The 10 deadly sins of extending?
Boris de Swart, one of the architects behind the successful HomeArchitect.ie business, outlines the 10 most common mistakes people make when planning to extend their house.
Does the builder know what you want?
A builder might have a different picture from you
Three – The helpful builder
Many home owners have heard the following: “An architect is a waste of money, sure I can design that extension for you”. And he will build for you what he has in his mind, most likely not what you have in mind.
Builders are not trained in designing house extensions. Some refuse to admit this, and insist that they can do just as well as an architect. Some manage to convince clients that paying a builder directly is easier and less expensive than employing an architect separately to design and specify, as well as keep an eye on the building work.
Some builders when approached will advise homeowners to employ an architect. They are happy to build, but want to work to the direction of a properly qualified architect.
Saving money or wasting it?
Skimping on insulation will cost you in the long run
Four – The saver
We all try to save money, it is natural in the face of a recession. However, attempting to lower costs by cutting back on important items like insulation, good quality windows, and decent controls on your heating systems (to name but a few), is false savings. Yes you may pay out a little less on the installation, but you will most likely suffer from a less comfortable house, together with bills higher than they should be!
As an example, good windows cover many duties. They keep the weather out (rain and draughts), they provide security (good locking systems), keep the house warm (double/triple glazing), they will stand the test of time, and importantly they will look good. A window that covers all these bases may cost more than one that only does only some of the above. Many people make bad decisions by cutting back on quality of important objects.
Lesson – don’t automatically rely on a builder who offers to design and build your home extension!
Lesson – spend money where it makes the most sense!