Tag: house

Architecture & Building

All there is to know before moving into a bungalow

14th January 20220

What is a bungalow?  

A bungalow is a one-storey house, cottage, or cabin. Bungalows are usually small in terms of square footage, but it’s not uncommon to see large bungalows. They were originally designed to provide affordable, modern housing. 

Characteristics of a bungalow –  

Bungalows are great homes for people with disabilities and the elderly because they are small and easy to maintain. Because there is only one storey, they tend to be more cost-effective compared to a typical home. The gas and the electric costs would end up being lower because it is a smaller property.  

Because bungalows are single storey homes and it is known that either elderly or the disabled usually live in them, the property can fall victim to break-ins. Therefore, it is a good idea to invest in some security cameras for your home.  

Advantages and disadvantages –  

Advantages – 

There are many benefits to living in a bungalow and they include:  

  • The potential for garden access from bedrooms  
  • Bright, airy, open plan layout 
  • A good connection with the outdoors  
  • No stairs to factor in the layout 
  • Can have vaulted ceilings and skylights in the main living areas.  
  • Can offer more privacy 

Disadvantages –  

  • Not enough room separation. Since all of the rooms are located on the same floor, creating separation between living spaces and bedrooms can be difficult.  
  • Lack of security  
  • Size can be an issue.  

How much do bungalows cost in the Uk?  

The cost of building a bungalow in the UK depends on the size and complexity of the structure. In total, the average cost of building a bungalow can range anywhere between £181,000 and £552,000. This is because the cost of a bungalow is influenced by land costs and the size of the plot.  

How long does it to build a bungalow?  

The time it takes to build all depends on the size of the house and the specifications of the design. But on average it should take between 4 and 5 ½ months to build a bungalow. However, this time could extend it any complications occur.  

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Conversions

Important information to know when Converting a house into flats

13th January 20220

Converting a house into flats is becoming very popular. Landlords and homeowners are now converting homes into flats because it is a great way to make money. Especially in city locations where flats are becoming in demand more. If you are interested in converting your home, carry on reading.  

Make sure you research –  

Before you buy or alter any property it is very important that you do in detail research about the property and project. 

 Here are a few things you should find out more about:  

  • Desirable areas and upcoming locations. It is important that you buy a property within walking distance of popular transport areas and near local amenities. It is also smart to look for locations that could become popular in the future. There is no point in purchasing a property on a street or area no one wants to live in.  
  • Property prices. It’s vital to find out what the average house prices are in that area, so you know if you’re overpaying or not. You should also keep in mind that you are converting the property so you don’t want to spend all of your budget.
  • The rental market. Finding out what the rental market is like will also help you massively. Knowing if people are looking for flats, who is renting in the area, and what style of home is the most popular will help you in the long run.  

Will you need planning permission for converting a house into flats?  

Any project that has a large dwelling and splits it into multiple new units will need to undergo a full planning application before they proceed. Each council has different policies and they will dictate the size of the rooms, how many you can have, and if you can even go through with the conversion. 

You may have to hire a solicitor to work with you to find out if you are legally able to convert the house. It is also handy to have a solicitor because they can help you create leases for the flats. It’s important to have leases because you won’t be able to sell without them.  

Conversion costs –  

The cost of converting a house into flats depends on the property and the location. On average the standard conversion should cost around £25,000. Conversions are known to be big projects. This means you should expect the project to take around 6 months to be completed.  

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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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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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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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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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