Tag: architect

Advice Center

Everything To Know About Damp Proofing Your Property

10th January 20220

What is damp proofing?  

Damp proofing in construction is a type of moisture control applied to building walls and floors to prevent moisture from entering the interior spaces. Dampness is one of the most frequent problems that happen in homes.    

The most common causes of dampness is:  

  • Condensation – is the change of the state of water vapour to liquid water when in contact with a liquid or solid surface.
  • Penetrating damp – is the development of moisture through the walls and roof or below ground area of a building. 
  • Rising damp – moisture absorbed from the ground and into the walls.  

Damp may be clearly visible from:  

  • Damp patches 
  • Mould growth 
  • Mildew, salts, staining and ‘tide marks.’ 
  • Slip hazards 
  • Frost damage 
  • Poor performance insulation 
  • Damages to surface finishes 

Methods of damp proofing –  

There are a range of ways you can damp proof your home, some of the more popular solutions are:   

Installing a damp proof course –  

A damp-proof course will provide a horizontal layer of waterproof material within the walls of the building. Protecting against moisture rising up through the walls, perfect if you have a rising damp problem.  

Installing a damp proof membrane –  

A damp proof membrane is a sheet of material that is waterproof. It is laid under a concrete floor, which should be connected to the damp-proof course. So, that the building is sealed from dampness.  

Integral damp proofing –  

In concrete, this involves adding materials to the concrete mix to make the concrete itself watertight.  

Installation of fans –  

Condensation is an inevitable damp problem in all properties. In addition, the kitchen and bathroom are the most susceptible to dampness. The installation of ventilation, such as fans, allows constant airflow throughout the property.  

Improving the exterior of the property –  

Penetrating damp is a form of damp that causes significant damage to exposed areas of a building’s roofs or chimneys. Penetrating damp expands in horizontal movements opposed to rising damp, which travels vertically. Clearing out your gutters regularly will allow water to flow away from the property.  

Damp Wall

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Extensions, Garage Conversion

How much does a garage extension cost in 2022?

10th January 20220

Building a garage extension is a great way to add extra space to your home. By adding an extension, you could maximise storage space, or make room for an extra car. Garages are an excellent way to keep your homes tidy and clutter-free because you can put as much storage as you like in them. 

If you have decided that your home needs additional space, you should read on and see the average price for a garage extension UK in 2022.  

Why have material prices been affected?  

Firstly, the prices for an extension will be a lot higher than a couple of years ago because prices of materials have risen. The lockdowns and Brexit have caused the prices of materials to fluctuate.  

Due to shortages, there is a range of materials that prices have increased, for example:  

  • Insulation  
  • Timber 
  • Roof tiles 
  • Cement  
  • Plywood 

How much does a single storey garage extension cost? 

The cost of garage extension varies depending on the type and size of the garage you choose.  

The average cost of a single-storey 16 m2 garage can be anywhere between £2,000 – £20,000. 

The cheapest type of extension would be a wooden or a concrete pre-fabricated garage.  

What is a pre-fabricated garage?  

This is a garage that is manufactured off-site and transported to the location where it would be used.. When it gets to your property, it usually takes 1 – 3 days to put together.  

Pre-fab garages are often used because they are the cheapest. Re-fab concrete garages cost between £3,000 – £7,000 and wooden one’s cost between £2,000 – £6,000. Although they are the cheapest option which is a positive to many people, they have less security and they last less time. 

How much do brick extensions cost?  

 Brick garages are the most common type of garage in the UK. However, they are also the most expensive design. They are of much higher quality and more secure than the pre-fabricated buildings.  

A brick garage in 2022 can averagely cost between £13,500 – £20,000. And usually takes 2 – 4 weeks to complete, however, it could take longer if there are any delays.  

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Advice Center

What are Structural drawings? All you need to know

7th January 20220

What are structural drawings?  

Structural drawings are plans for how a building or structure will be built. The drawings are created by engineers. They are also based on information provided by architectural drawings.  

In addition, the plans show the size and materials to be used. They also don’t address architectural details like partition walls, surface finishes, or mechanical systems.  

What is the purpose?  

Furthermore, They are used to progress the architect’s concept by specifying the shape and position of all parts of the structure.  

What do the drawings entail?  

  • An actual drawing of the building project 
  • Structural details & instructions  
  • A licenced professional engineer’s signature & stamp 

When will you need a building permit? 

This drawing is a great way to communicate important building information to your local building department. Although, the information is straightforward your building permit may be a quicker process.  

Structural drawings set –  

  • Firstly, general notes are part of structural drawings and they cover the codes used in the design and by the laws of the building. Structural notes provide information regarding material properties or construction requirements. 
  • The structural drawings show the foundation, floor, and roof plan of the building. These inform you of the size and location of the structural elements in the plans.  
  • As well as, the elevations show the exterior walls of a building structure. In elevation drawings, you can find the height of floor & roof elevations.
  • Finally, the details drawings provide information on how to construct or connect the structural elements.  

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Elevations show the exterior walls of a building structure. In elevation drawings, you can find the height of floor & roof elevations. 

The detailed provide information on how to construct or connect the structural elements.  

Advice Center

The importance of tree surveys and will you need one?

7th January 20220

What is a tree survey?  

A tree survey is an important survey that is performed on private or public landscapes. The goal of the survey is to provide useful information on the trees so that property managers or homeowners can make informed decisions. Based on the information that they receive from the survey; they may then decide what to do with the trees.  

The information from the survey will reveal:  

  • Age of the trees  
  • Life expectancy  
  • Species of the tree  
  • Overall health of the trees  
  • Measurements of the tree such as height and diameter  
  • Management recommendations  

Are tree surveys required?  

A tree survey must be submitted where there are trees within a proposed planning application site. In some regions, a tree survey is mandatory. In addition, this is to prevent protected trees from being cut down accidentally, based on the Wildlife and countryside act 1981 

When will tree surveys be required?  

  • New buildings. A survey will be required of all trees on the site and within 12 meters of the site boundary.  
  • Alterations to the existing properties. Where no extension of the building, no new service lines or no change of access is proposed, it is unlikely that a tree survey will be required.  
  • Extension to existing properties, or change of access a survey will be required.  

How long is a tree survey valid for?  

As the conditions of trees can change significantly over a very short period of time. This is due to external factors such as environmental conditions, disease, and storm damage.  

What is a tree preservation order (TPO)?  

A TPO is made by the local planning authority to protect specific trees or a particular woodland from deliberate damage and destruction. 

What happens if you cut down a tree with a preservation order?  

If a tree has a TPO, it is an offense to cut down, uproot or deliberately damage/ destroy it. If you do indeed do this you could be fined £20,000. In most cases, if you damage the tree and destroy it you can still be fined up to £2,500.  

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Advice Center, The science of a happy home

Everything to know about an Eco-house

6th January 20220

What is an eco-house?   

An eco-house is an environmentally low-impact home. Designed and built using materials and technology that reduces its carbon footprint and lowers its energy needs. Eco-homes are important to the environment because they meet the sustainable needs. For example,  

  • Reducing waste by re-using and recycling materials.  
  • Energy generation  
  • Controlling pollution  
  • Water conservation 

Why are they important?  

There designed to have little impact on the planet. Standard homes burn fossil fuels for power and heat; however, the fuels are the leading cause of climate change. Whereas, eco-friendly homes are all about being energy efficient and using natural materials.  

The 3 key elements to most eco homes –  

Renewable energy –  

Firstly, a renewable electricity supply is vital for an eco-house. The most popular way to generate your own electricity is by installing solar panels. Initially, solar panels can be quite expensive, however, in the long run, you will be saving loads.  

Insulation –  

Eco-houses hold onto heat better. In addition, insulation, airtightness, and double/ triple glazed windows are important in sustainable designs. By creating an insulated, airtight house regulates its own temperature. In addition, meaning you won’t need a boiler or a heating system. 

Sustainable materials –  

Finally, an eco-house is one fully built from sustainably sourced and natural materials. Wood is used to build timber frames of eco-houses. It is best to use recycled materials, instead of getting brand ones.  

Benefits of eco-houses –  

  • Lower energy bills  
  • Less maintenance works  
  • Better air quality  
  • Higher property value  
  • Innovative design  

How much does it cost to build an eco-house?  

The price of your eco-house will depend on the size, location, and whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating an old property. In addition, Eco-houses can be very expensive. However, it is proven that in the long term they are actually cheaper.  

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Extensions

Side Extension: Your Questions Answered

6th January 20220

What is a side extension?  

A side extension is often built in the kitchen area or at the back of the home. Its also known as a side return extension is the pathway that runs alongside the ground floor of your home. Constructing can bring many benefits to your homes such as creating additional space, light, and comfort. Extensions can create new rooms for other activities and your needs. 

Does this extension increase property value? 

In the majority of cases, this will increase you’re the value of your property. This could increase your property value to up to 23%. 

Is Planning Permission needed when adding a this type ofextension? 

No, planning permission is not needed. In addition, a side return extension is considered to be permitted development. However, if the development does not satisfy certain criteria, you will need planning permission. To keep your construction under permitted development you cannot go any further than six meters out or eight if you live in a detached home.  

Questions Frequently Asked

Can you add a side extension to a semi-detached house?  

Yes, however, your local council would want to make sure this does not affect your neighbours in any way. For example, to make sure it doesn’t overshadow your neighbour’s home. 

Can you add a side extension to a terraced house? 

Yes. However, it is not common. 

Can you add a side extension to a detached house? 

Constructing on a detached home is a good option as you have a lot more open space than most homes. This will minimise the chances of impacting your neighbours.

Do you need an architect?

For all large home improvements, an architect is recommended.

How much does an extension cost?

Starting prices for a single-storey side extension are around 30,000 – 50,000 depending on the chosen dimensions of the build.

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The science of a happy home

Don’t move, improve! important things to know about internal reno

5th January 20220

Internal renovation is a great way to transform your home without having to feel the need of moving or extending. You can really change the appearance of the house and make the most out of the current space you have.  

Will you need building regulations?  

Whenever you are thinking to do internal renovations, you need to make sure that you are compliant with building regulations. This is to ensure that people’s safety and welfare are protected when the building commences.  

You may need to check if your property is a listed building. This is because it is an offense that can end in a fine. If you damage or change a listed building without listed building consent.  

If you hire a tradesperson who is registered then they can self-certify their work complies with building regulations. Instead of having to submit a building notice.  

Internal reno property pros and cons –  

Pros –  

  • More space. – When you start a renovation project you often think about the layout and how much space you can achieve if you move things around. It also helps you to find everything a home, so that the place looks bigger and cleaner.  
  • Increases natural light and ventilation. – Adding larger windows, doors, and skylights, can massively improve the amount of light and fresh air that’s getting into your home.  
  • Adding features. – Adding new features is a great way to renovate your home. For example, adding extra storage, changing the stair design, or even improving different rooms in your homes.  
  • Increases the home value. – If you get help from a professional all of these renovations, can help increase the value of the house by thousands.  

Cons – 

  • Not all internal walls can be removed. – If you are hoping of going for an open planned space it may be hard if structural walls are in place. Structural walls cannot be moved easily, which means renovations can be limited.  
  • Messy and noisy. – You might need to move out of your home temporarily if you don’t like loud noises or mess.  
  • Planning and building regs approval. – You may need to apply for permission for work to be carried out, which could take a long time and might not get approved.  

How much would internal renovations cost?  

The price of a renovation project will vary depending on the scale and work being done. You also need to factor in the services you take out. For example, an architect, structural engineer, builder, and so on. Prices may also depend on where in the country you live. The closer to London you live the pricier it would be.  

Interior renovation

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Extensions, House Extension

Oak framed extensions: everything to know before building

5th January 20220

An oak frame extension not only provides you with extra space but also brings warmth and character to your home. Here’s everything you need to know when planning to go for oak.  

Why choose an oak framed extension?  

There are many benefits to choosing an oak frame in your build, for example:  

  • The aesthetic – Many people like the look and feel of oak wood, its warm and cosy but also strong and reliable. The oak wood is also sustainable and is an eco-friendlier material.  
  • Faster to build – you can often get oak extension kits, meaning they are built and pre-assembled in workshops. While they are being made groundwork and other preparation start on site. Once completed the oak frame kit is delivered to the site and assembled in a matter of weeks.  
  • Will add value to the property – building an extension will always add value to a property. However, oak is considered to be a luxury becoming an investment down the line.  
  • Oak or timber? – if you are on the fence between the two woods oak is better for framing. Its strength and hardness work better in large, interlocking joints than soft woods do.  

Would you need planning permission?  

When it comes to any extension you must follow the planning rules. So, if your oak extension falls within permitted development, you won’t have to purchase a full planning application. Whereas, if you extend over 6 meters then you will need to apply for planning permission.  

Designing your oak extension –  

The easiest and most cost-effective way to build an oak extension is by working with an oak frame company. These types of extensions also use a variety of materials such as brick to create walls and are sturdier.  

How much would it cost?  

Because the oak frame is considered to be a luxury or premium building material it is more expensive. The average price of the project per square meter would be around £2,500. You also should keep in mind that you need to purchase other elements of the extension. For example, glazing, electrical, interior design, and so on. This means that you should budget accordingly before jumping straight in.  

How long do oak framed buildings last?  

If the building is constructed and maintained properly an oak frame structure can last for around 200 years.  

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Extensions, House Extension

How much does an extension cost in 2022?

5th January 20220

Adding an extension to your home is a great way of saving money because it is cheaper than moving to a bigger home. Whether you want to increase the size of a current room, add a new room, or even an extra floor and extension is a great way to increase your living space.  

Material prices –  

It would be more expensive to build in 2022 because the prices for building materials across the UK have skyrocketed over the last year. This is due to the increase in supply and demand as a result of lockdowns and Brexit. Because there is a material shortage the prices have fluctuated massively.  

One thing you should consider and be okay with when looking for work to be done:  

  • Longer waiting times  
  • Quotes changing (prices can change quickly) 
  • Higher quotes 

How much does an extension cost?  

The cost of an extension varies majorly depending on the size, how you use it, and what features you would like. The less complex and smaller extension will be the most affordable. 

For a single-storey shell, the average price per square meter is:  

  • On a budget – £1,000 to £1,600.  
  • Mid-range – £1,700 to £2,000.  
  • Luxury – £2,200 to £4,000. 

Meaning on average a 30 square metre single storey extension built on a budget would cost between £30,000 to £48,000 in 2022. Excluding the fitting costs.  

Location of the home –  

The location of the home will affect the price of your build. Contractors in highly popular areas will often charge more, for example, London and the Southeast of the UK. 

How long does it take to build an extension?  

The longevity of the build all depends on the size of the build, the planning permission and gathering materials. Many contractors like to say the project will take around 3-6 months to be built. However, delays are very common, and you should be prepared for them to take slightly longer.   

Will an extension add value to the property?  

It’s almost definite that adding an extension would add value to your property. The average of a single-storey extension adds between 5 – 8 % value.  

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Materials

Bricks: Simple And Easy

17th December 20210

Firstly the types of bricks are:

  • Sun-dried brick 
  • Burnt clay brick 
  • Fly ash brick 
  • Concrete brick 
  • Engineering brick 

Engineering Bricks  

However, these bricks have high compressive strength and low water absorption. These bricks are commonly found in a red colour although you can find them in a blue colour as well. 

Is this brick solid? 

So, this brick is detailed, square-edged, and solid. 

Can you drill into an engineering brick? 

This brick is extremely hard to drill into. Even though this brick is very strong, if drilled into with the wrong tools it could shatter or explode. 

Can you build a house with this brick? 

Yes. When having a construction project, you want a brick that is strong and durable. Also, this brick can withstand damp and cold weather. 

Burnt Clay Brick 

The common burnt clay bricks are constructed by pressing clay into Molds to take shape, and then dried and fired in a kiln. This brick is used for general constructions, for example, walls. 

What is this brick used for? 

These are commonly used in columns, walls, foundations, and more. 

Is a clay brick better than a concrete brick? 

Clay brick is three times stronger than concrete brick. 

Fly Ash Brick 

Fly ash bricks are made using the waste of thermal power plants. 

Advantages  

  • Firstly, they are light in weight as it is suitable for multi-floored buildings. 
  • This brick absorbs less heat  
  • Eco-friendly 

Disadvantages  

  • Slow strength gain. After the brick has set it gains strength the longer it’s there.  
  • Longer setting time 
  • Seasonal restrictions. Low temperatures increase the setting times and cause slow strength gain. 

Concrete Bricks  

In addition, concrete brick is a mixture of cement and sand formed in Molds and cured. 

Why are concrete blocks used? 

 So, these blocks have a hollow core to make them lighter and to improve insulation. 

Sun-Dried Bricks 

They are also known as adobe or mudbrick. It’s made from a mixture of sand, clay, and water mixed with a binding material such as rice husks or straw. Instead of using a kiln, these bricks are sun-dried. 

Where is sun-dried brick used? 

Finally, this brick is one of the oldest building materials that have been used for thousands of years to build houses, mosques, churches, palaces, and cities. 

professional construction worker laying bricks and building barbecue in an industrial site. Detail of hand adjusting bricks

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