If you need to get some more space in your home – you basically have two options – move to a bigger house or build an extension. If you would prefer to stay where you are it is likely that you feel an extension is the better option for you. It also means that you don’t have to go through the hassle and expense of having to find a new house and move.
However, building an extension also has downsides that you should be aware of – although you can stay where you are, for a time your home will be a bit of a building site depending on the size and layout of the extension and it can also be time consuming. You also need to find a reputable professional to build the extension like this home extensions company https://precisionbuildersltd.co.uk/services/home-extensions/
Here are some of the things you should consider to help you plan your extension…
What space do you need?
The first thing to think about is what space you need- do you need more living space? Or is it an additional bedroom that you need? Decide what space you need, and this helps you and your family architect and builders to work out the best way to extend your home for the most benefit.
Get Planning Permission
You need to check if you need planning permission, and if you do you need to submit your planning application. This is something that must be done before any work starts.
Talk to Neighbours
Having building work done can be disruptive and you should also be aware of how your extension impacts your neighbours. Speak to them about your plans and listen to concerns that they have and work out how you can minimise any disruption.
Keeping the new space cheap to heat
A bigger home has more space to heat, so build energy efficiency into the design from the start. Building regulations already require insulation in cavities, lofts and floors and low-energy lighting, but materials make a real difference too. A breeze block extension with external wall insulation can cut energy bills by around 40 per cent compared with plain brick, and a good-quality render adds durable weatherproofing.
Oak framing is a sustainable alternative. Properly sourced oak is a renewable material, and because a frame is lighter than concrete it can mean simpler foundations.
For heating, you can extend the existing central heating or fit infrared panels, which are cheap to run and can be controlled by a thermostat. Insulating a solid floor with PIR board keeps heat in the room rather than letting it leak into the ground. LED bulbs use about 90 per cent less electricity than old incandescent ones, so they are an easy final saving.