Home improvement and major remodelling works can breathe fresh life into your hearth and home, and while many projects like DIY decorating or minor alterations may be done without professional contractors, roof extensions tend to require qualified and experienced roofers.Below are five things to consider when looking for a roof extension:
What is the Purpose of a Roof Extension?
Perhaps the most common reason why a roof extension is needed is because the homeowner is expanding the size of their home by adding another room such as a sunroom or a home office, for example. Increasing the size of the structure means that more roof is needed to cover the extension.Some homeowners may want a roof extension in order to cover their outdoor patio or seating area, creating what is essentially like a garden conservatory or a sheltered outdoor kitchen or lounging area.Knowing the purpose of the roof extension means you might be able to better envision how it will look once completed, as well as how big it needs to be.
Does Your Roof Have Enough Structural Integrity?
Your home should have enough structural integrity to support your existing roof (otherwise it would collapse or be at risk of collapse!), but will it be able to sustain a roof extension? Will you need to have additional load-bearing walls erected to support the extension?Roofing extension of a few metres may not seem like much in the grand scheme of things, but multiply that length by the width and consider heavier roofing materials like terracotta or slate and the overall mass might require suitable support. If in doubt, contact a qualified structural engineer or a professional builder.
What is Your Preferred Design and Style?
For most homeowners, a roof extension should blend seamlessly with the existing roof, using the same materials and colours. Furthermore, the pitch should also match the existing pitch so as to create a uniform shape and to remain aesthetically pleasing and consistent.There aren’t many reasons why you’d want to use different materials for a roof extension, but there may be some reasons to consider different angles if the roof extension calls for something more complex than simply extending it lengthwise. Speak with a professional roofer to get a better idea of design options.
Do You Need a Council Permit and/or Planning Permission?
Many minor alterations to your home in Victoria require a permit, but roof extensions can vary in scale and scope and some projects may require a permit. The extension and renovation checklist might give you a better idea, and it is important to know that as a homeowner it is your responsibility to obtain all necessary planning permissions and permits.Again, a qualified roofing contractor can assist you with these tasks although it is ultimately your responsibility to obtain relevant permits and planning permissions when required.
How Much Will a Roof Extension Cost?
Not all roof extension projects are the same. Some homeowners may only require a simple extension of a few metres from the existing roof, without any complex angles or changes to pitch or design.Conversely, many roof extensions are indeed quite complex and may require weeks, not days, to complete, potentially costing tens of thousands of dollars.The best way to find out how much a roof extension will cost is to request a free and transparent quote from a reputable roofing company in Melbourne.
