, which is low maintenance and looks excellent.
What if I get a leak?
Contact us immediately — we'll assess it and respond quickly. Our EPDM roofing is extremely reliable (30+ year expected lifespan) and genuine leaks are rare. Water ingress sometimes occurs at junctions or around penetration points during the first year as materials settle, which is covered by our guarantee. Keep your guarantee documents safe and call us rather than attempting a DIY repair.
Can I pressure wash my garden room?
Yes, with care. A pressure washer is fine on composite cladding and aluminium frames at low pressure. For natural timber, use a lower pressure setting and apply with the grain — high pressure across the grain can roughen the surface. Don't pressure wash EPDM roofing directly — a brush and warm water is sufficient.
Questions About Your Build?
We're always happy to help — whether you're an existing customer with a question or someone planning their first garden room.