It’s no secret that adding a house extension to your property increases its value, but it can also be a fantastic way to get the most out of your home. So how do you decide which type of extension to go for?
First of all, there are a number of factors to consider. Almost every property is subject to specific building regulations and planning permissions, so determining what’s possible for your home before you begin your conversion is vitally important. Call on professionals to ensure that your premises contains sufficient space for the extension you’re planning, and discuss your intentions with your neighbours too – it’s not worth starting a civil war over a conservatory!
Make sure you draw up a budget and at least attempt to stick to it. You may find that there is outside finance in the form of loans available, so it’s worthwhile considering this if you can afford the repayments.
Now it’s time to choose your extension. Here’s a handy pros and cons guide to help you along…
Conservatory
One of the more popular extension options, conservatories are a great way to add an airy, relaxing space to your ground floor. Although ideal for use as a dining room or a space to enjoy the summer sun, statistics show that many don’t use their conservatory as much as they believed they would before building it, so make sure it’s the right choice for you before embarking on this type of extension.
Rear/Side Extension
A great way to open up space on your ground floor, rear or side extensions can be used to open out kitchens and dining rooms or develop a garage, often combined with alterations to internal rooms. While this is obviously a great way to add space and value to your home, rear or side extensions often eat into both your budget and your outdoor area, reducing the size of your garden.
Basement Extension
Developing your basement is often the cheapest extension solution, as many homes already have a pre-existing sublevel. Basements can be ideal for extra living space or a utility room, and don’t eat into any available outside space. However, there may be issues with damp in underground conversions due to the difficulty in getting natural light and ventilation into the space, and special consideration should be given to not compromising the foundational structure of the building.
Loft Conversions
Then, of course, there’s the loft conversion option. Probably the most cost-effective and space-saving solution, loft, attic and dormer extensions provide a stylish choice for that extra bedroom or home office. Often recognised as the simplest way to add value to your property, loft conversions are also perfect for those with expanding families. They provide that additional bit of room that makes all the difference, taking advantage of that unused roof space without taking over your garden. Take a look through the loft conversion options at LMB, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with any queries you may have.
Even loft extensions have their drawbacks though: one more room in the house to decorate!
