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5 ways to Build a Kitchen Extension on a Budget

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Extending your kitchen is often stressful, especially when you have to wrap your head around how much everything costs. The price of a kitchen extension massively varies depending on the size of the new space you’re adding, its complexity, and the materials you choose. For example, the price of stone, wood, metal, plastic or glass don’t all cost the same. Also, your postcode and the builder you choose all play a part in the final total.  

So, to help you build the space you’ve been dreaming of without being blacklisted by your bank, here are some tips to avoid those costs going through the roof. 

Tip #1: Discuss your project with your neighbours

Talking to your neighbours is the most obvious way to make sure everything starts off on the right foot. Not only will you need your neighbour’s permission to build your extension in some cases (such as when it affects a party wall), but you could reduce your budget if they also have an extension project in mind. If this is the case, you could look at hiring a single contractor for the two extensions to save some money. 

Tip #2: Be realistic when it comes to the size of your extension (and your budget)

Building a new space is costly. And of course, the bigger it is, the more expensive it will end up being. 

Consequently, you should strike the right balance between size and money. That’s why investing in a great design is worth it to help optimise the space. By adding a few extra square metres, you’ll be able to transform your kitchen and make it feel a lot bigger. You could even add a dining area or kitchen island.

It’s always best to keep things simple. This is true for the size of the extension but also for every other aspect. For instance, a flat roof is less tricky to build than a pitched one. However, your extension will look just as elegant and cosy with a flat roof, and, what’s more, you’ll end up borrowing less money.

Tip #3: Opt for a lighter structure 

If your extension’s structure is light (timber frames are a good choice for instance), less weight will rest on the foundations, meaning they won’t need to be as big. Furthermore, your contractor won’t need to dig as deep or use as much concrete as they would for a heavier building, which means they’ll probably be done quicker. As a result, your budget will be spared!

Tip #4: Take it easy with glazing

Glazing is expensive. So, if you had a glass box in mind, brace yourself! However,  the good news is you can still invite a lot of light into your home without double glazing everywhere. For example, consider a skylight or roof windows instead, both of which will let light in and keep your kitchen cool during hot summer days. 

Tip #5: Bespoke is great, but it’s expensive

Roof windows are the perfect example to support our bespoke versus standard argument. You could design bespoke windows that look fabulous because they’re the perfect size, shape or colour. Or you could use standard products that look really good (such as Velux windows) and save money, both now and in the future when you might need to replace them.

When building your kitchen extension, ask yourself what matters the most. If it’s to enjoy some extra space, then our tips will help you achieve your dream extension without breaking the bank. However, if the design of the extension is more important to you, then work out how you’ll finance it before you start building anything.

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