Thinking About Extending Your Home? Here’s How It’s Done! 🏡🔨
A home extension is a fantastic way to add space, functionality, and value to your property. Whether you’re creating a larger kitchen, an extra bedroom, or a dedicated workspace, understanding the construction process is crucial to ensuring a smooth project.
At Convert Extend, we specialise in high-quality home extensions in West London and Buckinghamshire, guiding homeowners from concept to completion. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how your extension will be built.
Step 1: Planning & Design 📐
The first stage involves planning your extension, securing approvals, and finalising designs. This phase includes:
✅ Consultation & Feasibility Study: Understanding your needs and assessing whether your property can accommodate an extension.
✅ Architectural Drawings & Structural Calculations: Creating blueprints and ensuring the extension is structurally sound.
✅ Planning Permission & Permitted Development: Determining whether your project requires planning permission and submitting applications if necessary.
✅ Budgeting & Timeline Estimations: Setting realistic expectations for costs and completion times.
💡 Tip: Work with a professional designer or architect to maximise space and comply with building regulations.
Step 2: Groundworks & Foundations 🏗️
Once planning is complete, the building phase begins with site preparation:
✅ Site Clearance: Removing obstacles, demolishing structures (if necessary), and marking out the extension’s footprint.
✅ Excavation & Foundations: Digging trenches and pouring concrete to create a stable foundation for the new structure.
✅ Drainage Installation: Adjusting existing drainage or adding new systems to accommodate the extension.
💡 Tip: Foundations can take 1-2 weeks, depending on ground conditions and weather.
Step 3: Structural Framework & Walls 🏠
With a solid foundation in place, the building starts to take shape:
✅ Brickwork & Blockwork: Constructing the walls according to the design plan.
✅ Steelwork & RSJ Beams: Installing structural supports if opening up load-bearing walls.
✅ Insulation & Damp Proofing: Ensuring the extension is energy-efficient and protected from moisture.
💡 Tip: Choosing high-quality insulation helps improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.
Step 4: Roofing & Windows 🏡
The extension is now enclosed, making it weatherproof and secure:
✅ Roof Structure & Covering: Installing flat or pitched roofing, ensuring it matches the existing property.
✅ Skylights & Rooflights: Adding natural light-enhancing features where applicable.
✅ Window & Door Fitting: Installing bi-fold doors, sliding doors, or other openings for access and ventilation.
💡 Tip: Consider large glazing options to maximise natural light and create an airy feel.
Step 5: Interior Work & Utilities 🚿💡
With the structure complete, focus shifts to the interior:
✅ Plumbing & Electrical Work: Installing pipework, wiring, lighting, sockets, and switches.
✅ Plastering & Internal Walls: Finishing walls and ceilings for a smooth, paint-ready surface.
✅ Flooring Installation: Laying tiles, wood, or other chosen materials.
💡 Tip: Smart home integrations, such as underfloor heating and automated lighting, can enhance your extension’s functionality.
Step 6: Finishing Touches 🎨
The final stage is all about refining the aesthetics and making the extension feel like part of the home:
✅ Painting & Decorating: Adding colour and texture to match your design vision.
✅ Kitchen or Bathroom Fitting: Installing appliances, cabinets, and sanitaryware if required.
✅ Final Snagging & Quality Checks: Addressing any minor issues to ensure a perfect finish.
💡 Tip: High-quality finishes can elevate your extension’s look and boost its long-term value.
How Long Does a Home Extension Take? ⏳
Here’s an estimated timeline for a standard single-storey extension:
📅 Weeks 1-4: Planning & approvals
📅 Weeks 5-6: Foundations & groundwork
📅 Weeks 7-10: Structural build
📅 Weeks 11-14: Roofing & interior installations
📅 Weeks 15-16: Finishing touches & handover
💡 Tip: Timelines can vary based on complexity, weather conditions, and materials availability.
Why Choose Convert Extend for Your Home Extension?
At Convert Extend, we offer:
✔️ Expert Design & Planning – Bespoke solutions tailored to your needs.
✔️ Full Project Management – From start to finish, ensuring smooth execution.
✔️ High-Quality Craftsmanship – Built to last with premium materials.
✔️ Reliable Timelines – Delivering projects on schedule.
📞 Get in touch today for a FREE consultation!
