Tag: design

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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Advice Center, Planning Permission

Can you make amendments to a submitted planning application?

4th January 20220

To apply for planning permission, you would need to submit a planning application. However, it is easy to make a mistake such as the wrong name, or if you want to make amendments. This blog will explain to you if you would be able to change a submitted planning application. 

Making amendements to your application –  

According to the council, it is possible to amend your plans while the application is running. Although it would only be acceptable for minor amendments. Any big amendments won’t be accepted and you would need to apply for a new application. 

You can submit an application via the planning portal. It is often the easiest way because they also have a lot of information to help.

What do the statuses of your application mean?  

  • Drafted. Meaning that you are filling out the application and haven’t sent it to the local authority yet.  
  • Submitted. These applications can be amended as they haven’t been downloaded by the Planning Authority.  
  • Transferred applications are changed in a controlled manner. This is because they’ve alrbeen received by the planning authority.

How long do amendments take?  

The council should give you an answer within 28 days. Unless they have contacted you and a different time has been agreed upon.  

Cost of an amended application –  

The application fees can change due to the nature of the amendments, and you may need to pay an additional fee. If you believe a refund is due, then you would need to discuss this with the local planning authority. Once they have validated your amended application and confirmed the fee due.  

The application fees can change due to the nature of the amendments, and you may need to pay an additional fee. If you believe a refund is due, then you would need to discuss this with the local planning authority once they have validated your amended application and confirmed the fee due.  

What you CAN and CAN'T do after planning approval

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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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Architecture & Building

Everything to know about designing a driveway

17th December 20210

A nice driveway design can completely transform the first impressions that your home creates. Not only can a driveway increase the aesthetic of your home, but it can also add value to the property as well.  If you’re renovating your driveway here’s everything you need to know.  

What materials should you use for your driveway? 

The materials that you use for your driveway should complement your home’s exterior or any walls in your garden. So, this will affect the colour of the material that you can use. Here are some materials that you might use:  

Gravel or pebble. – 

 They are good-value and an ecologically friendly option, as they retain rainwater rather than sending it into the drains. Gravel also acts as a security feature because you can hear when people are approaching your home. 

Gravel is a good option because it’s affordable and quick and easy to lay. However, it will shift over time so you may need to level it out with a rake from time to time. If holes appear, you can simply add more gravel. And gravel won’t stop the weeds from growing so you will have to maintain the driveway.  

Block paving –  

Usually made from moulded concrete blocks, clay bricks, or natural stone, paving can be permeable to allow water to drain away. Using paving allows you to be creative with your new driveway design, the shades grey, and terracotta are the most popular. Block paving is ideal if you are on a strict budget because it is cheap, and doesn’t need much maintenance. 

Resin-bound gravel and paving –  

This is a single–stone layer, created by applying a film of resin onto the surface, and scattering aggregate on top. Meaning it is quite rough and there may be some loose stone. It’s suitable for slopes and is available in different colours and textures.  

Resin-bond paving gives a smooth and durable surface. Resin-bonded paving is cheaper as it’s quicker to lay and uses less material. 

Cost and longevity –  

An average driveway will cost around £50 to £70 per square meter. Although the prices can vary because each project is different. Resin-bound driveways can last up to 25 years. 

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Loft Conversion

Dormer Loft Conversions Made Easy

16th December 20210

Types of Dormers

  • Flat roof – This is a dormer with aa flat roof that’s sitz horizontally. 

  • Shed – A flat roof that slopes down. 

  • Dog house – A dormer with a roof that has two pitched sides like your classic dog house. 

  • L shaped – Touched on above, this dormer has two parts that form an L shape. 

  • Hipped roof – Similar to a dog house dormer, but with three sides instead of two. 

Pros And Cons Of Dormer 

Pros  

  • Brings more natural light into the room. 
  • Better ventilation 
  • Adds head room and floorspace. 
  • Versatile – has many different options to choose from. 

Cons  

  • More structural work needed. 
  • More labour intensive  
  • You may need planning permission if It doesn’t fall under permitted development. 
  • Extra costs  

Building Regulations and the Party Wall Act For A Dormer 

While planning permission for a dormer may not be required, building regulations are mandatory. Regulations are there to ensure the safety of the structure you’re building. For example, ensuring that the structural strength of the new floor that would be installed is sufficient. Also making sure the roof is stable or even to make sure the new stairs up to your new loft is safe. The party wall act is there to prevent any disputes with neighbours due to building your structure. 

What is the party wall act? 

The party wall act prevents building works by one neighbour that can undermine the structural integrity of shared walls or neighbouring properties. 

Do Dormers Need Planning Permission? 

Yes and No. One benefit of dormers is that it can be constructed under permitted development. However, depending on your home’s circumstances you will need planning permission. Here are two examples: 

  • You live in a listed building or conservation area. 
  • Your neighbours are affected by the structure through overlooking or overshadowing.

And there’s more reasons to why you’ll need planning permission. 

Is my home suitable for a dormer loft conversion? 

Any room with a pitched roof and loft space can have a dormer. 

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