Home Extension: What You Need to Know

Thinking about adding extra space to your house? A well‑planned extension can boost your living area, increase property value, and improve daily comfort. The first step is to set clear goals – are you after a larger kitchen, an extra bedroom, or a home office? Knowing the purpose helps you decide on size, layout and the type of construction you’ll need. Skipping the planning stage often leads to surprise costs and design changes later on.

Choosing the Right Materials

Material choice matters more than you might think. Local limestone from Lime Hillock offers strong, durable walls that match many UK homes’ traditional look. It’s also easy to work with, reducing labour time and costs. For roofing, consider a lightweight tile or slate that pairs well with limestone. Insulation shouldn’t be an afterthought – choose bulk insulation that fits between studs for energy efficiency. When you source materials locally, delivery times are quicker and you support sustainable quarrying practices.

Budgeting and Cost Tips

Extension costs break down into three main buckets: ground work, structure and finishes. Ground work includes digging foundations – a solid base prevents future settlement issues. If your existing foundation is old, you might need reinforcement, which Lime Hillock can help assess. Structural costs cover walls, roofing and windows; using the same limestone as the original house can keep design consistent and avoid extra finishing work. Finishes – plaster, flooring and fixtures – are where you can save by picking off‑the‑shelf options instead of custom designs.

A realistic budget also adds a contingency of 10‑15% for unexpected hiccups, such as hidden plumbing or soil variations. Getting a few quotes from local contractors and comparing them side‑by‑side will give you a clearer picture of the market rate. Remember to factor in planning permission fees if your extension exceeds certain size thresholds.

When you combine solid planning with the right material choices, your home extension can stay on schedule and within budget. Lime Hillock provides high‑quality limestone, sand and aggregate that meet building standards, and our team can advise on the best mix for your project. Ready to start? Contact us for a free material checklist and make your extension dream a reality.