Professional House Extension in Ashford
Planning a house extension in Ashford is one of the most practical ways to create more space, increase your home’s value, and avoid the stress of moving. Whether you want to add a new bedroom, expand your kitchen, or create an open-plan living area, an extension gives you the freedom to design your home around your lifestyle.
At AGC Carpentry & Building Services, we have completed many extensions and home improvement projects across Kent. From design to completion, our focus is always on quality workmanship, communication, and practical results that stand the test of time.
This guide explains everything you need to know about planning a house extension in Ashford, including design ideas, permissions, costs, and the best ways to make the process run smoothly.
Why Build a House Extension?
A house extension is one of the best investments you can make in your property. Instead of moving to find a larger home, extending your current one allows you to tailor the space to your needs.
Common reasons homeowners choose to build an extension include:
- Adding extra bedrooms or a master suite
- Creating a larger kitchen or family room
- Building a home office or study
- Adding a utility or downstairs bathroom
- Connecting the indoors with the garden using bi-fold doors
An extension can completely transform how a home functions, making it more comfortable and efficient for modern living.
The Main Types of House Extensions
The design and layout of your home will usually determine which type of extension is most suitable. The most common options for a house extension in Ashford include:
Single-Storey Extensions
Perfect for expanding kitchens or living rooms, single-storey extensions are one of the most popular choices. They can often be built under permitted development rights, meaning no formal planning permission is needed if the size and design meet specific criteria.
Double-Storey Extensions
These add space both upstairs and downstairs, ideal for growing families who need extra bedrooms and bathrooms. Although they take longer to complete, they significantly increase property value.
Rear and Side Extensions
Rear extensions typically open onto the garden, providing bright, open-plan living spaces. Side extensions work well for terraced or semi-detached properties with unused alley space.
Wrap-Around Extensions
For maximum space, wrap-around extensions combine both side and rear extensions, transforming the layout of your entire ground floor.
Each option can be tailored to your property, and our team can advise on the most effective layout based on your needs and budget.
Planning Permission and Regulations
Before starting your house extension in Ashford, it’s important to check whether you need planning permission. Many smaller extensions can be built under permitted development rights, provided they meet conditions relating to height, depth, and distance from boundaries.
Larger or double-storey extensions usually require a formal application. Working with an experienced builder who understands Ashford Borough Council’s requirements can help prevent unnecessary delays.
All extensions must also comply with UK Building Regulations, covering structural safety, insulation, ventilation, drainage, and fire safety. At AGC, we handle this process as part of our project management service, ensuring everything is compliant from start to finish.
The Typical Timeline for an Extension
While every project varies, most extensions follow a similar timeline:
- Design and Planning (4–8 weeks) – Initial designs, planning applications, and approvals.
- Groundwork and Foundations (2–4 weeks) – Preparing the site, digging, and pouring foundations.
- Construction (8–14 weeks) – Building walls, installing roofs, and fitting structural elements.
- Finishing and Interiors (4–6 weeks) – Electrical, plumbing, plastering, and decoration.
A straightforward single-storey extension can often be completed in around 12 to 16 weeks. Larger or more complex builds may take several months, depending on weather, materials, and planning conditions.
Choosing the Right Builder
Selecting an experienced builder is one of the most important steps in any extension project. A professional builder will manage timelines, communicate clearly, and ensure quality at every stage.
We have delivered a wide range of extensions and conversions throughout Kent, handling both the carpentry and structural work in-house. This approach allows us to maintain control over quality while keeping projects running efficiently.
When looking for a builder, always check previous work and customer reviews. Luckily, we have had some of our previous customers leave amazing reviews on our Google My Business profile, and we have added a widget on our website that displays them. Our Google profile is here.
Budgeting and Cost Factors
The cost of a house extension in Ashford depends on several factors, including:
- Size and design complexity
- Type of materials used
- Site accessibility
- Whether planning permission is needed
- Level of interior finish
Single-storey extensions are generally more affordable than double-storey ones, but even small projects benefit from careful budgeting. We always provide detailed quotes to help clients understand exactly what is included, avoiding hidden costs later.
Design and Material Choices
Designing your extension should balance functionality and style. Open-plan layouts remain very popular, especially for kitchen and dining areas, while adding skylights or bi-fold doors helps maximise natural light.
Choosing the right materials also has a major impact on the look and durability of your extension. Many homeowners blend traditional brickwork with modern glazing to achieve a balanced design that complements existing architecture.
If you are planning to update your kitchen or bathroom as part of your extension, our renovation and bathroom fitting services can help ensure every detail is finished to a high standard.
Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them
Even with careful planning, some challenges can arise during an extension project. The most common include:
- Delays due to planning approval or bad weather
- Unexpected ground conditions
- Changes to design mid-build
- Material shortages
To avoid these, communication and preparation are key. We make sure clients are updated regularly and that each stage is signed off before moving forward. This helps avoid unnecessary hold-ups and keeps the project running smoothly.
Viewing Previous Projects
Before beginning your own extension, it can be helpful to view examples of similar work. You can see some of our work to get an idea of the different types of extensions we have completed across Kent.
Every project we take on is unique, but they all share one thing in common, careful planning, reliable craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
Aftercare and Support
Our commitment to clients doesn’t end when construction finishes. We provide aftercare on all projects to ensure everything continues to perform as it should once you move into your new space.
This includes addressing any minor adjustments and checking that all fittings, finishes, and systems meet your expectations.
Conclusion
A house extension in Ashford offers a cost-effective and rewarding way to transform your home. With the right planning, materials, and professional support, you can create a space that perfectly suits your family’s lifestyle while adding long-term value to your property.
At AGC Carpentry & Building Services, we take pride in helping homeowners turn ideas into practical, well-built spaces. From planning to completion, we handle every stage carefully and professionally.
If you are considering an extension and would like to discuss your plans, you can contact us to arrange a consultation and receive a detailed quote.
