Building an Extensions on your property can increase the value of your home and provide you with the extra space you’ve always dreamed of. Before you start, it’s important to get a clear idea of the cost, as well as the structural elements of the project. Getting your neighbours involved is also a good idea. As is making sure the ‘look and feel’ of the original property remains intact.
Estimate the cost
Building an extension is a great way to add value and flexibility to your home. However, it’s important to consider how much it will cost. Fortunately, there are ways to save money while still getting the extension of your dreams.
The first step is to determine how large of an extension you want. There are numerous sizes that you can choose from, including a two-story addition. You may also decide to convert an attic into a bedroom.
Once you’ve decided on the size of the extension, you can calculate how much it will cost to build. An extension of 500 square feet costs approximately $100,000. This is enough space to include a large kitchen and dual bedrooms.
The price of your extension will depend on the location and the quality of finish. If you want a more expensive finish, you can expect to pay more.
The construction style is another factor that affects the cost of building an extension. Masonry or timber frame construction are common. They are fast to install and have structural benefits.
Get neighbours involved
Getting your neighbours involved in your home extension plan can help. Not only is it an easy way to avoid a hefty legal bill, it can also make the entire process easier.
The best way to get your neighbours involved in your plans is to talk to them. If you have a good relationship with your neighbors, you should be able to avoid the inevitable disagreements that often entail home improvement projects.
There are many things that your neighbors can do to help you through the planning and construction phases. The first is to give you notice before they begin work.
The second is to ensure that they are aware of the details of the planned work. You should be able to provide them with a letter detailing the proposed work. This may also include a pre-works condition survey that is designed to minimize disruption to your neighbours.
Another good idea is to have a pre-works condition survey conducted by a chartered building surveyor. The survey will show you what you can expect and will help you to mitigate any problems.
Plan the structural elements
A home extension is a major overhaul and deserves a hefty share of your time and attention. As such, it makes sense to employ a well-informed construction manager to prevent a mishap or two from happening in the first place. To this end, you should be armed with a structural plan for a home extension, a solid plan of attack to address your concerns, and the right questions to ask your contractor of choice about their credentials, and last, but not least, a fair bit of common sense. Hopefully, by the time you are done reading this article, you will have the foundations of your dream home set up in the best possible shape. Then, and only then, can you enjoy all the aforementioned benefits with your mates in tow.
When you decide to extend your house, you should consider the ‘look and feel’ of your existing property. It is important to know that the design of your extension will affect the rest of the building. The choice of materials can be a big factor in this. Your new doors and windows will also affect how the house looks inside. You will want to ensure that your furniture and finishes are consistent throughout. If you are unsure, it is a good idea to hire an architect to help you.
Keep in mind the ‘look and feel’ of your existing property
When you decide to extend your house, you should consider the ‘look and feel’ of your existing property. It is important to know that the design of your extension will affect the rest of the building. The choice of materials can be a big factor in this. Your new doors and windows will also affect how the house looks inside. You will want to ensure that your furniture and finishes are consistent throughout. If you are unsure, it is a good idea to hire an architect to help you.
Similarly, the type of material you choose for your extension will depend on where you live. For instance, your local planning authority may dictate the materials you can use. If you are considering a significant change to the design of your extension, you will need to make a new application. If you are just making a few changes, you should be okay.