What to ask before you buy a veranda - and the questions most people forget

What to ask before you buy a veranda - and the questions most people forget

Most people start their veranda research with two questions: what does it look like and how much does it cost? And both are very important things to understand.

But there's a whole layer of queries underneath those that tend to go unasked - and they're often the ones that make the most difference about whether you end up with the right glass room, veranda or pergola for you.

Here's what we'd want you to know before you get in touch with Verde.

Does it fit my house?

Not just in terms of dimensions (although that matters) – we’re also talking structure. A lean-to veranda needs adequate wall height to pitch correctly. A flat-roofed structure like the Deponti Trebbiano sidesteps this entirely, making it a better fit for bungalows or properties with lower eaves. Getting this right before you fall in love with a specific model saves a lot of re-evaluating later.

What roof type suits my lifestyle?

Polycarbonate is practical and cost-effective. Glass gives you better light and a more refined aesthetic. A louvre roof (like our Verde Elegance) provides adjustable control over light and airflow at the touch of a button. Canvas offers a softer, more relaxed feel. The right answer depends on whether you're primarily after shelter, light, year-round use, or all three.

What's the difference between the brands?

We stock Verde, Deponti and Weinor. Verde is our own range, developed with a leading manufacturer based on what our customers tell us they want: 3.5mm aluminium profiles, thicker posts, double glazing on selected options, and premium spec doors as standard. Deponti gives us a broader range of models and configurations for more specific requirements. And Weinor is the Rolls Royce of verandas, for those who want unrivalled luxury. Choosing between them is part of what our team helps with - and it's a conversation worth having before you commit to a model.

What happens after I enquire?

This one surprises people. We start with a guided online design questionnaire rather than an initial call. Our team reviews your answers and gets in touch to talk through your options. From there, we'll arrange a free at-home visit to measure the space, discuss the details and make sure the structure you choose works perfectly for your garden. It's a considered collaborative process, not a transaction.

Do I need planning permission?

In most cases, no. Verandas and pergolas typically fall under permitted development, provided they don't exceed 50% of the land around the original house and aren't above 3 metres in height. Listed buildings are an exception - always worth checking with your local authority if you're unsure.

The question you should ask yourself last

Not "which model do I want?" but "how do I want to use this space?" Morning coffee in the fresh air, family dinners whatever the weather, a sheltered spot for the children, or simply a reason to step outside more often.

The answer to that question shapes everything else - and it's exactly what our free consultation is designed to explore.

Start with our online design questionnaire — a short, guided quiz that helps us understand your space and how you want to use it. Or if you're already drawn to the Verde Oasis or Eden, explore the 3D configurator and see how it could look on your home.