Can I make good a old extension or does it need to be rebuilt?

Hello all I would advise is that if you are happy with the condition of the brickwork and that it is double skin as a pose to single brick wall then you probably good .Especially if you are putting new roof on anyway ,the only other point I would recomend dig a trial hole to check if the exstention is on a good footing if it is not then would start from scratch . Karl

Yes it would be far cheaper to upgrade your existing extension as long as it is structurally sound. A professional competent builder would probably recommend various options, you could then choose which option would be the best for you your requirements and your budget.

If the existing extension is in good/reasonable condition then yes, it would save you on the cost of demolition and a new build extension. You should firstly assess the extension for any signs of damp, movement, pointing issues, window damage etc. as these will need to be addressed. The old roof should be removed completely although it is sometimes more practical and cost effective to keep the old roof boards in place if in good condition and then build your new rubber roof on top. You will need new guttering and downpipes. Removal of concrete floor isn’t a problem, although labour intensive! as its a hand dig job. Also, there’s costs with fitting new timbers and floorboards, but remember that you will now have underfloor space to run any new wiring or plumbing. The soil (toilet) pipe which currently is boxed in, will need diverting across the new roof and down to underground, but will need to be connected back into the main drains/sewer pipe, so further labour and costs are involved here. Basically a small extension would cost around £30,000 Your costs for re-roof, new timber floor and soil pipe diverting back into main drain would be somewhere around £8,000 so quite a saving! Bare in mind though, you’ll need to budget for your new kitchen, re-wiring, plastering, floor tiles, new windows, plug sockets, taps etc etc. Hope this helps. W Scott Building

I have not seen the job but from the description given and there are no defects with brickwork or floor dpm (which can be rectified) it should always be cheaper to upgrade an existing shell . You are not demolishing a building..no new foundations...no new brickwork. Even if the roof needs renovating there is often salvageable parts and its a good opportunity to upgrade 25 yr old insulation. About the only drawback is you are left with the same size building. But if fulfills the need its a cheap alternative.