Non-combustible shed/workshop for Park Homes

[Trudy J]

Hi from a non-DIYer looking for advice please, in a minefield of internet info!
I’m looking at buying a second hand Park home which currently has a great 20’ x10’ approx wooden shed/workshop.
Site owner says this has to be removed within 12 months or replaced with one of non-combustible materials.
As this would be used as a work-space as well as storage, it needs to be completely condensation-free and insulated. I’m getting lost trying to appraise options of metal or plastic, pros and cons of each, whether it’s possible to clad the existing perfectly good shed to comply etc.
The distance to nearest boundaries isn’t an issue, well over 4m each way (makes the need to change rather annoying therefore).
My decision to purchase the property depends on the cost of the shed as work space is vital so the pressure’s on to make the right call!

If anyone can offer advice, particularly links to any companies that I could deal with, I’d be massively grateful.
Thanks for reading my essay!

 

[Notch7]

As far as I know, building inspectors will accept non combustable cladding to be used on building closer than the 1 metre fire break rule, so that should work for you.

The cement based featheredge boards, like marley eternit would work, or for a cheaper solution around the rear areas use a renderboard.

If you go down this route, you could make a weathertight structure by removing existing cladding, stapling on breatheable membrane, then 50 x 25 battens vertically before fitting your new cladding. You could even fit insulation to the outside of the studwork before the battens.

You may also need to clad the inside with plasterboard to provide a fire check to slow the burning of the studwork. Any exposed timbers could be painted with intumescent paint.

Hopefukly the existing structure is fairly substantial and can handle the alterations

 

[big-all]

could site rules be stricter than building regs

 

[Notch7]

could site rules be stricter than building regs

Well that is certainly something to check. Clearly the need for the replacement of existing is not a b/regs concern.

If you have to go down a non combustable route, a prefab sectional concrete garage is probably the cheapest option.

Maybe you could source a 2nd hand one then clad and insulate it......

 

[^woody^]

non-combustible materials.

You need to clarify what this means (non combustible materials is not the same as fire resistant construction) and whether it's a contractual arrangement with the site, or a statutory requirement with planning or building regulations.

 

[OwainDIYer]

I think park home site rules require 5 metre clearance between homes. But also check whether you will be allowed to do any work on the site as many sites may have very stringent rules.

 

[securespark]

I know a caravan park like that. And they have forced owners to pay for replacement non-combustible sheds.

When your static is older than their limit, ouy have ot buy a newer model, and you have to buy from them.

If you want work doing on your van, it has to be arranged through them, ie they take a cut.

If you want to leave the site, you have to pay them £300 quid to get your static towed to the boundary.

 

[bernardgreen]

The points the securespark has mentioned are common in park homes.

People who are selling a home on the site will try avoid telling you the full costs of living on the site, If they did they may never find a buyer.