There are many reasons as a homeowner you should consider a two-storey extension. Double storey extensions add a lot more space in terms of living or a bedroom. An extension may be an alternative solution to moving if the kids have yet to fly the nest. Even if you’re looking to extend prior to selling in the future, a double storey extension can add considerable value to your home! Here are all the reasons why you should consider a double storey extension.
The Cost
Let’s tackle the elephant in the room before we go into even more of the benefits. Because of the huge number of variables in terms of localities, your individual home and the materials you would want in terms of design we cannot provide price estimates for absolutely everything.
What we can say is, double storey extensions do not necessarily mean double the price. If you are already considering a single storey extension, the excavation, foundation and roofing would be the same as a single storey extension. Any additional costs would be down to brickwork, décor and labour.
Double the Space
If you are extending because you still have the kids living at home or simply just want more space, a double storey extension ticks all the boxes. Rather than just have a single storey extension, you can have the same space available on both floors. This could be an extension to your living room or kitchen on the ground floor, and an additional bedroom, study, office or retreat on the second. Potentially even a second or third bathroom! Many people choose to use the space as a bedroom, as this tends to give the most bang for buck in terms of home valuation.
You Are Investing in Your Future
Whilst it is true that the building process for double storey extensions can take nearly double the time, remember that you are investing for the future. That does not mean that you should not approach the build without considerations. Materials will temporarily take over your back garden. The builders will need parking and access. But it’s all building your future home. The process can typically take around 6 months, but for the longer-term benefit of having additional rooms or larger integrated living space that will benefit you for years to come, is that much? Don’t forget, houses with extra bedrooms offer considerably more value to potential buyers than less bedrooms.
You Can Mitigate Any Disruptions with Planning
Many of the grumbles some homeowners face are having workmen around at all times, materials being left, not knowing if you are coming and going. This actually accounts for a very small percentage of construction companies, and usually the less established or cowboy builders. At Cobbydale Construction, we work to schedules, with clear, established planning of your project so that you face the least amount of disruption and intrusion to your life as possible. This means when it comes time for noisier equipment, you will know well in advance so you can plan around it. It also means we can plan around you.
On the subject of planning, a double storey extension does require planning permission. Whilst we do frequently discuss the benefits of extending without planning permission, having a clear, established project with a timeline for completion can give you peace of mind knowing that any problematic neighbours cannot interfere or try to impede your project once it is underway.
So, What Fees Would You Need to Factor In?
Beyond the actual cost of construction, you should make room in your budget for planning permission fees, design or architect fees, the cost of putting together any party wall agreements, building control fees which certifies your extension is fully compliant and then any other consultants you may wish to include. Additionally other contractors such as electricians and plumbers may need to be factored in depending on what you intend to do with your additional space.
Whilst this does sound like a lot, we at Cobbydale Construction can help you navigate planning permissions and building control compliance, being a certified construction company. Architects are also very adept at ensuring planning permission is accepted the first time in full compliance with local authority building regulations. Your build would be in the hands of the professionals. If you stay in the boundaries of permitted development, you may not also need to seek planning permission.
How Do I Get Started?
With an initial consultation! If you live in the areas of Keighley, Silsden, Bingley, Ilkley & Skipton you can contact us on 01535 653530 or use our contact form for any questions here.