As you look out your window on these cold, snowy winter days, it probably doesn’t feel like you should be thinking about extending your home. However, now is exactly the right time to start the process to be finished during the summer. Unfortunately, the weather here in the UK is not the most conducive for external works from late October through until about February or March – as there are more rainy days and less daylight hours. At Thames Design & Build we usually advise cl

Due to the national shortage of PIR (Celotex, Kingspan etc.) insulation, we did some research into alternative solutions at Thames Design & Build. We came across Actis Insulation, which have a product called Hybris, which can be installed between studs, rafters and joists as an alternative to PIR board in lots of situations. When this is combined with their HControl Hybrid or Boost Hybrid products, the required U-Values for Building Regulations are easily achieved. The pros a

The Halifax have just released their June 2017 house price index and the results show house prices are falling slightly - but they are still higher than this time last year. In a time of political uncertainty it certainly makes sense to make the most of the value and living experience of the home you are currently in rather than moving. Moving house is an expensive business, especially in London and the home counties with huge stamp duty to pay as well as the associated fees.

At Thames Design & Build we have recently found that many of our clients seem to be opting for sliding doors as opposed to bi-fold doors, so is the fashion changing? Below are some pros and cons of sliding versus bi fold doors: Sliding Doors Pros * large glass panes possible * Wider overall width available * Open and close in line, not protruding * More traditional as a replacement * Up to two thirds opening * Narrow frame widths * Works well with curtains and blinds *H

As our families grow our home requirements can change. A new baby, or a parent coming to live with us can call for a larger home... If you live in or near London, with space at a premium and very high property prices, it will probably be worth your while extending and improving your home rather than moving. Especially if you have garden space, an unused loft or garage, or a cellar, as all these offer huge potential for a convenient and financially viable home improvement. Eve

All too often we have to break the bad news to clients who believe their extension will fall within Permitted Development, when, due to a technicality, they don’t. If your property has a flat wall on the rear elevation, then you will most likely be able to do a 3m or 4m deep rear extension without Planning Permission. However, if that rear extension wraps around a side elevation then it becomes a side extension and a rear extension and therefore doesn’t fall within Permitted