Applying for Planning Permission for your project

The process of getting planning permission for any type of project can seem like long and daunting, and sometimes even cost you money. And if you don’t know your stuff, the risk of getting denied for planning permission can also add a lot of stress and worry to the whole process. Whether you’re planning a refurbish your home, or add an extension, then take note of these top tips to guide you through the planning permission process – start to finish.

Talk to people

One of the first things you should do when thinking about applying for planning permission is to talk to neighbours. This is especially important if you’re planning on extending your property, as it could obstruct neighbours views or the noise could even impact them. By introducing yourself and explaining your intentions, you could avoid future problems as your neighbours would already know what is going to happen – and it’s a lot better coming from you than the planning officials.

Research local planning policies

There are always different policies that you should be aware of and the best way to find the ones suited to you are on the local authority website – these can sometimes be tricky to find so take your time looking thoroughly.

Architectural plans are crucial

With any planning permission process, you always need to send away architectural drawings. These drawings take precision, patience and skill as everything inevitably comes down to the architectural drawings. Architectural plans highlight the whole construction process

Use planning jargon

If your planning applications look thorough and well planned out this could work in your favour. If you start using words such as; sustainability, street scene and access will make a huge difference to how you are perceived through the planning process. A well-rounded and most importantly specific planning application will do nothing but enhance your chances of being accepted.

Don’t lie!

Now, I know you’re probably thinking it would be easier to under-exaggerate your new extension or home design, but it is imperative that you don’t lie. Often, people will state that there won’t be any disturbance to the neighbours – which is all well and go to say at the time but if it becomes apparent that you lied then your application could be challenged.

Architectural Designer in Newcastle

If you’re looking for an architectural designer in Newcastle, then don’t hesitate to contact Acre Design today

Acre Design – Home Extension Specialists

Acre Design is an architectural design company who work with clients to design projects that aim to transform their space. The beauty of developing a project is that it gives you the opportunity to create a home that’s truly tailored to your family’s wants and needs and we want to help you achieve this.

Project Types

Here at Acre, we work on a diverse range of projects with our clients, and these include…

Two Storey Extensions

If your kids need their own bedroom or if you would like the master bedroom and ensuite you have always dreamed of, a two-storey extension could be the answer to your problems. Your options are endless with possibilities; however, they will need planning permission which we will take care of on your behalf.

Single Storey Extension

These extensions are a relatively simple, cost-effective way of increasing the space of your home and increasing the value of your home at the same time. For example, you may dream of an open-plan kitchen dining area – we can help.

Sunrooms

Where conservatories are difficult to heat in winter and keep cool in summer, a sunroom with fewer glazed elements really is the bright extension you can use all year round. At Acre, we are regularly working on a variety of these forms of extension across the North East. Call us today for examples and arrange a free site visit.

Timber Frame

Acre Design are specialists in timber frame construction, we have vast experience in building using many construction methods, but we think timber frame offers excellent advantages, and our clients throughout Newcastle and the North East should definitely consider it when extending their home.

Garage Conversions

Has your garage been accumulating stuff since the car got too big to fit? Converting these wasted spaces into a separate reception room, dining room, or even opening up to the existing house is a really cost-effective way of increasing the size of your home. It will require building control but our detailed plans will fly through to approval.

Loft Conversion

If you have the head height (we suggest anything above 2.3 metres) at the highest point you will be able to convert your loft. You can create big spaces under permitted development (which means you do not require a planning application). So get in touch today for a free consultation – we will even bring the ladders if needed.

Commercial

If your business is expanding and you are looking to alter or extend your existing commercial premises please give us a call for a free initial consultation at our office in Wallsend or at your place of work. We offer full project management, meaning you can focus on what you are good at, whilst we do what we are.

New Build Houses

If you are looking to build a bungalow or a small estate of homes, we have the capacity and flexibility to help. You pay us on the completion of set stages as laid out in our quote. For example, you may just want to gain planning permission, then that’s all you will pay us for.

Conversion

Conversions can be any building that were once used for one use, and is now to be used as something different. We have converted terraced houses to HMO’s, up to large office building into flats. We take care of all the paperwork, and then work closely with contractors to see the work through to completion.

Why Choose Acre?

Here at Acre, our ultimate goal is to keep you excited about the process of creating your dream home. We do this by giving you all design options within your budget and then we deal with the council on your behalf. We offer architectural ideas backed with over 10 years of our expert technical knowledge at great prices – you won’t find much better.

Contact Us Today

If you are interested in any of these services and wish to make an enquiry or get a quick quote, call us today on 0191 680 8088. We would be delighted to hear from you.

What are Building Control Drawings?

Building Control drawings explained

The law in the United Kingdom states that new construction projects need to be carried out in accordance with Building Regulations. However, there are a few circumstances where building regulations are not required, such as small porches, conservatories, or detached garages (up to 30m² floor area).

Once the planning permission for your project has been approved, the next step is to get technical drawings (Building Control plans) to ensure the design for your project complies with building regulations. These plans entail detailed construction drawings and ensure that the design complies with the Approved Documents. There are a number of Approved Documents, ranging from A to R. These include everything from structural and fire safety requirements for a new building or extension to electronic communications and accessibility.

As well as ensuring your project is built correctly and safely, the Building Control drawings will make it easier for tendering and pricing your project. After these drawings have been produced by your Architect/Designer they will be submitted to Building Control, where they will be checked over to ensure that they comply with the Building Regulations. This helps iron out any potential problems before building work starts on site, which could help save time and money.

What do the Building Control drawings comprise of?

A detailed explanation of the proposed project.
Technical drawings which include floor plans, elevations and building sections.
A technical specification.
Structural Engineers’ calculations (if they are required for a project).
A site plan showing the proposed works and its surroundings.

Building Notice

You may have heard the term ‘Building Notice’ or individuals saying that you do not need Building Control plans to start your construction project. This is correct, as a Building Notice can be submitted to your local authority before starting work. The local authority will still require information such as a site plan, drainage details and in some cases, sketch drawings. By using a Building Notice, you are stating that you will be complying with building regulations on site.

This method may be possible for smaller construction projects and alterations, but with larger projects come more problems. If a Building Notice is used, some contractors might not be aware of everything a design entails and may not meet the required regulations. Contrastingly, if Building Control drawings are used they will ensure the project complies with the Building Regulations and will be checked over by several people before work can start. This method will help overcome potential problems before getting to the site, which will ensure works run smoothly with fewer problems and will provide you with the perfect new home or extension.

We have put together a list of things to consider when you’re choosing an architectural designer to transform your home.

Acre is a Newcastle based architectural design company that works alongside you to transform your home and create an environment that truly reflects your family’s wants and needs for your space. Ultimately, we want to help you achieve your dream home and with over 10 years of expert technical knowledge, we are committed to ensuring we do so. Changing your home or property is a huge commitment and Acre are aware of this, therefore, we strive to ensure we deliver a finished product in the most cost-effective and unobtrusive way.

When taking on an architectural designer to assist you in changing your space there are a number of other crucial aspects to consider. Of course, considering who you use to assist you in your development is vital and finding a company that understands and is able to deliver your desires is a must. However, you must also consider…

What you want from the process
How to find a design that works for you
Getting through the building process – adapting your life accordingly and finding the right time to commit to this work

Here at Acre, we understand that these considerations can be immense, therefore we aim to provide as much support as we can to our existing and potential clientele to get them through the architectural process. But, why choose Acre to transform your home?

#1 We know our area

As Newcastle locals, we have extensive knowledge and experience with the architecture of the area and handling the structures of these buildings. Newcastle is famed for its beautiful Victorian properties and we are well-versed in adapting these properties for their modern purpose. Therefore, if you live in a period property in Newcastle Acre is well equipped to assist you. By understanding the structure of the city we can build and adapt your home with the building and you in mind. If you would like to know more about how we repurpose period properties for modern living see our building projects archive.

#2 We design with you in mind

Here at Acre, we design you in mind and we understand that properties are not just for looking at, they are also for living in! So the design must be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. We place a lot of Acre has gathered a team of exceptional design professionals that understand this ethos and use their knowledge to create this vision in your home. By using 3-D imaging we can help you see your future building before we have created it to ensure its truly what you want from your living space. By considering the little things that matter to you within our designs we guarantee you will be over the moon when you finally get to live day to day in your property.

#3 We use the latest technology

Where we can, we implement the latest technology when designing your home. We ensure our team is up to date with technological advances in architectural technology so that you have the very best product we can deliver. Acre also strives to use eco-friendly building materials. If you would like to know more about our architectural design process click here.

#4 We support you

Here at Acre, we like to support you through the architectural design process. We ensure you are well informed when choosing the right design, the right material, and right technology when constructing your home. We understand every step of the journey that you’re about to take and understand well the potential pitfalls. Through our experience, we aim to guide you through this and protect you against the getting planning permissions and so forth wrong. Find out more about getting through the planning stages with Acre Design’s guide to planning permission.

Let us help you turn your dream home into a reality.

If you are interested in any of our architectural design services then please do not hesitate to contact us today, we would love to hear from you.

How to Ensure Your Loft Conversion is Fire Safe

Are you planning a loft conversion in your home in Newcastle or the North East? It’s a big job, and one that can often be daunting and accompanied with a number of pitfalls! However, a loft conversion can also have a great deal of benefits, including enabling you to open up more space in your home and add up to 20% extra to the value to your property. The do’s and don’ts of a loft conversion are not always something our clients are all familiar with, leaving them to rely on loft conversion specialists for advice and guidance. However, one of the most important things to consider when constructing a loft conversion is ensuring you keep to the fire regulations (approved document part B) that accompany this building project. When it comes to loft conversion fire regulations, there are strict and stringent rules that must be followed. Whether you are converting a loft to add another rent-able room to your property or it is simply for your own residential purposes, fire safety is essential to ensuring the welfare of inhabitants.

Of course, finding out if you need planning permission is your first port of call when beginning a loft conversion project, the building regulations and fire safety is next on the agenda. Most lofts are exempt from planning permission, but it always best to check! Here are the Acre Design top tips for ensuring your loft conversion is fire safe and follow UK building regulations…

#1 FIRE SEPARATION OF A NEW STOREY

The new storey / loft conversion needs to be separated from the rest of the house using fire resisting construction. This is achieved by the compartmentalisation of the loft from the rest of the property using.

Structural elements, including floor joints, walls and beams with fire resistance of at least 30 minutes – this may involve re-plastering the ceilings on the floor below with fire-rated plasterboard.
The loft and protected route of escape must be fitted with fire doors, at the top and bottom of the new staircase as well as any habitable rooms with doors onto the escape route.
Exposed steel beams finished with in-tumescent paint and a flame-spread resistant top coat.
Interior timber must be of Class 1 rating, or finished with Class 1 rated coatings.

#2 ESCAPABLE ROUTES

Building regulations stipulate that there must be a protected escape route all the way from the loft to the ground floor exit door. All walls leading through the escape route must be built to the fire protection standard, this protected corridor must have passive fire protection for at least 30 minutes to ensure full loft conversion safety. Before you finalise your building work, all partition walls along the escape route must be adequately assessed to ensure they are in line with regulations.

#3 SMOKE ALARMS

It is a UK building regulation that mains-powered smoke alarms are installed on each and every floor of your home and are linked to one another so that they all ring if one is activated. Therefore, if you are adding a storey to your home in the form of a loft conversion this storey must be fitted with smoke detectors. All mains-operated smoke alarms should be fitted with batteries as back-up. Further, all smoke alarms must be fitted in so-called ‘circulation spaces’ such as hallways and landings and sited within 7.5 meters of a habitable room.

#4 FIRE DOORS

Loft conversion doors are another essential feature when considering the fire safety of your home extension. All interior doors must be fire doors and they need to be fire resistant for a least 20 minutes. Therefore, doors cannot be glazed (unless with fire-rated glass), so you may want to consider windows or roof-lights to bring daylight to the stairwell.

#5 WINDOWS

Although it is no longer necessary to fit escape windows into a new loft conversion, don’t underestimate their benefit. It you decide to use windows as a possible escape, route you must ensure that they are large enough and low enough to escape from. They also must be a minimum size of 450mm x 450mm and at least 0.33m2 in the area. As long as your conversion has open access to a stair escape route, one escape window will be sufficient within the roof room. Please note that if there is more than one room in your conversion you need to make sure all of the rooms have
these precautions.

If you are interested in starting the process of building your dream loft conversion please contact Acre Design today to arrange a free consultation. Our in-house loft experts are well trained on the importance of fire safety and would be more than happy to assist you to ensure your loft conversion covers all of these building regulations.

Modern house architecture trends

The modern aesthetics trend is playing a huge role in architecture and architectural design, heavily featuring in homes we are seeing today. Modern residential architecture is based around clean, open plan living spaces – designed to fit in with the growing needs of a modern household. We have put together a few trends in modern house architecture we think you will find interesting…

Bringing the outside indoors

This is a common lifestyle trend – as the digital world is taking over our everyday lives, households want to inject a bit of nature back into their homes. Modern house architecture does this through making living spaces creative. We don’t just mean adding a few potted plants in your living space; this new trend involves the use of vertical gardens with vines creeping up and around your walls, or
even an indoor courtyard of trees – with added skylight features to really open up space.

Large Windows

Following on from the last trend, adding large windows and skylights are becoming increasingly popular within modern homes – they are basically the definition of modern architecture. Large windows and glass walls add that element of environmental connectivity to outside surroundings – they also really transform any space into a beautiful architecturally designed home.

Sustainable Homes

Self-sufficient homes are the dream for every homeowner. Renewable energy systems in a home environment are no longer as abnormal as they once were, more and more people are opting for solar and wind driven systems over fossil fuels. The cost of renewable energy is rapidly going down – and with consistent reminders of the environmental benefits of renewable energy sources – the demand of this lifestyle choice is increasing.

Transformable spaces

Rooms that have flexibility in regards to the layout and space are currently really popular. The reason open-plan layouts are now all the rage is because you have the ability to transform that space into anything you need. Also, the convenience of having everything you need all in a close proximity is becoming a growing household need. The trend is increasingly popular with smaller spaces too, being able to make the most use out of a really small space is so important. By adding simple features like, bigger windows and lifting the ceilings higher (when possible), it creates that bigger, more open plan feel and ambience.

Smart Home Features

As mentioned before, the home architectural trends will grow with current lifestyle trends. As digital features are taking over our daily lives, households have a desire to start incorporating these features into their homes. Enabling your home with the latest household digital software is currently one of the biggest modern architectural trends. Having a modern home design that will fit in with these adaptive features is so important.

Transitional Design

Last, but not least. Every home seems to have adopted that of the Pinterest, modern farmhouse style. Something that offers a classic look, but also has modern functionality. A home with contemporary, but a historic twist. Transitional style, basically means, to add a mix of traditional and modern furnishings and decorative features to the interior of your home. It’s all about finding the right balance of building attributes and the furnishings you put in it.

If you’re looking to change your home layout and add a modern design to your exterior or interior, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Overheating of Homes…a sticky situation

The use of large amounts of glass when extending your home is something that almost all
of our customers are desperate to have, and understandably so!

Any house looks luxurious with bespoke bi-fold doors spanning up to 6 metres, or with sliders you get unobstructed panes up to 3 metres for a single pane, the perfect addition to your new dream home. The more glass in your extension you have, the more light will flood in, and happier you and your family will be in your new extension right? Well yes, but there are also some other considerations to bear in mind when deciding that you simply must have an entire wall as glass,
or every window is to be from the floor to the ceiling. A big consideration when designing buildings is that buildings ability to maintain a steady internal temperature throughout the year in this, lets be honest, fairly changeable climate we have to deal with on the fair isle.

Heat in… Heat out!

Glass just isn’t as good as an insulated wall for keeping the heat in, and is absolutely terrible at keeping the heat out in the summer, in fact, it does the opposite! I am sure most of us have walked into a conservatory that has been left to heat up on summer day? When you walk in, the heat hits you like walking into a furnace! Similarly that same conservatory is a no go area in winter when it is just impossible to heat up without seeing a marked increase in Januarys gas bill.

Focus on insulation

Keeping homes cool in the summer is not the focus of the building regulations, they are focusing on insulation and keeping the homes warm in the winter, but with global warming and the subsequent warmer summers, homes being built closer together (thank you very much the planning department), poor temperature controls and ore airtight buildings overheating can be as big a problem!

By definition a building suffers from overheating when the temperature becomes uncomfortable for occupants within a building. Increased humidity can also exacerbate the issue. It therefore must be a consideration when specifying large pieces of glass in any extension, or the orientation of that glass when designing new build housing.

Tricks for blocking the sun

In the UK the Zenith of the sun moves between 62 degrees in summer and 12 degrees in winter, meaning that specially designed shading like larger soffits, or brise soleil might be used to keep the sunshine out during the summer, but let it in during the winter. Another clever trick is to use deciduous trees positioned to block the sun in the summer period but will let light through in winter. Internal blinds can also help, with different glazing also an option to block out the worst of the sun’s rays. It is not just windows that let the heat in. The heat from the sun is defined as radiant heat and when it strikes a solid object it is absorbed and reemitted at a different frequency, as conductive or convective heat. Designers really therefore need to look at the types of wall and roof construction as much of this is only designed to stop the transfer of conductive or convective heat and allows the radiant heat to pass right through into the home. The use of multiple layers of different insulations, air gaps and ventilation
should be considered at the design stage.

Thermal Mass

With the growth of lightweight building systems like timber frame, SIPS panels and pre-insulated shuttered formwork the heat that enters the building quickly heats up only the air without any large amounts of mass (in this instance called thermal mass) to absorb the heat during period of high temperature, and then release that heat during the cooler evenings and night time. It takes around 4 times more energy to heat up a solid that to heat the air, and so including some thermal mass in the building (a concrete floor, granite work tops, masonry chimney breast or even just some denser plasterboard) the tops can be knocked off the peaks during the summer months.

If the property does get too warm, the best way to cool it is through cross ventilation with cooler air. One window is not enough as the air needs to pass from one opening through anther, this is easily achieved on a detached property, but often it is important to think about how to ‘bring in the breeze’ especially on terrace or semidetached property like we have here in the North East. All considerations we take into account for our clients, to make sure they get the dream home that they deserve, on budget and on time.

Self Projects: Let’s get started.

There’s no greater space than one created specifically to meet the needs of you and your family and it doesn’t have to cost the Earth. In fact, cutting out developers and creating a self-build will not only leave you with an overwhelming sense of satisfaction but could also save you big bucks. If you’re ready to take this creative and innovative plunge, we’ve put together some money-saving ideas to ensure your budget goes even further. ..

Planning and Preparation

Before you begin the design process, it’s a really good idea to consider the garden and surrounding features. There are the obvious choices to make: views, south-facing gardens and so on but further to this, recycling already established plants and tress is a really cost- effective strategy. Plants don’t have to remain in situ however, digging them up and keeping them well for replanting post-build could save you some cash at the garden centre! This, coupled with keeping the spoil (what’s dug from the land to fit the foundations) could save you a small fortune. Not only can spoil removal cost thousands but re-purchasing soil for landscaping can run up a hefty bill too. While we are talking horticulture, another great solution for a soakaway is to have a pond. If the pond is set 600mm below the surrounding ground and the surrounding banks are planted up, heavy rain could make the water level rise but it will then disperse into the surrounding soil.

When designing your space, ensuring it suits your needs entirely is a must and at ACRE we are experienced in understanding the needs of our clients. Many things must be considered in the initial design stages. The lounge is one example where focal points can often compete for space in this busy living area; simply situating the fireplace in the corner of the room (as opposed to the traditional centred wall fireplace) eliminates the problem. Not only does it reduce cold spots either side of the fire but it allows wall space for large windows, sofas, a television, storage or whatever you are passionate about! This is a the beauty of the self-build: we can help you achieve the perfect space, forget the ‘norm’ and build the perfect house for you.

Insulation Essentials

From a cost saving perspective, as well as an eco-sensitive one, insulation is a vital consideration. Further to the obvious use of insulation, simple additions can make a huge difference; for example insulating your bath with mineral wool insulation behind the panels (as long as it isn’t freestanding of course) ensures your water stays warmer for longer – especially handy if you have a few children to bathe!

As we all know, insulation is key for cost-savings with heating but here’s another cheap consideration – sound insulation for stairs in your self-build. Though this would allow an easier entry for teenagers sneaking home later than planned, a ‘silent staircase’ could make a huge difference to the peace in your home. This can be achieved ridiculously easily by stuffing the underside of the staircase with wool insulation before boarding stairs – obviously this wouldn’t be compatible with an open staircase however. This is another area where the team at ACRE understanding your needs entirely can help make sure these kind of elements are included in your designs.

Equipment equals ease

In rainy climates such as ours, laying concrete can be problematic which is why hiring a concrete pump is one of our top recommendations for self-builds. They can be costly at around £500 a day but they allow for large amounts of concrete to be laid in one day and avoid damage which can be caused by lorries, dragging concrete and bad weather.

Using manpower alone to put up trusses and steel joists in particular can be a time-consuming and dangerous task, which is why we would recommend hiring a crane for this, and at around £500 per day it’s well worth the spend. It’ll keep the job moving forward, cause the least aggro and remove potential damage – to your build and body parts!

Detailed design

Lastly, we cannot stress enough the benefits you’ll see when appointing ACRE as your designer. With detailed plans, developed with your dream in mind, your home can be built within budget and without nasty surprises.

Thinking of Self Building? A few tips to get you started.

Your home extension: external finishes and render options

The two main reasons for applying an external finish on a residential building is:

To protect the wall of the building from the effects of weathering, for example from the force of rainfall
To make the building aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

Types of External Renders

Acrylic Render

Acrylic render is normally applied as a very thin finish layer to improve aesthetic appearance of the building’s face and is very popular in modern day residential construction. When the acrylic material is made, small fibres are added in order to give a durable finish and to prevent cracking once it has been applied to the building. Silicone is also used in the process giving the product longer life span and the ability of self-cleaning.

Plasterer’s Company Website

Cement Render

Cement used to render a building is mixed on-site and this material is usually given 3 or 4 layers of application onto the building face, then the top coat is given a shiny, polished finish. The materials used to mix and create the cement are cheap however the labour is very expensive and this type of render usually requires frequent repainting to maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Concrete Company Website

Lime Render

Lime render is available in many different formats, such as lime putties or bagged hydraulic limes. This material is more difficult to apply and a little more expensive than other materials like Portland cement. Lime render also must be mixed on-site.

Building suppliers’ website

Monocouche Render

Monocouche render is supplied in a bag ready to be mixed with water and applied by hand trowel or usually sprayed on to the wall surface. This render is pre-coloured in a variety of different colours with a weatherproofing layer. It also contains additives making the material more likely to eliminate cracking, with the ability to also be self-cleaning. Using a monocouche render can be expensive to buy the materials, but it is easy to apply therefore it reduces labour costs without the need for any subsequent painting.

Product news website

Polymer Render

Polymer renders material is sold in pre-mixed quantities, available in a variety of different colours and based on either white cement or lime. During the production of the material, polymers and other plastic-based products are added in order to make them less prone to cracking, enhancing the life span of the finish.

INFORMATION ON TYPES OF EXTERNAL RENDERS

Types of External Cladding

Timber cladding

Timber cladding is a very popular cladding material, particularly around residential buildings, as it gives off the feel of a traditional timber frame and gives a very natural aesthetic to a building exterior.

Advantages of Timber Cladding:

Easily installed– Timber is a very lightweight material, making it easier to handle for labourers so they can install it faster. This makes it a cost-effective cladding material as construction costs are reduced.
Energy efficient – Timber is a very good insulating material and with a lower thermal conductivity than materials like steel and concrete, it reduces energy consumption of the building that is required to be heated and cooled. This is another reason why timber cladding is a very cost-effective material.
Environmentally friendly – Timber is a renewable resource whereas many construction materials are non-renewable. In addition, timber is 100% recyclable making it one of the most environmentally friendly building materials available.
Flexible – Timber is a very versatile material as it can be cut and trimmed into any shape to meet the clients demands, it is also available in different pattern styles.
Very durable – Timber cladding can last for many years if it is maintained regularly and with the correct cleaning methods, and scratches or grazes are not as prominent as they would be on other cladding materials. Timber usually goes through manufacturing processes to enhance its durability and making it more resistant to fire, however there are lots of timber species such as Western Red Cedar or Douglas fir that naturally last longer than other types of wood.

Concrete cladding

Concrete cladding is usually considered a material to be used in commercial building and is manufactured in the form of cladded tiles. These tiles are cut in a limited number of shapes and they also take longer to install therefore labour costs will be higher. Concrete cladding tiles are very strong, durable and only require a very small amount of annual maintenance.

Fibre cement cladding

Made up of a combination of cellular fibre, compressed sand, water and cement creating wet sheets, fibre cement cladding is a low cost of cladding sheet. It is very easy to install and can come in a variety of different colours and effects, with the material being painted or stained in the factory. Maintenance is not a big issue with this material as it only requires a small amount of annual cleaning and does not need to be repainted or stained.

Metal cladding

There are different types of this type of cladding, but metal cladding is the most common cladding material used in commercial building such as business parks and offices. All metal cladding types are easily decorated according to the client’s demand. Steel cladding is commonly used for commercial purposes as it is a strong, durable material, it is low maintenance and is very pleasing on the eye. However, it can be expensive therefore unfavourable on a tight budget and has poor thermal insulation performance. Aluminium cladding is also popular as it is very affordable, requires low maintenance and is easy to install on site. On the other hand, this material can look cheap if designed incorrectly and is easily damaged. Like steel, aluminium also offers a very low thermal insulation performance to a building.

Rainscreen cladding manufacturer website

Stone cladding

Stone cladding is very popular when it comes to residential building. It can give a real natural aesthetic feel to a building and is sometimes combined with another exterior finish or render to add dimension to the building. Stone is a very good insulator and is a very durable material, as it is able to withstand years of weathering making it a very popular exterior choice for residential buildings. However, stone cladding can be a very expensive material to install and maintain, but if the budget is not tight on a project, this cladding would be a good choice as it provides the building with a range of benefits.

Vinyl cladding system or Vinyl Siding

Vinyl cladding/siding is predominately made for cladding the exterior faces of houses and other residential buildings. Vinyl cladding comes in a variety of colours and patterns, and is also a cost-effective material as it reduces the cost of heating and cooling the living space that it is built on. This material requires little or no maintenance and can withstand harsh weathering but may need replaced every 5-7 years as the colouring of the cladding may fade. One major negative points would be that this material can cover up problems such as damp or other moisture problems which allows mould to grow. Also, this type of cladding can release harmful toxins when exposed to regular high temperatures which is bad for the environment. Cladding supplier website

Weatherboard cladding

Weatherboard cladding is a common type of technique used on residential building today and can be carried out with a wide variety of materials like fibre cement and UPVC, and in a range of colours and effects. It is an extremely durable method of cladding the exterior of a building and it can be applied to a variety of substrates. Weatherboard cladding usually requires a thorough annual maintenance routine to be kept at best condition. TYPES OF EXTERNAL CLADDING

How to ensure your building project runs smoothly

Do you want to make sure you’re completely ready to undertake your long awaited extension or self build project? Of course you do! It’s been a long time coming and by following these points you will be as well prepared as one can be, ready for a smooth build that’s completed on time and on budget.

# 1 Relationship between the builder

The key to a smooth build is a good relationship between the builder and the client onsite. Knowing what is expected of each other is essential to the success of a building project. Acre Designs clear specification and detailed plans will result in a good working relationship. Good communication at an early stage can save thousands.

# 2 Communication

Communication with neighbours from an early stage is important. One of the first things to do once a design scheme is nearing agreement is to take a plan round and introduce yourself and show them the proposals. If there is a problem, don’t let things build up, iron it out. Usually, the neighbours get frustrated or annoyed simply because they haven’t been involved from an early stage.

# 3 Schedules and Meeting

Acre Design works with a number of excellent contractors, however, it is important that you choose a builder you feel comfortable with and can envisage working well with. Ask them for a detailed schedule of works (if Acre Design hasn’t already produced this). So you have a point of reference, and arrange a regular meeting to discuss any changes to the plan and to check on progress.

# 4 Specification

Acre will consider everything thoroughly before building commences, and will ask for your thoughts and ideas, be sure to be thorough, no matter how trivial, if you mention something you’d like, we will ensure its accounted for in our specification. Changing the specification once the build is underway is possible, but may incur delays and additional costs.

# 5 Get booked in early

A common problem is the expectation that builders will be available in a short notice. Good builders can be booked up several months in advance.

# 6 How much do you have to spend?

Give the principal designer full disclosure on the desires for your home, but also the limitations, this is usually the amount of money you have to spend. We would never want to design something you loved, only to find out the design is unrealistic or unachievable because the funding wasn’t there. Knowing how much you have to spend is a key element affecting our design.

# 7 Read your quote!

Make sure you know exactly what you are getting from your builder. Get everything in writing, read your quote carefully and ask for it to be explained if it’s not clear.We will happily have everyone around the table to go through it all should it be required.

# 8 Getting your house ready

Most work will involve major upheaval. The contractor will cover everything anyway, but it does make thing a lot easier and safer if you got the house ready by removing all personal belongings and furniture -where practical. Leaving a clear workspace makes a big difference to the speed and often finish date for when the contractor is able to achieve.

# 9 Dream home is not far away

When projects start onsite, every party involved, the client, the principal contractor and principal designer should have no further questions about the task at hand. During the design phase, Acre Design will have agreed on a scheme with the client, and prepared all the necessary paperwork and specification, alongside the detailed plans and gained the necessary approvals. To get to that point, there will have been meetings with involved parties to iron out any issues or answer any questions and now is the time to put all that hard work into practice. Your dream home is not far away now!