What is Involved in Adding an Extension to Your Home?

By Elizabeth Summers / February 24, 2023 / No comments
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Adding an extension to your home is a significant undertaking that can add both extra space and value to your property. Before you make the decision to take on such a project, however, it is essential to understand what is involved in adding an extension. Therefore, this article will outline the steps required for adding an extension to your home, from planning and budgeting to construction and, finally, completion. 

Via Pixabay

Why Do People Add Extensions to Their Homes? 

Before giving you the steps involved in adding a home extension, it is important to understand why people may choose to do so. 

1) More Space: 

Adding an additional room or rooms to your home can give you much-needed extra space. This is especially beneficial if you have growing children, need more office space, plan on hosting guests more often, or simply want the extra living space that an extension offers. 

2) Increased Value: 

Not only will adding an extension provide you with more usable space in your home, but it can also increase the value of your property. An extension may even be a better option than moving house, as it allows you to remain in the same location while increasing both the amount of living space and the overall value of your home. 

3) Stylistic Changes: 

As well as providing extra living space and increasing property value, a home extension may also be a great way to make aesthetic changes to your home. This could include adopting a more modern design or creating a different structural layout that works better for you and your family. 

Once you have decided to add an extension, it is essential to plan it carefully in order to ensure that all the necessary steps are followed correctly. 

Planning:

The first step in adding an extension to your home is to plan the project. This includes assessing your needs, researching potential designs, and setting a budget for the project

When planning the design of the extension, it is important to consider the existing style of your home and surrounding structures. If you are looking to add extra space, think about how this space will be used and make sure that the needs of your family are taken into account. 

For instance, if you are looking to add a bedroom, consider how much space is needed and the type of furniture that will fit in the room.

Permits and Regulations:

The next step in the process is to obtain the necessary permits and licences from local authorities. This includes building permits, as well as any other regulations that may be applicable in your area. 

It is essential to ensure that all of the paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time to avoid delays or costly fines. Furthermore, if you are employing a builder or contractor, it is essential to make sure they have obtained the correct licence and insurance coverage for their work. 

Building Materials: 

Once the planning and paperwork have been completed, it is time to purchase the materials needed for construction. This includes deciding on the type of material you wish to use, such as brick, wood, or concrete. 

You should also take into account any additional features that you may need, such as Fosroc conbextra gp, a high-strength grout for heavy-duty flooring, or Damp Course, a damp-proof membrane.

Construction:

The next step is to begin the construction process. Depending on the complexity of your project, you may choose to hire a contractor or builder to complete the work for you. They would source materials for you, find the appropriate labor, contract a scaffolding company similar to Burflex (https://burflex.co.uk/), and hire any machines and equipment necessary for the project. However, if you decide to do it yourself, ensure you have all of the necessary knowledge to use the tools and equipment, as well as knowledge of building regulations and safety practices. 

Completion:

Once construction is complete, it is important to inspect the site before signing off on the project. Make sure that all aspects of the extension meet local regulations and safety standards. Additionally, check that any electrical wiring or plumbing is installed correctly and in accordance with applicable codes.

Adding an extension to your home is a great way to increase living space and add value to your property. First, however, it is essential to make sure that you understand the steps involved in adding an extension to your home. This includes planning the project, obtaining the necessary permits and licences, purchasing materials, constructing the extension, and completing it with a detailed inspection. With careful consideration and proper preparation, an extension can be a great way to improve your home.