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Building Foundations

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

Building foundations are the lowest parts of a building (sub structure) yet the most critical building section. The stability of a structure depends on its foundation meaning a compromised foundation is a threat to an entire structure. The deeper and stronger the foundation, the taller the superstructure can be. This explains the relationship between the stability of a structure and its foundation.

There are two types of foundations namely: Shallow foundations and deep foundations.

SHALLOW FOUNDATIONS

Shallow foundations transfer structural load to a wide horizontal area at a shallow depth below the ground level. Its width is usually greater than its depth. They are categorized into 5 types namely:

1.Isolated footing/column footing.

This is spread to provide support for an individual column. Isolated footings are used when columns are not closely spaced. Loads on the footings are less than the soil bearing capacity making the structure safe.

2. Combined footing

These support more than one column and are applicable when the columns are so close to each other, such that their individual footings overlap each other. The centroid of the footing should match with the centroid of the 2 combined loads to ensure that the soil bearing pressure underneath the footing is uniformly distributed to prevent uneven soil settlements.

A combined footing is also used when the property line is so close to one column that a spread footing would be eccentrically loaded when kept entirely within the property line. By combining it with that of an interior column, the load is evenly distributed.

3. Strap/Cantilever footings

This has two isolated footings, concentric and eccentric, that is connected with a strap beam (rigid beam). The strap connects the two columns but doesn’t take any soil reaction because it acts as a connecting beam. If the distance between columns is larger and the allowable soil pressure is high, then strap footing is more economical than the combined footing.

Its depth is usually determined by the maximum bending moment.

4. Strip footing/continuous footing

A strip footing is composed of a continuous base usually supporting a retaining wall. It is applicable when there are multiple columns aligned vertically and are closely spaced.

It is therefore more economical when using many isolated footings for closely spaced column overlap.

5. Raft or mat foundation

A mat foundation is a single thick foundation footing that supports entire weight of the structure. It is a large slab used to support many walls and columns under the large portion of the structure or an entire also structure. A raft foundation is used when a column load is too heavy and when a soil bearing capacity is too low.

When the allowable bearing capacity of the soil is low in relation to the weight of the building, column footings may become large enough making it more economical to merge them into a single mat.

DEEP FOUNDATIONS

Deep foundations penetrate through upper layers of incompetent soil in order to transfer the load to competent bearing soil deeper within the earth. Deep footings are usually constructed when the soils hard strata are too deep for excavation. Areas with a low bearing capacity, higher water tables, soft soils and excessive soil settlements require that deep footings be used in construction. Deep foundations exist in 2 types, pile foundations and caissons.

1.Pile foundation/ Driven piles

Pile foundations are relatively long and slender members drilled using a vibrio-hammer/pile hammers. Pile hammers are massive weights lifted by the energy of steam, compressed air, compressed hydraulic fluid or a diesel explosion. In certain types of soil, piles can be driven more efficiently by vibration than by hammer blows alone, using a vibratory hammer mechanism. Piles materials are usually composed of precast concrete piles, steel H piles and tubular steel piles. When drilling the piles, considerations need to be made concerning the following:

  • Pile head damages and shaft bending during drilling.
  • Driven piles are not advisable to be used on soils previously having rocks.

There are 2 types of piles,

  1. End bearing pile. This is a pile that is driven until its tip encounters firm resistance from a suitable bearing stratum such as rock, dense sands or gravels.
  2. Friction pile. This is driven only into softer material without encountering a firm bearing layer. It may still develop a considerable load carrying capacity through frictional resistance between the sides of the pile and the soil through which it is driven.

2. Caissons

Caissons are hollow substructures designed to be constructed on or near the surface and then sunk as a single unit to their required level. They spread the load from a column over a large area of soil that the allowable stress in the soil is not exceeded. It differs from an isolated footing in that it extends through strata of unsatisfactory soil beneath the substructure of a building until it reaches a more suitable stratum.

Design foundation requirements

  1. Location and depth of foundation. This requires an intensive investigation of the past usage of the site and information of the soil stratum accordingly. This ensures that no soil or site disturbances will affect the performance of the footings.
  2. Safety against capacity. This emphasizes suitable proportioning of the footing to avoid collapse of the soil beneath the foundation if the shear strength of the soils is unable to support the applied load.
  3. Soil settlements. Excessive soil settlement occurs by distortion of the soil mass as a result of the applied shear stresses and consolidation of the supporting soil. One must therefore have a complete knowledge of the geo-technical properties of the soil to assess any expected settlements

How to determine footing sizes and details

  • Determine the site soil stratification and carry out a geotechnical investigation of the site soil type.
  • Determine the maximum ground water level of the site.
  • Estimate the total and differential settlements of the existing soil.
  • Determine the bearing capacity of the supporting stratum.
  • Footing sizes and details are then determined after analysis of laboratory results. The stability of the footing against sliding, overturning, and uplift pressures must always be checked.
  • With the above information, one can then design the footing structure.

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Connections in Cross Laminated Timber -2

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

PANEL TO PANEL CONNECTIONS

Panel to panel connections form wall and floor assemblies as it involves connecting panels along their longitudinal edges. These are usually established mostly on site. Panel to panel connections must be designed to resist in-plane shear and out-of-plane bending.

Below are the various panel to panel connection types:

1. Internal splines 

Here, a thin CLT or plywood is used to form this connection. However, the profiling of the panel at the plant is necessary prior to delivery on site. Connection between the splines and the two panel edges can be established using self-tapping screws, wood screws or nails. Th use of internal splines provides a double shear connection.
Cross Laminated Timber

2. Single surface splines

Panel edges are profiled to take a strip/spline of lumber or SCL such as LVL, PSL or laminated strand lumber (LSL). Due to the single shear connection involved, this connection detail is typically inferior to the internal spline previously described.
Cross Laminated Timber

3. Double surface splines

Like a single surface spline, this has a double spline used to increase the connection strength and stiffness. However, this connection requires more machining and time for erection since there is a need to attach the two splines from both sides of the panels during the insertion of fasteners, doubling the time needed for driving fasteners.
Cross Laminated Timber

4. Half lapped joints

A half-lap joint consists of two workpieces reduced to half of their thickness where they lap over each other. It is commonly used after which long self-tapping screws are usually used to connect the panel edges. The joint can carry normal and transverse loads but is not considered to be a moment resisting connection.

To clamp the joint, apply wood glue to the 2 panel surfaces. Then, bring the glued surfaces tightly together with a small clamp. Place a scrap of wood on the joint faces to protect them from the clamp jaws.
Cross Laminated Timber

5. Tube connection system

In this system, a profiled steel tube with holes is used. The tube connector is inserted at those locations along the panel elements and the system is tightened on site using metal nuts.  
Cross Laminated Timber

Note that it is customary for the Structural Engineer of Record (SER) to be responsible for the design and detailing of mass timber connections. This is different from what is common practice for structural steel or glulam timber structures, where the SER indicates reactions or member forces and delegates connection design to the fabricator.

In need of expertise solutions for all your building concerns? Contact London Building Contractors

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Fire Resistance of a Clt Structure

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

Fire resistance is the ability of a material to confine a fire while providing its structural function. This determined by timing the start of the fire up to the point where the material can no longer function as required.  Timber is known to be vulnerable to fire whether in a wet or dry state. In a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structure, fire resistance is provided through ‘charring’.

Charring is a chemical process of incomplete combustion of certain solids when subjected to high heat. In wood, charring rate is affected by density, wood moisture content, heat intensity and the oxygen concentration of the surrounding air. How?

Density is the mass of an object compared to its volume. In simple terms, it is the compactness of a substance. An object of higher density, due to its compactness has a high fire resistance. When the timber panel is exposed to a fire of about 4000C, the surface timber-layer ignites and burns at a steady rate forming a black layer of ‘char’. The char becomes an insulating layer preventing an excessive rise in temperature within the unburnt core of the panel. It is the unaffected section which continues to function for the period of the fire resistance.

Therefore, to achieve the designed fire resistance period, there must be sufficient solid timber behind the char layer to sustain the loads applied. This is achieved due to the various panel layers embedded in Cross Laminated Timber. CLT is equivalent to a standard steel-studded wall because the panels contain multiple laminated layers, the remaining wood provides additional strength at the point of rupture.

Moisture content is the ratio of the weight of water to the weight of the solids in a given mass of an object. Timber, always has a natural moisture content which must be drained for effectiveness in furniture use. The higher the moisture content, the higher the fire resistance. However, in timber, a high moisture content is associated with dampness and moulding which weakens its structural properties. Due to this, the moisture content of CLT is kept as low as possible while other fire-resistance solutions are of more consideration.

Note: Fire resistance testing of CLT panels is according to the ISO 834 (the standard used for door sets which most of us are familiar with).

In need of expertise solutions for all your building concerns? Contact London Building Contractors

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Valuation of Heritage Properties

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors, UK's property

Besides being potential tourist sites, heritage properties when rented out, are perfect residentials. However, before placing it on the shelves for rent or sell, it is important to make sure you do not undervalue it to its buyer or tenant. Undervaluing heritage property is easy if done as a whole structure. It is necessary to look into the different components that make up the structure/properties during its valuation process. A lot of issues will require an in-depth investigation to conclude on the monetary value of a heritage property and these vary from property to property.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN VALUING HERITAGE PROPERTIES

It is wise to have several opinions from various people with regards to property evaluation but also having an expert, who understands the significance, damages, benefits and laws that govern the heritage property is key during this process. This is because an expert will pay attention to every detail of the property. Once a client understands the value of their property, then it’s the right time for historic insurance and other important protections to come into play.

1.Location of the heritage property

Valuation is also value therefore narrowing down one’s valuation process to only the property is likely to lead to a major loss. Sometimes, valuation of a heritage property is fully reliant on its site location, not property. This is common if the property is situated in a location with a beautiful scenery or one with greater benefits as compared to the property.

Likewise, a heritage property located far off from the reach of people or in a risky location greatly reduces the value of a property. In this case, considerations when valuing the property would be mainly focused on the property buyer rather than the seller.

2. Circumstance or situation at hand.

It matters a lot the reason for which the valuation is done. This can either be an advantage or disadvantage depending on how it directly influences the valuation process.  An example can be valuing a heritage property for compensation due to an ongoing project that greatly depends on it, this automatically boosts the value of the heritage property simply because without it, a project can not continue.

Also, the older the heritage property, the more its structural properties deteriorate. If sold off in a state beyond repair, where the costs of its repair would be higher than the actual cost of the property, the property would be valued less to give room for the person willing to take it up.

3. Significance of the heritage property to the community.

Historic property valuation is also determined by its significance and economic input to a community. Does the purpose of the building contribute to knowledge, education, culture or faith of the community? These are questions that would require to be answered to guide your client when in discussions with the authorities.

The higher the significance of the property to the community or state, the higher the value attached to it. If the valuation is for sale, the problem that is however likely to arise from this is an opposition from the community or concerned authorities due to the strong attachment to the property in discussion.

Want to value your property, but you don’t seem to know where to start? Careful who you turn to! London Building Contractors is all you need!

For all your building concerns? Contact London Building Contractors

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A Guide to Roofs: Materials, Maintenance and Specialists [Part 1 of 2]

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

Having a roof overhead symbolises two cherished aspects of any home: safety and comfort.

But there is a lot more to roofs than just shelter – Roof appearance, shape, cost, maintenance, and durability will all come into play with your choices as a homeowner. That’s why it helps to know your way around a roof…

1. ROOF MATERIALS

Several factors affect the appeal of different roofing materials, namely durability, look, and cost-effectiveness.

Slate
Slate
A common, stylish, and long-lasting roofing tile, prevalent throughout Europe. Slate can either be from here in the UK or imported from places like Spain and China, which means slate can range in cost, durability, carbon footprint, and even colour.
Clay
Clay
Clay is an extremely old and trusted roofing tile that is durable yet brittle, and can be susceptible to cracks and decay if improperly mixed. It is commonly identified by its orange colour, though a range of colours, styles, and shapes are available.
fiber-cement
Fiber cement
Modern advancements and technological processes have allowed for the creation of new materials that can address issues with traditional materials like clay and natural slate. Fiber cement (FC) is lightweight, easy to install, durable, and highly affordable.
Zinc
Zinc
Zinc is one of the most popular metals used for roofing which can either be installed in shingles or sheets. It is both extremely durable and low maintenance, and works well on extensions and modern style homes due to its sleek modern finish.
Thatched roofs
Thatched roofs
Thatched roofs are a staple of idyllic country living, made from straw, water reed, combed wheat, and other plants and grasses. The look is unique, typically associated with English country cottages. Though material costs are low, thatching requires niche expertise that will increase a professional’s fees. Maintenance is also high which will increase cost and affect long-term durability.

2. ROOF TYPES

As well as different materials to choose from, roofs can take different shapes. The primary choice for any extension or new build project will be between a pitched or flat roof.

Pitched roof
Pitched roof
Pitched roofs are what many would consider traditional roofs, sloping downwards from a raised point. There are many different styles of pitched roof, such as:

  • Gable: two sloped sides of equal size.
  • Hip: four slopped sides, two large and two small.
  • Pyramid hip: four sloped sides of equal size.
  • Saltbox: two sloped sides, one short and steep, one long and slight.
  • M shaped: exactly as it sounds, two peaks with a recessed middle.

The slope of a pitched roof allows for natural drainage, a factor that needs more careful consideration when taking on a flat roof. The gradient of pitch roofs also needs to be thought of, however, as steep slopes are more technically challenging, requiring more expert knowledge and therefore a more expensive service.

flat-roof
Flat roof
Flat roofs are an increasingly popular roof choice, particularly for home extensions and annexes. As they are less complex than pitched roofs, they can often be constructed cheaper and quicker. They also allow the potential for skylights, a hugely popular addition in home extensions that welcome heaps of natural light into a space.

Other costs to consider
On top of the material costs, you need to consider the cost of installation, maintenance, and repair throughout a roof’s life. We always recommend hiring a professional whenever attending to your roof, so professional fees need to be carefully considered.
To continue to the next part (Part 2 of 2), click here

For more inquiries, Contact us today.
Email: info@londonbuildingcontractors.co.uk
Tel: +44 20 8935 5159

A Guide to Roofs: Materials, Maintenance and Specialists [Part 2 of 2]

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

For the first part of this blog (Part 1 of 2), follow this link

MAINTENANCE

Most areas of the home need general upkeep to prolong functioning use, however, roofs are much better at keeping their problems hidden. Not only that, but the effects of unsolved roof issues could be very problematic and expensive to fix. So, you should carry out these tasks to ensure the security of your roof.

Check your roof!
Unfortunately, roofs very rarely get the attention they deserve. It can be easy to go years without looking up on the shingles, especially when there is no need to. But the warning signs of roof damage will never be seen without looking, so it’s good to check at least once a year.

Clear away moss
Moss is roof enemy number one. Not only does it hold water, damaging most building materials over time, but it can sprout underneath and in between shingles. By growing between the cracks, moss can actually lift, move and even completely dislodge shingles creating space for leaks. When removing moss, we always recommend getting a professional on board. Roofs are places you can’t afford to make a DIY disaster.

Unclog gutters
It’s easy overtime for gutters to fill with debris and dirt. If water cannot properly drain, it may back up and cause huge problems. This is especially important with drainage on flat roofs as backed-up water could linger for long periods and do serious damage.

Trim nearby branches
If your roof is overshadowed by trees in any way, trimming the trees back can be a great way to avoid future problems. Not only will overgrowing branches drop leaves and small twigs into your gutters, but a snapped branch in a storm could make some very expensive mess.

Insulate your roof properly
Effective and functioning roof insulation is a tricky thing to get right. A roof needs to stop heat from escaping, but if not properly ventilated, a roof can collect moisture in condensation. This lingering moisture can rot and weaken your roof from the inside, which then becomes a real problem. Regularly monitor your insulation and ventilation in your home to avoid these costly repairs.

THE PROFESSIONALS

At London Building Contractors, we strongly recommend hiring a professional whenever tending to your roof. Roofs are complex beasts and mistakes or oversights can be very costly. Here are some professionals you may need to consult:

Roofing contractors
Though most builders and contractors will have general roof knowledge, there may be situations where you need a specialist. Specialists will likely be required in complex situations, such as irregularly shaped roofs, particularly steep pitches or roofs with large amounts of damage.

Structural engineers
Structural engineers specialise in the science and safety of structural strength, and their expertise may well be required in roof works. Roofs are heavy things and need a lot of support to provide shelter safely, so it’s always good to get the opinions of an expert.

Architects
When designing any new space, whether it’s a new build or extension, we always recommend you consult an experienced architect. Their knowledge of designing homes will come in very handy when picking a roof type and material, ensuring you get the roof that fits your desired space and style.

At London Building Contractors, our services include:

  • General Building Work
  • Full Architectural & Design Services
  • Property Extension
  • Renovation/ Extension
  • Bespoke Furniture Design
  • Planning Permission
  • Retail / Office/ Leisure Centre / Embassy/ Concept Development,
  • Planning
  • Concepts / Master planning & Urban Design
  • Interior Design and Space Planning
  • 3D Modelling
  • Photorealistic Rendering
  • Project Management
  • Planning Supervisor (CDM Health & Safety)
  • Bespoke Furniture Design
  • Shop-Fitting Production
  • Shed House
  • Loft Conversion
  • Kitchen Fitting/ Bathroom Fitting
  • Plastering
  • Painting and Decorating
  • Patio
  • Pointing
  • Tilling
  • Underheating
  • Fittings
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical

With this complete service, you can be sure you’re getting the right support, wherever you are in your journey.

For more inquiries, Contact us today.
Email: info@londonbuildingcontractors.co.uk
Tel: +44 20 8935 5159

5 Advantages of Underfloor Heating

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

There are two types of underfloor heating systems: electric and water heaters. Electric heating systems use cables across the entire area of the room and are relatively easy to install. They can either be installed in one section of the room or spread all over the surface. Electric heating systems are a little more expensive than water ones, although it depends on your current electricity provider. Therefore, many people merely cover one section of the room to reduce the price.

Water-based heating systems, sometimes referred to as wet underfloor heating, are connected to a thermal source (conventional boiler or heat pump) and involve pumping water through underfloor heating pipes. The only disadvantage here is that they are more difficult to install than their electrical equivalents.

Underfloor heating systems consume a lot less power than other similar systems. As the radiant heat principle is applied, the required temperature is reduced, so it takes less time and electricity to heat the space, so it does not make a significant impact on your electricity costs.
Here are the five advantages of underfloor heating explaining why so many people choose this innovative technology.

1. Lower Energy Consumption
One of the best advantages of underfloor heating is that it can be much more energy-efficient than traditional radiators because the heat is evenly distributed around the room. The heater does not have to be switched on for long until the entire room reaches the desired temperature. Therefore, this technology helps to reduce energy consumption significantly and save money on electricity bills.

2. Evenly Heated Rooms
Underfloor heating is way ahead of its older counterparts in terms of efficiency and comfort.
Drafts created by forced airflow have a detrimental influence on air quality in traditional heating systems. Dust and other particles, as well as infectious diseases such as coronavirus, can be disseminated by turbulent air movement. When someone affected with an infectious disease enters a drafty environment, others are more likely to become infected. Underfloor heating helps to decrease this danger by limiting air circulation.

Moreover, traditional heating systems demand a larger heat input to compensate for their inefficient heat. On top of that, radiators can make the air dry and deteriorate existing health conditions such as asthma. Since underfloor heaters use less heat input, the drying effect on indoor air is minimized.

3. Saving Space in Your House
The most obvious advantage of underfloor heating is that no visible radiators are required! Although we’ve become accustomed to their presence in the house, radiators may be inconvenient, especially if the overall space is small. When you have underfloor heating, you may do whatever you want with your walls, whether it’s decorating or putting a specific household item in front of them. It may seem insignificant, but such small details make your home a much more cosy place.

4. Easy Maintenance
Underfloor heaters require minimal maintenance after the initial installation since there is almost no additional maintenance required. Servicing is uncommon for electric underfloor heaters, but water systems will require the occasional check-up to ensure everything is in good condition. This makes them far superior to boilers or electric-powered devices, which might experience numerous breakdowns or malfunctions during their lifespan.

5. A Greater Degree of Control
Conventional radiators sometimes rely on a single thermostat to adjust the temperature for every room in the house, however, underfloor heating systems may be far more precise, as they use software to control the temperature in each room and help to save energy by not heating rooms that are not in use. Control software for underfloor heating systems can easily run on a smartphone or tablet making their operation easier to control.

You may relax once the installation is complete because there is no maintenance to manage, except for the occasional check-up.

For more information about underfloor heating system installation and maintenance costs, contact us on 020 8935 5159.

The Importance Of Finishing Touches

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

THE IMPORTANCE OF FINISHING TOUCHES

Beautifully painted walls don’t stay that way forever. The need for touch-ups on painted interior walls is something to think about in advance. Not only can you avoid headaches by choosing a type of paint that is easy to work with when small repairs are needed, you should be careful to save some of the original paint for touch-ups later on.

Touch-up Mistakes to Avoid

  • Same colour, wrong shade. White paint comes in literally hundreds of shades, and touching up the finish properly requires choosing the same shade of paint as was originally painted on the wall.
  • Flashing. Professionals use the term “flashing” to describe the variation in the finish which occurs when retouching paint that is shiny or old. Looking straight at a wall, flashing may not be obvious. But when you view the surface from the side, imperfections are visible where light is reflected. Common occurrences of flashing include when a shiny paint finish is applied on patches of bare wall. Other steps are required for the finish to look right, including using repair spackle and latex primer prior to applying a finish of shiny paint.
  • Covering stains in a way that produces bleed-through. Not all touch-ups should be handled in the same way. Stains such as cigarette smoke, ink, and water should be sealed before applying fresh paint. Block the stains with a stain-blocking oil primer or a shellac-based sealer.

The amount of trouble you have addressing the need for touch-ups on wall interiors is mostly determined by the type of paint you use on the original paint job. The following is information about the different types of paint, including how well they can be touched up.

Flat / Matte Paint

Matte paint is the most common type of finish used on interior walls. There is no sheen to the finish, and matte paint is ideal for older houses which have imperfections. This type of finish is difficult to clean, which is one reason it requires frequently touching up. The good news is that flat paint is easy to touch up. Matte paint is not recommended for bathrooms and kitchens, but it is ideal for living room walls, ceilings, bedrooms, and walls which have many imperfections.

An Eggshell Finish

An eggshell finish has low sheen and is highly washable. Many homeowners prefer an eggshell finish over satin because it does a better job of hiding imperfections. Living rooms and bedrooms are perfect for an eggshell finish, but it’s not a good choice for hallways and other high-traffic areas. This delicate finish is easily marred, but touch-ups are easy.

A Satin Finish

A satin finish produces a warm, pearl-like, silky sheen. This type of finish works well for children’s rooms, laundry rooms, bathrooms, family rooms, and kitchens. A satin finish can withstand scrubbing; but the problem comes with touch-ups, since slight differences in sheen will stand out.

Gloss

Gloss finishes are typically used on trim, mouldings, and woodwork; very rarely is it used on walls, since imperfections are glaringly obvious. This finish is the easiest to clean and the most durable. Gloss is not easy to touch up, however, because any differences in sheen will be apparent.

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss paint is resistant to humidity and can withstand chipping, stains, and scuffing. This type of finish is often used in kitchens and bathrooms as well as for mouldings and trim. Semi-gloss is highly scrub-able but a challenge to touch up because of the sheen.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for your next project:
Phone: 020 8935 5159
Email: info@londonbuildingcontractors.uk

5 Key Benefits of a Loft Conversion

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

Many homeowners are looking for ways to upgrade their existing homes. This can be a renovation or reconstruction of an existing room. For instance, installing a brand new kitchen or a bathroom.

Although there are many ways to renovate a house, loft renovation is one of the most beneficial options, which allows you to upgrade your house without moving, and even if you only need a storage room, you can expand and professionally remodel your home without having to spend a lot of money.

Even if you just need the storage space, having your loft professionally converted with London Building Contractors will maximise your loft potential.

Here are the five key benefits of a loft conversion.

Easier and Cheaper Than Moving
You may consider moving to a big house, but for many people, money, time, and pressure will make this option untenable. A loft conversion is a cheaper, faster, and simpler alternative to moving, however, it feels like a new home after completion.

Adding Value to Your Property
Aloft conversion can add more value to your house. For example, a loft conversion that includes additional bedrooms can increase the value of the property by an average of 20%.
Even considering the construction costs, the extra space after the conversion can provide an excellent return on investment.

Creating Additional Living and Storage Space
You may start to outgrow your home relatively quickly, not only when new members join the family, but also when the younger generation reaches adolescence. The shortage of living space is still a major reason why homeowners consider moving to a larger house that satisfies their increasing demands. In this respect, loft transformations are a fast and easy method to transform your house by simply adding extra living space.

Besides, a loft conversion is an ideal option to implement innovative storage solutions. No matter how big our house is, we finally start to fill up all the extra space we have. Loft conversions provide the perfect solution for safe and comfortable storage of things that you do not want to get rid of.

Planning Autorisation is Rarely Required
Most loft conversions do not require planning authorisation and are categorised as permitted projects unless there is a drastic change in the appearance of your house. Depending on the size and specification, it is generally 8-10 weeks to convert a loft.
You can see why more and more individuals are choosing to turn their lofts into the trouble they have. You may also enjoy your new bedroom, workplace, bathroom, or playroom before you realize it.

Allowing You to Enjoy More Natural Light
Loft transformation allows you to fill your new space with natural light. Attic windows provide more light than other windows in your house, as they are unlikely to be blocked by other houses or trees from outside.

Please contact London Building Contractors for more information on loft conversions by calling 020 8935 5159 or emailing info@londonbuildingcontractors.co.uk

Is planning permission required for an extension?

May 11th, 2023 | London Building Contractors

Adding an extension may be a viable solution to expand your living area without moving to another house. However, each type of extension – whether one or two storeys; front, side, or rear, or a simple addition to the roof – always needs planning permission.

Planning permission is a local authority’s approval for a planned building that is in place to discourage unwanted modifications. It’s typically required whilst constructing a brand new property or making considerable modifications to the existing one.

Planning regulations frequently require extensions to fit in with the character of the existing house rather than dominate or overshadow it. Side expansions that are not seen from the street should be set back from the front façade and placed lower than the current ridge height.

However, you have more options with rear extensions. Policies often favour extensions that blend in with the original house in terms of design, materials, and finishes. However, contrasting styles, such as a modern addition to a classic building may also work well, so don’t dispose of this method if you believe it would work for your house.

Another important planning concern is the influence of an extension on neighbors. Avoid causing a loss of light or view for them, as well as any loss of privacy from overlooking windows or gardens. Show them your creative ideas and request their support before making an application.

What factors influence the decision to grant planning permission?

The local government will make its judgment based on what are known as ‘material factors,’ which might include (but are not limited to):

  • Light loss or overshadowing
  • Breach of privacy/overlooking
  • Building layout and density
  • Design, appearance, and materials
  • Government policy
  • Accessibility for persons with disabilities
  • Development proposals
  • Preliminary planning decisions
  • Impact on listed buildings and nature reserves

Neighbours and parish councils (in England and Wales) will be consulted and allowed to comment, but only objections based on material factors will be considered.

If the neighbors do not protest and the officials suggest approval, they will normally grant planning permission for a householder application

What documents are required for a planning application?

In general, your application should include the following:

  • five copies of application forms;
  • the signed ownership certificate;
  • a plot plan, block plan, profiles of both the current and prospective plots;
  • a Design and Access Statement;
  • the application fee.

These documents must support all planning applications, however, the level of detail is determined by the scope of the project and its sensitivity.

What reports should I submit alongside the planning application?
Your planning application may have to be supported by several different reports outlining how certain aspects of the scheme will be addressed.

Furthermore, where the project may be deemed problematic, you should include a planning statement that discusses how the scheme conforms with national and local regulations, as well as a design statement that fleshes out the scheme’s reasoning. Providing these papers will significantly increase your chances of success.

Planning Application fees
Fees must be paid as soon as you submit your application. Most councils provide a web-based payment option, or you may do this over the phone. Any delay in payment will cause the decision date to be postponed.

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