If you’re planning a conservatory, a house extension or fixing a cracked foundation, you need straight‑forward guidance that actually works. This page pulls together the most useful Tier 1 topics – everything from foundation crack sizes to budgeting a new build in 2025. Grab a notebook, because the tips below can save you time, money and headaches.
Cracks in a foundation are scary, but not every crack means disaster. Measure the width with a ruler: anything under 1 mm is usually just shrinkage. Once the crack reaches 3 mm, start worrying and call a structural engineer. The bigger the gap, the higher the repair cost – typically £100‑£250 per metre for epoxy injection, more if you need underpinning. Knowing when to act keeps repairs from turning into a full‑scale rebuild.
Most UK homeowners love the idea of adding space without the bureaucracy of a planning application. Under Permitted Development rights you can extend up to 8 m forward (or 6 m for a detached house) and 4 m sideways, as long as the new roof is lower than the existing one. Keep the height under 4 m for a single‑storey extension and you’re safe. Check the local council’s guidelines – a quick phone call can confirm you’re staying within the rules.
When budgeting, separate the big tickets from the hidden costs. A basic extension runs £1,200‑£1,800 per square metre, but you’ll also pay for site clearance, utility diversions and finishing touches like flooring and decoration. Adding a conservatory usually adds £1,500‑£2,000 per metre, but using uPVC frames can shave a few hundred pounds off the total.
Insurance rarely covers foundation issues unless you have specific subsidence coverage, so read your policy carefully before you start digging. If your home sits on clay, consider a damp proof course and a moisture‑resistant cement mix – experts recommend a 1:3 ratio of hydraulic cement to sand for long‑lasting strength.
Finally, keep an eye on the build timeline. New structures settle for up to 12 months; during that time, small cracks can appear as the concrete adjusts. Watch for movement larger than 1 mm after six months – that’s a sign you may need a specialist to check the settlement.
Whether you’re fixing a cracked foundation, extending your living space or comparing the cost of building vs buying, these Tier 1 insights give you a clear roadmap. Use them to ask the right questions, get accurate quotes and avoid common pitfalls. Your next home improvement project will be smoother, cheaper and far less stressful.
Building contractors are divided into tiers based on their project size, experience, and resources. Tier 1 contractors typically handle large-scale, complex projects with significant budgets. Tier 2 contractors manage mid-sized projects, while Tier 3 focus on smaller, more localized jobs. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right contractor for your needs.
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