Single Storey Extension Cost: Smart Ways to Budget in 2024

A single storey extension can transform your living space without the hassle of moving. However, understanding the costs involved is crucial before embarking on this home improvement journey. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about budgeting for your extension project.

What Determines Single Storey Extension Costs

The cost of a single storey extension typically ranges between £1,350 and £2,250 per square meter, depending on various factors. This price variation can make a significant difference to your overall budget when planning an extension project.

Several key elements influence the final price tag. The size of the extension is naturally the primary factor—larger extensions require more materials and labor. Location also plays a crucial role, with prices in metropolitan areas generally higher than in rural locations. The quality of materials and finishes you select will substantially impact costs, with premium options potentially doubling your expenditure compared to standard alternatives. Finally, the complexity of the design, including unusual shapes or features, can drive up both material and labor costs.

Breaking Down Extension Costs By Type

Different types of single storey extensions come with varying price points. A basic rear extension typically costs between £1,350-£1,850 per square meter, making it one of the more affordable options. Side return extensions, which utilize the narrow strip of land alongside semi-detached and terraced houses, generally range from £1,500-£2,000 per square meter.

Wrap-around extensions combine rear and side extensions, offering maximum added space but at a premium cost of £1,800-£2,250 per square meter. Kitchen extensions, among the most popular choices, vary widely in price depending on the quality of fittings but typically start at £1,500 per square meter before kitchen installation costs. Conservatory and orangery extensions provide bright, versatile spaces with conservatories starting from around £10,000 total and orangeries from £20,000, though high-end versions of either can cost substantially more.

Remember that these figures represent construction costs only. You'll need to factor in additional expenses such as architect fees (typically 7-15% of the project cost), structural engineer consultations (£500-£1,000), planning permission where required (approximately £200), and building regulations approval (£500-£1,000).

Extension Provider Comparison

Selecting the right company for your extension project can significantly impact both cost and quality. Here's how some of the major providers compare:

Provider	Price Range (per m²)	Specialties	Typical Timeframe
Wickes	£1,300-£1,800	Package solutions, DIY options	8-12 weeks
Homebuilding & Renovating	£1,500-£2,200	Bespoke designs, premium finishes	10-16 weeks
Jewson	£1,400-£1,900	Material supply, contractor connections	Variable
Screwfix	£1,350-£1,750	Materials, tools, DIY solutions	Variable

When comparing providers, consider requesting detailed quotes that break down material costs, labor, project management fees, and any additional charges. Checkatrade offers a verification service for contractors, which can provide peace of mind when selecting a builder for your extension project.

Cost-Saving Strategies For Your Extension

While extensions represent a significant investment, several strategies can help manage costs without compromising quality. Consider a simpler design with straight walls and a flat roof instead of pitched options, potentially saving 10-15% on construction costs. Timing your project strategically can also yield savings—many builders offer discounted rates during slower winter months.

Material selection offers substantial saving opportunities. Using standard brick rather than handmade varieties can reduce material costs by 30-40%. Similarly, opting for uPVC windows instead of aluminum or timber frames typically saves 20-30%. For internal finishes, consider laminate worktops rather than granite or quartz in kitchens, potentially halving this portion of your budget.

The procurement approach also impacts costs significantly. Acting as your own project manager rather than hiring a main contractor can save 15-20% on overall costs, though this requires time and knowledge. BuildStore provides resources for self-managed construction projects, including extension works. Alternatively, sourcing your own materials while hiring labor separately can achieve similar savings compared to all-inclusive packages.

Reusing existing foundations or structural elements where possible and preparing the site yourself can further reduce expenditure. However, ensure any DIY work complies with building regulations to avoid costly corrections later.

Financing Your Extension Project

Most homeowners don't have sufficient savings to fund an extension outright, making financing options an important consideration. Remortgaging represents one of the most common approaches, allowing you to release equity from your property at relatively low interest rates. This option works particularly well if your home has appreciated significantly since purchase.

Home improvement loans offer another viable solution, with both secured and unsecured options available. Secured loans typically offer lower interest rates but put your property at risk if payments aren't maintained. MoneySuperMarket provides comparison tools for various home improvement loan options, helping identify competitive rates.

For smaller extensions, credit cards with 0% interest periods on purchases can provide short-term financing, though this should only be considered if you can repay the balance before the interest-free period ends. Some extension providers also offer payment plans, though these typically include interest charges higher than mortgage rates.

When calculating financing costs, remember to factor in the potential added value to your property. Research from Nationwide suggests well-executed single storey extensions can add 5-10% to your property value, potentially offsetting much of the project cost over time.

Conclusion

A single storey extension represents a significant investment, but with careful planning and budgeting, it can transform your living space and add substantial value to your property. By understanding the various cost factors—from materials and design to labor and location—you can make informed decisions that align with your financial situation. Whether you choose to work with established providers or manage aspects of the project yourself, the key lies in thorough research and realistic budgeting. With typical costs between £1,350 and £2,250 per square meter, most extensions pay for themselves over time through increased property value and enhanced living quality.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.