When extending your home there are several single storey extensions to choose from. A single storey extension is easy and quick to construct, and rarely needs planning permission. But, like with all types of extensions, there are decisions that will need to be made. The first of these is the type of roof you will choose. Single storey extensions can have flat or sloping roofs, and of course there is a large variety of designs and materials you can choose from.
Single Storey Extensions : Choosing the Roof
The type of roof you need for your single storey extension will depend on the size of your build. If you are planning on adding a small and fairly narrow extension, then a mono or duo pitched roof are adequate. Here you should note that these types of roofs are not capable of achieving wide spans, so they are only suitable for smaller extensions. Alternatively you may choose a low pitch roof, as seen on many single storey extensions.
The most popular choice for a single storey extension however is a flat roof. Although perhaps not so aesthetically pleasing, flat roofs are functional and low-cost. For large single storey extensions, a flat roof is indeed often the only feasible option. If you want a traditional style roof, you could however opt for a parapet roof. This type of roof conceals a flat roof, extending over the eaves to give a traditional feel and design.
Windows and Doors
Another important consideration when choosing from single storey extensions is the doors and windows you will choose. Unless your windows will impact directly on your neighbouring homes, there are few constraints. So, it’s really more of a question of what you deem to be aesthetically pleasing and to your liking.
Opening Up Your Existing Home
When you add a single storey extension, it is important that you maximize the opening from your existing home. The taller and the wider the opening created, the more your extension will feel like an individual and separate room. Your opening will need to be spanned by joists, these steel joists supporting the floor and walls. The size of the joists will be calculated for you by the structural engineer employed by your extension builders company.
To create a continuous feel, you will also need to ensure the ceiling is of a continuous level. If there is a difference in ceiling height, it is recommended that the higher ceiling of your existing home is brought down using battens and plasterboard. Just like it is important to have a continuous ceiling height, continual floor heights are important. As well as ensuring the same height throughout, you should use the same type of materials to ensure that your extension “flows” naturally out of your home.
These are just some tips for your new single storey extension. With the help of a professional building team supplied to you by Bristol Builders Network, your new rooms will look swish and stylish, and a real continuation of your existing home.