1. Site Preparation

The first stage of the building process is preparing the site so we can work efficiently. The area of where building works will be carried out and the access routes are cleared from any rubbish. The materials and equipment required to do the initial works are cleverly planned out and located at the builder’s convenience. The site is protected and made safe.

2. Groundworks

The foundation of the building is where the quality of the build starts. The foundations are dug out per building regulation specifications which ensure it is structurally sound and legal. The Building Control inspector will check the depth and width, and advise or sign off this part so that the footings can be poured. If required, reinforcement and drainage systems will be inserted into the foundations. Thereafter, the concrete is poured into the foundation to create a solid footing. The Building Control inspector will visit again to approve the footing.

3. Superstructure

The bricks are laid to build up the damp-proofing course. Sand is laid before the damp-proofing membrane, and insulation is fitted. To finish off the flooring, the concrete slab is poured and levelled. The Building Control inspector will complete a visit and check the works.

4. External and Internal Walls

The blockwork and brickwork are created and cavity wall insulation is fitted within. Wall ties will be fitted to the new walls and existing walls of the house. The lintels and frames for the doors and windows are fitted. Any internal walls within the extension will be built.

5. Roof

The roof structure is formed. The roof battens are cut and fitted over the membrane. The slates or roof tiles are laid, ridge and valley tiles are fitted. The fascias, soffits and verges finish off the roof appearance making it secure and complete. The floor screed is poured to make the ground durable and soft for additional floorings such as carpet or wood.

6. Windows and doors

The windows and door are fitted in the frames. The guttering and drainpipes are fitted by the roof and external flank elevations.

The foundation of the building is where the quality of the build starts

7. First Fix

A practice known as first-fix is completed ensuring all the electrics, plumbing and carpentry are in place. The studwork wall is fitted with door linings and pipes are boxed in.

8. Demolition

To allow access from the rear wall of the house to the extension and connect the buildings, steels are fitted along with padstones.

9. Plastering

The battens placed internally forming the walls will be insulated and boarded. The plastering will be completed and left to dry for approximately one week.

10. Painting

Once the plastering has completely dried, the walls and ceilings will be painted.

11. Second Fix

The electrics will be wired, and switches and lights will be fitted. The sockets will be made live. The plumbing will be completed with taps in place and connections installed. The flooring will be laid and finished off.

12. Completion

Any finishing fittings and touches are completed. The works are completed and a completion certificate will be provided by Building Control

Once all the building works have been completed and signed off, it’s important to ensure you have all the relevant documents stored safely and accessible when required. In the event where you may wish to sell your property, solicitors require the documents provided by the council and building control to demonstrate the build is lawful and in compliance with regulations.