Buying a cabin is an exciting step, whether it’s for a sleep-out space, home office, or your own backyard retreat. But not all cabins on the NZ market are created equal! Before making your purchase, it’s important to ask the right questions – so you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality, durable, and comfortable cabin that meets your needs.
Here are the key questions you should ask and things to consider when buying or hiring a cabin in the North Island:
The materials used to construct a cabin play a huge role in its durability and long-term performance. Some manufacturers cut corners by using second-grade/reject timber and second-grade materials, which aren’t structurally sound and won’t stand the test of time. SIPS panelling is also commonly used in cheaply built cabins.
At Hire A Hut, we use first-grade timber framing and the same proven methods used in constructing residential housing. This means our cabins are built strong and durable, plus they’re capable of withstanding our North Island climate, from the heavy rains to strong UV rays. Our timber framing also allows for easy maintenance and repairs, as individual components can be replaced without affecting the entire structure.
Proper insulation is key to a comfortable, energy-efficient cabin. Some cabins may look great but lack the insulation necessary to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. When comparing options, ask about the insulation materials used in their cabins, and also check if they know their R-values, which measure thermal resistance. Higher R-values mean better insulation and lower energy costs – so the higher the cabin’s R-value, the more comfortable you’ll be!
At Hire A Hut, all our cabins are very well insulated. We also offer models that meet New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards, which set specific benchmarks for heating, ventilation, moisture control, and draught prevention in rental properties. No matter which Hire A Hut model you chose, it’ll have high-quality insulation in the walls, ceiling, and underfloor, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reducing energy costs. Our cabins aren’t just well-built, but designed for real, liveable comfort too!
Visiting the manufacturer’s yard can give you some hugely valuable insight into their operations. A well-organised, professional yard with materials on hand shows efficiency, reliability, and financial stability. If a business doesn’t have stock on-site, they may struggle with delays due to sourcing materials, which can impact both their production timeline and the overall quality of your cabin.
At Hire A Hut, we purchase materials locally and in bulk. This not only helps keep manufacturing costs stable, but also ensures we have a steady supply of high-quality materials ready to go and build your hut quickly, without having to wait around for supplies. We welcome you to make an appointment to tour our yard, so you can check out our prebuilt Huts, see the quality materials we use, and get an inside look at how our Huts are expertly crafted.
Your lifestyle and preferences are unique, so it’s good to ask whether the cabin can be tailored to meet them. Features such as kitchenettes, ensuites, and layout adjustments can significantly improve the functionality and comfort of your space, turning a cabin into a truly liveable home or workspace.
It’s also worth considering how the cabin’s size and layout will work for your furniture and daily life. Many “standard size” cabins on the market might appear spacious in photos but actually struggle to fit a queen-sized bed. Always check the cabin’s dimensions and think about how you plan to use the space, as well as how your furniture and belongings will fit.
At Hire a Hut, we offer both pre-designed layouts and custom-built options, giving you the flexibility to create a cabin that fits your needs, so you can rest assured knowing your cabin will be designed to suit your needs.
The quality of paint and finishes affects both the appearance and durability of your cabin. Low-quality paints can peel, fade quickly, or struggle against NZ’s harsh UV exposure.
At Hire A Hut, our exteriors are finished with a primer and two top coats, ensuring long-lasting protection and a stylish finish. The interiors receive two coats of high-quality paint for a clean, polished look.
Some cabins on the market look fully decked out in pictures, but when they arrive, they’re pretty basic. At Hire A Hut, you’ll know exactly what’s included in your cabin costs.
Each of our cabins includes at least:
For cabins with bathrooms & kitchenettes, we include:
We deliver a fully built cabin, complete with the essentials – you just need to connect it to utilities, and you’re good to go!
Delivery logistics are an important factor to consider. Some companies handle the entire process, while others may require you to organise transportation. Be sure to ask what the company provides in terms of delivery and setup.
Hire A Hut manufactures your cabin and helps arrange delivery across Northland and Auckland, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Otherwise, if you’re collecting your Hut we’ll make sure your cabin pick-up process is as easy as possible. However, we don’t handle site permits or preparation, so be sure to check any requirements for your specific location.
By asking these key questions, you can be sure you’re investing in a high-quality cabin that’ll serve you well for years to come. When you take the time to compare materials, insulation, finishes, and the builder’s operations, you’ll quickly see the difference in cabin quality!
Ready to find your perfect cabin? Contact Hire A Hut today to learn more.
