How Long Does it Take to Build a Single Storey Extension?

Considering a single storey extension, but wondering how long your home would be disrupted for? 

We get it – while adding a new living space to your property is an exciting prospect, the idea of your home becoming a building site for a period of time may be daunting, too.

Here at West Midlands Building Company, our single storey extensions take around 6 to 8 weeks to complete.

The process of building a single storey extension always takes time – but exactly how long depends on many factors, such as the complexity of the work, availability of contractors and how big the project will be.

Throughout this guide, we’ll explore the stages of building a single storey extension, what factors can affect how long it takes and how you can start your home renovation journey with help from us today.

What Factors Affect How Long Single Storey Extensions Take to Build?

As with all things in life, a lot depends on your individual circumstances. And building single-storey extensions is no exception. 

Some of the most common considerations that affect single-storey extension timelines include:

Type & Scale of Extension: 

• Extension Type

Which extension type you choose will undoubtedly affect the timeline of your project. 

Rear extensions, for example, can be faster to build, whereas side-returns or wrap-around single storey extensions may take longer due to the intricate steelwork required.

• Size

Size is also one of the biggest factors at play here. 

For example, a 3-metre by 3-metre extension will naturally take less time than a larger 6-metre by 4-metre extension – so if an earlier finish is desirable, smaller dimensions may be required.

• Work complexity

Similarly, how complicated the project is will affect how long it takes to wrap up.

For example, if the interior of your extension requires intricate built-in storage solutions, a high-spec kitchen, luxury bathrooms or detailed wood-panelling, this will naturally add time to your project.

The Area Itself:

• Ground and site conditions

The ground and site itself is one of the biggest factors in how long one-storey extensions can take.

The area will need to be approved to ensure the foundations are adequate and meet all building regulations, and there are no issues, such as poor soil stability or unexpected buried drains to contend with.

• Location

While it may not seem like something that would affect single storey extension build timelines, location can be a factor. 

For example, if you live in a sparsely populated area, contractor availability can be an issue, meaning you could experience delays in your build compared to an area with multiple available contractors.

• Material lead time

Following on from above, your location may also affect how long certain construction materials take to be delivered to the site, which can cause delays. 

If you’re using aluminium frames for your glazing, for example, and you live in an area where these are in high demand and short supply, this could delay your project.

• Access

Whether your property has sufficient side access, too, will affect how long the project takes. 

If there is no side access, materials will need to be transported manually through the property, which can add daily time onto the build.

Administration:

And, of course, administration can take its toll on timelines, too. 

Acquiring planning permission and building regulations approval can also affect the timeline, especially if any issues are flagged which need resolving before the build can take place.

Similarly, notices served to neighbours can pause work temporarily if formal agreements take some time to settle.

Related Articles:

• Do I need planning permission for a single storey extension?
• Do I need building regulations for a single storey extension?

Stages of Building a Single Storey Extension

So, what are the main stages that happen when building a single storey extension?

1. Planning & Design

This will be the stage where all your ideas and dreams can come to life. You’ll work closely with our team of expert architects, project managers and builders to scope out the works, including all your must-have components for your new space.

Your budget will be considered throughout, and helpful advice will be given along the way to keep costs down but ensure you get everything you’ve envisioned for your home.

During this stage, we’ll also help you apply for planning permissions and building regulations approval. Don’t worry – we’re here to make the process easier, and we’ll guide you through each step with clarity and understanding.

2. Groundworks & Foundations

Next, the foundations will be excavated, and the extension will be set out. This will be the opportunity to see the scope of the extension, how much garden space it will take up and whether it will fit your needs for the new space.

At this point, concrete foundations will then be installed, and the foundations and groundworks will be built up with underground drainage installed. The blockwork will then be built up to the damp proof course (DPC) and the floor slab will be poured with insulation.

3. Structure & Walls

With the foundations and floor now in place, the extension begins to take shape as the walls and main structural elements are constructed. External walls are built using the specified materials, while steel beams may be installed where sections of the existing house are being opened up or removed. 

The roof structure is then formed, connecting the new extension to the existing property and creating the overall external envelope. Windows and external doors can also be installed at this stage, helping to make the building weather-tight.

4. Roof, Services & Internal Work

Once the main structure is complete, all attention turns to making the extension insulated, weatherproof and ready for occupation. 

The roof covering, insulation, gutters and downpipes are completed, while electricians and plumbers install the necessary services for lighting, sockets, heating, water and drainage. 

Internal walls and ceilings are insulated and boarded before plastering takes place, creating the finished surfaces for decoration. This is often where the extension starts to feel like a usable room rather than a construction project.

5. Final Touches

The final stage brings together the decorative and practical elements that turn the new space into a finished extension. 

This will include flooring, internal doors, skirting, fitted units, kitchen or bathroom installations and other joinery, followed by painting and decorating. Outside, any disturbed paving, paths, drainage or landscaping can be reinstated to integrate the extension with the garden and existing property. 

Finally, Building Control completes its inspections and, once the work meets the relevant requirements, a completion certificate can be issued. 

And there you have it – your single storey extension is now ready to be used as a brand new living space in your home.

How to Build a Single Storey Extension 

In short, the best way to build a single storey extension is by having a trusted team of home improvement experts by your side throughout each step of your renovation journey. 

Here at West Midlands Building Company, we pride ourselves on our unparalleled customer service, from design and ideation all the way through to the final touches. 

To get the ball rolling, the first thing you’ll need to do is get in touch with our expert team and book a FREE appointment. One of our helpful staff will discuss your home requirements with you.

Next, you will work with our team of expert architects and builders to make your dream home a reality, truly tapping into the conceptual phase of your build.

And the rest is history! If you’re ready to build your single-storey extension with our reputable, trusted team, get a FREE quote today to start the ball rolling.