Tag: Extension

Conversions

Things You Need To Know When Converting Your Bungalow

7th February 20230

Converting your bungalow by extending upwards or adding another storey is a great way to add lots of space at an affordable price. If you have a larger property you may be able to extend the back and the side of the property.

Converting the loft –

You can extend upward. There are four main types of loft conversions that can be suited for bungalows. They are a dormer loft conversion, a hip to gable conversion, a Velux conversion, or a mansard loft conversion. Before you decide on what conversion you like you should get advice on the best type of conversion for your bungalow, depending on its existing structure.

Most bungalow loft conversions don’t require planning permission and it comes under permitted development. As long as they meet some key conditions:

  • Firtsly, if your bungalow is in a conservation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty then you will need to apply for planning permission.
  • Secondly, you’re not allowed to raise the height of the roof
  • On the main elevation facing the highway, you’re not allowed to construct dormers or anything that projects out of the roof.
  • No balconies or raised platforms are permitted
  • Finally, materials must be similar in appearance to the existing bungalow

One of the big attractions of converting a bungalow loft is that it is usually a lot cheaper than a conversion in a regular home. A simple conversion would likely cost around £20,000 to £25,000 for a standard bedroom. Whereas, if you want to add dormer windows and an En suite the prices could be around £40,00. The most a loft conversion could cost with everything included could be around £65,000.

A typical bungalow loft conversion can take about 6 to 8 weeks. Although if you have to apply for planning permission you would need to add a couple of months to the timescale.

Bungalow Extension –

You do not need planning permission for an extension if you build within your permitted development rights. Without planning permission, you can build up to 6 meters or 8 depending on if your house is detached. The average single-storey bungalow extension cost is around £1875 per meter square.

Homeowners in the UK could add up to £100,000 to the value of their homes by converting their property.

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Extensions

Do you want a conservatory extension in your home?

20th January 20230

Do you want a conservatory extension in your home? If yes! Then you are on the right spot as in this article we are going to take a look at conservatory extensions. Information that we are going to share will help you make the right buying decision. You also need to keep in mind that a change in planning regulations in 2008 – Home Extensions such as single-storey extension, orangeries and conservatories are treated in the same way.

How Modern Conservatories are Different from House Extensions

Before we go any further, it is better to understand the difference between an extension and conservatory. Furthermore, we will discuss the benefits of each pick.

When we talk about conservatory extensions, these are made from frames and glass. Some of them have bricks but not too much. The design and style of a conservatory are different from the property. Hence there is some sort of separation such as a door that separates conservatory from the house.

In recent years, the advancement in technology has made it possible to use the conservatory extensions all year round. For example, if you want to keep it hot, there is an underfloor heating system available for the conservatory. These types of systems are specially designed for keeping it warm in winter nights.

On the other hand, a house extension is much different as you attempt to link two distinct spaces to create a more living area in your property. With using proper design, it can help in increasing the value of your property.

Moreover, the design of a house extension is similar to the property. The builders use the same type of brick, windows, doors, and ratio to make it look like a part of the property. You may need planning permission from your local authorities to build a home extension. So, it is better to get some advice before you start working.

Cost of Conservatory Extensions

Another factor that affects your decision is the price difference between conservatory and extension. The difference in cost is enormous as the Cost of conservatory is around £6000 whereas the cost of home extension is around £30,000.

Extension or Conservatory

As we mentioned earlier that a home extension, as well as conservatory extension, are treated in the same way from planning permission perspective. So, there is no need to spend thousands of extra pounds on building a house extension. Without further ado, let’s discuss some conservatory extensions ideas.

Conservatory Extensions Ideas

There are plenty of designs that look promising, which can also add value to your property.

Kitchen Extension

A kitchen extension is no doubt one of the best ways to increase the value of your property. You can easily knock through walls to link your kitchen with a conservatory to get some extra living space for a dining table.

If you are considering such an extension, then there are few things that you need to keep in mind to link these two together. Natural light is essential for a kitchen, so we will recommend you to use floor-to-ceiling glass. Some of the people choose French patio doors, but we will advise you to fit bi-folding doors. This type of doors provides a great view of the garden. You also need to consider how you are going to separate these two areas. The open plan works best for most of the people but keeps in mind that these two spaces should have their own identity.

Open-Plan Living Room

You can also use the conservatory extension to get more space in your living room. Furthermore, it is a great way to connect two sections of the property. You can also use this extra space as a kitchen diner to have few drinks and to relax. As it is an open-plan design, so you need to find a way to keep the extension warm. You cannot rely on conventional wall-mounted heaters, instead, use underfloor conservatory heating to ensure that the heat is spread throughout the area.

Best Blinds

It is better to leave blinds till last, as they are just finishing detail. If you are going to use lots of glass, then you would face a privacy issue, especially at night.

Lighting for Conservatory Extensions

Lighting is essential inside a property. It has the power to break your conservatory. That is why; it is vital to use proper lighting. Too much or too light can spoil the mood of the family. The questions are; “What is the best lighting for conservatories?”.

  • You should use a light with a dimmer. It is essential as it can help in controlling the brightness.
  • Another option is to use directional spotlights which can help focus on a particular area of the room.
  • If you want to light the area beyond the conservatory extension, it is the best way to distract the attention from the glass and to reduce reflections.
Conversions

Everything There Is To Know About Barn Conversions

5th January 20230

What is a barn conversion? 

A barn conversion is the adaptation of a farm barn into a building serving a different use. For example, a house. 

Barn conversions are so popular because they present the opportunity to create flexible living spaces that can adapt to the needs of modern life. Barns are often in rural areas so if you are looking for a quiet area away from the city to raise a family, this would be perfect for you.  

If you are looking to start a barn conversion you will need full planning permission. And if your barn doesn’t meet the full requirements, You should submit a full planning application to your local council. And seek consent to convert your barn.  

Once the planning permission is submitted, the decision takes a minimum of five weeks. Once work starts on site regular inspections will be made.  

Building and designing –

Some people think that because the shell of the building is in place already that they might not need an architect. However, barn conversion projects can be even more taxing at the design stages than new homes.  

The key is to achieve the best balance between actual living space and the barn’s original character. This is because it is important to keep the character and features like the old beams and timber cladding. And it is important to remember why you loved it in the first place. 

So, because originally farm buildings are uninsulated if you are converting it into a house, it will be a key job to get the place insulated. In most cases, people want to preserve the internal cladding so you will have to insulate from the inside. Typically, you would fit breathable insulation such as a sheep’s wool wall between the studs. And then the wool will be covered by plasterboard. And then dig through the floors to accommodate underfloor heating or rigid insulation boards.  

How much will a barn conversion cost? 

A converted barn is one of the higher-end conversions you can do, they usually cost a lot more than building a new structure. It is not a project for those on a tight budget. The average barn conversion costs around £275,000, it is important not to cut corners during the process because it will lead to issues down the line.  

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Flat Conversions

Flat Conversions – A Step-By-Step Guide

5th January 20230

The prospect of transforming houses into a flat is becoming exceedingly popular. With a high demand for flats across the South East, breaking a property down into units can increase the potential for rental income in the short term. It can also improve profit on sales in the long term.

The only major obstacle many people face is – how do you know where to start? Here at Pro Arkitects – Design & Build Experts, we can tell you everything about converting houses into flats.

Step 1: Market Researching

One question many landlords fail to ask when purchasing a house is – are flats wanted in the neighbourhood? This is an important topic to consider because if an error occurs, the effects could be highly costly. It’s crucial to make sure you have a market for your new properties before you have even thought about conversions. We understand that market research takes time. However, it is the best way to ensure that the flats you’re intending to build are wanted.

Furthermore, it’s worth pointing out that some communities and neighbourhoods are in more significant demand of flats than others. An ideal method for elevating profits is researching the market because in-demand locations and higher rents go well together.

Step 2: Implications for Planning

Contacting the planning department of your local council is the next thing you’ll have to do. As you will more than likely need permission. If the project is accepted and permission is granted, you’ll have to apply for Building Regulations before any work commences.

If you haven’t yet purchased the house you intend to convert into flats, you should check with the local planning department before investing. Additionally, there may be certain requirements for you to consider. These can vary from; minimum flat size, soundproofing between the neighbouring flats, insulation for energy efficiency and comfort, fire safety, and potentially more. Parking availability may also play a role. These necessities of course depend upon the respective neighbourhood.

As well as this, you will need to consult a solicitor to make sure there are no legal restrictions preventing your planned renovations from taking place. Your lender will also be required to be involved in your plans if the house is being mortgaged. Certain banks are willing to accommodate landlords by offering loans to assist with the development and/or refurbishment. Others, however, will be more discouraging and will not allow mortgage holders to transform their houses into flats.

Step 3: The Costing Element

Varying vastly from property to property, the cost of converting your house into flats will depend upon the size, the design of the new house, and the number of flats being converted. Approximately, you’d be expected to pay £25,000 for a simple conversion. This will involve the placement of new walls and the installations of central heating units and bathrooms. Moreover, you will need to talk to utility companies to ensure that each flat has its own electricity, gas, and water meters.

Step 4: Legal Requirements for a flat

It is crucial that you inform the solicitor handling the legal transaction of your conversion plans. In addition to this, your solicitor should be able to draw up leases for separate dwellings. Which you will require if you then plan on selling the properties.

Transforming a house into flats is a strong way of making a profit, but sometimes, not all houses are good candidates. This is where your estate agent comes in. They can help you in finding the ideal property to convert, whilst determining which neighbourhoods offer the greatest potential.

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House Extension

Front House Extension Rules: Can You Extend

13th December 20220

Whenever you plan to add a front house extension, there are some rules that you need to follow. Like any other house extension, there are some limits on how high, wide and far you can go. If the design does not comply with these rules then you have to apply for planning permission.

It does not mean that this process is negative. It is just difficult and can make your project stressful. Furthermore, it can take many weeks to complete and will cost you extra money. Anyhow, if you are following the rules then you can skip this process and build a front house extension. You can add a room to the front of your house without any worry.

The rules with this type of extensions are very strict. The reason is that you are extending towards the front of the house. It means towards a public highway and hence there are stringent rules.

On the other hand, this type of extension provides you with options to have extra space for living and make some changes to the exterior. You can use this space to build a lounge, kitchen, or a bedroom.

The rules for a front extension are very much similar to the side and rear extension. There are lots of things to consider before you start work. If you want to extend the front, you first need to check whether there is already an extension, because the rules can be different if you already had an extension.

To avoid the daunting process of planning permission, you need to build the extension within “Permitted Development”.

It is better to contact previous owners before starting the work.

Front House Extension Rules to Follow

Some of the rules are as follows:

  • The size of the front house extension should not be greater than the land around the house.
  • You can make an extension higher than the existing roof.
  • You need to make sure that the materials you are using are the same.
  • If your house situated near the public highway; you cannot build an extension under permitted development rights.
Extensions

Timber Frame Extension: Learn About Planning, Finishes, and Costs

12th December 20220

There are several great benefits of a timber frame extension other than the added value and extra space for your home. It is possible to achieve a weathertight stage in days with this extension. It also means that you need to spend less time on-site and it does not depend on the weather conditions.

Once you have built a timber frame extension, it can sustain for longer. Furthermore, it provides good airtightness and thermal performance. So, if you are planning this extension, then it is essential to consider a proper frame manufacturer and best exterior finish. However, it all depends on your budget and whether the projects need planning permission.

Is A Timber Frame Extension Cheaper Than Other Extensions?

If we talk about the cost of timber frame extension then yes, it is an affordable choice compared to other traditionally-built extensions. One of the reasons is that it requires few labour hours to complete the work.

Furthermore, it is easy to estimate the time required to complete the project because it does not depend on the weather conditions. You can even carry out the work in winter months. If you are planning to apply for a mortgage, then you should keep in mind that your external finish is of primary importance. Many lenders are limited to external finish they accept, which can limit your choice of lenders.

Another important thing that you should keep in mind is that your project should add value to your house.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Well, you do not need planning permission if you meet specific criteria, then you can build a timber frame extension under permitted development rights. But if your criteria are outside the scope, then you need planning permission from the local council.

We always recommend our readers to double-check the authorities before they start working. But if your property is located in a conservation area, then it is necessary to apply for planning permission.

Does it Can Be Built on Site

Most of this extension built using timber frame and all of the panels for the structure are made up on site. They do not get manufactured in a factory. You will need the help of a structural engineer to design it and prepare the specifications such as grade and size of timbers. After that, a joiner will make up the frame panels on site.

You will also find out that the manufacturers do not provide any quote for the extension projects. The reason is that they need lots of technical input for a new build.

Exterior Finishes for the Timber Frame Extension

You can use a variety of materials for the exterior finish, including:

  • Rendered brickwork
  • Facing Brick
  • Reconstituted Stone
  • Brick Slips
  • Natural Stone
  • Fibre Cement Cladding
  • Render board system
  • Timber
  • Metal Cladding

Tips for Building Timber Frame Extension

  • First of all, you need an architectural services provider with years of experience with timber frame extensions
  • We will recommend you to take quotes from at least three architectural services providers to make sure you are getting the best rates
  • We always advise our clients to have a 10% buffer budget for any unforeseen expense.

Types of Timber Frame Construction

Open-Panel Systems

In this construction as sheet material is fixed to the softwood frame. However, the inner face is left open for the plumbing, insulation and electrics. Once every work is done, the structure is closed up.

Closed-Panel Systems

It is same as the open-panel systems, but the main difference is that the insulation is already fitted and ducts are in place for the services.

Keep in mind that the panels are provided without windows and doors. However, some manufacturers give the panels fully glazed external joinery.

Cost of Timber Frame Extension

As we mentioned earlier that this extension costs less than other traditional extensions. The main reason is that you need fewer labour hours. A person should expect to pay £1,800 per square meter.

There are some expensive materials such as oak, which will you around £2,400 per square meter. In short, it is the most cost-effective extension in Scotland but can cost more in Wales, Northern Ireland, and England. You should keep in mind that the original cost of any extension depends on what you want. For example, if you need an additional storey roof, then the price will be higher. However, it is still cost-effective if the structure is made of timber.

Factors that can affect the cost include:

  • Frame type
  • Amount of Insulation and its type
  • The thickness of the frame
  • Prefabrication
  • Specifications of glazing
  • Location and choice of external cladding.

Benefits of Timber Frame Extension

  • One of the best benefits is that timber is lightweight compare to other choices. Due to the lightweight, it is easy to deliver the large modules made off-site.
  • If your house is small and has limited space, then you can manufacture the modules off-site.
  • Furthermore, it allows you to create large rooms, galleried ceilings with character, and you can use different finishes outside the house.
Building Control

All you need to know about building regulations

6th December 20220

No matter your project, most construction work will require building regulations approval at some point. Here’s what you need to know about building regs in 2022.  

What are building regulations?  

Building regulations are a set of rules that are designed to ensure that new buildings, renovation work, extensions and conversions are carried out to ensure a safe, energy efficient, and healthy home environment. In addition, there are regulations relating to each specific area of construction. 

Your project will have to comply with these areas –  

You will need to appoint a building inspector; they will ensure that your projects meet the regulations.  

You may need building regulations approval for alteration projects. Here’s some examples:  

  • replace fuse boxes and connected electrics 
  • install a bathroom that will involve plumbing 
  • change electrics near a bath or shower 
  • put in a fixed air-conditioning system 
  • replace windows and doors 
  • replace roof coverings on pitched and flat roofs 
  • install or replace a heating system 
  • add extra radiators to a heating system 

The different types of building regulations applications –  

Building notice –  

A building notice is basically promising in advance that you will comply with the building regulations on site.  A building notice can only be used for domestic work and is only advisable for smaller works such as underpinning, internal alterations or re-roofing and does not require the submission of plans with the notice. 

Full plans –  

So, for most construction projects a Full Plans application is made to building control. With full Plans application, you will know from the start that the drawings have been checked and approved by the building inspector and that the plans fully comply with all of the Building Regulations. 

The application is made up of:  

  • A full description of the proposed works  
  • A set of technical drawings 
  • Structural engineer’s calculations  
  • A location or ‘block’ plan   

What happens if you fail to comply?  

If you fail to notify building control about your project, or the council finds out it isn’t up to standard, it has the power to order you to take it down or alter the work. Furthermore, serious cases can result in prosecution. If you are convicted, you could face a fine of up to £5,000 for each offence plus £50 for each day the work remains uncorrected. The local authority can also make you pay for the faulty work to be fixed. 

Also, if your project doesn’t comply it can become unsafe or cause major health issues, injury or death.  

Conversions

Basement Conversion in London Guide for Homeowners

6th December 20220

Basement conversion in London can help provide valuable extra living space, and it does not require any change to the exterior of your home. Everybody wants more space in the home, and one of the ways is by house extension or converting the basement.

Loft Conversion provides additional living space on the top of the house. You can use it to create additional bedrooms. On the other hand, a basement is close to the main living space and access.

Options for Basement Conversion in London

If you want to create living space underneath the home, then there are the following routes:

  • You can create a basement
  • Or you can renovate an existing cellar or basement
  • If your house does not have a basement, then you can build a new one underneath the home or can extend out into the garden.

In this article, we are going to discuss 2nd and 3rd routes.

How Can You Use Basement For?

There is no doubt that the basement is a great space for your family; you can convert it into a home entertainment room or playroom. You can also use it as a utility room, storage and boiler furthermore, as the basement has its external entrance which makes it a self-contained unit, which makes it an ideal space for annexes or home office. If you want to make It an independent separate dwelling, then you need to express consent.

Does Basement Conversion London Worth It?

Whether a basement or cellar conversion worth your money depends on the cost and value of the property, additional living space under the house does make financial sense in high-value areas. If you are living outside London, then you need to take this decision after careful analysis. If you want to get an idea about the worth of space per square meter, then you can ask them from a local estate agent.

However, you should keep in mind that a basement with direct access worth more than any other dark cellar space. You also need to keep in mind that an area has a maximum value which you cannot exceed no matter what improvements you make. It also means that converting your basement is not going to increase the value of the property.

Sometimes, it is challenging to decide whether to convert a loft or a cellar. Because both of them costs about the same, but building a basement from scratch is a daunting and expensive task. However, creating a cellar will provide you with useable floor space compared to loft conversion.

Planning Permission for Basement Conversion in London

If you already have a cellar beneath your home, then you do not require planning permission for conversion. Because it comes under permitted development unless you are in a conservation area, if you are going to reduce the floor level of a basement to improve the ceiling height, then it will be treated as an extension which needs planning permission. However, some of the alterations and extensions also do not require a planning application; for more information, you can visit the planning portal, or you can visit the office of the local council.

The planning policy for the basement varies from one location to another. However, getting approval from the local council is not that difficult. If the work is not going to alter the appearance of the house, then the council does not have reasonable grounds for refusal. We have seen many people made iceberg basements which indicates that the policy for basements is still under review.

Basements and Building Regulations

If you are going to create a new basement, then you need building regulations approval. It does not depend on whether you are going to use existing cellar or creating a new one. These regulations are to make sure that the buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and hygienic. Renovating or repairing a current basement does not require building regulations approval.

You can download the documents from the government website. That is why; we recommend our clients to apply for planning permission rather than waiting for notice.

Party Wall Act

If the work is going to affect any party wall, for example, if the excavation is to be carried out near a party wall, or you are going to extend the wall. In such a case, it is essential to inform all the owners of adjoining properties.

How Long Do Basement Conversions in London Take?

A basement conversion usually takes a few weeks to complete. If you are going to convert a simple bedroom, then it will take just two or three weeks. But if you are going to convert the basement of the entire house, then it can take several months. Furthermore, if you can access directly, then you can live in your home during the work. But if the contractor has to remove the ground floor and rebuilt it, then you have to move out.

Extensions

Everything you need to know about glass extensions

5th December 20220

Deffinition Of Glass Extensions? 

Glass extensions give you the same living space, but with any style of glass construction. The extension looks different to a conservatory, though, as it’s square, and has more of a premium finish. On one side, there are typically a set of sliding or bi-folding doors providing easy access to a patio or garden. This gives a seem less view of your garden and brings the outside in. 

The base required for a glass extension is fairly flexible. You do not require foundations as you would for a conservatory or a brick extension. 

Prices Of The Extensions 

 A glass extension is actually a lot cheaper than it might sound. The real cost of a glass box extension is in the design you choose. On average a glass extension costs around £3,000 per meter squared, just for glazing. A small glass box extension price starts from £14,000 and can go up and over £80,000 for a large project. 

A glass extension is a good investment for your property, it can add up to 7% to your home’s value. A survey by the national association of estate agents, regarding the top home improvements that could add the best value to your property. It revealed that glass room extensions featured highly at the top of the list.  

How To Avoid Heat Loss  

Unfortunately, all of the glass means that the extension could have poor insulation, making a consistent temperature difficult to achieve.  One possible solution is to increase the insulation by having a solid ceiling with roof lights and keeping glass walls. This ensures the space maintains a more comfortable temperature in both summer and winter  

Predominantly glass extensions can be noisy, with high levels of reverberation. Soft furnishings such as rugs, curtains, and cushions are vital to dampen the noise. When it comes to the flooring, timber can also help to absorb echoes and make the space feel cosy, but it’s not so helpful with temperature control.  

Are Glass Extensions Secure?  

Most people assume that glazed extensions prove to be attractive targets to potential burglars. On the contrary, if constructed well, then their toughened glazing and strong joinery can make them exceptionally safe and secure.  

Image: https://www.homify.co.uk/professionals/61397/maxlight

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Extensions

Double Storey Extension: A Beginner’s Guide

2nd December 20220

Double storey extension is a perfect alternative to moving house. The reason is obviously the cost which involves moving a house. Furthermore, sometimes we are emotionally attached to a house because we have spent so many years. So, why should we consider such option when we can increase living space and add value to our existing property. If you are a kind of person who spends most of the times at home, then adding another storey can provide space for your home office. Furthermore, you can consider a kitchen, bathroom, and more bedrooms. You can also create a space with a perfect view of the garden. In short, you can use this extra storey as the way you want it to be.One of the things to make a successful two-storey extension is to integrate rooms upstairs and down into your house. Adding an extra storey to your house provides you with more space for your buck compared to a single-storey extension. It is the best alternative for growing families and small homes.

Does Double Storey Extension Add Value to Your Property?

First of all, a person who wants another storey is to have some extra space. But it is also important to make sure that money you are investing in adding value to your home. Keep in mind that an extension may cost more than it is adding to the property. But in the long run, it is less expensive than moving to another property. After knowing about the legal fees, agent fees, and stamp duty involved in the process.In the UK, the value of a property determined by the price per square meter. If you want an idea about the worth of your house, you can check with local property agents. Sometimes, the asking price is more than the selling price of a property.

How Tall It Can Be?

How tall your double storey extension is? an important question related to planning. Planning policies say that your extension cannot be larger than the existing house. If a building has low ceilings, then it will be difficult to build an extension tall enough. There are some solutions such as lower ceiling heights or integrating upstairs rooms into the roof space.

Cost of Double-Storey Extension

The cost of an extension can varies from one place to another in the UK. The cost of labour is different from one city to another. Furthermore, the material you choose has a significant effect on the overall cost of the project. If you go with standard quality material then a double-storey will around £1,500 per square meter. While a good quality design will cost you around £1,700 per square meter.Keeping these numbers in mind, an extension of 40m square will cost you £53,000. We have not included professional fees and VAT. In areas such as London, you should expect to pay more than that. So, if you are going to estimate the cost of your project, you should at least consider around £75,000 for a two-storey extension with a footprint of 4m x 5m and standard finish.