Ah, the age-old dream of the homeowner – expanding your living space and letting the light flood in. Whether you’re looking to create a bright, airy kitchen extension or transform your dark and dreary basement into a cozy family room, a home extension can truly be a game-changer. But before you start demolishing walls and ordering those floor-to-ceiling windows, there are a few key factors you’ll want to mull over.
1. Existing Extension or New Build?
The first thing to consider is whether you’re working with an existing extension or starting from scratch with a brand new one. This will significantly impact the planning and approval process, as well as the construction itself.
If you’re adding rooflights or windows to an existing extension, you’ll need to check the permitted development rules to see if you can make the changes without additional permissions. The good news is that in many cases, you can install rooflights without full planning permission, as long as they don’t project more than 150mm from the existing roof plane.
However, building regulations will still apply, as the existing roof structure will need to be altered to accommodate the new rooflights. You’ll want to work closely with your local planning authority or a trusted contractor to ensure you’re ticking all the right boxes.
On the other hand, if you’re constructing a new extension, you’ll definitely need to go through the full planning permission process. But the upside is that you can integrate the rooflights and other design elements into the initial plans, making the process a bit smoother. Just be sure to communicate your desire for abundant natural light early on with your architect or contractor.
2. Positioning Your Rooflights
Once you’ve got the planning and permissions sorted, it’s time to start thinking about the positioning of your rooflights. After all, the strategic placement of these windows can make all the difference in how much natural light floods your new space.
First, consider the orientation of your home. North-facing rooms tend to have a cooler, more neutral light throughout the day, which can be ideal for areas like home offices or studios. East-facing rooms, on the other hand, will be brightest in the morning, making them perfect for breakfast nooks or kitchens.
For south-facing extensions, you’ll bask in warm light all day long, but the midday sun can be quite intense. And west-facing spaces will offer beautiful, golden light in the late afternoon – perfect for cozy living rooms or dining areas.
Next, think about how you want to use the new space. If it’s a kitchen extension, for example, you might want the rooflights positioned to maximize light during the early morning hours when the family is gathered for breakfast. Or if it’s a home gym, you might want the rooflights angled to provide the best natural lighting throughout the day.
3. Choosing the Right Rooflight Size
Now that you’ve got the placement sorted, it’s time to select the perfect rooflight size. As a general rule of thumb, the amount of roof glazing (rooflights and windows) should be equivalent to 15-20% of the total floor space. This ensures the entire area is drenched in natural light, with no dark corners.
But don’t just go for the biggest rooflights you can find – be sure to consider the surrounding elements and the overall design of the space. Maybe you want the rooflights to align with the size of your dining table or kitchen worktop, or perhaps you’d prefer them to match the mullions in your patio doors.
Positioning the rooflights closer to the side walls can also create a really cool effect, casting interesting “sundial” patterns on the floor as the sun moves across the sky. Just remember, the larger the rooflight, the more light you’ll get – but that also means a bigger hole in your roof, so structural considerations come into play.
4. Fixed or Operable Rooflights?
With the size and placement sorted, it’s time to decide whether you want fixed or operable rooflights. Fixed rooflights don’t open, but they’re generally the most cost-effective option. This can work well if you have adequate ventilation in the room through windows or other means.
But if you’re looking to bring in both natural light and natural ventilation, then remote-controlled, opening rooflights might be the way to go. These give you the ability to control the airflow and adjust the amount of light, making them a versatile choice.
You can also get creative with the styling of your rooflights, choosing from a range of frame finishes, shapes, and even special features like walk-on capability. Just keep in mind that the type of glazing you select – like laminated or toughened glass – can impact both the safety and energy efficiency of your rooflights.
5. Consider the Bigger Picture
Finally, as you’re planning your home extension, it’s important to think about the bigger picture – both in terms of your overall design and the environmental impact.
For example, have you considered how the new extension will integrate with the existing aesthetic of your home? Will the rooflights and other design elements complement the architectural style, or will they clash? Taking a holistic approach to the design can help ensure a seamless, cohesive look.
And don’t forget to factor in the long-term sustainability of your project. Things like energy-efficient glazing, proper insulation, and strategic rooflight placement can all contribute to lowering your home’s carbon footprint and reducing your energy bills in the years to come.
After all, a well-planned home extension isn’t just about adding square footage – it’s about creating a functional, comfortable, and environmentally-friendly living space that you and your family can enjoy for years to come. So take the time to carefully consider each of these key factors, and you’ll be well on your way to making your home expansion dreams a reality.
And remember, if you ever need a little extra guidance or support, the team at ABC Home is always here to help. We’ve got the expertise and experience to ensure your home extension project is a complete success, from start to finish.
