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What Are Benefits Carrying Out Home Extensions?
CategoriesHome Renovation

What Are Some Benefits Of Carrying Out Home Extensions?

By Period Extensions Team,

What Are Benefits Carrying Out Home Extensions?

Are you thinking of remodelling your home? Do you want to add an extension, but aren’t sure if this is the best choice for you? If you’re not sure which way to go, please continue reading as we discuss the options in the article below.

Carrying out home extensions will offer you a wide range of advantages and benefits from navigating away from the daunting housing market to even saving a little bit of cash in your wallet.

That’s why we’re here to tell you all about the benefits of home extensions! Keep on reading to learn more!

Benefits Of Home Extensions

Home extensions are a great way for you to increase your living space, especially when you’ve already outgrown what you currently have. 

This can be considered a fairly practical decision because you won’t need to invest in purchasing a new house as you’ll simply be adding to your existing home.

As such, there are many benefits with building an extension, and here are just a few of them:

1). Cost And Time Effective

By adding an extension to your home, you eliminate the need to purchase a completely new home. You can instead spend your money upgrading your current home so that you can save more money over the long-term.

Furthermore, with the money that you save, you can then invest that in upgrading the interior of your brand new home extension. This means you can kill two birds with the one stone.

What’s more, installing a home extension is not only cost-efficient but time-efficient as well.

You can save time by not having to endure the whole process of putting your house on the market, selling it, going house hunting, and having to transfer furniture etc to your newly purchased home, and all the other stress and inconvenience that comes with moving. 

What Are Benefits Carrying Out Home Extensions

2). Value Increase

Adding an extension is not just cost-effective and time-efficient, but it increases the market value of your home as well. 

Adding or building a new room or space in your house means that the square meterage will increase and that the functions of your home are more expanded. As such, you add monetary value to your home thus making it an investment.

However, remember: make sure that the value that you add to your home is more than the cost of the renovation project itself to ensure that it really is cost-effective and makes economic sense. 

3). Completely Personalised

It’s vitally important that your home is suited to your needs and to your vision of what makes a great home. As such, adding a home extension can help further personalise your home so that it reflects your tastes and style.

This includes how much space is necessary, how the architectural design comes out and what the interior will look like to name a few things. 

The best thing about home extensions and if permits allow, they can be flexible. They are specifically tailored and catered to your individual needs and requirements, which makes them a very attractive option.

What Are The Other Advantages Of Home Extensions?

We’ve looked at the three main benefits of home extensions above, but there are also a few more advantages we’ll quickly touch on below: 

1). Adding a home extension eliminates having to be involved in the complications and intricacies of the housing market in which the timing of buying and selling are absolutely crucial.

2). You won’t have to negotiate a mortgage in a credit-crunch environment.

3). You won’t need to compromise on the benefits and advantages of your current home compared to moving into a new house in which you may have to compromise on certain features and start from scratch.

4). You can still continue to live in the neighbourhood that you have grown to become comfortable and familiar with.

5). Your space is truly yours—one that you have specifically designed and created to feel proud in.

What Are Benefits Carrying Out Home Extensions

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to add more monetary value to your home or create more space there is a multitude of benefits that adding an extension to your home can offer you, both in the short-term and long-term. 

You can avoid a number of inconveniences such as having to take out another mortgage and dealing with the intricacies of buying and selling in a volatile housing market, through to having to move furniture the extra expenses incurred in the whole process. 

Nonetheless, home extensions can be both effective and convenient and are definitely worth considering if you are looking to increase your space.

If you are looking for experienced and trustworthy professionals to help you out with each and every step of your period home renovation and extension, look no further than Period Extensions & Designs.

Whether you need help with the design or the actual renovation itself, please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.

Period Home Renovation Ideas
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

Period Home Renovation Ideas 

By Period Extensions Team,

Period Home Renovation Ideas

Period homes are delicately beautiful. Renovating them needs just the right balance of maintaining the structural integrity of the house, elevating the historic features, and integrating modern touches for aesthetics and comfort. 

Your period home can be renovated so you can achieve just the right mix of functionality, style, and comfort. When done right, your property value can increase significantly. Sounds like a dream right?

With this in mind, following are some period home renovation ideas to add a touch of style and pops of colour to your home.

Industrial Touches

Keep the classic period designs and colour but elevate your home with practical industrial touches with a sense of style. This is a less expensive solution in adding a modern touch to your period home.

Here are some industrial touches you can apply when renovating your home:

  • Steel Framed Doors and Windows – black-framed doors and windows will look great in contrast to your white-painted walls or brick walls.
  • Some exposed metal plumbing pipes or heater are practical and stylishly modern.
  • Copper lighting and fixtures can give your place pops of colour and a modern twist. This is a simple and effective way to modernise your space without changing the classic design and layout.
  • Use modern appliances and fixtures. This is a practical and functional way to keep the classic design while keeping your home updated with modern technology. Period homes do not have to function as a period home.
  • Use practical industrial accessories that are both functional and stylish like stylish metal racks or copper hanging bookcases.

Showcase Classic features

By highlighting one or two features of a classic period home, it gives it an updated look. For example, keeping the beams exposed and highlighted by painting the ceilings white or any light neutral colours.

By updating the paint job, you highlight the beams. This can make the features pop and the house look new but keep the classic feel.

Period Home Renovation Ideas

Classic Design, Modern Colours

If you love the classic look all throughout the house, play with colours to make your house pop. Adding bold or strong colours on small, strategic places can make a big difference to the aesthetics. 

Classic With Modern Touches

Don’t be afraid to mix modern and classic. Pick a single spot where you can add a modern twist. For example:

  • Use metal sheets or corrugated metal for one side of your outside wall. 
  • Use modern doors and windows. 
  • Inject life into your classic home by using a charcoal-stained larch facade.
  • Keep it exciting by using automated, remote-controlled windows and sliding doors.

Make It Functional

Make the space more functional by making your spaces usable. For example:

  • Add more bookshelves to your walls.
  • Put chairs and ottomans on corner nooks so they can be used as reading nooks.
  • Convert your attics into a children’s study or playroom. 
  • Put a study table in a spacious corner.

Use Sleek, Modern Glass Designs

Adding a sleek glass partition or adding an all-glass extension to a very classic home can look great when planned right. Adding a super modern addition can work well with your period home as long as you keep it simple and streamlined. The contrast can be breathtaking.

Period Home Renovation Ideas

Free Up Some Space

Most period homes have curves, birches, wood lining, and many finishes. Free up more space by taking them out and using a more streamlined design. Take out the bulky cabinets and put in more practical storage.

Black & White Bathroom

Keep a modern surprise up your sleeve for your house guests. Imagine your friends coming into your beautiful classic period home and being pleasantly surprised when going into your powder room or bathroom.

A black and white bathroom or a sunny, beach-themed one can be a wonderful contrast to your classic design.

Use Modern Storage to Your Classic Design

Use modern shelving and storage spaces. Add soft accessories that are practical and serve as design elements. For example, you can use rattan or colourful fabric storage accessories or automated drawers.

Use Modern Tiles

A small modern touch like tiles for your splashbacks can change the look and the vibe of the whole space. When dealing with a period home, it is important not to ruin the design integrity of the house. Choose subtle but classy modern additions.

Renovating your home is not an easy job on so many levels. Achieving that dream design is hard work. However, it can be achieved. It is crucial that you seek professional help when renovating your home.

A renovation project can be a money pit if you trust the wrong contractor. And doing it yourself can potentially do more damage than good.

Period Extensions & Designs is a trusted industry leader in period home renovations. You do not want to trust your home to anyone else. We deliver award-winning, premium home renovations across Melbourne.

When it comes to innovation and setting the standards, we are here to help! We are ready to support you from the design stage to completion. We are here for you!

Give us a call today on 03 9882 5255 or message us through our contact form.

How To Find High-Quality Builder Home Renovation?
CategoriesHome Renovation

How To Find A High-Quality Builder For My Home Renovation?

By Period Extensions Team,

How To Find High-Quality Builder Home Renovation?

When renovating your home, it is crucial that you choose a reliable, high-quality builder. The finished product is only as good as the builder you choose. 

Finding a good quality builder can be a daunting task. Getting the balance right between reliability and costs can be a delicate task to accomplish. 

It is hard to stick to a budget if you can’t rely on your builder to stick to the plan or the time table. So, how do you find a high-quality builder?

Look Within Your Community

Going with a local builder has its advantages. They live and conduct business within your community so they have a local reputation to uphold. They are more invested in doing a good job because everyone in the community knows them.

The work they do for you can make or break their reputation as a trustworthy and reliable local builder. Word of mouth and client reviews are vital to their success.

Other advantages of hiring locally are:

  • They are easy to find
  • Communication is easier since you know them
  • Their time on your site is not limited since they live within the area
  • They are knowledgeable of local planning rules
  • Easy access to local suppliers
  • They are part of the community fabric so they are least likely to abuse and take advantage of you
  • Better customer service

Ask For Referrals

A personal recommendation from your friends and family is one of the best ways to find an outstanding builder. Their first-hand experience with a company or a team is your guarantee that you are making the right choice. 

When you get referrals, take the time to visit the homes and other projects of the prospective builder. Go and check out their handiwork firsthand. There is no better assurance and guarantee of excellent work than seeing the finished product yourself.

How Find High-Quality Builder Home Renovation

Check Online

The internet is a vast source of information. Search online for reliable contractors within and around your area. Read their client reviews and verify them. Always do your due diligence when searching online. 

From there you can come up with a shortlist and start calling around for consultations and quotations. Talking to prospective builders personally will help you decide if they are the right fit for your renovation needs.

Verify Their Credentials

No matter how good a builder’s local and online reputation is, you can never be too careful. Always verify their credentials. Check their licenses, registration, and insurance.

Ascertain if they belong to any recognised Industry Associations such as the HIA (Housing Industry Association) or MBA (Master Builders Association).

Make sure the builder has the relevant building insurances and licenses. Does the builder have the necessary skills to complete your project?

For example, if you require a large scale project such as adding a second storey and internal renovations carried out, you would want to ensure the builder has successfully completed such projects.

Also, when it comes to properties with a heritage overlay, you would be best suited to finding a company that is well accomplished with period style extensions and renovations.

How Find High-Quality Builder Home Renovation

Next Steps

When you have made a shortlist of possible candidates, it is important to:

  • Make a detailed list of your renovation must-haves. Make sure that the builder can provide and deliver these.
  • Request for a comprehensive quote. Compare prices. Ask about their vendors and suppliers. Check for product quality and reputation. It is tempting to go with the lowest bidder but considering these other factors is invaluable.
  • Meet with potential contractors. The only way you will know it is a good fit is when you get to sit down, talk, and discuss your design ideas and renovation requirements.
  • Agree on costs. After getting a quotation, it is crucial that you go into details and agree on costs and a timeline for the build before you officially hire a builder. 

Important Questions to Ask Around:

  • Do they communicate regularly?
  • Are they polite and accommodating?
  • Was the project completed on time and on budget?
  • Were there any extra and hidden costs?
  • What are their labourers and tradesmen like?
  • Do they clean up the site after?

Unsure? Give us a call at Period Extensions today. We will take your design ideas and renovation requirements and bring them to life. Tell us what’s important to you and we will listen. Our mission is to make your renovation dreams come true.

Please call us at Period Extensions today on 03 9882 5255 to you can fill out our contact form. We’ll be more than happy to assist you.

Is Permit Needed When Adding Small Extension
CategoriesHome Renovation

Is A Permit Needed When Adding A Small Extension To A Home?

By Period Extensions Team,

Is Permit Needed When Adding Small Extension

Are you planning to add a small extension to your home or carry out a small renovation? If so, please continue to read on for some important information.

Before conducting any type of home renovation, it is especially important that you not only ensure that the necessary building inspections are carried out but that you also secure a building permit.

However, depending on the significance and scale of the construction, having to secure a building permit may not be necessary. 

What Is A Building Permit?

Before we discuss whether a permit is necessary for adding a small extension to your home, it is best to understand exactly what a building permit is.

A building permit is issued by a registered building surveyor acknowledging that the plans and documentation submitted by your contractor have satisfied the relevant Building Regulations.

A building surveyor provides authority for building works to commence and is required for most new home builds, extensions and renovations.

Permits are essential because they ensure that your construction projects comply with all the local safety, health, and structural requirements and standards to ensure the general safety of not just yourself, but of others too. 

Moreover, permits are required for you to collect insurance in the event that your construction project is unsuccessful or suffers from unforeseen circumstances (for example, if a fire breaks out). 

Is Permit Needed When Adding Small Extension To Home

Do All Types of Construction and Renovation Projects Require A Permit?

The simple answer: no. If you are conducting a project for minimal replacements or repairs, then you or a professional contractor can perform repairs and replacements without needing to apply for a permit.

For example, you may not require a building permit if you are making changes to the interior if it doesn’t alter the structure of your home such as:

1). Repairing or maintaining a part of your home
2). Remodelling your kitchen or bathroom
3). Replacing windows
4). Installing a wood heater

However, permits may be necessary for larger-scale projects that alter the structure of your home. Listed below are some scenarios in which a building permit may be required:

1). Adding an extension to an existing building
2). Changing the structure of a building
3). Installing a fence higher than 2 meters
4). Placing a shed bigger than 10m²
5). Constructing a swimming pool which is at least 300 mm deep
6). Installing a bay or corner type window which involves having to change the wall’s structure so that it fits

Therefore, if your construction project involves having to alter the structure and shape of the property in question, then chances are that you may need to secure a building permit.

Is Permit Needed When Adding Small Extension To Home

What Else Do I Need To Know About Securing Building Permits?

Before you get a building permit, it is important to identify first whether or not your project will need a planning permit.

A planning permit gives the builder authority to build/modify land that is subject to Council Regulations. 

Your local council is responsible for issuing a planning permit. If your project requires a planning permit then it must be obtained before you obtain a building permit. 

Applying for a building permit usually follows the following steps: 

  • Obtaining the necessary plans and documentation
  • Choosing a building surveyor 
  • Filling out a building application form
  • Paying the fees associated with the scope of the project. 

As a tip to help you out, when securing a building permit, it is important that you hire an experienced contractor who can help assist and guide you through this application process.

This can often be tricky for the homeowner so having someone familiar with the process will definitely be a big help.

Final Thoughts

Building permits are necessary for projects that involve changing the structure of the property in question. As such, because adding an extension, big or small, changes the structure of your home, you will need to secure a permit for this.

However, you don’t need to be intimidated by this! If ever you need guidance through the process, there are many experienced contractors who can help you fulfil all the necessary steps before you proceed with executing your construction project. 

If you are looking for an experienced and trustworthy professional to help you out with each and every step of your home renovation, look no further than Period Extensions & Designs.

Whether you need help with the design or the actual renovation itself, please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.

Renovating Period Home Melbourne
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

Things To Keep In Mind While Renovating A Period Home

By Period Extensions Team,

Renovating Period Home Melbourne

Are you planning a period home renovation in Melbourne? Is this your first time to do any sort of home renovation?

Period home renovations are not easy, especially for first-timers. If you are new to home renovations, we have come up with a list of things you should keep in mind while renovating your home.

The following list should get you well on your way to transforming your current home into your dream home.

1. Consult a Professional

People think that engaging the services of builders, architects, designers, and other professionals will make a renovation project even more expensive.

This is a common misconception and couldn’t be further from the truth.

Consulting a professional and utilising their expert services will give you a solid design and help avoid mistakes and delays along the way.

Most importantly, you will end up with a beautifully renovated home that is strong and sturdy and will last for many years to come.

2. Choose a Design and Stick to It

A common mistake that can decimate a renovation budget is constant changes being made to the design.

It can be very tempting to make changes along the way with new ideas springing to mind as the renovation starts to take shape.

Just one small peek on Pinterest can make you want to alter the design. Once you have chosen a design and layout it is so important to be disciplined and stick to it.

Avoid looking at other design concepts when you already have one.

3. Choose a Theme

Choose a theme that will be either complement the rest of the house or contrast it. Having a cohesive design all throughout the house is important.

Adding a contrast can be a creative way of updating a home. There is nothing wrong with adding a modern touch to a period home as long as it is done tastefully.

Things To Keep In Mind While Renovating Period Home

4. Choose a Color-Scheme

Paint colour and wallpaper are usually overlooked. Remember that your paint colours play a vital role in the overall look and feel of your home.

Choose neutral, light colours for a refreshing feel and to add a touch of class.

5. Salvage, Re-Use, Recycle

During demolition, try to salvage as many materials as you can. Pick out fittings, fixtures, decor and other various accessories.

Pick out those items that will go with your design concept, theme, and colour scheme.

6. Choose New Furniture, Fixtures, Accessories, and Decors

Choose new furnishings and fixtures according to your design, theme and colour scheme. Research the best prices so that you can set a reasonable budget.

When you have the preliminary budget sorted out, purchase furniture and fixtures in advance especially tiles, lighting fixtures and those items that break easily.

This is important as it can help to avoid delays in case there is a need for replacements or repairs.

7. Finalise The Budget

Set a budget according to your design and choose furniture and fixtures accordingly as mentioned above. Keep a realistic budget with a bit of wiggle room for additional expenses.

It is vitally important that you stick to the budget and avoid any changes to the design and furniture along the way.

Things To Keep In Mind While Renovating Period Home

8. Finishing

A good quality finish is just as important as the quality of materials and design. Cabinetry and carpentry, as well as paint and wallpaper installation, should be spot on.

Aesthetics play an important part in the overall feel of the place.

9. Decorating

Add some personal touches when decorating. Your new space should look and feel like you. Don’t be afraid to mix the old with the new.

You do not have to use all new furnishings to give your place an updated look. A mixture of the old furnishings and new ones can give your new home character.

OTHER IMPORTANT RENOVATION TIPS:

  • Keep a storage room – keep centralised storage for all salvaged materials, tools, and other items to keep the clutter out of the way.
  • Keep the kids away – if you and your family are living on-site, keep the renovation site closed off from your kids. This is an important safety precaution.
  • Keep up to date with building codes.
  • Change air filters when the renovation is done.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the whole process! Renovations are hard work so try to enjoy each part of the process and don’t stress too much.

Renovating your home is an exciting concept but the actual work involved is a completely different story. It can be stressful and requires a lot of patience. Stick to your design and budget.

Avoid changing designs so you can get the work done on time and make sure you choose the right professionals to help you with the project.

If you are looking for experienced and trustworthy professionals to help you out with each and every step of your period home renovation, look no further than Period Extensions & Designs.

Whether you need help with the design or the actual renovation itself, please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 9882 5255 or contact us through our contact form.

 

Are Period Home Renovations expensive
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

Are Period Home Renovations Expensive?

By Period Extensions Team,

Are Period Home Renovations expensive

From curved windows and pressed metal ceilings, the attention to detail and distinct features of an architectural era is what attracts people to period homes.

Who doesn’t want their very own little piece of history?

Potential Melbourne homeowners are always on the lookout for a beautiful period house to call home but it is not always that easy.

Acquiring period homes can be a costly exercise as there are usually a heap of hidden costs that can rack up over time, particularly if you try and go it alone.

Period houses usually require some type of renovation work to make sure that they are structurally sound and safe to live in.

This can be expensive but it doesn’t have to be if you plan and prepare. Before engaging a contractor for your period home renovation, here are a few pre-purchase considerations:

  • Pre-purchase consultation and inspection by a professional – If you are planning to buy a period home to renovate and sell, it is important to know what you are getting into. Aside from the potential selling price of the property, you need to know what improvements, repairs, replacements, and renovations need to be done to the property so you can determine the overall cost of acquiring the house.
  • Don’t rush into it – Take your time to think things through. A renovation is costly and can take up a lot of your time so you need to make sure you are ready not just financially, but also emotionally and mentally.
  • The extent of renovation – Will this renovation take many months to complete? As mentioned above, make sure you are ready to dive in financially, emotionally and mentally. A full renovation can be a daunting and prolonged task.
  • Check if the house is listed as a Heritage Property – If the house is listed as a Heritage Property, it will probably be protected by certain regulations. There may be certain changes you might want to make that might not be allowed.
  • Identify which parts of the renovation require permits – Before embarking on the renovation project or even buying the house, check what permits are needed for the changes you have in mind. This will save you time and money when you start.

Following are some other things to consider and why you should strongly consider engaging a professional builder to help with your renovation or extension.

Asbestos Removal

Asbestos use was banned in the ’90s when its dangers were discovered. Asbestos poses severe health risks and should only be handled by certified professionals.

Period homes were built well before the ban came into effect. Therefore, you must have the property checked for asbestos before buying it because asbestos removal is very expensive.

Asbestos in period houses is usually found in interior and exterior cladding, roofs, vinyl floor tiles, insulation, kitchen splashbacks, bathroom tiles, imitation brick cladding, roof gutters, capping, and eaves.

The cost for asbestos removal and disposal ranges from a few hundred up to thousands of dollars depending on the removal needs. It is best to proceed with caution when purchasing a property and have it checked for asbestos first.

Council Regulations

If the house is listed as a heritage property, this could mean the house is protected by law. This means that renovations and repairs need to follow strict council regulations.

For example, if the original roofing is made of terra cotta tiles or slate roofing, you may need to use the same materials. Frontage appearance, colour, and materials might be strictly regulated as well.

If you engage a professional builder to handle your extension or renovation, they will take care of this process for you as they will also know exactly what information is required by the local council.

This will save you time and give you peace of mind that things are being handled correctly.

Are Period Home Renovations Expensive

Foundation Repair Costs

Although most period homes are structurally sound, you will still need to have the foundation checked for safety purposes.

Some of these repairs may include rotten timber, cracks in the walls, roof replacement, repairs to load-bearing walls, door and window repairs or replacement among others.

These items all add up and can end up costing you thousands of dollars. That is why you need to utilise the services of a professional builder as they will know the best course of action to take depending on what repairs or replacements are required.

Termite and Pest Removal

Period homes if not maintained properly will usually have termite problems. If uninhabited, the could also end up wildlife and other pests infesting the property as well.

Some wildlife and other pests like bats, possums and rats are health hazards and can cause severe damage to property.

Termite treatment and pest removal is expensive and are an example of some of the hidden costs that you don’t expect but will most likely encounter.

A professional builder will be able to advise on the best way to tackle the issue based on their extensive experience.

Updates or Replacement of Plumbing, Electrical and Heating Systems

It is expected that almost all period homes will have outdated electrical and heating systems, and there may also be plumbing issues.

Replacing of switchboards, power points and lighting will most likely be needed. This type of work can be a major blow to your budget, especially if you attempt to do this on your own.

A professional will understand the entire plumbing and wiring layout of the property and will be much more equipped to handle any replacements or additions required.

This will not only save time but could also save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars and will also ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

Are Period Home Renovations Expensive

Flooring

Period homes generally have beautiful hardwood floors hidden underneath the tiling or carpets. All you need to do is remove the tiles or carpet and polish the natural wood to give an antique look to the floors.

However, this can still be a costly exercise if you don’t use a professional to get the best advice and to give you some options to choose from based on their experience.

Final Thoughts

Renovating a home, whether period home or not, will cost you. However, you can minimise the expenses if you engage a professional and trusted builder.

They will ensure that the project is planned carefully and that your budget is realistic and adhered to throughout the project. That is where Period Extensions and Designs is at your service.

Please call us today at Period Extensions and Designs on 03 9882 5255 or message us through our contact form for a pre-purchase consultation or for any of your period home renovation and extensions needs.

Should Build Extension On Period Home
CategoriesHome Renovation

Should I Build An Extension On My Period Home?

By Period Extensions Team,

Should Build Extension On Period Home

There are two main reasons people build home extensions on their period home in Melbourne – necessity or to add value. However, the most common reason people build an extension on their house is the basic need for space.

When you have a growing family and your space is becoming cramped, it is time to extend. Or, maybe you are planning to start a family so are thinking ahead?

Then, of course, we all know that a home extension can improve your house aesthetically and increase the market value, so can also be a worthwhile money-making exercise.

Whatever the reason may be, there is no doubt that a home extension adds value to your property.

Things to Consider Before Building an Extension

  • Budget – Building an extension can become a money trap if you do not plan ahead and set a budget. How much are you willing to spend on an extension? Is it enough for the extra space you want to add? Do some research so you can make an accurate estimate or consult with a builder or contractor so you know what to expect and can set an accurate budget.
  • Timeline – Do you have a deadline for the project? Do you need the extra room before your baby is due? It is important to set a timeline and plan the project around it.
  • Scale – How big is the new space you are planning to add? This is important because your timeline and your budget mainly depend on the scale of the project.
  • Do You Need to Move Out During the Build? – This is important because having some ongoing construction happening in your current home can be a major inconvenience. Therefore, you may need to actually move out so the construction crew can work without any disruptions and you can stay out of the way. However, staying in a hotel or temporary accommodation for months on end means more money spent.
  • Other considerations – Building an extension means you may need some additional work done on your plumbing, heating and electricity. This will then add to your long-term ongoing expenses so you need to check if you have enough room in your monthly budget for the additional utility expenses.

When you have ticked all these boxes, then it’s time to go to work.

Should I Build Extension On Period Home

The Design

Are you extending your kitchen, adding an extra room on the second floor, or adding a family room? The design depends on what space is actually available.

This will affect your timeline and budget. It will also help decide if you will be building on or off-site.

Will your extension compliment or contrast the main building? While most people go for a cohesive design that will blend in naturally with the existing house, a complete contrast can work well too.

Building Permits and Regulations

When carrying out the design phase of the project, there are certain building regulations and permits that may be required.

Furthermore, here are some other factors you need to keep in mind:

  • Structural Integrity
  • Ventilation
  • Fire safety
  • Damp proofing
  • Other specific factors

A professional builder will have a thorough understanding of all the permits and regulations required and can save you a lot of time by handling this process for you.

They can also take care of the other factors noted above such as structural integrity and ventilation.

Project Management

Managing a build requires great organisational skills, patience, high levels of problem-solving and decision-making skills.

This is a huge undertaking and isn’t really suited to the average homeowner, particularly if they don’t have any sort of experience with building and renovating.

Therefore, it is strongly recommended to utilise the services of an experienced professional to help with the designing and construction of any renovation you are planning, particularly where a period home is concerned.

Should I Build Extension On Period Home

Insurance

Consult your current insurer and check if they can cover the build. The home and the renovation must be covered before you start construction.

Most of the time, your contractors will have insurance. However, you need to make sure you check there are no loopholes and potential issues with the policy coverage.

Have Fun

Enjoy the process. Let this build be a fun, learning experience. Building projects like an extension is usually stressful for home-owners. It doesn’t need to be. Stick to the plan and have fun doing it.

Finishing Touches

The best part of any build is the furnishing and decorating. You have a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. Keep it clean, classy and functional.

Final Thoughts

Whatever your budget is, make sure you come up with an overall cohesive design that you’re happy with. After all, you are the one who has to live with it.

Designing your extension is critical to the overall outcome so you don’t want to leave it to chance. If designing is not your strong suit, hire a professional to do it.

Furthermore, if you don’t have much experience in building or extensions, the best way to tackle the project is to hire professionals who have a proven track record of success.

If you are planning on adding an extension to your period home, then look no further than Period Extensions and Designs.

Please call us today on 03 9882 5255 or contact us through our contact form and let us help you design and build your dream period home extension.

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