Tag: budget

House Extension

Extending your home on a budget: Ways to save money  

19th May 20230

If you are looking to add value to your home, extending is the way to go. The high costs of houses on the market, on top of the cost of living is making it difficult for homeowners to move houses. However, here is a list of way you can extend your home on a budget. 

Use simple materials –  

One of the best ways to keep the prices of extending your home down is by using the simplest materials. For example, you could use basic glazing and a felted roof which is low in cost and can be negotiated between builders.  

Go with a simple design –  

If you want to save money don’t complicate your extension plans. Bringing the ground floor wall out a few meters, under permitted development will reduce the price compared to going the maximum and needing full planning permission.  

Project manage the extension yourself –  

Most builders will add 10 – 25% onto the total cost of materials and labour to cover their time while working on your project. Being your own project manager will mean liaising with your designer/architect, your local authority’s building control department, and finding and hiring tradespeople etc. Although, this can be time consuming and a bit stressful, the savings can be enormous.

Opt for a loft conversion –  

In general, a loft conversion is much cheaper and straightforward than building an extension. loft conversions will mostly come under permitted development and if you have limited outside space, it won’t eat into it. A standard 40 sqm loft conversion with a dormer would cost around £35k.  

Use affordable cladding –  

Cladding or rendering the exterior of an extension built with a timber frame or block work will work out much more affordable than facing it with brick. This is ideal if you are looking to achieve the modern look.

 

Image: David Butler

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Extensions

Building A Conservatory On A Budget: Ways How To Save Money

29th October 20210

If you are looking to add a valuable asset to your home, conservatories are the way to go. However, if you are trying to stay within a budget there are ways you can achieve a well-designed project. Some conservatories can reach up to £75,000 although, there are ways to get one done for as little as £5,000.  

Here are some ways to save money on a conservatory. 

Create a DIY conservatory –  

One of the best ways to save money on creating and installing a conservatory is by doing it yourself. While this is a much cheaper option, the process is complicated and can cause a lot of stress. 

You’ll need to build every element on your own, from the foundation to the roofing. As well as this you will have to make sure your design is within permitted development. Otherwise, you will have to spend more money on planning permission.  

Choose a cheaper type of conservatory –  

 There are a lot of options when it comes to the type and size of the project you want to create. You can decrease the costs by being careful with the size of the new space.  

For example, you could do a flat-roof and squared-off build to reduce the number of materials. However, if you use double glazing and slimline frames it lets the natural light flood in.  

If you design a conservatory with a fully tiled roof and partial brick wall instead of glass, be expected to pay more. Whereas, you can get simple lean-to frames that are not that expensive.  

 Choose uPVC over aluminium  

 UPVC offers a great balance between durability and price. It is a cheaper price than aluminium but it isn’t far off when it comes to performance. UPVC gives you as much flexibility and energy-saving potential. You can ger recyclable uPVC, meaning you can also help the environment while you cut the cost of your conservatory.  

Decide what it’s going to be used for first –  

Make sure you know how you are going to be using the conservatory. So, you don’t payout for any unnecessary features you don’t need.   

You should think about what you will use it for and when you are spending the most time in it. If you only use it on hot days in the summer you might not need as many electrical sockets. And if you use it all year you may consider adding underfloor heating.  

Use energy-efficient double glazing –  

A crucial way of saving money is to make sure you are using energy-saving materials. A way of doing this is by getting double glazing windows which increases the insulation and reduces energy usage.  

Double glazing works to create a thermal barrier for your space, pairing with the frames to give you air and water tightness. Because of this, you can stay comfortable in your space without relying on heating.  

Small Conservatories - Small conservatory range | Anglian Home

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Extensions, House Extension

Timber Frame Extensions – The Good And The Bad

14th October 20210

A timber frame extension is an economical and impactful way to increase your home’s space and add value to your property. This type of extension is often quicker and easier to build than blockwork projects and it’s great if you’re building on a budget.  

Advantages of timber frame extensions –  

Choosing a timber frame structure will allow for a quick build time, it would be weatherproof and secure much faster than other construction methods. Timber is an environmentally friendly material with excellent insulation. This means that not only will your extension be eco-friendly, it will also be energy efficient.  

Your timber frame extension can be produced in any style. It will blend in with your extension home whether that be wood, render, or brick finish. However, because you are allowed to select any style if you would like you could apply a contrasting finish to really make it stand out.  

Disadvantages –  

The timber used in home designs is all pressure treated with preservatives. However, the risk of rot is greater when it comes to working with wood. But assuming they’re built correctly the risk should be minimal.  

 A timber frame won’t resist sound transmission as a well-built home because the block home has more density to it. Although, you can add insulation or sound-deadening materials to stop sound transmission. 

Often people say they don’t feel solid enough compared to traditional extensions.  

Why timber frame extensions are built quickly –  

Timber frames are usually built off-site in a factory and are designed to fit the exact measurements provided. While the frames are getting constructed the external groundwork takes place. They do two things at once because it is important to get it done before the weather changes.  

Once the frame is built the extension will be watertight, allowing for you to install electrics, plaster, and plumbing sooner.  

Deciding you install a timber frame extension can eliminate a lot of issues such as the noise and the mess from the construction. With this, you can gain an extension without feeling stressed and enjoy your house.  

Depending on the scale and complexity of the job, it usually takes between 6 to 12 weeks to design and build a timber extension. 

Will you need planning permission?  

You will need to check with your local council to see if your proposed extension is under permitted development. And if it is not you will need to seek planning permission. You may find that if you live in a conservation area or an area of natural beauty that you have restrictions on what you can achieve.  

How much does a timber frame extension cost? 

On average in the UK, the cost of planning and constructing a timber-framed extension is around £27,000, which is around £1,400-£2,400 per square meter. Prices can vary depending on the size of the project and also what type of timber you are using.  

Designing an Oak Home for Life - Build It
Timber frame extension

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Extensions, House Extension

What You Need To Know About Flat-Pack Extensions

14th October 20210

With not enough houses on the market, and unstable house prices more people are choosing to improve their homes rather than moving. Although it can be a better investment, extensions are not cheap. This is why people are looking for a low-cost option.  

This is why flat-pack extensions are on the rise. Because they are pre-made additions they have been gaining popularity, thanks to their budget-friendly price and quick installation. They are also a great way of adding extra space to your home if you don’t have the space or don’t want construction work going on.  

What is a flat-pack extension?  

A flat-pack extension is a home addition that is built off-site. Either in a workshop or a factory. Once it is constructed it’s delivered to your home, and then put together by the extension provider and a contractor.  

Just like a normal extension, there are many different styles of flat-pack extensions, for example:  

  • Steel 
  • Timber  
  • Brick   
  • uPVC  

Do you need planning permission with a flat-pack home?  

Yes, flat-pack require the same planning and building regulations as a traditional extension. Although, if you are within the permitted development rights you will be able to extend your home without planning permission.  

Flat-pack Extension costs –  

On average a flat-pack extension would cost between £1,260 and £1,680 per square meter for a room that is at a plastered finish. So, you can expect to pay around £25,000-£33,000 for an average-sized single-story extension. However, you need to keep in mind that this doesn’t include paint, flooring, and lighting. All designs are unique so the prices will vary. And also, fees could become 10-15% higher if you’re getting help from architects, planning officers, and engineers.  

Pros – 

One major benefit to having a flat-pack extension is that the only on-site work that needs to be completed is digging the foundations and connecting the utilities. Another benefit is that it would cause less disruption to your everyday life and the neighbour’s and it would be less of an inconvenience.   

Cons –  

With flat-pack extensions, you are limited in the designs you choose, and you might not be able to get an extension that matches your home. This could affect your planning permission and devalue the property. They are also more common on the rear of the property. Which is a disadvantage for someone who was hoping to add a side or a two-story extension.  

What are my options? - Habattach - Modular Extension | elink
Flat-pack extension

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Extensions, House Extension

An Informative Step By Step Guide To An Extension

16th September 20210

An extension to your home can be an extremely beneficial investment, especially for those that require more space but don’t want to move to another property. And creating additional living space can add a lot of value to your home.    

Step 1 – getting planning permission –  

The first step to creating an extension is confirming and creating an idea for your project. And then once you have decided on the type and style of the extension you require, you must consider whether or not you are permitted to build.  When it comes to extensions either planning permission will be required, or your plan will be accepted following the rules for permitted development.  What is planning permission? Planning permission is the acceptance by the local authority to go ahead with the requested construction plans of a building.    

Step 2 – permitted development rights –  

Permitted development rights are the entitlement to modify a property without the requirement of applying for planning permission. And generally, extensions to a house are covered by permitted development rights.  This is because you need to make sure the extension is within two meters of a boundary maximum eaves height should be no higher than three meters to be permitted development.  

Step 3 – check your budget –  

When it comes to an extension you need to determine a realistic brief that considers the finances of the project and the length of the construction.  You also need to include fees for the architects and designers. This is because their advice can be invaluable, especially when it comes to getting permission.   

Step 4 – think of the design of your extension –  

It is important that you think thoroughly about the design of the extension. You need to think of how the extension will connect to the house. And for example, if you would like to add on the kitchen would you like it to be exposed to the morning sun, or do you prefer a sunset. So, to help with putting your design on paper, it is a good idea to hire an architect.  

Step 5 – what to be aware of when building an extension –  

Listed buildings and conservation areas may have more specific permitted development rights, compared to normal ones. And you should search for expert guidance when it comes to planning. 

Step 6 – applying to a building regulations officer –  

Once that it is confirmed your extension doesn’t need planning permission or if the plans have been accepted it will need to be approved by a building regs officer.  Drawings will then need to be created by an architect and be submitted.  

Step 7 – party wall act –  

The party wall act ensures that the extension doesn’t exceed the boundary of the neighbor’s property. And the neighbors need to be informed of any proposed work in advance.  A party wall surveyor is responsible for producing a party wall award. This will protect you if any unfortunate circumstances where disputes may arise.  

Step 8 – let the Council know –  

Your local Council has to be informed about the extension plans.  

Step 9 – contact professionals –  

The sooner you get in touch the better it will be for you. You should contact planners, contractors, and builders as soon as possible, to have a clear idea of the scale of the project.  

Step 10 – check insurance –  

You should check whether your house insurance is still valid during construction and if it can be extended to site insurance during the works. You should also check the workers’ insurance to see if it is necessary for your site.  

Step 11 – start building  

An extension in the works

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