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Extensions

Adding a two-storey extension to your home

4th March 20220

A two-storey extension can be a great way to upgrade your home. It is also one of the more efficient ways to add more space and to increase the property value. While a double-storey extension may seem like a much larger project to undertake than a single storey one. They’re often budget efficient and are a lot cheaper than moving house. 

How big can you build a two-storey extension without planning permission?  

Firstly, the eaves and pitch heights must be no higher than those of the existing house. However, if the building is within two meters of a boundary, the overall maximum eaves height is restricted to 3m. The pitch should match the existing house as much as is practical. 

Under permitted development, you can extend up to three meters from the original house. But it must be more than seven meters from the rear boundary. Any extension to the original house should not exceed more than 50% of the total land around the house.  

How much does a double-storey extension cost?  

The cost of an extension can vary 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 be around £1,500 per square meter. While a good quality design will cost you around £1,700 per square meter. 

The typical cost of building a two-storey extension starts at around £40,000. But this will increase if you are planning to use some of the space like a kitchen or bathroom. So, with all the finishes included you can expect to be paying around £102,500 to £124,000. 

Will you need building regulations approval to build a two-storey extension?  

Regardless of the size of the extension, you will need building regulation’s approval. You will need a full set of building regulations drawings, structural calculations, and specifications to submit your building control application.  

Image: https://blog.bdsarchitecture.co.uk

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Advice Center, Planning Permission

Learn all about permitted development rights

4th March 20220

What are permitted development rights?  

Permitted development rights are an automatic grant of planning permission that allows certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application.  

What you can do under permitted development –  

While it’s essential to check with your local council first, permitted development rights should provide you with automatic planning permission for:  

  • Firstly, a small extension  
  • Single storey extension  
  • Double storey extension  
  • Demolition  
  • Certain change of use  
  • Loft conversion  
  • Garage conversion  
  • Basement conversion  
  • A porch less than 3m3  
  • Internal alterations  
  • Finally, rooflights or dormer windows not facing the highway  

When are the rights more restricted?  

In some areas of the country, generally known as designated areas, permitted development rights are more restricted. For example:  

  • A conservation area 
  • National Park  
  • Area of outstanding natural beauty  
  • Or a world heritage site 

You will need to apply for planning permission for certain types of work that don’t need an application in other areas. There are also different requirements if the property is a listed building.  

How much can you extend under permitted development  

For a large single-storey rear extension on a detached house, you can extend between 4m up to 8m. Whereas, for any other house can be extended 3m up to 6m, under permitted development. However, for larger projects, you may be likely to go through the neighbour consultation scheme. If your neighbours raise concerns, then your local authority will decide whether your plans can go ahead.  

In addition, you can build a single-storey side extension up to half the width of the existing dwelling. A single-storey rear extension up to 4m in length for a detached dwelling and 3m long for a semi or a terrace house; and, in certain circumstances, 3m two-storey rear extensions.  

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Extensions

Planning a porch extension in Maidstone

3rd March 20220

Adding a porch extension to your Maidstone home can transform the look of your property. First impressions are very important to some homeowners, so creating a warm welcome to guests is a must. If you’re looking for a bit of extra space to hold your coats and shoes, then a porch would be a great addition.  

Will you need planning permission for a porch in Maidstone?  

If you’re thinking about adding a porch, you might be wondering if you need planning permission. Many, people might think of a porch as a kind of extension or conservatory. However, a porch has its own rules for planning permission. So, a porch doesn’t need planning permission if it follows the permitted development guidelines.  

You do need planning permission if:  

  • The ground area is more than three square meters (including the walls) 
  • The highest point is more than three metres in height 
  • Is within two meters of a boundary and the road 

You may need permission if you live in a listed building, conservation area, or area of natural beauty.  

How much will it cost to add a porch?  

Building a porch extension is a fast and relatively cost-effective way to improve the front of your house. The average porch costs around £3,500. This is for a traditional porch made from bricks, with a tiled roof, concrete floor, and glazed composite door.  

How long does it take to build a porch extension?  

The time it takes to build a porch depends on the materials you choose. A lightweight aluminum porch can take around a week to build. Whereas, a uPVC glazed porch can take around 2 weeks to build. If you choose a more secure enclosed porch such as one that is brick-built it will take around 1-2 weeks to construct.  

Will a porch add value to your Maidstone home?  

Firstly, by adding a porch you are increasing the square footage of your property which will add value to your property. A porch will provide an average return on investment of 84%. The cost and return varies by region, as some places are more suitable for a porch than others.  

Image: A Gilligan Builders

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Garage Conversion

Questions Regularly Asked About Garage Conversions

1st March 20220

Does converting your garage add value? 

Yes. Converting your garage will add value to your home. Especially, when there’s on road parking. Having your car in a garage decreases the chance of your car being stolen or damaged. Converting a garage can add value to your home by 15-20%. 

Do I need to follow building regulations converting a garage? 

When wanting to turn somewhere into a habitable space then yes, you will need to follow building regulations. This will include fire safety, drainage, ventilation, electrics, insulation, and the overall structure. If building regulations are not followed you can be fined or made to re-do the work. 

What is building control? 

Building control is a service provided by building inspectors. The building inspectors’ job is to make sure that all conversions, alterations, or constructions have been done under building regulations. For example, Building regulations such as fire safety, ventilation, structure, drainage, and others must be followed. 

Do I need planning permission to convert a garage? 

You don’t usually need planning permission when converting a garage as long as the work is internal and does not make the garages larger. But before anything always check your permitted development rights. 

Do I need planning permission to extend my garage? 

As long you won’t require planning permission as long as the garages will not be more than 4 metres high, and doesn’t cover more than half of the land covered by the main dwelling. 

What is planning permission? 

Planning permission is permission from your local council to carry out building works of your choice. Your local authority will decide based on area, neighbours and if it will affect anyone. 

Different types of garages you can have 

There are three types of garages you can have which is attached, integrated and detached. 

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Architecture & Building

The different types of building foundations

1st March 20220

What is a building foundation? 

Building foundations are one of the most critical elements of any project. A foundation refers to the lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level. So, it is very important that you choose the right foundation for your construction.  

Here are the different types of foundations –  

Shallow –  

  • Firstly, individual footing or isolated footing 
  • Combined footing 
  • Strip foundation  
  • Raft or mat foundation  

Deep –  

  • Pile foundation  
  • Finally, drilled shafts or caissons  

Individual footing or isolated footing – 

Firstly, an isolated footing is one of the most used types of foundation. In order to carry and spread concentrated loads, for example, columns or pillars. Spread footings are unsuitable for the bearing of widespread loads.  

Combined footing – 

So, combined footings are constructed of two or more columns. They are close to each other and their foundations overlap. A combined footing used when it’s necessary, such as:  

When two columns are close together, causing overlap of adjacent isolated footings.  

Where soil bearing capacity is low, causing overlap of adjacent isolated footings.  

The proximity of building line or existing building or sewer, adjacent to a building column.  

updated construction news | civil engineering news

Strip foundation –  

Strip foundations consist of a continuous strip of concrete formed centrally under loadbearing walls. In addition, the wider the base of this foundation type spreads the weight over a wider area and provides better stability. They are also used to accommodate a row of closely-spaced columns. They are used for load-bearing walls. Including footings for extensions, conservatories, and house foundations.  

Does my house need foundations? - Mega Prefab

Raft or mat foundation –  

A raft or mat foundation is a large continuous rectangular or circular concrete slab. So, it carries the entire load of the superstructure and spreads it over the whole area beneath the building. A raft foundation is used when soil is weak. As it distributes the weight of the building over the entire area. In addition, they can be fast and inexpensive to construct.

Pile foundation –  

A pile foundation is a series of columns constructed or inserted into the ground. To transmit loads to a lower level of subsoil. In addition, it is needed in areas where the structures are large and heavy and the soil underlying is weak.

How to Construct a Bored Pile Foundation? - The Constructor

 

Drilled shafts or caissons –  

Finally, drilled shafts, also known as caissons, are deep foundation solutions used to support structures with large axial and lateral loads. By excavating cylindrical shafts into the ground and filling them with concrete.  

Drilled shafts | Keller North America

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Architecture & Building

How to add roof a overhang

28th February 20220

A roof overhang also known as eaves protects the building under it from rain and weather. The overhanging edge of the roof also gives extra shade to the windows, preventing glare and heat from entering the home. Adding an overhang isn’t a very difficult job. However, blending the new overhang into the existing roof requires some expertise.  

Accessing the roof –  

Firstly, start by taking off the existing fascia and any other trim that covers the rafter tails. Once the rafter tails and top of the wall plate are exposed, you should be able to see into the loft.  

Extending the rafters –  

Secondly, cut the rafter extensions three times the length of the overhang you want to add. Then, position the rafter extension against the existing rafter. Make sure that two-thirds of their length overlap’s the rafters, defining the overhang. You should nail an extension to each rafter spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. The overhang should be 2 feet or less to ensure it would be stable.  

Installing fascia’s and soffits –  

Once the new overhang is on you can then start the fascia and soffit installation. Attach a new two-by-four sub-fascia board along the ends of the new rafter tails. The fascia board is nailed it the rafter and usually has a lip for the soffit boards to slot into. To build a soffit, attach a two by four nailer board to the wall of the building, making it level with the bottom of the fascia.  

Adding the roof to the overhang –  

Once the overhangs are framed, you need to cover the rafter extensions with a fresh layer of plywood sheathing. The best way to integrate the new overhang into the roof is to remove the underlay and shingles from the entire roof and put new ones on. If you use new shingles, the new overhangs will disappear into the roof. If you don’t want to reroof, then you’ll have to settle for a less than perfect blend. Your biggest problem may be finding roof shingles to match the ones on your house.   

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Advice Center

All there is to know about listed building consent

25th February 20220

listed building consent definition  

Listed building consent is required for all works of demolition, alteration, or extension to a listed building. That affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest.  

What is a listed building?  

A listed building is a building or structure that has been judged to be of national importance in terms of architectural or historic interest.  

Historic buildings also add to the quality of our lives. Being an important aspect of the character and appearance of our towns, villages, and countryside.  

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. 

You always need listed building consent  

You still need listed building consent to do urgent works to a listed building. Even if the works are needed because a dangerous structure or other legal notice has been served. Even if it’s not practical to get consent in advance, you must give written notice to the council as soon as possible.  

It is a criminal offense to carry out work without having listed building consent. Not all projects require consent, only the works that affect the character of the building.  

Carrying out building works to a listed building or changing it in any way without consent can result in court action and legal penalties. And it is also illegal to fail to comply with an enforcement notice.   

According to the planning act 1990 under section 9. Doing work without consent to the building can result in a person, being fined up to £20,000. And/or up to 6 months imprisonment.  

In addition, the maximum penalty is two years’ imprisonment or an unlimited fine. In determining the fine a judge must have regard to any financial benefit which has accrued or appears likely to accrue to the wrongdoer so as to deny them any benefits.  

It is also an offense for anyone who would do damage to a listed building. Or to do anything which causes or is likely to result in damage to the building with the intention of causing damage. Damage to the building by an unauthorised person other than the owner or occupier would be criminal damage under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. 

Advice Center

The Party Wall Agreement

25th February 20220

What is the party wall agreement? 

The party wall act was designed in England and Wales to legally settle construction disputes between neighbours. Sometimes, carrying out building work can be loud, messy and quite disruptive. This can cause a dispute between you and your neighbour when they start to complain.  Furthermore, this act prevents this from happening and is settled legally. If your neighbour complains to your local council with a valid reason of why your project would affect them, they can stop you from starting. 

Reasons why your neighbour might complain  

  • Firstly, noise  
  • Lack of light  
  • Lack of privacy  
  • Could affect their home. For example, change their foundation or look of their home. 
  • Finally, damage to their home  

Will this act stop my project? 

There is a chance your neighbour could stop you from carrying out building works if you live in a semi-detached, terrace, flat, or your detached home is close to your neighbours’ properties. Before starting building works you must serve your neighbour a notice so they know that building works are going to be carried out. After this, your neighbour has 14 days to say that don’t agree after the notice has been served. So, other things you need to think about that can stop your project is: 

  • Floors and ceilings  
  • Shared boundry walls 

Building works that come under the party wall act 

  • A loft conversion that means the boundry wall will need to be worked on  
  • Adding another storey which is on the boundry wall 
  • Changing your homes foundation  
  • Rebuilding a boundry wall 

What is a party wall? 

In addition, a party wall is a boundary wall that separates adjoining homes. So, technically speaking you only own one half of the wall meaning, if you’re wanting to carry out any works on that shared wall you will need to ask your neighbour for consent. 

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Design and Inspiration

What Type Of Window Is Best For You

24th February 20220

Are you thinking about updating your Window and want a change? Here is everything you should know before changing them. For example, there are many different types of windows you should know about. 

Different Types Of Windows 

The most common types of windows are:   

Casement  

Bay  

Single-hung 

Double-hung 

Awning  

Casement Window  

Casement windows open up horizontally this usually works by rotating the handle at the bottom.  

Pros 

  • These windows bring excellent ventilation into the home but, it can become cold  
  • Casement windows are known to be very secure 
  • These are known to be better than double-hung windows.  
  • Brings cool air inside 
  • Opens up wide 

Cons  

  • Subject to wear and tear 
  • When fully open bad weather can cause damage to the window. However, that may not happen straight away.

Double-Hung  

Double-hung windows are very similar to single-hung windows however, you can open two parts of the window other than one. For example, a double-hung window is just two single-hung windows put together.

Pros  

  • There is a variety of different types. For example, colours, sizes and materials. 
  • Easy to open and close  
  • Tracks in the windows don’t usually fill up with dirt as they are vertical 

Cons  

  • Windows require occasional maintenance  
  • Seal is not very tight which leads to air coming through 
  • Windows can break if window is fully extended in bad weather  

Single-Hung  

Single-hung windows are similar to double-hung windows in that they both have two separate, upper and lower sashes. The difference between the two is that the upper window of single-hung windows are fixed in place, allowing only the lower window to move 

Pros 

  • Variety of different types. For example, sizes, colours and materials. 
  • Easy to open and close  
  • Tracks in the windows don’t usually fill up with dirt due to the tracks being vertical 

Cons  

  • Windows require occasional maintenance  
  • Seal is not very tight which leads to air coming through  

Bay Window  

A bay window which can also be known as a bow window is a combination of windows that extend out. This works from several angled window panes. 

Pros  

  • Very popular windows
  • Perfect windows to look out from. 
  • Offer shelf space  

Cons  

  • These have been known to be quite costly  
  • Due to the large shelf area the seal isn’t great. So, this can cause air to come through. 
  • Not easy to install 

Awning Windows 

Awning windows are very similar to casement windows. However, they are made to swing open vertically. The top of the window is in a fixed place but you can open it from the bottom. 

Pros 

  • As long as it is not raining hard you can leave your windows open as the windows acts as an awning and prevents the water from coming in. 
  • Fairley secure 

Cons  

  • Doesn’t take in air effectively  
  • Subject to wear and tear 

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Advice Center, Extensions

Common mistakes made by people when extending their home

24th February 20220

Extending your home is a big project and can cost you a lot of money. So, here is a list of common mistakes that you may want to avoid.  

Having an unrealistic schedule  

It is common knowledge that building work can be unpredictable and can take longer than expected. There are some things you can’t just predict or plan. Having an understanding of this from the beginning of the project can help you prepare for delays. For instance, having a positive and chilled attitude will help form a better relationship with your contractor.  

Rushing the design  

If you’ve recently purchased a property or moved into a new home, you should live in the home for a while before extending or renovating. This is so you can get a real insight into what changes you want to make to the property. By waiting a year or so, you can see how the house stands and works throughout the seasons and different weather types.  

Upsetting the neighbours  

You must always inform your neighbours about any renovation that is going to take place on your property. Regardless of whether you get along with them or not. Often building works can be disruptive to your neighbours and their properties. So, to make sure no conflicts occur you should be aware of and get a party wall agreement. The agreement with your neighbours usually takes place in letter form and can be done by a third party such as a party wall surveyor.  

Going over your budget  

Running out of money when you are halfway through a project can be one of the worst things that can happen. This is why ensuring that you get fixed quotes and estimates from the beginning is vital. Before you start your project, it is important to have a contingency fund available just in case anything unexpected comes up.  

Not researching tradespeople properly  

It can often be tempting to choose a cheap builder so you can save a bit of extra money. However, employing a skilled professional is a good investment, so you can avoid unfinished or bad-quality work. You should choose a trade person based on their previous work and trusted recommendations.  

Image credit: Simon Burt

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