With a growing family comes an increasing need for more space. When you love the location of your house but need more space in your house, building a home extension would be the ideal option. Home extensions can be a tedious project to undertake. However, with careful planning, you can achieve success. We’ve outlined some of the essential factors you have to consider before doing any home extension, second-storey addition or any home renovation project.
Have a concrete budget
It is important to know how much you are willing to spend on your home extension before you even start planning. While it wouldn’t hurt to dream big and think of a grand design, it would only be reasonable and practical to plan your budget first and work around that. So, make sure you consult with your bank, discuss with your partner/loved one and communicate with a professional home extension builder during the initial planning process. Ensure that everyone involved in the project is told exactly what your budget is. In this way, everything—from the design and materials to the labour costs and finishing touches—are planned according to the budget.
Plan the extension according to your home’s current architecture
It would be a pain in the eye to see mismatched architecture in your home. When you do not plan the extension according to your home’s style, you are also lowering its value. So, it is essential that you plan the layout, the interior design and style according to the current architectural traits of your house.
The Type of Extension You’d Want
There are different types of extensions you can plan for your home. Here are some of the most popular options:
Single Storey Addition
If you are planning an extension that would be strictly used for utilitarian purposes, the ideal option would be a single storey addition. This may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other forms of home extensions, but it is definitely practical and cost-effective. It is important to carefully plan how this will look so that it won’t protrude unattractively. Moreover, it is worth noting that a single storey extension always requires building control permission. No matter how small your extension is, you have to follow local building codes.
Conservatory
If you’re itching to have an additional space for lounging or you want a greenhouse, a conservatory would be the best option. During the Victorian era, families built it within their property to add aesthetics to their home. If you have the budget, you can build a stunning conservatory and turn your home into a classy structure. Conservatories typically have a roof made of transparent materials like glass. Moreover, about half of the walls are glazed. If you’re using the conservatory as a greenroom, you have to follow the aforementioned composition.
Above the Garage
If it is not possible for you to extend horizontally, then the solution may be to build over your garage. However, you must remember that the foundation of your existing house must be strong enough to support the additional structure. Moreover, you will be required to lay additional foundations which will also increase the cost of construction. You have to seek planning permissions, and at the same time, comply with building codes. Doing so will ensure that your new and old structures would be able to support each other.
Sunroom
Also referred to as an orangery, sunrooms were popular during the 17th to 19th centuries. They are typically built on lots with manors and upscale houses. Traditionally, they were used to entertain guests, lounge in or grow citrus trees. In a way, sunrooms are quite similar to conservatories. Keep in mind that you have to hire experienced builders when choosing this option as it is strictly important to follow building codes and acquire control permissions.
Repurposed attic
This may not be typically considered as an extension, but sometimes it falls under the home extension category. This is because this project involves converting a standard attic into a bedroom, lounge or office. This is one of the fastest extension projects because there’s already an existing structure. It is also the better option as compared to converting your basement. When you convert your basement, you have to work around plumbing and living in the space would involve constant dampness.
Garage Conversion
The other cost-effective option for getting an additional living space in your home is repurposing your garage. It is larger than a loft, so you’d have more space to move around. On the other hand, the roof design may cause storage space problems. So, it would be advisable to use storage or attic trusses instead of standard trusses. You may also have to focus on the windows since most garages only have one. Make sure you install at least three for good ventilation.
Moving out or staying in
If you are planning a small home extension project, then you would not have to move out of your home. However, when the project is quite large, it might take a while to complete it and you may be required to move out while the construction is on-going. If you want to go on with daily living comfortably, you would have to consider moving out for a while. However, keep in mind that this will also seriously increase your budget.
Review Building Requirements and Permits
Remember that most types of home extensions may require building permits. Moreover, they may be local council requirements you have to adhere to. For instance, if your building is heritage listed, there may be some restrictions to what you can and can’t do. In this case, it would be essential to hire a company that specialises in heritage buildings.
It is also worth noting that there are builders who will help you acquire the building permits. With such, planning your home extension would be more convenient.
Choose Element Construction for your Home Extension Project
Choosing the right builder is essential in ensuring the success of your home extension project. When it comes to building conservatories, second-storey additions or other home extensions, turn to one of the leading builders in Western Australia, Element Construction. We pride ourselves in providing quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. From planning and acquiring permits to constructing the extension and completing the finishing touches, we ensure that we will work with you closely to help you achieve your goals for your home extension.
If you are ready to learn more about our home extension services, contact us today! Our friendly staff will be happy to help you with your enquiries and needs.