Author: wahid

Bungalow Conversion
Conversions

Some Great Design Ideas for Bungalow Conversion

17th September 20200

Are you looking for some ideas for bungalow conversion? Then you are in the right place because there is good news for you. The bungalows are no longer reserve for the homeowners. There is a huge potential to transform them into something exciting. There is not just the potential for renovation but also great design opportunities.

Just like any other home in the UK, bungalows are also built on large plots. It means that you have enough space for the extension. Usually, they have low roofs to cut down the cost of maintenance. If we keep architectural standards in mind, it does not seem that they are a very attractive option when it comes to bungalow conversion.

Do not worry! In this article, we are going to share some ideas for renovating your bungalow.

Remodel Your Bungalow as Part of Renovation

When you live in a single-storey home one thing is clear that all of your rooms will be on the ground floor. So, it is very important to decide their positioning and orientation. When we talk about bungalow conversion, we need a solid plan for the rooms. You should know the purpose of the room and also need to consider glazing options for the rooms viewable from the road. Other things that you need to consider while remodelling is the lighting scheme and furniture placement.

Bungalow Extension

You can also consider adding a bungalow extension. However, the process is trickier to achieve from design and structure point of view. The builder needs to ensure the join between the old and the new structure.

Converting A loft As Part of Bungalow Conversion

You can also consider the loft conversion for your bungalow. However, you need to make sure that the head height is at least 2.3m. Furthermore, you may not need planning permission application as it comes under permitted development rights. A loft conversion is a great way to create some useable space. One of our favourite types is a dormer which is the cheapest and easy option.

Natural Light in A Bungalow

One of the problems that bungalow owners face is there is not enough light. Usually, it consists of dark corridors which separate the living area from the sleeping quarters. So, the lack of natural light inside a bungalow is a normal thing.

You can consider roof lights to bring some natural light inside the bungalow. Also, you can consider removing a flat roof to create some space for adding roof lights. It also helps in increasing the head height of the space and bring natural light inside the bungalow.

Second Storey As A Part of Bungalow Conversion

Well, you can also consider adding an entirely new storey to a bungalow. It is a great option to improve living space and to transform the layout. Furthermore, you can avoid the cost of a new foundation to increase living space.

Last Words!

There are lots of options for bungalow conversion. You can convert it to bring more natural light, or you can consider adding a second storey to increase living space. Another great design idea is to convert the loft if you have enough head height. Adding a second storey is a great option as it avoids the cost of a new foundation. However, you will need to get planning permission for adding another storey.

Mansard Loft Conversion
Advice Center, Conversions, Loft Conversion

A Simple Guide to Mansard Loft Conversion

23rd August 20200

Compared to other types, Mansard Loft Conversion requires more construction work. However, it provides a great deal of extra living space in your house. It does not matter which type of home you have; it is suitable for all kinds of properties.

What is A Mansard Loft Conversion?

This type of conversion is named after a French architect, Francois Mansart. You can say that it is an extension that covers the entire roof of the property. Typically, this conversion can be found at the rear side of the house, which requires changes to the sloping side of the roof. The roof of the flat is flat, and windows fitted in small dormers.

Planning Permission for Mansard Loft Conversion

Unlike other types of conversion, this specific type requires planning permission. The reason is that it creates maximum living space in the home. It adds an entirely new storey to your property. That is why; it requires changes in the shape and structure of the roof and hence needed planning permission from the local authority.

How Much Does It Cost?

A mansard loft conversion costs more than other types such as hip-to-gable or dormer loft conversion. The main reason is that it provides a great deal of space by significantly changing the structure of the roof. Hence, it requires more work to be done to convert the loft. You can say that it provides more space compared to other types and therefore more expensive. After you get what you pay for, to get a more specific estimate, you can visit the cost of loft conversion.

Is a Mansard Loft Conversion Suitable for Your Property?

Well, the mansard roofs are very common in urban areas and London. You can even notice a house with mansard roof across whole rows of terraced properties. On the other hand, dormer flat roof extensions are more common in suburban areas. The reason is that they are cheaper and easy to build.

In short, a mansard loft conversion is suitable for any type of property including terraced, detached, semi-detached houses as well as bungalow, and chalets. If we talk about the aesthetics, mansard walls have brickwork, clad or rendered whichever best suits you.

Pros

  • A mansard conversion provides more living space compared to other options
  • Suitable for almost any type of property
  • The finishes can be done in different ways to match the style of the existing building

Cons

  • A mansard loft conversion does require planning permission
  • It requires changes in the structure of the roof and hence more expensive
  • More construction work is required for this conversion

Can Your Home Handle the Weight of a Loft Conversion?

It is obvious that a loft conversion puts more weight to your house and hence requires some work on the structure of the property. To make sure, you need to examine the foundation of the property. A building control officer also needs to consider these elements by digging a hole to expose the foundation. If your house required changes in the foundation, then the cost will increase.

Enough Head Height for The Conversion

You need to ask the architectural services provider about the headroom you will have after the conversion. Typically, it ends up in less headroom which is a disappointment for the homeowners. Furthermore, you need to keep in mind that you need a loft conversion staircase. It is essential that the staircase rise above the old one. It should not rise above in a bedroom. Otherwise, you will end up losing an entire room.

If you are going to convert the entire space, then you need to move the water and heating system elsewhere. You need to consider such things before planning a mansard loft conversion.

Loft Fire Safety

Fire safety of the home has little effect on bungalows. You need to make sure that windows in the loft are large enough to escape out of. A new floor requires 30 minutes of fire protection, and a fire door should separate the attic. For this, you can use skylight windows which are made explicitly with this in mind.

Loft Conversion Insulation

You also need to consider the energy efficiency standards. Installing insulation in the loft is complicated, but you can do this while replacing the tiles at the same time, which can achieve good airtightness. If you are not replacing the roofs, then you can install insulation cut between the rafters. We will recommend you to use high-quality insulation to meet high energy efficiency standards.

Storage Space

Converting your loft means, you are going to lose some storage space in the house. You need to deal with this problem by using the eaves behind the ashlaring. Furthermore, you can make the storage space warm by insulating the rafter line. You can also use built-in wardrobes in the bedrooms to store your valuable belongings.

Loft Conversion cost
Conversions

Beginner’s Guide to Loft Conversion Cost

22nd August 20200

Do you want more space in your home, but moving is not an option? Then, make better use of your existing space is a good option. A loft conversion is the best way to add more living space inside your house. But what is the loft conversion cost and what is required to do this?

Well, the loft conversion cost depends on the current structure of the roof and how much space is available. You also need to consider the space required for a staircase. You also need to consider the cost of architectural services. When it comes to planning permission, converting a loft does not require it, that is why; it is regarded as one of the cost-effective and simple ways to add more living space in the house. Furthermore, it helps in increasing the value of your property.

Let’s talk about the types of loft conversion – there are mainly two main types: one requires a change in the structure, and others don’t. We are going to explore various versions in this article.

Loft Conversion Cost in the UK

There is no doubt that loft conversion is cheaper than other types such as garage conversion, or basement conversion. Furthermore, it increases the value of your property, but “how much loft conversion cost?” is the question. We will discuss the average price of loft conversion in the UK.

Why Do You need to Convert loft?

Well, a loft conversion is a trendy home improvement project in the UK because:

  • First of all, it can increase the value of your property by 15%. In some conservative areas, it can even increase the cost by 20%.
  • The second reason is that the loft conversion cost is lower than any other home improvement projects. Hence, many people opt-in for this, instead of moving home completely.
  • Furthermore, converting a loft is a lot easier and simple task. You just need a maximum of two weeks to complete the work.
  • There are several reasons to convert the loft such as you can add an extra bathroom, lounge, office, gym, or an additional living area.

The loft conversion cost also depends on the location. The prices of conversion in the UK can differ from one region to another.

Room in Roof Loft Conversion Cost

When it comes to the room in roof conversion, the prices start at around £15,000, which is a much cheaper option. This type of project includes:

  • Staircase
  • Skylights
  • Insulation
  • Heating, Lighting, and Electrics
  • Fire Safety Measures

The price can go up depending on the quality of material you use in the room.

Hip to Gable Loft Conversion Cost

Another popular type of loft conversion is a hip-to-gable loft conversion. In this conversion, you need to convert the hip side into a flat edge to increase additional living space. The actual cost of hip-to-gable also varies depending on what you want to do with the loft. However, the average price of this type of conversion is between £30,000 and £37,000.

Dormer Loft Conversion Cost

Another popular option is a dormer loft conversion, which extends towards the side or back of the roof. Hence, this conversion is also referred to as box or kennel conversion. However, it provides some additional space in the loft room. When it comes to price, it can vary depending on the number of dormers and what you want to do to the loft. However, the average cost of this conversion is between £19,000 and £30,000.

Roof Structure

The conversion, which involves altering the roof structure is costly and difficult. The reason is that this conversion requires removing and building an entire roof. It is necessary to change the structure because it is not suitable for any type of house extension, or maybe it is not in an appropriate shape.

Furthermore, this type of loft conversion requires planning permission, which will add to the cost, and it is not an easy process. The average price of changing the roof structure can cost you £40,000 and more.

Natural Light

A room requires natural light and ventilation. Everyone wants to have a brighter room in the house. To bright your room, it is best to get natural light inside the room. Furthermore, it is good for the well-being of the people living in the house.

Roof lights

One of the best ways to let natural light inside the house is by using roof lights. You just need to remove the tiles to fit roof lights. If you have rafters in the loft, then you need to cut so you can adjust the frame. Furthermore, you can use them in the loft without planning permission.

Dormer Windows

Windows are good to ventilate the room and to give natural light to any living space. If the pitch angle is high, then they can be very useful. If you are considering mansard conversion, then you can use windows as these types of projects provide extra head height.

How Much Does A New Kitchen Cost
Advice Center

How Much Does A New Kitchen Cost?

20th August 20200

Many clients who want to build a new kitchen ask, “How much does a new kitchen cost?”. Well, there are various factors involved that determine the cost of building a new kitchen. In this article, we are going to break down these expenses and will help you build a kitchen within your budget. Most of the people do not know that they can cut down the costs while designing a new kitchen. In this guide, we are going to get in details and will start with the amount you should expect to pay with different types of kitchens.

We have gathered essential advice from ProArkitects experts to show how you can get the best kitchen within your budget. Well, the tips we are going to share does not involve low-quality material, that won’t last. It also means that your budget can go further than you have anticipated. However, in the long run, you will have a kitchen that meets all your expectations. So, follow this guide to your money in designing a new kitchen wisely.

Cost of A New Kitchen

Building a new one can cost more than a kitchen extension. You should expect to spend as little as £3,000 for building an entirely new kitchen in the house. However, for this kind of budget, you need to shop smartly at a DIY store for some suitable quality units. This amount does not include any appliances and fittings.

Cost of Open Plan Kitchen

The cost of an open plan kitchen depends on the space you have in your house. Furthermore, are you going to break downs walls or adding new doors or windows? These are the kind of things which can affect the cost of your budget. Sometimes, they are expensive than the kitchen itself.

But, if you are planning to renovate an existing kitchen, then the cost will be anywhere from £3,000 or more. You need to keep in mind that an open-kitchen requires more space than an average kitchen.

Cost of Kitchen Extensions

“How much does a new kitchen extension cost?” is another question asked by our clients. Well, the cost of extending an existing kitchen depends on the design as well as the professional fee, and build costs. Other expenses that add up to the price are the planning permission and building regulations approval. You also need to include the cost of flooring and decoration to your budget.

A single-storey extension costs around £1,500 per square meter for a basic build. But if you are planning to upgrade doors and windows too, then it will cost you between £1,900 to £2,300 per square meter.

Ways to Cut Down the Cost of New Kitchen

After all, you have decided to build a new kitchen and start finding kitchens inspirations online. Why not just start from Pinterest by creating a board with all the kitchen showroom in the country. After deciding, you finally receive a quote from the building. Now, you need to do planning to cut some cost of kitchen remodelling. There are the following simple ways to do it:

Reuse Materials

When we talk about renovations, it means you have an old kitchen, and there is a lot of material that you can reuse. In most of the cases; you can use the carcasses with some work and new doors. Do not worry; they will look still new with some renovation. If these are quartz or sold, then you can save hundreds of pounds by cutting them. On the other hand, if you have few, then use them on one wall, or you can buy more.

Reduce Wastage

Maybe you do not like the old kitchen, but still, there are things that you can use. If you opt to use the new materials such as doors, units, radiators, floorboards etc. then you can sale them. Furthermore, reducing wastage is an excellent idea as you will not need to pay for disposal. Well, you can dispose of them at your local council for free.

Be Selective

We will also recommend you to be selective about expensive things. We know that buying costly and premium material for your kitchen is overwhelming, but it also increases the cost of your project.

If your budget does not allow you to buy new units, then consider buying central feature such kitchen island and use standard units for the rest of the kitchen.

Rethink

Do you know that reusing the existing space can save you from frustration? Even modern rooms can be satisfied by using the existing space. So, it is better to rethink the existing kitchen space.

Avoid Moving Services and Utility Meters

If you do not need to alter the usability or orientation, then it is good to keep them in the same position. It can considerably cut down the cost, and you can save money on gas, plumbing and electrical work.

Planning Glass Extensions
Advice Center, Extensions

Your Guide to Planning Glass Extensions

18th August 20200

There is no doubt that glass extensions are beautiful things, but on the other side, it can be challenging to create. This type of extension requires a high level of creativity, coordination, and precision.

What You Need to Know About Planning Rules

You need to submit an application for planning permission before extending your home. Permitted development can be subjective when it comes to glass extensions. Hence, it is essential to apply for a lawful development certificate from the local authority. If you want to ask for
planning permission, then you must read the guidance from the local authority.
You also need to keep in mind that the requirements for planning permission can vary from one region to another. We will advise you to apply for a lawful development certificate even if you do not need planning permission so that you can have proof in the future. Local authorities often
allow such extensions.

Building Regulations

It is challenging to comply with building regulations. The reason is that large areas of glazing can conflict with these regulations. Furthermore, you need to adhere to the energy efficiency of the extension. However, some rules allow you to use an alternative method in compliance with the regulations. One of the ways to achieve this is by increasing the thermal resistance of exposed elements, such as roof, walls, and floor. If it is not enough for the glass extensions, then you need to use high-performance glass.
Another way is to carry out a Standard Assessment Procedure. You need to make sure that the CO2 emission from the extension is no more than a conventional extension or home of the same size. You can quickly achieve this by making improvements to your existing house by insulating the loft or by installing an efficient boiler or hot-water system. If one of the options does not work for you, then you can combine them to comply with the regulations.

Pros and Cons of Glazed Roof

Well, adding a glass roof can naturally illuminate the space and add a modern feel to it. However, it is challenging to control the amount of sunlight entering the room. So, it is essential to decide the room orientation accordingly before the designing process. The glass can let more light inside the room than vertical glazing- so keep this in mind. To cope with this situation, consider a north-facing glass extension.

In most of the situations, we advise our clients to consider a reliable roof, which is well-insulated and can conceal structure, services, and lighting.

How to Ensure Privacy

You can add blinds within the glazing units, which you can control automatically or manually. You can add these blinds or curtains inside the glazing, so when you open, nothing is visible inside. However, privacy can be a significant issue at night, because the reflections make it difficult to see through glazing. TO cope with this issue, you can consider planting. However, make sure that it does not block the view.

How to Keep Glass Extensions Ventilated?

There are various ways to keep the glass extension well-ventilated. But as an architectural services provider, we believe in using natural methods where possible.
We will recommend you to ensure that the roof space has acoustic and thermal ventilation. If you have openable roof lights, then it can cause cross ventilation (The colder air can come inside, and warmer air can vent out at a higher level. Because when the air becomes warms, it rises. So, consider trickle ventilators inside the frame of your glazing. It can be an effective way to ventilate the space without opening a door.

How to Keep Glass Extensions Warm?

If the underfloor heating is not working properly, then glass extension can become chilly on cold days. Hence, it is essential to consider the position of your thermostats. You also need to consider both underfloor and trench heating depending on the size of the space. Another thing that you need to consider is the quality of glazing. If you are using high-performance glazing,
then the heat loss will be low.

Do Their Other Ways to Regulate Light?

Nowadays, there is glass available with different levels of solar and thermal performance. Modern double-glazed glass can limit heat loss. They have argon-filled cavities, which can limit solar gain. However, these coatings can affect the colour and transparency of the glass. Have you heard about the fritted glass which has an opaque print? Well, this type of glass can reduce solar gain. However, blinds or curtains are the most cost-effective solution right now.

How to Light Glass Extensions

Incorporating light in a glass extension is often tricky compared to a conventional glazed extension. You can also solve the problem of lighting with roof lights. You can consider LED, but make sure that the strips are not reflected in the glass at night.

House Extension
Advice Center, Extensions

A Complete Guide to House Extension

17th August 20200

Are you looking for a guide to a house extension? Then you are in the right place as we are going to share a few tips and how to clear all the necessary paperwork. Adding an extension to your home is a daunting task. It requires more effort than converting an existing space such as a basement, loft, or garage.

In this article, we are going to discuss everything about building an extension. We will also discuss the different steps of the building and planning process so you will not end up going over your budget.

Checklist- House Extensions

Let’s first take a look at the steps you need to follow to add an extension you want.

Planning

First of all, you need to make sure there are no legal barriers to get an extension. The phase starts with getting approval from the local council. Keep in mind that the approval process can take a long time, so it is better to start in advance. You also need to talk with your neighbours and resolve any issues in advance to save time. It is an essential thing as it can cause significant delays to the project.

Now’s the time to select a builder and an extension plan. Keep all of your needs and requirements in your mind while looking at the plans. It is crucial to understand the policy before you start construction. Any change in the plan means you need to submit again to the local council.

Contracts

Before signing any contract, it is better to read it thoroughly and understand it fully. If there is something that you cannot understand, then you can get legal advice or can ask the contractor about it. Another thing to know is whether it is a fixed-time contract. If yes! Then when it is going to start and finish so, you can plan accordingly. You also need to know about your rights if something goes wrong. Another important thing is to make sure that the contractor has insurance coverage in case of damage or theft during construction.

Building A House Extension

You need to make a file of all the necessary paperwork before and after the construction process. Furthermore, make sure to keep a record of all the receipts, plans, and contracts that are related to your project. We will advise you to keep a record of the progress and the conversation with builders, project managers, surveyors, etc. It is a better way to track the progress of a project and to understand what still needs to be done.

Furthermore, if you are living far from the construction site, then it is good to visit as frequently as possible. Keep the contact details of someone from the builder’s office so you can contact them in case of changes to the plans or for any urgent news. When the construction is completed, thoroughly inspect the building. Make a list of any small or significant defects and report to the project manager. These fixes are free of charge, so it is better to get them done as soon as possible. If you do not know anything about construction, then you can hire a surveyor to inspect the work.

Some Ideas for House Extensions

You need a house extension if you need more space for your family or need to add an extra room. There are various ways in which you can add an extension to the home. Every way has its advantages and as well as disadvantages. The following are some house extensions ideas to help you decide which kind of house extension meets your requirements.

Single- Storey House Extension

It is the least expensive kind of extension, in which we build a single storey room onto the rear or side of the house.

Multi-Storey House Extension

These kinds of extensions can cost more than a single-storey extension. Furthermore, you have to face more issues to get approval from the local council. You can choose either add new rooms to different floors or maximize the space of different rooms.

Building Above

Another effective way to add extension is to add a storey. Furthermore, it is easy to get approval from the local council. In short, you can double the available floor space in your home. However, it can be expensive and comes with various extension choices.

Building Underneath

In this kind of extension, we add more space underneath the property. These types of projects are extremely costly due to structural changes, logistics, and features like damp-proofing.

Which extension is best suited for you? Depends on your budget and the particular circumstances of the property. An extension can help add more living space to the house. Furthermore, it helps in increasing the value of the property. If you want to know more about extending your house, then you can contact us. We have a team of professional experts which will help transform your home.

Garage Conversion
Advice Center, Conversions

Complete Beginner’s Guide for Garage Conversion

15th August 20200

Why you need a garage conversion for your house? For most people, it is a safe spot to park their cars. But if you want to use it as a storeroom too, then you need more space. You can store your valuable things in a garage such as your old exercise bike etc. To add more floor space, the best and most affordable route is a garage conversion.

Converting a garage is more comfortable compared to other house extensions. Because another conversion such as loft conversion or basement conversion requires more than a week, furthermore, you will not need to move your house to fulfil your family’s needs. You can also save money for solicitors, stamp duty, etc.

Moreover, a garage conversion also improves the value of your property. By doing this, you are enhancing the usability of the house, which in result increases the home’s value.

Designing

Before doing any type of conversion in the house, you need to conduct an assessment of the existing structure. In short, you need to assess the foundation, roof, and walls of your home. It is an essential step before extending your home to make it more comfortable for the family members. Hence, it is a necessary part of the designing phase.

If you want to get the right results to form the project, then you need proper planning. You need to consider why you wish garage conversion and what your budget is. We will advise you to hire an architectural services provider to identify creative ways to enhance the potential of your garage. You can get help from a company specialized in the design and build of garage conversion. You can get some fantastic results through planning and building. If your garage is attached or integrated, then the conversion will be easy.

Planning Permission

In the case of garage conversion, whether it is attached or integral space, the work is mostly done inside the garage. Hence, you need a certificate of permitted development from the local authorities. In some cases, this type of conversion is permitted. However, it is better to consult with the local authorities before you start work. We will also advise you to apply for a lawful development certificate even if you don’t need one.

In some buildings, the garage is a space for parking, so it is better to find out if it applies. You may need formal permission to make changes to the existing garage. If you are going to make significant changes in the external appearance, then you will need planning permission from the local council. For example, if you are making massive changes like using new materials, adding an extension, or changing windows. You may also need party wall agreements from the adjoining neighbors.

Building Regulations

Just like any conversion in your house, a garage conversion also subject to the building regulations. You need to follow these regulations while building a new house or making any changes to your existing home. If your project is complex, then you may need to draft full structural plans. In this way, you will have peace of mind that the local authorities have inspected the drawings and have confirmed them.

Key Works

Before continuing with the project, you need to make sure that your roof and walls are sound and watertight as you know that most of the work will take place inside the garage. In the first step, you need to strip out the main structure. By doing this, you will get a clear view and can point out areas where you can encounter problems.

If you have a concrete floor, then it is not easy to cope. Furthermore, you need to make sure that it is damp-proof and well-insulated for better thermal performance. Usually, the garage floors are lower than the house. So, there is enough room to incorporate all of this.

The second step is to replace the main door of the garage. Use one that matches the rest of the building. The assessment of the site will determine whether the foundation needs upgrading to take new loads or not. You can also consider adding glass windows to allow natural light into the new space. If you have a higher budget, then you can have a little fun with designing.

In most cases, the integrated garages have the same standards as the main house. So, you should upgrade the walls too.

When it comes to the insulation of the garage roof, the simple way is to start at the loft level. We will recommend you to add roof lights to allow more natural light inside the garage.

Converting your garage is more cost-effective than adding an extension. However, the actual cost of the project depends on the kind of space you are creating and the quality of finish.

Garage Conversion Cost
Advice Center, Conversions, Loft Conversion

How Much Does A Garage Conversion Cost in 2022?

14th August 20200

Do you want to know about the garage conversion cost? If yes! Then you are on the right spot. If you have a garage in your house that you barely use, then conversion is an excellent option to get some extra living space. A garage conversion provides an opportunity to better use of existing space. However, there is some disruption before you start planning. We will recommend you to consider remodelling of existing ground floor along with the conversion to have a better living space. Furthermore, it is a great idea to transform the living space.

Typically, garage conversion cost around £8,000 to £25,000, and it can add 20% to the value of your home. There is also an option to convert the garage under permitted development rights. However, you need to check with the local authorities before you start working.

In this article, we will try to cover all the things you need to know about the garage conversion cost. Furthermore, we will also share information about converting the garage into a usable room.

Garage Conversion Cost

Any type of house extension services can cost thousands of pounds. When we talk about garage conversion cost, you can expect to pay £11,000 to £25,000 in 2021. However, the actual cost of a project depends on various factors such as garage size, plans, etc. There are the following things that you need to consider:

Is it Right for You?

Before you start planning, you first need to accurately assess whether converting a garage is the right option for your home or not. No doubt converting a garage have lots of benefits. But it is also true that it can put a lot of load on your bank account.

It is easy to get planning permission for this type of conversion. However, it depends on the area you live in. Furthermore, you need to give away your garage space to get some extra living space at home. If you own a car and parking on the street is an issue, then it can devalue your home. Moreover, you need to consider which type of room you want to convert your garage in:

  • Kitchen Extension
  • Bedroom
  • Bathroom
  • Gym
  • Cinema
  • Family room

Well, all of these options have their benefits. Some of them can not help with increasing the value of your property compared to their counterparts. If you have the plan to sell your home in the future, then you should keep this in mind.

Benefits

There are lots of benefits when choosing a garage conversion as a way to extend your house. One of the advantages is that it is a cheap way to increase living space. If your home has two garages, then you can convert the half-space. In this way, you will have a place to park your car and extra living space for your family.

Another great benefit is that you do not need to change the structure of the house and do not need to lay down new foundations, which can help you save a lot of money. Usually, the garage has electricity, which means it can reduce garage conversion cost even more.

When we compare the garage conversion with other options, it is most cost-effective—for example, an extension of three by four-meter costs around £17,000. However, the cost of such garage conversion costs between £5,000 and £7,500.

Breakdown of Garage Conversion Cost

The cost of converting a garage is less because you are using an existing structure. However, you may need to make some alterations before you start getting quotes from the builders.

Garage Doors

One of the alterations that you will need is the removal of the garage door. You will then need to add a weather-tight replacement. It is an easy and straightforward thing to do as you just need to add a small window, which can cost you around £1,000.

Windows and Doors

If you want to make the garage a part of the home, then doors and windows are compulsory parts. How many you need depends on the size and location of the space. A door or window usually cost around £500 – £600, but if you want high-quality finishes then expect to pay more.

Flooring

If you want the space to be a part of the home, then flooring is essential. If your garage is old, then you need to add flooring cost to your budget, which can cost about £1,000.

Walls

In most of the cases, you need to add a wall to create a new room inside the garage. You also need to make sure that the walls are insulated to improve energy efficiency. A stud wall costs £700, and the overall cost of the build-depends how much you need.

Utilities

Another thing that most people ignore is the cost of utilities in your new room. Most of the garages have electricity, but they do not have water for gas. If you are converting your garage into a living room, then you just need to add a few extra outlets. But if you are planning on making a new bathroom or a kitchen extension, then you also need to consider the cost of gas pipes, plumbing, and installation.

Single Storey Extension
Advice Center, Extensions

How You Can Add Single Storey Extension to Your House

12th August 20200

One of the cost-effective ways to add more living space in your house is through a single-storey extension. In this way, you do not need to move house. Furthermore, it provides an excellent opportunity to layout additional space that suits your home. You can add a light-filled space linked to your garden, which can increase the value of your property.

Cost of Single Storey Extension

The first step before planning any extension is to set your budget and to make sure that you can afford it. The breakdown of the build cost is as follows:

Well, for a simple single storey house extension, expect to pay around £1500 to £2000 per square meter. But if you want good quality material, then it can cost you between £2000 and £2500 square meter. The cost can get even higher for a high-spec extension. Some other factors can add up to the build cost, which is as follows:

  • First, you are going to hire an architectural services provider who will help you with planning permission and drawings.
  • If the extension requires changing the structure, then you will need the help of a structural engineer.
  • In some cases, you need to hire a surveyor which costs between £500 and £1500.
  • The project manager will charge a fee of 3-7% of the build cost. You can also ask them about their hourly or daily rate. But if you are sure that you can manage on your own, then you can save some money.
  • VAT (Value added Tax)
  • You also need to get planning permission, and an application cost is £206.
  • Another fee that you need to pay is building control charges which depend on the size of the extension. You also need to pay a party wall agreement which can cost from £700 to £100 per neighbour.
  • You also will need to pay additional fees such as tree report, flood risk assessment, ecology report, archaeological report, historic building report, etc.

Cost of Fitting Out Single Storey Extension

What is the cost of fitting out a single-storey extension? It depends on the type of room. Adding a kitchen is expensive than a home office so that the price can vary depending on the size and nature of the room.

  • If you are planning on adding a kitchen, then it can cost between £5,000 and £30,000.
  • Adding another bathroom can cost between £4,500 and £10,000. It depends on the quality of the fittings.
  • You also need to add an extra £25 to £100 per square meter for flooring.
  • Another thing that adds up to the cost is heating. Extending an existing heating system is not difficult and requires only two days, which can be done by a plumber. But if your house has underfloor heating, then it can cost more because it may need an additional boiler to cope with demand.

Do You Need Planning Permission for A Single Storey Extension?

If your single-storey extension is within the permitted development criteria, then you do not need planning permission. You will need planning permission if:

  • The extension requires more than half the area of land.
  • You want to extend towards the road.
  • You are going to increase the height of the building.
  • It needs to extend 6m from the rear of an attached house.
  • It needs to extend 8m from the read of a detached house.
  • The extension is greater than the width of the house.
  • You want to extend the balcony or veranda.

The architectural services provider is well aware of the limitations and can help you with that. If you do not require planning permission, then it is good to apply for a certificate of lawful development from the local council.

Do You Need to Comply with Building Regulations?

No matter what type of house extension; you need to comply with building regulations. For this, you need to apply to your local building control department. When it comes to the cost, each authority has its own rates. Some builders are building control certified; they do not require this certificate to carry out work.

Party Wall Agreement

You may or may not need a party wall agreement, depending on your relationships with your neighbours. Talk with them and show your plans, maybe they will sign the party wall agreement wavier form. You can also hire a surveyor for this task, but if your neighbour is not happy, then he or she can employ their surveyor.

How Big Your Extension Can Be?

The size of the house extension depends on how much your house has already been extended. But if the extension is reducing the size of the garden, then it is not good for the desirability of your property. If the extension is within permitted development criteria, then you do not need planning permission.

Side Return Extension
Advice Center, Extensions

Side Return Extension – Beginner’s Guide

11th August 20200

Side return extension is a popular house extension and a great way to extend the end of terraced and semi-detached homes. In this article, we are going to share tips that will help you make the most of your living space.

What is a Side Return Extension?

Well, this type of extension is a narrow strip of land which runs alongside the ground floor. Most of the people use side return extension for dumping outdoor equipment, bikes, and bins. This way of extending the living space is called the side return extension.

Whenever someone sees your home from outside, it feels like you have gained some few extra feet inside the house. But these few feet or meters can make a significant difference to the interior of the house. The owner feels that they have more space inside the home. However, to make the best use of this space, you need an excellent design to make it brighter and more prominent with some functionality. In this regard, the Architectural Services Provider can help you make the most out of this limited space.

For example, you have a small kitchen, and there is an extra space where you can put a table where people can sit around. This type of extra space can make a big difference. But if you have a big property, then adding a kitchen island, dining, and seating area can make a significant difference.

Planning Permission for Side Return Extension

There are some extensions where you do not need planning permission; such is the case with side return extension. If you are relaxed and careful with the design, then you do not need it. You can also consult with the design professionals in the local council planning department whether your project comes under “Permitted Development” rights or not. However, you still need to comply with the building regulations.

On the other hand, some professionals always advise their clients to apply for planning permission. We know that it is a lengthy process, but you will have the opportunity to be more creative about the design. Furthermore, you will be able to build the extension with different materials which are not allowed under Permitted Development.

Light from Above

Using natural light inside the house can help make the extension brighter. That is why; we recommend our clients to introduce light from above. On the other hand, if you go for a single-storey extension, choosing skylights is a great way to make the living space brighter. Another excellent option for you is the all-grass roof. But you need to keep in mind that you need to clean the roof windows.

Most of the roof windows can rotate 180 degrees which means you can clean them easily from the inside. Another thing to keep in mind is the privacy of your house. Using skylights is a great option when it comes to privacy.

Bring the Outside In

Full-size windows allow more light into the house. There are various types, including sliding, fixed, bi-folding patio doors. It all depends on the space you have to choose a window type. We recommend the floor to ceiling windows because they improve the connection with the garden.

Larger Space

Another thing to consider for side return extension is the sort of extra internal space you have. How you are going to use this extra space in the home. We will recommend you to knock through walls to create more space inside your old kitchen. Furthermore, you can consider side return extension in an Edwardian and Victorian home that can run along with the kitchen and living room. Mostly, it is required to knock through walls for side return extension.

Back Garden Access

Rear extension into space can be attractive, but it can also affect the access to the back garden. That is why; it is essential to have a good design that does not affect the access. Another thing to keep in mind is the space to store your equipment and materials. One of the best ways is to leave space outside for a passageway into the back garden.

Party Wall Issues For Side Return Extension

Have you heard about Party Wall Act 1996? If not! Then you should know about this law. It is important legislation which is relevant to the side return extension. It is a framework which allows you to resolve disputes with involved party walls. However, it is not a big issue; you just need to have a chat with your neighbours. Maybe they are kind enough to sign the party wall notice. If they are not, then you will need a surveyor or need to pull back from the boundary. Furthermore, if you are digging foundations, then you need a party wall agreement. Hence, it is essential to hire a surveyor early to get this done before you start building the side return extension.