HOUSE RENOVATION

Side return extension

Make the most of that unused side return with an extension that revolutionises the way you live. Turn an unutilised area into a useful place without eating into your outdoor greenery. Always wanted a big, open-plan kitchen diner? Seamless connection into the garden? It’s yours. And you don’t have to move house. By adding extra square footage to your property, you benefit from greater living space and add value should you eventually decide to sell.

Average cost of side return extension

• From £40,000

Naturally, the best way to keep prices down is restricting the amount of building work. So, how can you calculate an approximate total for your small side return extension cost?

1. Work out how many square metres you want to add
2. Multiply that figure by £1,500-£2,500

This range in price is down to different finishes, with a high-spec costing more.

Side return extension plans

When thinking about the project, you’ll want to consider various aspects:

• Your budget
• Preferred timeframe
• Ideal size
• Purpose of new space
• Which construction company

Your plans should include a timeline of what you want to happen and when. Bear in mind that the best building firms might have a longer lead time, but quality is typically worth the wait. Ask around for recommendations, research companies nearby, and contact your favourites to ask for advice and a quote.

Wrap around house extension types

Do you live in a detached house, semi-detached property or terraced building? The style of your home will have the biggest impact on what options are available for expanding.

The most choice comes with properties that have the biggest gap surrounding them, without being attached to neighbours. In a detached house there’s the possibility of adding on all round, with two side returns linking up with the rear to make a U-shape.

That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of ideas for all kinds of dwellings. An L-shape single storey wrap around extension is popular in densely populated cities, where many homes were built with a rear addition in the Victorian period/early 1900s.

This existing shape means there’s an unused side alley considered “dead space”. By making use of this area with a side-return extension linking up with a rear addition, homeowners can utilise their land without sacrificing too much garden .

Wrap around extension cost

The price you pay depends on the size and finish, but there are ballpark figures you can work from, to help with your wrap around extension plans. These kinds of projects usually cost from £60,000.

To get an even better insight into your personal situation, multiply the measurements of what you want to add by £1,500-£2,500 per metre squared. Don’t forget optional extras, like aluminium bi-fold/sliding doors. Their cost starts at £1,000 per one linear metre.

Rear extension

Rear home extensions are one of the most in-demand building works for good reason. Many people want to expand their living space towards the garden, creating a bigger cooking/eating hub, adding in a handy downstairs WC, or tucking in a useful utilities room. Is it time to make your  home bigger? Here are the main factors to consider in your plans.

 Cost of Rear extension

• From £35,000
• £1,500-£2,500 p/m²
• Bifolds = £1,000 p/metre

Understandably one of the main questions about rear extensions is the cost. Prices increase as sizes increase, with high-spec finishes naturally pushing the figure up. The great news, however, is that this style of project is usually the cheapest compared to side return, wrap around and double storey options.

An average cost of £35,000 is what you’re looking at. Get more specific by working out the total area you want. Multiply that figure by £1,500-£2,500 per square metre. Installing sliding/bifold doors puts an extra £1,000 per linear metre onto the total.

While it’s true you get what you pay for, it’s good practice to shop around and compare quotes, so you feel confident you’re getting value for money. Going for the cheapest quote isn’t always the best idea — customer reviews, testimonials and experience all count for a lot.

Double house extension benefits

Growing families find extra space massively positive:

• More bedrooms to fit everyone
• Extra living space downstairs accommodating changing needs
• Additional bathrooms making a big difference to everyday life
• Increased value
• More sellable
• Future-proofing

Dormer loft conversion cost

• Starts from £35,000

Naturally, the end cost of a dormer loft conversion is based on size, shape and finish, plus the current roof structure/pitch. If you choose an L-shaped version, the cost is around £15K more.

There are many aspects that make up the final cost to take into consideration. The structural work includes:

• Construction of the “box”
• Windows
• Floor reinforcement
• Staircase
• Insulation
• Additional skylights
• Heat source
• Electrical work
• Plumbing pipework
• Lighting
• Built-in eaves cupboards
• Safety measures

The decorative, cosmetic finish plus fixtures and fittings include:

• Flooring: carpets/tiles/vinyl
• Walls: painted/papered
• Lights: shades
• Bathroom: basin/tub/shower
• Freestanding accessories: storage/furniture

What does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost?

• From £45,000

This average cost includes the construction necessary to implement the structural work. That includes such essentials as:

• Plastering
• Plumbing
• Electrical wiring
• Heat sources

The end cost also needs to take into account the following:

• Floors
• Wallpaper/paint
• Suites
• Lights

Choosing standard finishes is the best way to keep prices low. Of course, the size is a major factor too. Two bedrooms, Juliet balcony, dressing area, tailored storage solutions, and a shower room in a luxury high-spec will cost more than a less ambitious alteration.

L-shaped dormer loft conversion planning permission

Keep to certain guidelines and you won’t need planning permission for your expansion, as it’ll come under Permitted Development. These currently include:

• No more than 50m³ added (detached/semi), 40m³ (terraces)
• Not in conservation district
• Not a listed building
• No balcony (Juliet allowed)
• No materials that aren’t in keeping with original structure

The part facing neighbours might require permission. The company carrying out the work should take into consideration all of these factors.

There are also Building Regulations that your construction firm needs to adhere to. Areas that need to be approved/certified include:

• Headroom (2m height usually required)
• Roof
• Heating
• Plumbing
• Electricals
• Stability of structure
• Insulation
• Sound proofing
• Glass/windows/balconies and flashings
• Stairs
• Fire safety

Mansard loft conversion: key facts

This is one way of increasing usable space in your house amongst many others, so it’s worth thinking about the finer details, to be sure you choose the best option. Get to know more about this type with our guide. You can expect:

• Attractive end result
• Sizeable space added
• Suitable for all properties: terraced/semi-detached/detached
• Mid-price point compared to other styles
• Considerable amount of construction work
• Typically requires planning permission/building regulations approval
• Usually built at rear
• Flat roof and sloping, almost straight wall (72 degrees)
• Small dormer windows
• Juliet balconies possible

What could you use it for? There are lots of possibilities, including:

• Bedrooms: most popular choice, consider if you’d prefer one large one with a walk-in wardrobe, en-suite bathroom etc, or two smaller ones
• Office: work from home in style with a dedicated room away from living areas, helping to differentiate between family time and work mode
• Nursery: baby’s own haven with plenty of opportunity to grow into
• Bathroom: especially important when adding sleeping sanctuaries at the top of the house, choose from a WC only, shower cubicle, or full tub

Velux loft considerations

While there are many good points to this type of upwards extension, it isn’t right for every building. It’s important to think about whether it’s the most suitable one for your house. Consider these factors:

• Ceiling height: As you’re not increasing headroom by building out, start with ample space to move around in comfortably, without ducking/stooping.
• Planning constraints: If you’re unlikely to get the go-ahead for a more substantial change to the structure, this is the way to go. If neighbours have been given the green light for a dormer etc. you might choose to go with a bigger project.
• District: In a conservation/heritage zone, or flat? Permission might be required.
• Window coverage: For adequate daylight levels, the glazed area should be at least 20% of the floor, so check this can be achieved.
• Positioning: Facing south? You’ll get lots of sunshine, perfect for winter. Blackout blinds help prevent overheating in the summer.
• Usage: Typically there’s only capability for one use, such as an office, bedroom or playroom. Want two bedrooms and a bathroom? You might prefer a different project.

Kitchen Renovation 

A lot goes into redoing the cooking/eating/socialising hub of your household. Analyse everything during the preparation phase — you’re more likely to get the end result you want, without too many surprises cropping up or last-minute decisions to make in a hurry.

Consider the following aspects while planning:

• Plumbing/drainage location: sinks/dishwashers/washing machines
• Electrics: rewiring, sockets/appliances placement
• Gas: cookers/radiators requiring installation by gas safe certified engineers
• Heating: gas/electric, underfloor/radiators
• Layout: walls added/removed, additional beams/supports
• Flooring: vinyl/tiles/exposed floorboards/laminate
• Walls: painted/wallpapered/tiled/exposed brick/concrete
• Lighting: position, type, energy efficiency
• Windows style/material: skylights/sash/double glazed, PVCu/aluminium/timber
• Doors: bifolds/sliding/hinged, PVCu/timber/solidor composite/aluminium

Bathroom renovation cost

• From £4,000 (refurbishment)

Understandably, your first consideration will be budget. What you pay will depend on a number of factors. For example, a full bathroom upgrade cost compared to repair work will be higher.

The specification of the suite will have a considerable impact on the final cost of updating your bathroom. Naturally, high-spec finishes are always higher. But the refurb work starts from £4K.

Key considerations

There are many decisions to make, and while it’s a good idea to have an ideal vision, being flexible is key. Sometimes certain choices aren’t possible due to space, practical or budget restraints. Talk with your builder about restrictions, alternatives and options available.

When planning your new bathroom, think about the following major practicalities:

• Space: utilise awkward corners, prioritize tub placement
• Drainage: easy access from fixtures to existing plumbing position
• Shower: over bath attachment, wet room, standalone cubicle
• Tub: freestanding, integrated, size, shape
• Basin: material, single/double, tap choice, plug, built-in storage underneath
• WC: flush mechanism, lid style, seat type
• Walls/ceiling: fully/part tiled, patterned/plain, painted
• Flooring: vinyl, laminate, tiles
• Heating: towel rail, underfloor, radiator
• Lighting: overhead, sidelights, vanity mirror
• Windows: style, material
• Doors: sliding/hinged, timber/aluminium/solidor composite/PVCu
• Storage: wall-mounted cabinets, under-basin cupboard, freestanding ladder style

One of the most exciting parts is dreaming up the design aspects and finishing touches:

• Colour scheme: fixtures, wall/ceiling/floor, themed accessories
• Theme: maritime, spa, monochrome, etc.
• Accessories: mirrors, towel rack, laundry basket

What is the renovations process?

Complete bathroom refurbishment or renovations involve a lot of tasks, most of which end up not being seen! But it’s all vital to the proper functioning of the end result.

The steps typically include:

• Remove existing fixtures
• Install new suite
• Lay floor tiles
• Walls tiled
• Position cabinets
• Test plumbing

Plumbing

We always put our client’s first, which is why our team of plumbers are fully trained in their area of expertise. We always make sure there is minimal disruption made to our client’s properties and any mess is cleared up straight after completion of the job.

Some examples of the plumbing services we provide include:

• Minor plumbing repairs
• Burst pipes
• Dripping taps
• Leaks
• Central heating and pipework repairs
• Toilet and basin installations
• Guttering repairs
• Water leaks

Gas for Central Heating

We undertake all sorts of heating and plumbing work including:

• Boiler replacements and upgrades
• Boiler installations
• Full central heating installations
• Power flushing
• Radiator changes
• Gas leaks

Electrical Renovations that boost your home’s value and enhance your lifestyle and comfort.

Electrical renovation is a vital part of any Vancouver home renovation.

Our professional Vancouver electricians are experts in all facets of electrical wiring and electrical installations for home renovations whether it is a basement suite remodelling project, a kitchen remodelling, bathroom renovation, a room addition, condo remodelling o a complete interior and exterior lighting upgrades, you can count on our work being completed to the highest standards of workmanship

PVCu Doors

With a new or replacement uPVC glass door you get an affordable, energy efficient, long lasting, secure gateway into your home or garden. Modern options won’t discolour or be susceptible to fogging or condensation. Discover the range of options our company offers.

Why choose uPVC external doors?

Benefits include:

• Energy efficiency: keep heat in with double/triple glazing; Argon gas-filled panes enhance insulation
• Weather resistance: seals stop rain/draughts from entering your home
• Safe: British Security Standards met thanks to multi-point locks/laminated glass
• Durable: no rusting/rotting/flaking/peeling
• Low maintenance: very easy to clean
• Choice: many options across all aspects

PVCu Windows

Searching online for ‘uPVC windows manufacturers near me’? Let Damsco do it all. We buy and fit uPVC windows, whether they’re a replacement or for that brand new space. Bid farewell to condensation, discolouration and misty, foggy glass. Say hello to a strong, efficient, attractive option.

Benefits of installing uPVC windows

So many reasons to make the change, like:

• Energy efficiency: quiter, warmer home, insulating your space to keep cold, draughts, rain and noise out, and reflect heat in – so your energy bills are cheaper
• Built to last: forget flaking, peeling, rusting or rotting
• Safe and secure: protect loved ones and possessions with latest lock technologies and intruder-proof glass installation
• Appealing appearance: smart, clean and coordinated
• Low maintenance: easy to clean with occasional soap and water wipe down
• Suitable for all homes: coordinate colour schemes, historic features, and more
• Versatile styles: many shapes, finishes, designs and shades available
• Vast range of choices: find your favourite combination

Types of uPVC window

Lots of designs. Popular models include:

• uPVC sash windows: traditional look, smooth mechanisms, replicate timber appearance
• Casement: highly heat efficient, very secure, many options
• Tilt and turn: inward-opening makes cleaning simple, ventilate the room with secure tilt

Range of technical, structural characteristics, such as:

• Glazing: opt for triple glazing for warmth and energy efficiency
• Framing: decide your favourite look – traditional or contemporary, number of openings, panes, Georgian bars (between panes or external), balanced sightlines, etc.

Once you’ve chosen the style, you can then consider finer details. Will you choose two-tone: one colour outside, and another one inside? This is helpful in areas where the council has strict regulations and won’t allow any changes externally, or when you have rendering or brickwork you want to match, which is different to your internal decor. Possibilities include:

• White
• Cream
• Grey
• Black
• Brown

Woodgrain finishes in any shade give more of a timber frame look, ideal for particular properties in historic neighbourhoods.

Design and Planing

Your plans should include a timeline of what you want to happen and when. Bear in mind that the best building firms might have a longer lead time, but quality is typically worth the wait. Ask around for recommendations, research companies nearby, and contact your favourites to ask for advice and a quote Our expert design team will handle your plans, building control details and structural design in-house so that final plans are perfectly aligned before work starts on-site. We work hard to make our plans simple to follow, to find solutions to complex problems fast, and deliver projects on time. Priding ourselves on technical ability, we welcome a good structural challenge. We get a real buzz out of turning improbable into possible with innovative thinking, so don’t let a tricky structural situation get in the way of your project ambitions. Get in touch and we can start exploring what we can do.

Painting and Decorating

Our team comprises of the most skilled professional painters, having worked on countless interior designs.

Painting & decorating are the vital finishing touches of any house renovation project. Damsco is able to undertake any painting & decorating project, and can cater to any style or design that you may require. Our team comprises of the most skilled professional painters, having worked on countless interior designs

We can take care of all of your painting & decorating needs, including interior painting, exterior painting and floor coatings.

At Damsco Building Services, we are able to offer you all the painting & decorating services that you need, with minimum disruption to your home or personal life. Our services range include interior painting, exterior painting, floor coatings, anti-mould coatings, wallpapering, wall lining, tiling and glazing. If you have or you are in the process of renovating your property, then you will need to add the final touches of decoration. No room is exempt when it comes to painting & decorating, which means that it can involve fair amount of work, but this will all be worth it in the long run.