Build it or convert it, one decision at a time
Bases, counters, hatches, roofs and the damp-proofing nobody photographs. Start from the ground up and the fun parts last longer.
Read these first
New to the build side of a garden bar? These pages set up everything else on the shelf.
DIY garden bar: plan the build before cutting timber
A practical sequence for a durable DIY garden bar, including layout, materials, storage and a built-in seating checker.
Open the planner →Interactive plannerGarden bar base calculator: concrete, sub-base and slab count
Work out the area, edge length, concrete and sub-base volumes or paving slab count for a garden bar base, using the thicknesses from your own instructions.
Open the planner →BuildPallet bar guide: when reclaimed timber makes sense
How to judge pallet timber, build a stable bar and know when ordinary construction timber is the better buy.
Read the guide →BuildConverting a shed into a bar: inspect before you decorate
A practical shed-bar conversion checklist covering the base, damp, roof, ventilation, power and serving opening.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar base options: slabs, concrete, timber frames and ground screws
How to choose a base for a garden bar building or counter, and why the maker’s base requirement beats a forum rule of thumb.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar counter height and depth: measure your stools first
How to set a comfortable counter height, depth and overhang for a garden bar using the seats you will actually use.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar top materials: hardwood, sealed softwood, concrete, tiles and metal
How the common garden bar counter surfaces handle rain, sun, spills and frost, and how to finish each one.
Read the guide →BuildTreating garden bar timber: preservatives, stains, oils and paint
How to protect the timber of a garden bar building or counter, what the maker requires and how often to refresh the finish.
Read the guide →BuildAdding a serving hatch to a garden bar: structure, weather and security
How to plan a serving hatch in a shed or summerhouse wall so it stays square, sheds rain and locks properly.
Read the guide →BuildDamp and ventilation in a garden bar: keep the room dry and fresh
Why garden bars get damp, how condensation forms and the practical steps that keep timber, glassware and furniture dry.
Read the guide →BuildConverting a summerhouse into a bar: keep the light, add the bar
How to turn a summerhouse into a garden bar without losing the views, including counters, hatches, glazing and winter warmth.
Read the guide →BuildTools for a garden bar build: the kit that does the job
The hand and power tools most garden bar builds need, from setting out to finishing, and where hiring makes more sense than buying.
Read the guide →BuildInsulating a garden bar: warmer evenings without the condensation
How to insulate the floor, walls and roof of a garden bar building and manage moisture so the timber stays healthy.
Read the guide →BuildSleeper garden bar: a solid, chunky counter that lasts
How to build a garden bar counter from timber sleepers, including choosing sleepers, fixings, foundations and the weight you are dealing with.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar flooring: inside the building and around the counter
Flooring choices for a garden bar room and the outdoor area around it, judged on grip, spills, damp and cleaning.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar on decking: loads, levels and keeping the deck dry
What to check before putting a bar counter or bar shed on decking, from joist spacing and load to drainage and slippery boards.
Read the guide →BuildBuilding a garden bar on a sloping garden
How to site a garden bar on a slope, with terracing, raised bases and retaining work, and the height and drainage checks a slope adds.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar roof coverings: felt, shingles, rubber and sheet roofs
How common roof coverings for bar sheds and garden buildings compare on lifespan, noise, maintenance and fitting.
Read the guide →BuildGarage bar conversion: damp, floors, fire separation and Building Regulations
How to turn part of a garage into a home bar in the UK, covering damp, floors, ventilation, fire separation in attached garages and the Building Regulations questions to ask.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar guttering and rainwater: gutters, downpipes and a dry counter
How to keep rain off a garden bar counter and away from its base, with gutters, downpipes, water butts and drip edges.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar doors, windows and shutters: bi-folds, stable doors, roller shutters or hatches?
Comparing bi-fold doors, stable doors, roller shutters and serving hatches for a garden bar, with security, weather and glazing safety in mind.
Read the guide →BuildGarden bar awnings and canopies: retractable, sail shades or fixed?
Comparing retractable awnings, sail shades and fixed canopies for a garden bar, with advice on wind, fixings to the building and when to check planning.
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