0208 191 7595

Sammy Ene

London Basement Conversions – What can go wrong?

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We’ve talked endlessly about London basement conversions… that’s only because we love converting basements, our customers value our experience and knowledge about basement building…and if we say so ourselves, we are very good at it. The basements we have built have ultimately put a smile on our customer’s faces; it’s that space they have envisioned that adds the ‘wow’ to their home, whether it’s a space of calm or a space to entertain. That doesn’t mean however, that the process of building these basements have been completely smooth-sailing. We have experienced several challenges in some of the conversions we’ve built. The key, of course, is to overcome these challenges by finding workable solutions.

If you are thinking about converting your basement, be aware of some of these potential roadblocks along the way, but do remember there is always a solution to every problem.

  1. Planning permission

Excavating a basement is a major structural undertaking and will require planning permission via your local council. Make sure you appoint an experienced architect who understands your local council’s requirements. Plans that are not detailed and do not abide by council regulations are likely to get rejected. If you are in a conservation area, you will need to take additional rules and conditions into considerations. In most councils, the consultation is 8 weeks from the time of submission of the plans. Any changes will cause the 8-week period to re-start. It’s important to get it right the first time.

Having said that, in Kensington and Chelsea there have been over 800 planning applications for basements submitted in the last 5 years. Only 10% are rejected and these are almost always resubmitted. So, the odds are in your favour.

  1. Love thy neighbour

You will probably have to enter into a party wall agreement with your neighbour. We suggest you involve your neighbour in your plans to get them on side before you put your planning application in. If they object after the plans are in, you might have to amend your plans and restart the 8-week consultation period, further delaying your project.

  1. Risk of groundwater

The impact of groundwater driven by both the general water table and often hidden underground streams can throw a spanner in your works. Encountering water adds to the complexity as excavating wet clay takes longer, can clog up conveyor belts and requires continuous pumping.

  1. Diggability

It’s also more difficult to install basements where there is a solid floor. There are some cases where it really is not feasible to fit a basement. In fact, many modern terraces and townhouses that are built on raft foundations can’t be underpinned, so can’t have basements. It’s also important to have good access for the excavation work: too close to a boundary or the road and it could be difficult for a JCB to get in.

  1. Waterproofing or tanking

We believe this is one of the most important aspects of basement building. Poor waterproofing techniques resulting in leaks and floods can destroy all the hard work in converting a basement into a beautiful living space. Problems associated with this are:

  • Failure to properly seal service penetrations in basement walls.
  • Poor backfilling which can lead to punctures in tanking.

One of the solutions to this problem is to install a cavity membrane system.

SDA Build London is proudly accredited by the UK’s leading waterproofing brand, Delta, with all our basement conversion projects installing their cutting-edge Delta Membrane Systems. This high-density polyethylene covering is applied to the walls, floors and ceilings of a basement dig out, where it blocks, controls and drains any potential ground water ingress from entering a property. It can be applied to new, existing and retrofit projects, and is flexible and durable so it can cope with movement or vibration in the home – important as this is often the cause of basement flooding! All our Delta Membrane installations come with a 30-year warranty that ensures your basement is protected.

If you are considering building a basement, give us a call. We’ll be happy to visit your property, discuss your ideas and share our thoughts on the feasibility of a basement on your property, any potential pitfalls and how we can overcome them.

Call us on 0208 191 7595, email us at enquiries@sdabuildlondon.co.uk or book a Free Refurbishment Consultation via our website. We’d love to hear from you.

2018 UK Home Renovation Trends

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Basement conversion - Swimming pool

With 2018 coming to an end, we thought you might like to know what’s been happening in the property renovation world…Houzz has an interesting write-up on the 2017/ 2018 trends in renovations.

Findings from a survey of 7,194 UK homeowners on Houzz about their home renovations in 2017 and plans for 2018.

HOME RENOVATION BOOM CONTINUES: 2018 is on track to be another solid year for home renovations, with almost half of homeowners planning to renovate their home (47%). Renovation activity and spend was strong in 2017, with 57% of homeowners renovating their homes, at a median spend of £15,000. Repeat homebuyers spend twice the amount of long-term homeowners and first-time homebuyers.

BATHROOMS AND BEDROOMS LEAD ACTIVITIES AND SPEND: Bathrooms topped the list of interior refurbishments for renovation frequency in 2017, with more than a quarter of renovating homeowners tackling bathrooms (29%), followed by bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms (29%, 28% and 27%, respectively). First-time and repeat homebuyers are more likely to take on kitchen renovations than long-term homeowners (34% and 31%, respectively, versus 26% of long-term homeowners). Kitchens were also the most expensive room to renovate, with a median spend of £11,000 for a large kitchen (more than 100 square feet), followed by large bathrooms (more than 50 square feet) at a median spend of £5,000.

MORE DELIBERATE PLANNING AND BUDGETING: Over the past two years, homeowners have become more deliberate in planning and budgeting for renovations and were eight percent more likely to set a budget in 2017 than in 2015 (79% and 71%, respectively).

CASH REMAINS KING: When it comes to funding renovations, cash continues to be the most popular form of payment (88%), though more than 10 percent of renovating homeowners use credit cards (15%). First-time homebuyers are more likely to finance their home projects with credit cards (18%) as compared with repeat homebuyers and long-term homeowners (15% and 16%).

Download the Full Report

If Home Renovation is on your agenda, do give us a call on 0208 191 7595 or email us at enquiries@sdabuildlondon.co.uk. We’d be happy to give you a FREE no-obligation quote. We can look after all aspects of your build including sourcing the right architect, structural engineer and interior designer for you and of course making your vision a reality.

Ask what your basement can do for you…

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Basement Conversions wine cellar

Ask not what you can do in your basement… Ask what your basement can do for you. Ever dreamed of that one extra space in your home that would ‘complete’ it? It’s that space that will add the wow factor to your home or the retreat that will transport you to a place of peace and quiet.

So, what can you do with your basement? The answer? Just about anything (within reason of course).

We have built several basements in homes across South West London with a variety of different uses, designs and styles. See our some of our Projects here.

A basement can be unapologetically large, spanning across the entire width and breadth of your ground floor. You are literally spoiled for choice in terms of what you might want to build in your basement.

We see the basement as being used in primarily two ways. Externally; where its use is for entertaining friends and family and internally where its use is for your family as a haven for precious family time with of course some overlap now and again.

If you are thinking about using it as a space for entertaining and guests, think about installing a fully equipped Games Room? One with a table tennis table, pool table, a small golf putting area? Add a bar to one and side and we imagine yours would be the ultimate party house.

We recently built a state-of-the-art cinema room at a home in Fulham. With Hollywood as the theme and a wine cellar boasting some of the finest wines in the world, this basement embodies, style, class and sophistication.

If, like one of our clients, you are a wine connoisseur, you can create a large temperature controlled wine cellar to house and protect your vintage wines and barrels.

Speaking of connoisseurs, one of our clients has converted their basement into an inspired art gallery to showcase his expensive and highly prized art collection.

If, on the other hand, you want a space that is focussed on yourself and your family, you could create a master bedroom with an en-suite, walk in wardrobe and dressing room that could be fit for the Queen. Or you could pack the kids off to their “underground’ playroom, giving them a space to unwind, have friends over and use as a den.

A home cinema with luxurious seating and surround sound systems would be the ideal setting for a Friday night in with the family; popcorn, candyfloss and perhaps The Sound of Music, James Bond or Mamma Mia, depending on your taste.

For those with slightly less dramatic tastes a family/TV room in the basement is exactly what’s needed to relax with in your dressing gown with a glass of wine and watch your favourite TV shows after a long day at work.

We recently built a stunning kitchen/diner in the basement at a home in Wandsworth. Not only was there no compromise on anything they wanted due the expanse of space, but it created a central point for the family to gather in the mornings and evenings away from distractions of homework and TV. This kitchen had two entrances; one from inside and one from outside, which led directly into their stunning garden. This gave this underground kitchen huge amounts of natural sunlight and a sense of space and air.

If you’ve always loved the smell of books and dreamed of living in the British Library, well, you can almost do that by creating a library in your basement. With comfortable seating, a movable ladder across your collections of precious books and maybe some soft music in the background, you could be living your dream.

Do you prefer to work from home and avoid a painful commute? Why not make the basement into your home office? If you have staff, you could create an entrance via your garden so they don’t have to go through the house. Or you could create consulting rooms if you are a medical professional like a physiotherapist or a psychiatrist. It would be easy enough to create cubicles for examinations and privacy.

If fitness is your thing, then how about a fully equipped gym in your basement? You’ll have absolutely no excuses to avoid working out. Weather, time, transport… all these excuses will be deemed null and void J. All you have to do is make sure you are ready to pump up your heart on the treadmill and tone those muscles with the weights.

And whilst you are in fitness mode, you could build a swimming pool in your basement. This is luxury at the highest level. Imagine the feeling of bliss when you enter the heated pool after a session at the gym or after a tiring day in the office.

As evident, the possibilities are endless. Your basement can serve whatever purpose you want it to.

As basement specialists, we know what is possible and not possible when building basements. Give us a call on 0208 191 7595 or email us at enquiries@sdabuildlondon.co.uk to discuss your ideas with us. Or why not book a FREE refurbishment consultation via our website. We’ll be happy to come around to your property, discuss your needs and ideas and share some of our recommendations.

Sash Windows? They need some TLC…

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We’ve used sash windows for some of the period homes we’ve worked on and not only do they look stunning and add character, but they give the home a sense of expanse and space.

We found this useful article in Houzz, on everything about Sash Windows…

Sash windows are the beating heart of any period home. They come in a range of styles and configurations and when they go wrong, they demand an eye for detail and an expert hand. From upgrading cords to fitting new sections, here’s what to consider if you need to restore yours.

Identify your sash window design
The two main styles of sash are Georgian and Victorian. Georgian windows have glazing bars and multiple panes of glass within the sashes. Victorian versions have one or two big panes in each moving sash. Later, Edwardian designs featured a mix of the two.

Sash windows can be singular, or form part of a bay. Unlike casement (with hinges) and hopper (tilting) windows, sashes have the advantage of remaining flush to the wall when open and do not impede blinds and shutters.

Compare your windows to others in your road and neighbourhood. Styles can change across areas, with variations in sills, sash horns, glazing and moulding profiles. This will help you assess if your windows are likely to be original (or based on original designs) and will inform any decisions around possible repairs and refurbishment.

Understand how sashes work
Sash windows comprise an outer frame or box, and usually a pair of vertical sliders or ‘sashes’. However, they can be fixed so neither of the sashes moves, or single hung, where only one of the sashes moves, usually the bottom one.

Traditional sash windows operate using a pulley and counterweight system. Cords are connected to weights that sit inside the frame and counterbalance the movement of the sashes, holding them in place when they’re pushed up or down.

Be aware of what can go wrong…
Sash cords can break over time, resulting in the weights being lost in the sash box. If there are gaps around the sashes, the windows can rattle, let in draughts and leak. Poor redecoration is also a factor and can cause windows to stick.

General neglect and poor maintenance causes the wood to decay and rot, but thankfully timber is, for the most part, repairable.

…and what’s involved in fixing it
Replacing the cords and weights inside the box frame is one of the more straightforward and least costly repairs associated with sash windows.

“More extensive repairs often require sectional replacement,” Adrian Thompson says. “This can include renewing the lower sill, replacing sash frames or renovating the existing box frame.”

“The timber windowsill gets the brunt of the weather, so can often require a lot of renovation work,” Chris Herrington agrees. “The rot seeps up the window from the sill, causing the decay – and sometimes a completely new sill and lower box assembly is needed.”

For any sectional replacement work like this, the window is taken apart, any rotten timbers are routed out to get back to the sound wood, and new timbers are spliced in. Once the work is done, the window is re-hung and balanced so it works smoothly.

Find a reliable tradesperson
“Period properties require exceptional attention to detail, as windows were not made to a standard specification,” Richard Dollar says. “Make sure the company you choose has experience of working on similar properties. Are they members of any accredited bodies?”

Windows are an important element of your home and can involve significant expense. “Ask your supplier for written referrals, visit their workshop and check their credentials,” Adrian says. “If the suppliers are based miles away, how will they service any guarantee work?”

Get three or four quotes for any work, Chris advises, “but make sure you’re comparing like with like when assessing price differences. And ask for references from your chosen supplier. They should have previous customers who are happy to share their experience with you.”

Weigh up glazing options
It’s possible to install replacement double-glazed sashes into existing box frames using slim glazing panels. “Our workshops make these to match the profile of the existing sashes,” Chris says, “and you can choose from a range of timbers and glass types, such as acoustic or thermal.”Be aware that while fitting double-glazed sashes into an original box frame does not constitute the wholesale replacement of an original window, the work may still need permissions, depending on where you live.“It will require planning consent in listed buildings and some Article 4 conservation areas,” Richard says.

Fit draught-proofing
Draught-proofing is important because of the way sash windows are designed. “Gaps around the sashes mean they can rattle and let in draughts, rain and dust,” Chris says. “Installing a draught-proofing system in the gaps solves these problems.”

Another option is timber secondary glazing, Richard says. “This involves fitting an additional glazed screen on the inside in front of a sash window. It can improve thermal efficiency and reduce noise, and is often a popular choice in listed buildings, where double glazing is unlikely to be approved.”

Shutters and window treatments can also contribute to energy efficiency, Adrian says. “Fully closed plantation shutters and interlined curtains can make a big difference in winter.”

Consider the costs
Costs will vary enormously depending on the condition and size of your windows, and the complexity of the work and materials involved. For the straightforward replacement of cords, weights and locks, expect to pay from around £300 to £450 per window.

Renovation and upgrades, including draught-proofing, double glazing and/or fitting new sashes into existing frames can cost anything upwards of £1,000 to £1,500 per window.

For renewals involving a full back-to-brick replacement being supplied and fitted, costs are likely to start at around £2,300 per window.

Decide if it’s better to repair or replace
As well as cost, condition will be a key factor in whether you choose to repair or replace a sash window.

“We like to think we can save a window that looks beyond repair,” Chris says, “but it depends on customer preference and budget. Original timber is far better quality than the wood we get today, so with a little bit of care and attention, plus some ongoing maintenance, timber windows can last another 100 years.”

If the frame is still in good condition, you may be able to just replace the moving parts, Richard says. “One advantage of timber windows is that they can often be repaired if issues are dealt with promptly.”

“There’s no golden rule around repair versus replacement,” Adrian adds. “The important thing is to ensure any work is faithful in style, appearance and operation to the original, and maintains the integrity of the building.”

Gen up on conservation area rules
If your home is listed or you live in a conservation area, speak to your local planning office about any work you want to carry out on sash windows.

“In listed buildings, it’s always preferable to renovate rather than replace,” Chris says. “However, we are seeing more cases of slim double glazing being authorised for installation in listed homes.”

Draught-proofing or changing the sash cords and weights will not require Planning Permission, Richard says, “but more major repair work, such as re-glazing or installing new sashes into existing frames, may.” If you’re unsure, speak to your local council.

“Consent should be sought for double glazing and renewal,” Adrian says, “but works in conservation areas should not be an issue, as long as homeowners stick with timber, and the windows end up with the same appearance and design as the originals.”

Keep up with regular maintenance
Once any repair or restoration work is done, it’s important to check timber and paintwork frequently.

“We recommend painting or varnishing external timber sills annually to make sure they’re weather-tight,” Chris says.

Open sash windows often to prevent them from sticking, Richard advises. “Check any handles, trickle vents and working parts every year and lubricate them with silicone spray or light oil. The timber framework of windows should be cleaned thoroughly every year, too, including the working parts.”

For 10- to 12-year repainting cycles, Adrian recommends modern microporous paint. “Then, other than cleaning traffic film off the paintwork and occasionally oiling the pulley and locks, sash windows will be relatively maintenance-free,” he says.

Garden Basement – When down IS out…

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Garden Basements

Do you have a growing family and need more space? Or just want a home that has the wow factor? Have you moved into a new home and are thinking about renovating to have your stamp on it? A garden basement may just be what you need. It’s unique and can be used for whatever you want; a playroom, a gym, a swimming pool, a kitchen-diner or a home office.

Not only will it add space to your existing home, but it has also proven to increase the value of property.

Here’ why should you build a basement under your garden & not under the existing structure.

A garden basement, allows for a brighter, lighter space as you can install roof lights, lightwells or terraces and flood the basement with natural light.

External openings directly into the garden allow for fresh air. Basements under the existing structure have limited scope for natural air and sunlight. Garden basements, on the other hand, by their very nature and position on your property are ideal to allow for fresh air and light.

A garden basement can be much bigger than a basement under your home if you have a large garden. There’s nothing to stop you (other than council approval) from creating a basement under your garden that spans across it.

Often, a garden basement is quicker to build than one that’s under the existing property simply from an ease of access perspective. Equipment for a basement conversion is large, heavy and cumbersome and much harder to manoeuvre inside a property than outside. Equipment like the conveyor belt and piling rig can easily be installed outdoors. Want to know how much your basement might cost? Find out here.

One of the most useful facts of a garden basement is its reduced impact to your and your neighbour’s properties from a structural perspective. And with no building added to the back of your house, it’s subtlety, protects your neighbour’s right to light.

We’ve probably got you excited about your garden basement now… is your head spinning with ideas and plans for that amazing space you are going to create? That’s wonderful and please do give us a call if you need someone to help you through it.

However, before you dive into the project, there are some elements you need to consider.

  1. Planning – Please speak to your local council to understand the basement planning policies in your borough. Different areas have different requirements and it’s important to be well-informed about what you can and cannot do. Find out more about basement building regulations.
  2. Is your property in a conservation area? If so, there are some very specific requirements that you need to adhere to.
  3. Trees- check if there are any Tree Protection Orders (TPO”s) on your property. You will also need to assess whether your basement will have an impact on the trees in both yours and your neighbour’s properties.
  4. Party Wall Awards –You will need a party wall award if your home is semi-detached or terraced as you will be digging close enough to your neighbour’s property. If you are in a detached home, other criteria come into play. Speak to a party wall specialist to assess whether you need an agreement.
  5. Hire a competent and experienced architect. Your architect is the single most important person when you are embarking on any extension or conversion project. Find out how you can find the right architect here. 
  6. Of course, your building contractor is as important as your architect. Make sure you appoint a builder who is experienced with building basements. A builder who has never done a basement, may be perfectly capable of building an extension, but a basement has considerations that only an experienced basement builder will know.

At SDA Build London, we have worked on several homes across South West London and have built some stunning basements. Please do visit our Projects page to have a browse of the work we have completed.

If you are thinking about a garden basement or even a basement under your home, do give us a call on 0208 191 7595 or email us at enquiries@sdabuildlondon.co.uk or better still why not book a FREE consultation via our website. We’d be happy to visit your property, assess your needs and give you some recommendations and options.  We look forward to hearing from you.