Timber is cost-effective, lightweight, and reliable, so it isn’t so surprising that it has become one of the top choices for homeowners who are building home extensions. Simple to transport, panels that are prefabricated offsite are a great option for homeowners looking for speed and convenience since they can be delivered direct to the site then installed by specialist contractors.
Since timber is also adaptable, it can be used to add an extension onto almost any kind of property. But how much will it cost to add a timber frame extension to your home? In this guide, we will give you an overview of how much you can expect to pay per m2 for a typical timber frame extension so you can budget effectively for your project.
An Overview Of Costs
The amount you’ll need to pay for your timber frame extension can vary considerably depending on how large your extension will be. Typically, a timber frame building company will give you a quote of between £1400 and £2400 per square metre for both construction and planning, however, if you decide to opt for a more expensive material such as oak, you’ll need to pay more – potentially up to about £2400 per square metre.
Other factors that will contribute to the overall cost of your extension include how complex it will be and the type of finish that you require. As a ballpark figure, you can expect to pay around £28880 for a single storey extension measurement 4m by 5m.
Take care to put some extra money aside to cover any unexpected situations that may arise. Having a 10% contingency budget is always wise in order to deal with unforeseen issues that could crop up. Don’t forget, too, that you will need to factor some other elements into your overall budget such as external works like landscaping, decking, and paving.
What Are The Benefits Of A Timber Frame Extension?
Since timber frames save a lot of time when it comes to site management, they are a popular choice for new build properties. They allow the homes to be constructed more quickly and thus sold more speedily.
In terms of costs, a timber frame comes with minimal financial advantages, however the material quality is far better controlled due to the factory environment in which the assembly is made when compared with building the frame onsite directly.
How Much Would A Two-Storey Extension Cost To Build?
If you are considering opting for a two storey extension, you should plan to add about 50% more onto the typical cost for a single storey extension as long as both storeys will be the same size. Since the average price for a single storey timber frame extension is approximately £28880, you can expect a two storey extension of the same size to come in at about £43320.
How Long Will It Take To Construction My Timber Frame Extension?
There is no single answer to this question since there are many different variables that come into play when determining how long a timber frame extension will take to build. On average, a smaller extension measuring about 15 square metres will take between 4 and 6 weeks to reach completion, whereas an extension measuring approximately 30 square metres will typically take between 6 and 8 weeks at a minimum. If the extension that you’re planning is much larger, for example 60 square metres, you can expect it to take as long as 12 weeks to be completed.
Will My Timber Frame Extension Require Planning Permission?
Even though a timber frame extension is made of wood, this makes no difference when it comes to planning permission. Essentially, the rules remain the same regardless of the material your home extension will be made from.
As long as your extension will not breach your property’s boundary lines or result in any access problems for nearby footpaths and roads it may not need any planning permission to be obtain, however taking the time to make enquiries is always a good idea, just in case.
If your timber frame extension exceeds your local council’s criteria, you will have to apply for planning permission before you begin work on your project.
How Can I Begin Building A Timber Frame Extension?
Your first step when it comes to building your timber frame extension is to create the plans. This is where the services of an architect are invaluable since they will help you to get your ideas down on paper, even when they lack knowledge about timber structures. Once you have plans drawn up, you then need to seek out a contractor who specialises in timber frame constructions. They will take the traditionally drawn-up plans and turn them into a functioning timber frame kit.
The next step involves finding and onboarding tradespeople who will help you to complete your project. Not only will you require timber frame contractors, you’ll also require the services of an electrician, a plumber, a roofer, a joiner, a painter and decorator, and a plasterer.
Bear in mind, too, that your architect may charge an added percentage onto the extension’s final cost, so if your extension costs £28880, for example, the architect’s charge will be about £2888.
When it comes to hiring contractors to work on your timber frame extension, you should take the time to get at least three in-depth quotes from different companies. You should then go over those quotes with your designer as this will ensure that you’re making a like-for-like comparison.
Although there are some major companies that advertise in popular home building and renovation magazines, you needn’t be restricted to only this big-name organisations. There are plenty of smaller companies out there if you take the time to find out about the businesses in your local area. When choosing companies, make sure to check out reviews so that you can be confident that you’re choosing a professional company that you can trust to complete your project.