Tag: build

Advice Center, Loft Conversion

Everything To Know About Fire Safety For A Loft Conversion

15th December 20210

When converting existing roof space into a room the provision for escape needs to be considered throughout the full extent of the escape route. The protection of life in the event of a fire is extremely important and shouldn’t be taken lightly.  

Fire detection and alarm systems –  

Where new rooms are provided above the ground floor level, fire alarm systems should be installed as they can significantly increase the level of safety, by giving an early warning of fire. 

It is essential that the fire alarms are properly designed, installed, and maintained.  

Important notes –  

  • Smoke alarms should be positioned in the circulation spaces within 7.5 m of every room.  
  • No bedroom door should be further than 3 m from the nearest smoke alarm.  
  • There should be at least one smoke alarm on every storey of the property. 
  • Smoke alarms should not be fixed next to or directly above heaters or air conditioners.  
  • They should also not be placed over stairs or any opening between floors. 

Ways to escape if there was a fire –  

The main escape route from your loft conversion would normally be the hallway and staircase of your home. Therefore. This route needs to be protected as much as possible and offer at least 30 minutes of fire resistance. 

How this can be achieved –  

  • All the doors that lead off from the staircase will need to be upgraded to give fire resistance or be placed with fire doors.  
  • If your stairs lead to an open plan area, they will either need to be enclosed with partition walls, to keep the escape route protected. Or, you will need to install a sprinkler system in the open plan area. 
  • You may need to upgrade the fireproofing on your ceiling below the new loft conversion. 

The main fire-resistant materials that are used are timber stud partitions and metal frame partitions. With these materials, the potential fire will be delayed for around 30 minutes.  

You will also need an escape window; this window would need to be no higher than 1.1 m above the floor and 459 x 450 mm in size. This is because you need a large enough space to escape out of in case of an emergency.  

Alternative escape routes –  

Often people who want to take extra safety measures feel more comfortable if there is an alternative exit. The best way to include this is by adding an external staircase leading to the loft conversion. Although, you would need to make sure that the external door is also fire resistant and the outside stairs should be protected from weather conditions.  

Do I Need Fire Doors If I Have A Loft Conversion - OakwoodLoft

Contact us

Contact us
Design and Inspiration

Showers: Which One Works Best For You

14th December 20210

Different types of showers 

  • Electric  
  • Mixer  
  • Power
  • Digital  

Electric shower 

One of the main advantages of an electric shower is that a hot water supply is not needed from your boiler. These showers have been proven energy efficient as you do not need to heat your boiler tank for an electric shower. Also, electric showers are simple to install. However, this shower needs a good water pressure either from your main supply or water pump. An electric shower can instantly heat up water instead of taking the hot water supply from your boiler tank. No more waiting for your boiler to heat up! One downside to an electric shower is that your existing water pressure isn’t good, your shower may not be very powerful. 

Mixer shower 

A mixer shower is different to an electric shower as it needs an existing source of hot water. The shower does exactly what the names says it does. This shower mixes your hot and cold water together before the water comes out the shower head. An advantage to a mixer shower is that it is more powerful than an electric shower. The water comes out a lot stronger.  

Power shower 

These showers a perfect with homes that have low water pressure. A power shower uses a pump to improve the flow rate of the water it using. One of the  benefits to a power shower is that flow rate is instantly increased for a powerful shower. Also, the installation is quick and simple and many power showers come with eco-friendly options.  

Digital shower  

Digital showers are at the top of bathroom technology. This shower stands out due to the control panel that can change the temperature and the flow rate. This means you can adjust the temperature by the degree. Key features to this shower are that some are even compatible to smart devices and there are many options of different digital showers available. There are different types of digital showers to suit almost any water system, this is why they are the perfect showers. 

Contact us

Contact us
Advice Center, Conversions

All that you should know about becoming an HMO landlord.

14th December 20210

Some landlords choose to convert their properties into HMOs (house in multiple occupation). This is because landlords find this an efficient way to run a rental home. An HMO is a term that refers to residential properties that are rented out by at least 3 people who are not from the same household. However, they share facilities like the bathroom, kitchen, and living rooms.  

HMO licence –  

Becoming an HMO landlord might require you to apply for a house with multiple occupation licences. You must have a licence if you’re renting out a large HMO. Your property is defined as a large HMO if the following apply:  

  • It is rented to 5 or more people who form more than 1 household.  
  • Some or all tenants share toilet, bathroom, or kitchen facilities. 
  • At least 1 tenant pays rent.  

The licence is valid for a maximum of 5 years. However, you would also need a separate licence for every HMO property that you own. 

Conditions a landlord must follow – 

  • The house is suitable for the number of occupants. – It is often advised to have 5 tenants or more in each house. This is so the tenants can successfully spread the costs of electricity, gas, water, and council tax sufficiently to create a healthy profit. Although the number of tenants you have depends on the size and number of bedrooms of the property.  
  • The landlord or manager of the house must be considered fit and proper. For example, having a criminal record or breach of landlord laws.  

Landlord responsibility- 

The council has to carry out a housing health and safety rating system risk assessment within 5 years for getting a licence.  

You need to:  

  • Send the council an updated gas safety certificate every year. 
  • Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms 
  • Provide safety certificates for all electrical appliances.  

If the inspector finds any unacceptable risks during the assessment, you must carry out work to eliminate them.  

You will have to pay income tax on your rental income, minus your day-to-day running expenses. And also, class 2 national insurance if the work you do renting out a property counts as running a business.  

Reporting changes –  

It is important to let the council know if there are any changes. These changes might include:  

  • Your tenants make changes 
  • You make any changes to the HMO 
  • Your tenants’ circumstances change. For example, if they have a child.  

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building

Architecture: Around the World Part 1

14th December 20210

Firstly, architecture, the art, and technique of designing and building. Architects design structures such as office buildings, businesses, stadiums, schools, malls, and homes. They also design outdoor spaces. 

Is architecture a good career? 

In addition, architects are highly respected in society making this a good career. 

Different types of architecture  

  • Firstly, Landscape architect – A person that designs outdoor environments. 
  • Architectural technologist – An architectural technologist provides technical building design services and is trained in architectural technology. 
  • Architectural designer – So, they create digital plans based on architectural sketches, visiting construction sites, oversee contractors and facilitate communications with consultants. 
  • Preservation architect – They prepare plans for appropriate work on historic buildings and direct the work to preserve important features and avoid damage. 
  • Green building and retrofit architect – This person’s job is to safeguard water, air and the earth by choosing eco-friendly materials and protecting the biodiversity of the area during construction. 
  • Commerical architect – Somone that specialises in designing commercial buildings such as shops, restaurants and public buildings. 
  • Finally, Industrial architect – An architect that designs buildings for industry. 

Best places to study   

  • Firstly, England 
  • China 
  • Italy 
  • Japan 
  • France 
  • Spain 
  • Australia 
  • United Arab Emirates 
  • Finally, The Netherlands 

Examples of famous architecture  

  • Firstly, Eiffel tower – France, Paris. In fact, it was constructed 31st of March 1889 

  • Secondly, The Burj Al Arab – Dubai. Constructed in 1994, Finished 1999 

  • Parthenon – Greece, Athens. Constructed in 447BC 

  • Angkor Wat – Cambodia. Constructed in the 12th century  

  • Saint Peters Basilica – Italy, Rome, Vatican. So, this started to be constructed in 1506 and was finished in 1415. 

  • Sydney Opera House – Australia, Sydney. Constructed in 1973 

Panoramic scenery of Sydney harbor and Sydney opera house, Australia
  • Colosseum – Italy, Rome. Constructed in 70AD 

  • Tower bridge London. – Constructed in 1886  

  • Hagia Sophia Istanbul – Turkey. Constructed in 537AD 
  • Kremlin – Moscow. In addition, its constructed in the 13th century  

  • Empire State Building – New York. Constructed in the 1930s 

  • Petronas Towers Kuala – Malaysia, Lumpur.  Constructed in 1993 

  • Leaning tower Pisa – Italy, Pisa. Furthermore, its constructed in 1173  

  • Taj Mahal – India, Agra. So, it was constructed in 1631 

  • Guggenheim museum Bilbao– Spain, Bilbao. Constructed in 1997 

  • Beijing national stadium – China, Beijing. Constructed in 2008 

  • Flatiron Building – New York. Furthermore, its constructed in 1902  

  • Villa Savoye – France, Poissy. In fact, it was constructed 1931 

  • Finally, Kauffman residence or falling water – Pennsylvania. Constructed in 1936. 

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building

The most festive Christmas getaway locations due to their architecture

14th December 20210

Many people and families love to go away around Christmas. This is because the aesthetics and architecture are even more festive and enchanted around the December period. Here’s a list of locations and buildings that you might want to visit to get you into the festive spirit.  

Colmar, France –  

Firstly, this town in France is well known for its charm. The town is well decorated with cobblestone and medieval and renaissance architecture. For example, it has a similar style to the Maison Pfister.  Colmar’s Christmas markets are among the best in the Alsace region. It is one of the most photographed Christmas markets in Europe. The houses and buildings are beautifully decorated and lit up with Christmas lights.  

Colmar , France shared by Lucian on We Heart It

Hallstatt, Austria – 

Secondly, Austria’s Lake Hallstatt is full of character, and one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city contains baroque architecture. Baroque architecture is a highly decorative and theatrical style, taking basic elements of renaissance architecture. Making it grander, more decorated, and more dramatic. However, the town is the most festive when the beautiful architecture is covered in snow.  

A Winter Fairytale in Hallstatt, Austria - Find Us Lost

Lapland, Finland –  

When you think of Christmas where is the first place you think of? For myself and a lot of other people, it’s Lapland. The architecture and landscape are basically straight out of a movie. It’s popularised to be the home of Santa Claus and has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. A lot of Scandinavian architecture merges the structure with the surrounding environment. For example, using wood and natural materials, natural light, clean lines, neutral colours, and more.   

Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi in Lapland Finland Arctic Circle

Bruges, Belgium –  

If you are into cities that have a lot of history, Bruges would be a perfect place for you to visit. The city still has a ton of original medieval architecture still intact. Medieval architecture features styles from Romanesque, French style, and gothic style architecture. As well as, characteristics including stained-glass windows, tall spikes, turrets, and arches.  

Christmas in Brugge, Belgium. Photo @quan.engine | Places to go, Beautiful places, Vacation

Quebec City, Canada –  

Quebec City is a great old-world treasure, the historic streets date back to the 1600s. The City is the closest thing to a European Christmas you will get, without all of the travel. The city hosts a German Christmas market each year and it is a perfect getaway for the festive season. The city alone is very picturesque so when you go in the winter it is even more showstopping. Especially with all of the decorations and the snow on the ground and buildings. 

The Ultimate Guide to Quebec City – A Charming Wonderland Perfect for Short, Winter Honeymoon or Vacation – The Honeymoon Guy

Rothenburg Ob der Tauber, Germany –   

Finally, Rothenburg is Germany’s Christmas capital and it’s the home to the world’s only Christmas Museum. Its well known for its well-preserved medieval old town. It is one of the only three towns in Germany that have completely intact city walls. In addition, this town is considered to be Christmas all year round. It is popular among tourists and it attracts around 1.5 million people every year. 

Winter in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, northern Bavaria, Germany : r/MostBeautiful

Contact us

Contact us
Uncategorised

Listed Buildings: An Easy Guide

13th December 20210

Categories of listed buildings 

In England and Wales, there are 3 categories of listed buildings 

  • Grade 1 (2.5% of buildings)- Buildings of exceptional interest. For example, the Liverpool Anglican cathedral. 
  • Grade 2*(5.5% of buildings)- Buildings with particular importance. For example, Buckingham Palace. 
  • Grade 2 (92% of buildings)- Buildings of special architectural or historic interest. A grade 2 listed building is a UK building or structure that is of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve it. 

Things you should know before buying a listed property. 

  • You’ll need to be granted permission to make any changes to the building. This is including all renovations or any changes to the internal layout.  
  • All listed buildings are on a national register which is searchable on the Historic England Website. 
  • Repairs will cost more. You will have to hire specialist labourers that have the correct skills and tools to carry out the repairs, which can be more costly than a standard labourer.  
  • You’ll need specialist home insurance to cover your home which will cost more. This will cost more due to the materials needed for your home. 

Do’s and don’ts for listed buildings  

Do’s 

  • Remove or alter original architectural features such as doors, decorative stonework, fireplaces or windows. 
  • Don’t assume your garden is yours to play with.

Don’ts 

  • Before buying a listed building, you need to make sure that all renovations done by the previous owners were done correctly. It doesn’t matter if the renovations were done before you owned the building you are still liable. 
  • Make sure you have specialist home insurance. 
  • Keep in regular touch with your conservation officer as they have all the information you may need.  

How do buildings become listed? 

The older the building is the more likely the building is listed. All buildings that were built before the 1700s which is still in its original condition will be listed. 

The newer the property the more remarkable it needs to be to become listed, for example a building with outstanding architecture. Buildings are not usually eligible for listing until it’s at least 30 years old. 

Contact us

Contact us
Advice Center

Roofing Materials: Simple And Easy

10th December 20210

What are the main roofing materials in the UK? 

  • Slate roof 
  • Concrete roof 
  • Clay roof  

Slate tiles 

Slate roofing materials lasts more than 100 + years. It won’t burn, its waterproof and resists Mold and fungus. Slate is effective in wet climates but is expensive, heavy and may be easily broken when stepped on. 

Clay tiles  

Roof tiles made from clay can withstand damage from winds up to 130 miles per hour, earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. Clay tiles are also known as Spanish tile roofs. These tiles are a good choice for your roof as they are durable and long-lasting tiles but they are extremely heavy meaning your roof may need to be reinforced to support the additional weight. 

Concrete tiles  

Concrete tiles last the life of the structure, fire resistant and weather resistant. These tiles are a good choice for roofing materials as they are very durable. 

Frequently asked questions about these roofing materials 

Are slate roofs expensive? 

Yes, slate roofs are one of the most durable and longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. 

Are clay tiles eco-friendly? 

Clay tile roofs are eco-friendly because they are made from natural earth minerals that can be recycled. 

Are concrete tiles cheaper than slate? 

Concrete tiles tend to be cheaper than slate. 

Are slate roofs expensive?  

Yes, slate is one of the most expensive roofing materials. 

How do I maintain a slate roof? 

Cleaning the gutters around 3-4 times a year. You should get professionals to inspect the roof for any damage around once every 10 years. 

How long does clay roofs last? 

80-100 years old  

What is the life of concrete tiled roof? 

Normally, a concrete tiled roof can last as long as 50 years. 

Is a clay tiled roof waterproof? 

Clay tiles are waterproof, fire resistant and wind resistant. 

Can you walk on slate roof? 

Slate is hard-wearing and durable but it can easily crack if under too much pressure. Professionals use hook ladders, jacks and planks on slate roofing, which allows them to walk across the roof without putting weight on the slate and damaging it. 

Contact us

Contact us
House Renovation

Bathtubs: Everything You Want To Know

9th December 20210

There are many different bathtubs such as: 

  • Firstly,Freestanding tub  
  • Secondly, Drop in tub 
  • Three-wall alcove tub 
  • Corner tub 
  • Undermount tub 
  • Claw foot tub 
  • Hot tub 
  • Finally, Japanese tub  

Three-wall alcove tub 

Pros for example:

  • Firstly, Easy to clean and maintain 
  • Practical and functional  
  • Can be decorated  
  • Finally, Affordable  

Cons 

  • Generic in feel  
  • Must be placed between two walls  

Freestanding tub 

Pros for instance

  • Adds to house value  
  • Visual impact 
  • Can be situated anywhere in the room 
  • Versatile look 

Cons such as:

  • No storage areas  
  • Expensive  
  • Extremely heavyweight  

Drop in tub 

Pros 

  • Firstly, high end, luxurious feel 
  • No slip, grip handles  

Cons  

  • Difficult to install and remove. 

Corner tubs 

Pros such as:

  • Maximum versatility  
  • Makes use of corner space 
  • Can be glasses enclosed or open style  

Cons 

  • Tub accessibility is limited  
  • Can only be in the corner of the room 

Clawfoot tub 

Pros for example:

  • Adds immediate vintage charm and period detail to a bathroom 
  • Easy to install 
  • Space beneath 

Cons  

  • Lack of storage 

Undermount tub  

Pros in particular

  • Easy to clean 
  • Durable and sturdy 
  • High end, luxurious feel  

Cons 

  • So, tub cannot simply be removed without destroying the surrounding decking. 

Hot tubs 

Pros such as:

  • Deep soaking relaxation 
  • Hydrotherapy for those with achy joints and arthritis 

Cons 

  • Expensive  

Japanese tub  

Pros for instance,

  • Amazing design  
  • Adds house value  
  • Artistic presentation  
  • Offers deep soaking  

Cons for example:

  • No storage  
  • Expensive  

Questions that are frequently asked about bathtubs 

What materials are bathtubs made from? 

Often bathtubs are made out of porcelain which is usually steel-based. But bathtubs can be made from marble, acrylic, and fiberglass. However, historically bathtubs have been made from wood, copper, and iron. 

Can bathtubs be repaired? 

In addition, it is possible to make repairs on a variety of tubs. For example, these include porcelain tubs and those made from marble, acrylic, and fiberglass. Small chips and scratches can often be repaired making this more of an economical option than replacing the entire tub. 

How long do bathtubs last? 

Although it depends on the tub material and how well it has been made. In addition, you can find original bathtubs in old houses that are in fantastic condition at 100 years old. 

Furthermore, what are the most popular bathtubs? 

  • Freestanding tub 
  • Drop in tub 
  • Three-wall alcove tubs 

Can bathtubs be recycled? 

So, a bathtub is not easily recycled. Although, cast iron tubs may be of interest to some metal scrap yards or foundries. Nevertheless, steel is one of the most recycled materials. However, it takes some work to remove the enamel finish which may not be worth the effort for some recyclers. It may be better to repurpose your bathtub instead of recycling, for example: 

  • Feeding and drinking troughs for animal farms 
  • Container for garden 
  • Backyard pool for pets  
  • Finally, Party bucket for beverages and ice. 

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building, Design and Inspiration, Interior Design

Swimming Pools: Things You Need To Know

8th December 20210

There are 3 types of in ground swimming pools  

  • Concrete  
  • Vinyl-lined 
  • Fiberglass 

Concreate pools 

Concrete swimming pools take longer to install than most. Generally, it takes between 3-12 weeks. However concrete pools are the strongest and most durable. Unlike other types of pools, existing concrete pools can be remodelled, enlarged and updated. 

Vinyl pools 

Vinyl pools are made from a performed flexible liner that fits into the evacuated hole. It’s secured to a reinforced frame made of steel, aluminium or non-corrosive polymer. The majority of vinyl pools are rectangular. Its takes about 1-3 weeks to construct this pool. When wanting a vinyl pool, you must be aware that pool toys, pets and sharp objects can puncture the liner, needing it to be replaced. 

Fiberglass pools 

Fiberglass pools are factory moulded into one giant bowl, which is set into the evacuated hole by a crane. Pools made from fiberglass can be installed much faster than other pools. It can take as little as 3 days. Fiberglass pools are extremely durable and stain resistant. However, fiberglass pools come in fewer sizes and shapes meaning you may not be able to have one if you have a small or uniquely shaped back garden. 

Frequently asked questions about  

What is the most efficient way to heat pools? 

If you want an energy efficient way to heat your pool, you should consider using a pump pool heater in mild climates. Solar water heaters are cost competitive with other types of water heaters and have low annual operating costs. 

Which is better a heat pump or gas heater for pools? 

Heat pump heaters cost more than gas pool heaters. Gas pump heaters typically have lower annual operating costs because of their higher efficiencies. However, with decent maintenance heat pump heaters last longer than gas pool heaters. 

Is a heated swimming pool worth it? 

Pool heaters have potential to be an incredibly worthwhile investment if you want to use your pool all year round. 

What is a conventional boiler? 

Conventional boilers provide both heating and hot water with the use of a cold-water tank and hot water cylinder. 

Do solar rings work to heat a pool? 

Most solar-rings can absorb up the top 50% of the sun’s energy to heat water in your swimming pool. 

How efficient are pool heaters? 

Pool heaters can operate between 80-90% efficiency. 

When should I start heating my pool? 

Using the heater only when the water clips below a certain point keeps the energy consumption down. For the average person, a pool that is at 78 degrees or higher is comfortable. 

Cheaper ways to heat your swimming pool 

  • Use of solar cover 
  • Pool heat pump 
  • Solar sun rings 
  • Combine a solar cover and heat pump 
  • Liquid solar pool cover 
  • Black hose trick 
  • Windproof pool enclosure  

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building, Loft Conversion

What Type Of Loft Conversion Is Best For Your Home

7th December 20210

Hip to gable dormer –  

Firstly, hip to gable loft conversions is mostly found on semi-detached properties with an existing hipped roof. It is where the side of the roof is removed off of the sidewall, to maximise the internal head height. Hip to gables is slightly more expensive than a standard dormer conversion, they normally cost 20% more. However, they are the most popular way to convert your loft.  

Cost of project: £40,000 – £65,000 

hip-to-gable-loft-conversion-loft-extension - APT Renovation - Property Design & Build - Building contractors - Balham SW12 London

Mansard – 

Mansard loft conversions are typically built at the rear of the house, allowing you to gain additional space in the loft area. However, these conversions usually require roof alterations, which means you would need planning permission.  

Cost of project: £45,000 – £70,000 

Side dormer loft conversion –  

A side dormer is when the hipped roof on the side of the property is built off the sidewall to incorporate additional head height. The side dormer can be built with a flat or pitched roof. If the property is detached, you sometimes can maximise space by constructing a side dormer on both sides of the roof.  

Cost of project: £30,000 – £45,000 

Dormer Loft Conversions | Abbey Partnership

Piggyback loft conversion –  

A piggyback loft conversion is formed by raising the existing perimeter walls in brickwork and pitching a new roof, which is stepped back from the front elevation of the property. By raising the bricks and pitching a new roof a large amount of head height is gained, as well as more living space.  

Piggyback Loft Conversion | Learn More About a Piggyback Conversion

Velux –  

A Velux loft conversion is when the shape of the existing roof is retained and Velux windows are installed into the rafters. The rafters will have to be cut depending on the size of the new windows. The inside of the roof space is fitted out to a carefully thought-out design. You will generally not require planning permission to install a Velux window in a loft conversion.   

Cost of project: £20,000 – £30,000 

Velux Conversion - Loft Conversions North West

Pitched dormers –  

A dormer is a roofed structure, often containing a window, that projects vertically beyond the plane of a pitched roof. In addition, they are commonly used to increase the useable space in a loft and to create window openings.  

Cost of project: £30,000 – £45,000 

Pitched Dormer Loft Conversions | What is a Pitched Dormer Conversion?

L shape dormer –  

Finally, an L-shaped dormer conversion is where two dormer builds are constructed in a way that they join together. Usually, one dormer will be built on the rear outrigger roof and the other on the main roof, which gives it the L shape.  

Cost of project: £50,000 – £60,000 

How to plan your loft conversion | Top tips and expert advice | Ideal Home