A side return extension can be one of the best ways to use wasted space on the side of your house. You can make your living space beautiful and add value to your property with a side extension. You can either extend your living room or kitchen, or even add a conservatory. This is a great option for houses with a terrace, which often have a narrow side return extension that can’t really be useful for anything else. You might be wondering: how much does a side return extension cost? In this blog, we’ll discuss the primary cost involved for a side return extension and what factors can influence the cost. Let’s get started:
What is a side return extension?
In simple words, side return extensions are built in place of unused area on the side of your home. Different types of side return extensions are mentioned below:
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Single-storey side return extension
A single-storey side extension uses wasted space on the side of a house to create extra space at ground-floor levels.
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Double-storey side return extension
Double-storey side return extensions also make use of wasted space on the side of a house to create extra space, but it is built at the ground-floor level, over two floors.
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Side return kitchen extension
Side return kitchen extensions increase the space available in a kitchen by extending unused space to the side of the property to add additional space for a reimagined kitchen layout.
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Glass side return extension
Glass side return extensions follow the same approach as other side return extensions, but use more glass in their structure to increase the amount of light that comes into a property.
How much does a side return extension cost per sqm in the UK?
The cost per square metre for a side return extension may vary depending on several factors. Outside London, the side return extension costs between £1,700 and £2,400 per square metre. On the other hand, in London, the cost may vary. For the exact cost, you can also get in touch with GTB Builders. Despite this, if you are interested in knowing the cost of a house extension in North London, contact us today.
Factors that determine the cost of a side return extension in the UK
Side return extensions transform unused or wasted space into stylish living areas. In a home where narrow alleyways run alongside the house, it would be worthwhile to opt for a side return extension to create open-plan dining areas, larger kitchens, or even multi-functional spaces that attach the indoors with the outdoors. However, various factors should be considered when determining the cost of side return extension.
Scale and size of the extension
The size of your side return extension can significantly affect the cost. If you are looking for a larger extension, more time, labour, and material will be used, which can add up to extra cost. On the other hand, the scale also depends on how you are likely to use the space. For example, you need to consider the following:
- Small extension: A small extension that is used to add extra space for a family dining area or a kitchen will usually cost less, but it may vary depending on other factors, such as your choice of finishes and materials.
- Larger extensions: It’s obvious that larger extensions will cost more because they will require additional construction work, material, and labour costs.
- Height of the extension: This could be whether you are looking for a single-storey side extension or double-storey side extension, whether things like planning permission and structural work need to be accounted for.
Selection of materials
The materials you choose for your side extension will also have a big impact on the cost. There are different materials to choose from, from economical to premium finishes. It all depends on your choices. You have the choice of standard materials, premium finishes and roofing options.
- Standard materials: If you are low on budget, you can opt for standard materials like bricks, which are relatively low-cost materials.
- Premium finishes: Premium materials will obviously cost you more. However, there’s no doubt that they will give a premium look too.
- Roofing options: Flat roofs are more cost-effective, but glass panels or pitched roofs can affect the cost. If you are specifically looking for roofing services in Ealing, you can get in touch with GTB Builders.
Design complexity
The choice of your design and the features you want to incorporate in a side extension can influence the cost. Take a look at the section below to know how design complexity can influence the cost:
- Structural changes: When you are removing walls to combine your side extension with a large project, which changes the layout, it can contribute to the overall cost.
- Glazing options: Large bi-fold doors, roof lanterns, and skylights can significantly increase natural light, and may cost you more.
- Connecting indoor and outdoor spaces: Features like sliding doors can create a seamless flow between your garden and home, which often requires extra labour, affecting the cost.
- Personalised finishes: Customised interior finishes require specialist work, which can affect the cost.
Planning permissions and building regulations
Planning and regulatory requirements may also affect your side extension cost. Many side extensions are permitted development, which is good news as it means you don’t need to apply for formal planning permission as long as the extension meets certain conditions. But there are exceptions – if your property is in a conservation area, or you want to build outside the limits of permitted development, you may need to apply for planning permission, and this could involve costs.
How long does it take to build a side extension?
It may take around three to four months to build your new side return extension. However, the total timeline could be longer if you have to get planning permission or other approvals.
Final thoughts
If you want to build a side return extension, make sure to request a quote from a trusted builder like GTB Builders. We can analyse the space where you are looking to build side return extension, and then share the exact cost.
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