Detached Timber Garage with Reinforced Concrete Base

Excavation and Site Preparation

Every successful building project begins with carefully prepared foundations, and this replacement garage was no exception. Before any concrete could be poured, the site was excavated to the required reduced levels, ensuring the new garage would sit accurately within the surrounding landscape while providing the correct finished floor level.

Following excavation, the formation was prepared and compacted before installing a substantial hardcore sub-base. This created a stable platform capable of supporting the reinforced concrete slab and the weight of the completed timber structure for many years to come.

Our team carefully checked all dimensions against the approved drawings, ensuring the foundations would provide a perfect fit for the prefabricated timber garage.

Reinforced Concrete Garage Slab

With the groundwork complete, we constructed a reinforced concrete slab designed specifically for the new detached garage. Reinforcement mesh was installed throughout the slab before the concrete was poured and finished to provide the strength and durability required for everyday vehicle use.

Accuracy was particularly important during this stage, as the slab would form the permanent base for the bespoke timber building. Levels, dimensions and squareness were checked throughout the installation to ensure the finished structure could be erected without alteration.

The completed slab provides a robust, level and long-lasting foundation that will continue to perform for decades with minimal maintenance.

Brick Plinth Construction

To protect the timber structure from ground moisture while providing an attractive traditional appearance, we constructed a brick plinth around the perimeter of the new garage.

The brickwork was carefully set out and finished to create a neat, durable base that complements the rural character of Thatch Cottage. A damp proof course was incorporated into the construction to prevent moisture transfer between the masonry and the timber superstructure.

This detailing not only improves the longevity of the building but also provides a quality finish that sits comfortably within the traditional Hampshire setting.

Preparing for the Timber Garage Installation

Once the foundations, slab and brick plinth had been completed, the site was fully prepared for the installation of the bespoke timber garage.

The garage itself measured approximately 6.3 metres by 6.3 metres and was manufactured as a traditional timber-framed building with cedar featheredge cladding and a synthetic slate roof, carefully selected to complement the existing cottage and surrounding countryside.

Although the specialist timber manufacturer who supplied and erected the structure has since ceased trading, Rogate Construction is proud to have delivered all enabling works that made the successful installation possible. Accurate setting out, quality workmanship and careful preparation ensured the structure could be installed efficiently and exactly as designed.

Traditional Design

The completed garage sits comfortably alongside the existing property, reflecting the traditional architectural style found throughout Chawton and the surrounding Hampshire villages.

Its timber cladding, pitched roof and classic proportions create a building that feels entirely at home within the rural setting while providing practical, secure vehicle storage and additional external space for the homeowners.

Projects such as this demonstrate the importance of quality groundwork. Whilst much of the finished appearance comes from the superstructure, the long-term performance of any building depends upon accurate excavation, well-constructed foundations and a professionally installed concrete base.

Project Management and Delivery

This project formed part of the wider refurbishment works at Thatch Cottage, allowing the construction programme to be carefully coordinated with the ongoing renovation of the property.

Working alongside the specialist timber building supplier, Rogate Construction ensured all groundwork was completed to programme, allowing the garage installation to proceed without delay. Close communication between contractors ensured each stage was delivered efficiently while maintaining the high standards expected throughout the wider renovation.

By managing the groundwork package from excavation through to the finished concrete slab and brick plinth, we provided the client with complete confidence that the new garage would have a strong, durable and accurately constructed foundation.

The Result

The finished detached timber garage provides practical storage while enhancing the appearance and functionality of the property. Its traditional materials and sympathetic design blend naturally with the character of Thatch Cottage, creating a building that looks as though it has always belonged there.

Behind the finished appearance lies a carefully engineered foundation system completed by Rogate Construction, ensuring the garage has the structural integrity and durability required for many years of reliable service.