Building Extension - Plumbing and Other Considerations

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.

Your neighbours will be affected by your extension, so it is a good idea let them voice any concerns about the project.  Taking this initiative can help you avoid spending extra time and money and help you keep good relations with your neighbours.  Even though you have a right to build the extension, let your neighbours know about the building project so they can be prepared.

The best way to translate your ideas into action and learn about space utilisation, possible planning permission issues, and local regulations is to hire a professional architect.  The Governments Building Regulations requires that your extension comply with established design fuel conversation, construction, and health and safety rules.  An architect can guide you through all the required inspections.  You can hire an architect to draw detailed plans of the extension and take the role of project manager.

Hiring the right architect is essential if you want your extension project to run smoothly.  Talk to a variety of contractors before you make your final decision, and compare their fees, keeping in mind that less expensive is not always a better deal.  If your extension has substandard construction, you may have to pay for repairs and upgrades later on.  Make sure you understand exactly what the architects fees cover, and do not pay upfront for more than the first phase of the project.

Additional radiators can be added to your homes central heating system if the boiler is capable of managing more radiators.  You may want to opt to buy one of the newer boilers that are more efficient.  Convectors heaters or electric panels can be used in place of a radiator in your extension.  Consult with a plumber before attempting to make any changes to the existing plumbing system to include your extension.  Plumbing, especially plumbing mistakes, can be costly, so seek the advice of a qualified plumber for an effective and efficient plumbing plan.

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This page has been written with contributions from experienced plumbers from Oxfordshire and heating engineers from Richmond. Several of the company's plumbing and heating engineers from Surrey have worked on similar issues as well as some of our experienced heating engineers from Maida Vale and our Hammersmith plumbers.

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