FAQs

Suffolk Oak Cartlodges

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the process of building a cart lodge?

We adopt a seven stage plan of action to deliver your bespoke cart lodge in Suffolk.

Stage 1 – We have an initial telephone discussion so that we can get a feel for what you are looking to achieve. We will talk about the materials you like and may ask you to send some external pictures of your current home so that we can understand how the oak cart lodge will fit into the overall scheme of things. We will naturally answer any questions that you may have at this stage.

Stage 2 – Based on our initial discussions and your requirements, we will provide you with an approximate budget, based on our experience of what our oak cart lodges cost to build. Typically, our double cart lodges start from £40,000 Plus VAT. If you are happy with our guide budget,we will then organise a site visit to discuss the next steps and consider any localised issues on site.

Stage 3 – We will meet you on site to finalise requirements and go through any further details as well as discussing any questions that you may have. We can also agree whether you would like us to deal with the architectural, planning and engineers appointments.

Stage 4 – The architects will draft the plans for your approval and consider any aspects in respect of planning permission. Where planning is required they will progress the necessary applications. An engineer will need to be appointed to design the foundations and the architects will need to produce appropriate construction drawings. This can be done concurrently at the planning stage at your risk, or after the planning approval. Once we have the appropriate detail our budget quote can be finalised, taking into account additional requirements from architects/engineers and any changes that you ask us to consider.

Stage 5 – Upon approval of our final quote and terms, we can schedule an appropriate date to commence the build of your oak cart lodge. We do like to schedule our work appropriately so that we can stay on site to deliver your project from start to finish.

Stage 6 – Work commences on site! Our team will work with you to deliver what we have agreed. We will work with the appointed building control officer appointed to your project.

Stage 7 – We handover the finished project to you!

What is a cart lodge?

A cart lodge is typically an open fronted garage with an oakfacing frame clad in feather edge boarding, providing undercover parking and often storage areas. We have seen many adaptations to the style of oak cart lodges in Suffolk over the years, with some clients preferring a modern twist to this traditional building. Some clients prefer more durable cladding that does not require any maintenance over the years and others drop the use of oak altogether to create that modern feel and look.

The choices of design are endless, with roof coverings ranging from traditional slate to red clay pantiles or even peg tiles for a more traditional look. At Suffolk Oak Cart Lodges we can design your cart lodge to your exact requirements and deliver it to the highest standard.

How easy is it to erect a cart lodge?

Like many things in life, if you have the knowledge and experience and follow a tried and tested process, it is relatively simple for an experienced builder to build a quality cart lodge.

At Suffolk Oak Cart Lodges, we will only build our cart lodges to meet building regulations without cutting any corners! With an experienced team of skilled trades we effortlessly create your bespoke oak cart lodge following tried and tested construction methods, with the oversight of the appointed building control officer.

Preparation is key to the success of the project following a construction timeline and ensuring all materials are on site ready for the various stages. Not only does this create an efficient process but ensures there are no delays to the project programme aside from the often unhelpful weather!

How to build a cart lodge?

We follow a simple step process, which includes the following stages:- Obtain the necessary consent, architects and engineers drawings, any planning approvals and appoint your building control officer. Build the foundations and concrete slab, including any dwarf walls and connect the drainage.

    • Erect the timber frame and any oak detail.
    • First fix the electrics and any plumbing.
    • Position the roof trusses and fix any fascia and soffit detail.
    • Tile the roof and complete any cement work.
    • Clad the building, fix any rainwater goods
    • Second, fix electrical and plumbing.
    • Handover to client!
How much does a cart lodge cost to build?

Typically for one of our high quality bespoke double cart lodges in Suffolk, our costs start at £40,000 + VAT with associated professional fees such as architects, planning and engineers in addition to this. We can provide you with an all in cost to incorporate this.

You can tailor any aspect of your cart lodge and we will price this accordingly. There are many options you can consider depending on the overall look and feel that you are after and if you wish for the cart lodge.

Do you need foundations?

Yes! We only build oak cart lodges that meet current building regulations and have properly constructed foundations. We will not build onto an existing slab or foundation as we cannot rely on the structural integrity of it. What’s more, in today’s construction world the requirements for foundations are far greater to ensure long term structural integrity of your building.

What element is oak?

You can bespoke your cart lodge however you choose. Generally, the more oak the more expensive the cost will be as oak is a hardwood that requires patience to manufacture to the right standard. Typically, most clients seek an oak fronted cartlodge with all other structural elements built from construction grade timber.

Do I need an architect?

Yes, but we can take care of everything for you. We build all of our oak cart lodges in line with current building regulations, and as such, detailed architect plans and construction drawings are required. It is also likely that an engineer will need to design the foundations, despite the relatively lightweight nature of a single storey cartlodge, to ensure the construction meets the necessary requirements. Again, we can deal with this on your behalf.

How long does construction typically take?

We would always allow up to 12 weeks for a project of this nature. This allows us to complete the groundworks and deliver the finished product which will involve many different trades, all of whom we have used on many occasions and trust.

A large amount of the work is completed by our own in-house team. If you require planning then this can add another 16 weeks to the entire journey allowing time for architects to design and build.

Do I need planning permission for a cart lodge?

Most likely yes, however it depends on a number of factors, including footprint, building height, location and proximity to boundaries, materials, conservation areas and listed building curtilage. We work with trusted architects to provide the right advice and can deal with all aspects of the build from planning to handover.

Why choose Suffolk Oak Cartlodges?
    • An experienced team who can truly deliver an outstanding quality finish.
    • We take care of everything from planning to construction for complete peace of mind.
    • A fixed quote based on your specific requirements with stage payments only as the build progresses.
    • Through our sister company Suffolk Timber Supplies, we source the finest quality materials and oak.
    • A passion for property which shines through in how we plan and deliver everything we build.

Please take a look at our sister company website here…

Suffolk Timber Supplies

Can I tailor my cart lodge?

Yes, we can tailor the design to meet your requirements and provide a quotation based on the agreed specification. Kindly note there may be some planning constraints in respect of your chosen approach. You have a vast array of choice of materials and finish. It really is up to you and your budget!