The slumping economy and housing costs that continue to climb are two reasons that more and more homeowners are opting to stay in their current home instead of moving to a larger residence. Home extensions are one way to add value to existing homes and provide the additional space the homeowner desires. An extension project is a complex undertaking, so you must plan every detail before you get started.
To avoid having an extension that does not look like the rest of your house, select building materials and design features that match your existing home. Take care to ensure the extensions roof looks like a continuation of the original roof, and choose windows and doors that are the same or very similar to the ones in your existing home, making sure to install them at the same height as the originals.
Tell your neighbours about your plans for an extension and ask them if they have any objections to the plans. Being honest and upfront will save you from possible unpleasantness later on and can also save you the trouble of making adjustments after your extension is completed. Your neighbours will be notified of your extension plans as part of the planning permission process, and they will appreciate knowing what to expect beforehand.
A professional architect can help you start to put your ideas into action, giving you advice on how to effectively use the space available, planning permission issues and, local regulations. Your home extension must meet the Governments Building Regulations for design, construction, fuel conservation, and compliance with health and safety rules. Inspections are required throughout the building process. An architect can also draw the plans for the extension and act as the project manager for the scheduled work.
You want to make sure you have a qualified builder for your extension construction. Interview several contractors before making a decision, and remember that a builder that costs less may not turn out to be the best deal. A poorly constructed extension will end up costing you a hefty sum for repairs and improvements. Be diligent about understanding exactly what the contract fees cover, and be wary of paying in advance for more than the first phase of construction.
If your home has central heating, you may be able to add a radiator to your system if your current boiler has extra capacity. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a boiler that can manage the additional heating needs of your extension. Another option is to utilise a convectors heater or electric panel for the extension area. For extensions that require plumbing, check with a professional about integrating the new plumbing into the existing system. Changes in plumbing can be quite expensive, and you will want to use the most cost-effective and efficient plan.
To avoid having an extension that does not look like the rest of your house, select building materials and design features that match your existing home. Take care to ensure the extensions roof looks like a continuation of the original roof, and choose windows and doors that are the same or very similar to the ones in your existing home, making sure to install them at the same height as the originals.
Tell your neighbours about your plans for an extension and ask them if they have any objections to the plans. Being honest and upfront will save you from possible unpleasantness later on and can also save you the trouble of making adjustments after your extension is completed. Your neighbours will be notified of your extension plans as part of the planning permission process, and they will appreciate knowing what to expect beforehand.
A professional architect can help you start to put your ideas into action, giving you advice on how to effectively use the space available, planning permission issues and, local regulations. Your home extension must meet the Governments Building Regulations for design, construction, fuel conservation, and compliance with health and safety rules. Inspections are required throughout the building process. An architect can also draw the plans for the extension and act as the project manager for the scheduled work.
You want to make sure you have a qualified builder for your extension construction. Interview several contractors before making a decision, and remember that a builder that costs less may not turn out to be the best deal. A poorly constructed extension will end up costing you a hefty sum for repairs and improvements. Be diligent about understanding exactly what the contract fees cover, and be wary of paying in advance for more than the first phase of construction.
If your home has central heating, you may be able to add a radiator to your system if your current boiler has extra capacity. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a boiler that can manage the additional heating needs of your extension. Another option is to utilise a convectors heater or electric panel for the extension area. For extensions that require plumbing, check with a professional about integrating the new plumbing into the existing system. Changes in plumbing can be quite expensive, and you will want to use the most cost-effective and efficient plan.
About the Author:
Tal Potishman, member of Heating Central, writes articles about efficient heating, boilers, Reading plumbers, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.
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