Tag: planning

Architecture & Building

A step-by-step guide to the commercial construction process

7th December 20210

Step 1 – Planning and finding a location  

Firstly, out of all of the steps included in commercial construction, this one might be the most important. Finding the correct location can either go one of two ways, very easy or extremely difficult. Before choosing a location for a new commercial building you must consider these factors:  

  • The location must consider access to clients and employees and proximity to other buildings.  
  • Ensure the location doesn’t have a suspension on building. 
  • Ensure the nearby infrastructure can handle the needs for future business.  
  • Verify that the water and sewer lines can handle the needs for business.  
  • Does the area have sufficient fire hydrants and flow.  
  • Have environmental testing to see if there is any contamination in the soil.  

Once you have decided on a location you should get in touch with an architect and a contractor straight away.  

Step 2 – Setting a budget  

It is important to set a budget so that when it comes to the design and build element you will be able to afford it. The average cost of commercial buildings covering a large range of building types is £1,310 m2 – £3,100 m2.  

Step 3 – The design  

The design phase defines all of the intentions and goals of the project. Once you have discussed the plans with the architect, they will then draw up a set of plans and designs. Once the design phase produces a full set of drawings with final specs that contain costs and timelines for each stage of construction. Contractors use the drawings to construct the build.  

Step 3 – Pre-construction  

Before beginning the construction, the contractors must make sure all building permits and insurance requirements are obtained. For example:  

  • Submit the plans to the building department 
  • Get builders risk insurance 
  • Commercial and contractor general insurance 
  • Workers’ compensation 

There are also different roles that need to be assigned, including:  

  • Project manager – in charge of the project team, maintains construction, and time schedules.  
  • Contract administrator – helps the project manager with contract details.  
  • Field engineer – investigates the site to determine if any steps need to be taken prior to commercial construction.  

Step 4 – Construction  

The construction process will begin and this is the order in which they will take place.  

  • Implement drainage 
  • Excavate site 
  • Arrange power, water, and sanitation. 
  • Remove vegetation. 
  • Begin inspections  
  • Foundation  
  • Framing  
  • Roofing, siding, HVAC 
  • Interior 
  • Exterior  
  • Landscaping 

Step 5 – Post-construction  

Before you can move in, there are several steps you have to take after you’ve completed the commercial construction. You should do a final walkthrough of the property, checking the paint and seeing if everything is working correctly. Once you have done this you can start installing furniture and equipment. 

Why Do You Need Scaffolds For Both Residential And Commercial Project? - STAK Scaffold Ltd

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Design and Inspiration, Materials

Flooring And Its Pros And Cons

6th December 20210

Wanting to change your flooring at home? Heres a list of different types of floors and their pros and cons.

Types of flooring 

  • Timber  
  • Laminate 
  • Bamboo 
  • Vinyl 
  • Cork 
  • Tile  
  • Carpet 
  • Rubber 
  • Poured floors 
  • Wood  
  • Engineered floors

What are the main types of flooring? 

  • Wood 
  • Vinyl 
  • Tile 
  • Carpet 
  • Engineered floors

Pros and cons  

Hardwood Pros 

Hardwood flooring is adaptable in its looks and can complement all types of interiors. 

  • Many options available 
  • Expensive  
  • Can be refinished multiple times (However this can be expensive) 
  • Strong and durable  
  • Increases home value 

Hardwood cons 

  • Expensive  
  • Can incur scrapes, scratches and dents 
  • Avoid water contact – You should avoid large amounts of water that will destroy the flooring with seepage. 
  • Cupping – This happens when the edges of the wood board is higher that the centre, due to the moisture content which has slowly happened will cause the wood to expand. 

Engineered wood pros 

  • Price 
  • Better temperature resistance  
  • Adds value to your home 

Engineered wood cons 

  • Maintenance 
  • Fading 
  • Potentially weak 

Carpet pros 

  • Warmth 
  • Cost 
  • Variety 

Carpet cons 

  • Stains 
  • Cost 
  • Variety 
  • Restricted (You don’t tend to find carpet in the kitchen or bathroom) 

Tile pros 

  • Easy to maintain 
  • Water resistant  
  • Durable 
  • Cost 

Tile cons 

  • Cold 
  • Heavy 
  • Slippery and hard 

Vinyl pros 

  • 100% Moisture resistant  
  • Low maintenance  
  • Easy to clean 
  • Easy DIY installation 
  • Cost 
  • Variety of décor options  

Vinyl cons  

  • Difficult to remove if glued down  
  • Can be punctured with very sharp objects  
  • Can dent with heavy objects on top 
  • Not bio gradable 
  • Can fade and discolour 

Things to consider when choosing flooring for your home 

  • Location – Not every type of floor is suitable for every room. You should pick wisely when picking flooring as engineered floors would be perfect for a kitchen however carpet would not be.You need to take into consideration what the use of the room will be before purchasing flooring for the space. 
  • Durability – Durability is important factor in your flooring decision because the quality of your floors can influence the value of your home. 
  • Price – Floors can vary in price. Stone floors are extremely expensive whereas tile and laminate flooring is quite reasonable.  
  • Family’s lifestyle – You need to consider the activities that take place in your home. For example, if you have children or pet’s carpet would be best. However, if it is just you and your partner you can take the pick of whichever suits you best.  
  • Maintenance requirements – it advised to check maintenance requirements of any floor so you know if your able to maintain it after it’s been installed.  

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Architecture & Building

Permitted Development, Everything You Need to Know (PD)

2nd December 20210

What is Permitted Development?(PD) 

Permitted development is a scheme that was created that allows you to extend or renovate without the need for a full planning application. In addition, PD rights are an automatic grant of planning permission that allows building works and changes of use to be carried out. 

What is the difference between Planning Applications and Permitted Development? 

Planning permission is asking your local council for permission to construct a scheme. Whereas PD is notifying your local council of your intentions to construct. 

Do I need drawing for permitted development? 

Yes, you do need drawings. Also, any PD application must be accompanied by Architectural drawings.  

Do I need to pay a fee for a PD Application? 

Furthermore, yes, you do need to pay a fee. 

What size extension can I build without Planning Permission? 

Without planning permission you can only extend on a terraced or semi-detached property. However, you cannot go any taller than four meters in height or three meters across. 

What projects fall under Permitted Development? 

  • Firstly, building a small rear extension 
  • Building a porch less than 3m2. 
  • Changes of use, such as loft conversions, basement conversions and garage conversions. 
  • Internal altercations (knocking down internal walls) 
  • Installing satellite dishes and erecting antenna 
  • Finally, adding roof-lights or dormer windows 

Properties that don’t have PD rights 

  • Flats, Maisonettes or Houses in multiple occupation. 
  • Builds in conservation areas. 
  • Listed buildings 
  • Finally, properties that have had the rights removed. 

Do I need Building Regulations approval under Permitted Development? 

Yes, building regulations are for the construction work itself. Also, you must comply with the rules of building regulations, as it’s not permitted to carry out the work. 

What happens if I’ve built under PD rights, but should have sought Planning Permission? 

So, If it’s already constructed you could be faced with enforcement action, which would result in a request for a retrospective planning application. However, if the permission is refused you will need to demolish the new construction. 

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Design and Inspiration

Doors, Which One Is Best for You?

1st December 20210

There are many different types of doors you can have in your home. For example: 

  • Wooden
  • Glass
  • Pocket
  • Aluminium
  • Roller
  • Pivot
  • Metal  
  • UPVC
  • Fiberglass
  • Flush
  • Dutch   
  • Sliding
  • Roller  
  • Hollow core
  • Hinged  
  • Veneered Timber
  • Composite  
  • Bi-fold exterior
  • French   
  • Panelled  
  • Barn
  • Saloon
  • Steel
  • Battened ledged

The best doors to use in your home  

  • Wooden  
  • Glass 
  • Fiberglass 
  • UPVC  

Pros and cons  

Wooden Pros 

  • Considered to be secure  
  • Wooden doors complement all styles of homes 
  • Decent wooden doors start around £100 and upwards  
  • Noise reduction  

Wooden cons  

  • High maintenance – you need to paint and varnish a wooden door re-applying as it weathers 

Glass pros 

  • Natural light – It does not matter if the glass is clear, tinted, low iron or satin it will not block the natural light. 
  • Strength – Toughened glass doors are known for their strength and durability. 
  • Glass is easy to maintain 

Glass cons 

  • Lack of privacy – You can see straight through glass but this can be sorted. 

Fiberglass pros 

  • Durable – Pet friendly, people friendly and weather friendly. 
  • Performance – Energy efficient Saves money on energy bills 
  • Easy maintain 
  • Versability 

Fiberglass cons  

  • Price – Fiberglass doors are more expensive. 
  • Sizing – The material is not easy to cut, so this is not great for exterior doors that are not normal size. 
  • Installation – The entry system comes with a full unit with the frame, it must be installed by an experienced professional. 

UPVC pros  

  • Durability 
  • Ventilation  
  • Low maintenance  
  • Security 
  • Soundproofing 
  • Eco-friendly 
  • Weather resistant 
  • Insulation  
  • Fire retardant   

UPVC cons 

  • Structural Integrity – UPVC is prone to sagging due to their light weight and also because they are structurally not as strong. Too much heat can result in a rupture of their frames. 

Types of doors  

Glass  

  • Textured glass 
  • Decorative glass 
  • Insulated glass 
  • Stained glass 
  • Frosted or etched glass 
  • Clear glass 
  • Clear class 
  • Single glass 
  • Double glass  

Wooden 

  • Internal 
  • External 
  • Solid oak 
  • Solid hardwood timber 
  • Hollow softwood timber 

UPVC 

  • Slide and fold
  • French  
  • Sliding
  • Casement
  • Lift and slide 

Steps to take that will make your front door safer 

Wooden doors are secure but just like any you will need a good lock. Other steps you can take to increase security are: 

  • A peep hole 
  • Door chain 
  • High-quality glass 
  • Secure hinges 

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Design and Inspiration, Interior Design, Materials

Double-Glazing and Triple-Glazing Advantages

30th November 20210

Advantages of Double Glazing and Triple Glazing 

What is double-glazed glass? 

Double glazing is used in all kinds of glass installations and involves two panels of glass set in the same frame that are separated by a thin layer or air or sometimes gas such as argon. Double-glazed windows keep the cold out and the warmth in keeping away the draft. 

What is triple-glazed glass? 

Triple glazing is a window that has three panes of glass separate my argon gas. This extra layer makes it even more difficult for heat to escape and cold to come through. 

The benefits of Double and Triple glazing 

Double glazing 

  • Reduces heat loss and drafts – Double glazing reduces heat loss by not allowing the heat to escape. 
  • Provides acoustic insulation – This attempts to prevent sound leaving and coming into the home. 
  • Increases security – This increases security as it’s a lot more difficult to break than standard glass, making burglars want to avoid trying. 
  • Reduces build-up of condensation. 

Triple glazing 

  • Reduces condensation on your windows 
  • Reduces heating bills – This keeps the heat in your home and the cold outside. This will prevent the heat leaving your home meaning you don’t need to use the heating as often. 
  • Makes home noticeably more comfortable  
  • Reduces carbon output and greenhouse gases. 

Types of double glazing 

  • Low-E glass 
  • Float glass  
  • Laminated glass 
  • Toughened glass 

Advantages of Low-E glass 

  • Makes your home more energy efficient  
  • Potentially saves money on heating bills 
  • Reduces the glare from the light 
  • Reduction in your heating bills correlates to a reduction in total energy usage, reducing carbon footprint. 
  • Low-E glass helps keep unwanted UV rays out of your home that can damage your skin or furniture. 

Is Low-E glass worth double-glazing? 

High-efficiency double-glazed Low-E glass is really good at reducing heat loss saving on bills in the long run. 

Advantages of toughened glass 

  • Strength – This glass is known as a safety glass is five times stronger that regular glass.  
  • Sound reduction  
  • UV protection 
  • Impact resistance 
  • Heat resistance  
  • If broken the glass will shatter evenly into small pieces so there are no shards or splinters of glass causing less risk of injury. 

Toughened glass is commonly used for car windscreens, greenhouses, shower screens, glass shelves and table tops. 

Advantages of Float glass 

  • Float glass has a complete even surface. 
  • Environment friendly  
  • Displays – its crystal-clear transparency   

Advantages of laminated glass  

  • Has a plastic layer between the two panes of glass which holds the shards when broken. 
  • Easy to apply colouring  
  • Reduces the effects of harmful UV rays. 
  • Improves sound insulation 

Laminated glass is commonly used for external and internal doors, shop fronts, car windscreens, shelving and security glass. 

Questions that are commonly asked  

What’s wrong with single-glazed windows? 

There is nothing wrong with single glazed windows, it still does its purpose but single pane windows can cause heat loss, noise and condensation. 

Do I need planning permission? 

You don’t need to apply for planning permission to double glaze windows. However, if your home is in a conservation area or your home is a listed property you may find yourself to be under restricted rules only being allowed single pane windows. If you live in a conservation area or listed property, check your restrictions before starting anything. 

Is triple-glazing more expensive than double-glazing? 

Yes, it is. Triple-glazed glass costs up to 33% – 50% more expensive than doubled-glazed glass. 

What frames can I use? 

  • Timer 
  • Aluminium  
  • PVCU 

There key benefits: 

Timber:  

  • Natural appearance  
  • Renewable raw material  
  • Excellent insulator  
  • Durability  

Aluminium  

  • Durability  
  • Easy care 
  • Modern look 
  • Eco-friendly 
  • Light weight 

PVCU 

  • Easy care  
  • Long durability  
  • Very good insulation properties 
  • Versatility  
  • Many colours available  
  • Light weight  
  • Lower price  
  • 100% Recyclable  

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Design and Inspiration, House Renovation

Renovations That Increase Your House Value: Part 1

29th November 20210

Renovations to consider when wanting to add more value to your home 

Loft and garage conversions  

These two conversions are the most popular way of extending and adding value to the property. However, converting these into living space will add value by 15%. In addition, a garage conversion will increase the value by 20%. People convert these to create more living space and storage. 

Energy efficiency improvements  

This can fall into two categories: 

  • Simple low-cost improvements 
  • High-cost improvement works 

From research, energy-saving improvements to your property can raise the value by 14%. Meanwhile, improving lost insulation, cavity wall installation, double glazing, and adding a high-performance boiler would decrease energy bills giving the home more value. 

Outdoor décor (garden landscaping and external works) 

Furthermore, maintaining the garden area can add value by 10% – 20%. The things people keep in mind about the garden is: 

  • Privacy and security  
  • Good lighting  
  • Well thought terraced area  
  • Flat lawn  

Other renovations that can increase your house value  

  • Firstly, garage conversion 20% increase 
  • Secondly, loft conversion 15% increase 
  • Energy saving 14% increase 
  • Balcony 12% increase 
  • Outdoor décor 10% – 20% increase 
  • Open living plan 6% increase 
  • Kitchen 6% increase 
  • Central heating 5.4% increase 
  • Bathroom 5% increase  
  • Paint and decorate 5% increase 
  • Fireplace 5% increase 
  • Conservatory 5% increase 
  • Flooring 3% increase 
  • Roof 3% increase 
  • Finally, decking 2% increase 

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Uncategorised

A Guide to Commercial Buildings

29th November 20210

What is a commercial building used for?

Commercial property is a space that allows you to use the space for commercial activities such as food service, retail, or any other business. Commercial buildings have been split into classifications designated into classes A, B, and C. 

Firstly, Class A buildings are usually newer construction properties with better amenities and infrastructure. However, this could be an older building that has been remodeled, they are usually located in a popular area. 

Secondly, Class B buildings are maintained and well managed. Not always a new build but can be easily transformed by some renovations. 

Thirdly, Class C buildings are often old properties, located in unbeneficial areas that are less maintained. Although, there are building that tends to need more work done. Landlords will charge less due to the work needing to be done. 

Classifications  

For example, classifications for each building:

Firstly, A1 – shops such as:  

  • Retail (not hot food) 
  • Post office 
  • Hairdressing 

Secondly, A2 – Professional services 

  • Banks 
  • Health and medical services 

A3 – Food and Drink  

  • Cafes  
  • Restaurants   
  • Anything that serves hot food 

A4 – Drinking establishments  

  • Bars 
  • Wine bars  

B1 – Business 

B8 – Storage and Distribution  

  • Wholesale warehouse 
  • Distribution centre  
  • Repositories 

C1 – Hotels  

  • Hotels  
  • Guest homes  

Finally, C2 – Residential institutions  

  • Boarding schools 
  • Training centre 
  • Hospitals  
  • Nursing homes  

Do I need planning permission?  

Furthermore, yes you would, it is essential that you have planning permission for commercial buildings.

When do you need commercial planning permission? 

You will definitely need to have planning permission if you intend to: 

  • Add an extension or large-scale renovation. 
  • Build a new property. 
  • Change the use of the building. For example, changing the use from commercial to residential or residential to commercial. 

Do I need Planning permission if I work from home? 

Using space in your home will not usually need planning permission. However, you should get planning permission if: 

  • Your business is unusual to be in a residential area. 
  • Your employees work from your home. (But are not occupants) 
  • The number of customers visiting your home increases. 
  • Your business could disturb your neighbours. 

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Design and Inspiration

Everything You Need to Know About Installing a Balcony

26th November 20210

How much does it cost to add a Balcony? 

Depending on the complexity of the job would depend on the price. The estimated price of installing a balcony would vary between £1,500 – £5,500. 

The estimated cost would cover: 

  • Size
  • Design  
  • Labourer costs 
  • Material costs 
  • How complex the job is. 

Types of balconies  

  • Stacked – The most popular and common. Easy to install. 
  • Juliet/Faux – This is a faux balcony that may contain a small standing area but usually does not. A Juliet balcony contains a balustrade connection to the building without flooring to walk on. 
  • Hung – This structure is made out of stainless-steel cables that are fixed on the sides of the structure. These balconies are less common but have great strength. 
  • Cantilevered – This structure can be made from concrete, steel or timber. This type of project needs to be planned accordingly as the job is quite complex. 
  • Mezzanine – They have a large decking area with railing. This structure gives you more space. 

Do I need planning permission to install a balcony? 

Furthermore, if your home is in a conservation area or your property is listed you must apply for planning permission. 

In other cases, if your balcony is smaller than 300mm you may not have to seek planning permission but it is always best to do so. When submitting your planning application form expect to pay a fee. 

Installing a Juliet/Faux balcony means you won’t have to apply for planning permission unless you decide to add flooring to walk on and then you must. 

Will it raise my house value? 

There are no guarantees that this will raise the price value, but they have been known the raise the value up to 12%. 

What are balconies used for? 

In addition, balconies are used for extra space, kind of like an outdoor room. Many people like to use their balconies as a garden. For example, adding a barbecue or flowers onto it. Whereas, others like to use their balcony to admire the views the structure allows them to see and relax on it. 

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Advice Center, Planning Permission

How To Get Planning Permission On A Grade 2 Listed Building

15th November 20210

Firstly, getting planning permission for a grade 2 listed building isn’t as straightforward as it is for a regular house. And this blog will help advise you on the best way to achieve planning permission.  

What makes a grade 2 listed building?  

A grade 2 listed building is defined as a building or structure that is of special interest. Warranting every effort to preserve it. In addition, grade 2 is a classification that can be applied to a wide variety of buildings and other structures. In a range of ages, styles, and locations.  

Will I need listed building consent?  

You will need listed building consent if your project requires all works of demolition, alteration, or extension. That affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. Unlike other forms of planning permission, the listed building consent is free of charge.  

Here are a couple of tips to getting planning approved –  

  • Research the area. If you discover another developed listed building in your area there is a higher chance that your planning permission might get approved. If you find any, I would advise checking the council planning portal and see what architect worked on the project.  
  • Choose your architect wisely – architects play a major role when it comes designing your project and getting the planning permission.  and choosing an architect with a good knowledge and understanding of listed buildings is really important.  
  • In your plans, you should plan to use the same materials and design elements that were used originally to construct the existing building. This way the new design will not stand out. Then there’s a higher chance of getting planning approved.  

If you carry out work without listed building consent it is a criminal offense. So, it is important that you follow the rules and go through all of the correct applications.  

How long does it take to get planning permission on a grade 2 listed building?  

Local authorities say they aim to return a decision within 8 – 13 weeks. However, they may ask for an extension on the permission if they are busy. 

What are the Differences Between Grade I and II Listed Buildings? - Concrete Renovations

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Architecture & Building

Find Out The Journey Of Building A Carport

5th November 20210

Building a carport is a great way of providing protection for your vehicle, whilst increasing the value and appeal to your home. 

Here are the steps to build an enclosed carport.  

Step 1: Preparation to start the carport –  

The first thing you should do is check with your local planning authority to make sure your proposed project is up to code. Once you have been approved by the planning authority you can then prepare the carport to be enclosed. 

 You should start by clearing the area that the carport will be placed. Then you will need to pour a concrete slab to support the new room. However, before you pour the slab you need to make sure that you have measured how much space is required. For an average car, you need to measure at least 4.9 metres. It is best to make a wooden box to create a template for the concrete to set in once it’s poured. Try to ensure that the concrete slab is level with the rest of your house.  

Step 2: Purchase the necessary building materials –  

You can build carports from wood, metal, and sometimes brick, depending on the style you want and if you want it to match the materials on your home.  

When choosing the materials, you should keep in mind the climate of where you live. Different materials and designs may be more or less appropriate for where in the world you live. For example, lumber may be more appropriate for drier climates. They are also known to be more secure and durable. 

Step 3: start building the walls –  

Now you need to measure the size of the carport and start building the frames for the walls. To secure the walls to the carport you’ll build a simple rectangular box. If you are not creating an enclosed carport then you would move on to the roof. Whereas, if your project is an enclosed carport you will need to add stud walls. You will also need to frame openings for any windows or doors you want to include.  

Then you should secure the frames and the walls to the concrete floors by bolting them down.  

Step 4: building the roof –  

The next step is to fasten the rafters to the side beams. Rafters that will support the roof will be fastened to the wooden box. You should then fasten plywood roof boards to the rafters  

Step 5: Check the stability of the structure –  

When the roofing of your carport is complete, you should take the time to check the stability of the structure. If everything is done properly the carport should be quite solid. If there is any movement when you are checking the stability, you will have to add structure braces as reinforcement.  

Step 6: Finishing touches to the carport-  

For the finishing touches of your carport, you need to caulk the plywood roof seams. This is to keep the elements out, it is important to cover the roof with tar paper to create a waterproof surface, before shingling over it. Then you should fasten the shingles on top of the plywood roof. After that, you can then stain or paint the wood elements, increasing the longevity in the process. Once you have finished all the touches your carport is ready to go.  

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