What will you build?

Self build advice

There are many factors to consider when first considering your self-build project. The building plot and the environment, the style of the surrounding properties, local planning regulations, your budget and, not forgetting, your specific day to day living requirements.

The shape and slopes of the building plot can also be incorporated into novel designs and shapes, where the building takes advantage of the natural environment surrounding it. For example, steeply sloping land may well lend itself to incorporating garage space and utility basement areas under the main living area of the house.

Don't forget to examine the existing vegetation and decide in advance what shrubs, plants or trees will remain and whether any of these trees may be protected. If there is a stream running through or adjacent to the house, consider the possibility of flooding and ensure you build above flood levels. Check on any previous use of the land to ensure its suitability for building on. If your self-build plot is in a mining area where subsidence could be a problem, make sure you have the appropriate surveys done first to ensure the stability of your plot.

One factor often overlooked in a self build project is utilising the best views and deciding which rooms should overlook these. Don't forget to locate the sun position in the morning and in the late afternoon. Think too about the slope of the land and consider where water will drain to naturally - you may need to consider altering the land levels to ensure flow away from your home.

Take into account factors such as where you might have vehicle and pedestrian access. Look also to see where existing mains services are located and consider how these will be routed into your property.

Study carefully the style of surrounding properties and check to see if there are any covenants affecting what you can and cannot do with your building. Speak with the planning authorities for area based design requirements - local building regulations can often restrict choices in the interest of retaining the character of an area. Make sure the planned style for your self-build property will fit in well with the other properties in your locality.

Construction options

One of the advantages of self-build is that it does give you a lot of flexibility over the construction method you wish to use. Some construction options are only open to the self builder as no UK developers currently use them. However, the method you finally choose will be determined by a number of factors, including:

Design preference

Certain construction methods are better suited to particular house designs than others. Therefore if you are looking to build a house with large open plan features, a steel frame construction may be preferable to traditional brick and block.

Budget

Different methods of building influence the costs per square foot. The smaller your budget, the more restricted your choice of building method. Furthermore, if you require a mortgage, you may find that your lender restricts your construction options. To ease your budgeting concerns you could apply for a Jewson self build credit account with up to a 20k limit whilst receiving the valuable advice of Jewson experts at your local branch.

Level of input to your build

If you wish to self-build your own house, your construction choice will be limited to your competencies.

The main self-build construction options in the UK:

Timber frame

Timber frame buildings are very popular with self builders and also growing in market share among commercial developers in England and Wales. It provides a wide range of design options from a traditional brick-faced look to the wooden Scandinavian finish.

Brick and block

The most conventional commercial building method in the UK, with an inner skin of concrete blocks, an outer skin of facing bricks and a layer of insulation between the two.

Steel frame

This self-build construction option is popular in the US but rare in the UK. This option will almost certainly require you to purchase a kit on a supply and fit basis and your choice of design will be limited to those offered from the kit manufacturer.

Alternative building methods

These include Beco, Styrostone, Structured Insulated Panels (SIPs) and timber clad.

Eco building

Some cross-over with other methods but specific eco builds involve using materials such as straw. Be warned that you may find it difficult to get a mortgage and resell the house.

Conversions & Extensions

We don't just offer advice on building your own house. Embarking on a self build loft/garage conversion or a home extension can be an excellent way to add that extra space and value to your current home.

Often a loft or garage conversion can be a great way to add office or bedroom space and doesn't always require planning permission. Our experts can provide you with advice on building methods, materials and planning to embark on a conversion project.

When converting or extending it is important to ensure easy and safe access is in place to meet planning/fire regulations and make sure your new space is easily usable. Also, think carefully about what you might be using your new space for, in a loft conversion try to use space effectively by adding integrated storage into spaces where conventional storage might not fit (because of roof pitch).

The correct use of materials are key when embarking on a conversion or extension project, if the materials used are not similar in appearance to those used in the rest of your home this can lead to planning issues and potentially spoil the aesthetics of your house affecting value and desirability. If you need help with funding your project and materials you can apply for a Jewson self build credit account which offers up to a £20k limit whilst giving you the service and advice you need to complete your project.