So you’ve decided you want to get an extension on your home? Moving house is becoming an increasingly expensive event, causing many homeowners choosing to extend their home instead of moving to a bigger home. The first thing you need to decide is what type of extension you want. It’s worth taking a thorough look at all your options before you decide what fits best with your home’s existing style and design. It’s also important to take into account what you’d like to use the extension for and the budget for your new project, so you won’t be left with an unfinished project if your money runs out. 

Single storey extension

A single storey extension is for when you require a new room or an extension of an already existing room. They are built onto a part of a house where one or more sides are attached to the original property. They can be more tricky than other extensions, needing extensive and thorough building planning, but the majority of them don’t need planning permission.

Single storey extensions tend to be built for the purpose of a large, heavily used room. Often this room could serve the purpose of a bedroom, playroom, or a new kitchen. If you’re planning this type of extension, then it is wise to pay extra attention to how the new height and predicted construction work will impact the surrounding neighbours.

Two storey extension or multi-storey extension

Multi-storey extensions can be built onto any part of an existing building, providing you have the suitable foundations and planning permission (if they do not fall within the permitted development guidelines). You won’t need planning permission if:

• The materials used are similar to the original materials of the rest of the house.
• The area that is being built on does not exceed 50% of the total area of the land you’re building on.
• No balconies are built on the extension.
• The roof pitch matches the existing house roof and is not be higher than the original roof.

Although a more expensive option, it is more cost-effective overall and adds the most value onto your property. You’ll be able to maximise floor space in your property without using any of the surrounding garden area.

Loft conversion

A loft conversion gives you a world of possibilities and can increase your home’s value up to 20%. Adding a whole other floor will create extra space that you can turn into more storage space, an office space, or a full bedroom with an ensuite.

A highly popular option for a lot of our customers, the majority of loft conversions don’t need planning permission and won’t change the outer appearance of your home too much. You will be able to qualify for a loft or attic conversion if your space exceeds the height of 2.2 metres and you have a permanent stairway built in, with a minimum height of 1.8 metres (instead of just a ladder). Did you know – we provide a bespoke staircase design service and can provide you with professional advice regarding planning permission. 

Catslide roof extensions

An extension placed on an existing roofline, which generates extra width on the roof and building. Only suitable if you want added width on the ground floor, often implemented when a utility room or extra storage space is needed. Generally, they don’t need any planning permission due to the lack of effect on the surrounding area.

It will create a uniquely shaped roof as it will elongate the building without looking noticeably out of place and, therefore, are suitable for houses with a surrounding natural landscape.

Conclusion

Whatever you need from your extension, there is a kind of extension to suit everyone’s homes and needs. For a big decision like this, it is important to recruit experienced architects and construction workers, so choose Kingsmead Conversions to give you peace of mind when endeavouring on a new home extension.  

At Kingsmead Conversions, we work alongside you to plan and build your dream home extension at a competitive price. We ensure all our work is completed to a high standard with exceptional customer service. We have staff that are passionate about the industry they work in, so please don’t hesitate to contact us.