MoraM3

Pre-cast houses put up in the fifties were done on a budget and at speed and not really designed with longevity in mind. I have a plot that had a pre-fab bungalow and the condition of the foundations are not in the best of shape and it was always the intention to get them removed when I commence the groundworks. Personally, I would not take any chances and best to budget for it’s removal and start from a correctly specified base.

The following video will hopefully give you a good overview of the considerations when specifying windows and doors - plenty of good tips and pointers. What to Consider when Specifying Windows and Doors - Self-Build and Renovation Videos By Architectural Doors and Windows (scottishselfbuild.com)

Looks like an ideal size as a plant room but not sure with combining it as a utility, especially the point raised regarding the proximity of the sink location to the electrics. Another consideration with it also being used as a utility room could be potential limited storage/worktop, especially if in the future you ever wanted to install a tumble drier or additional battery storage. Also, is there solar PV to consider and the associated switchgear, invertor and ancillaries? Overall, with all the services converging this would need a very carefully thought out layout/services and ducting routing plan and a neat install. Keep us updated on your final solution and how it turns out.

The Carron Phoenix Deca range also have the flat top. They are expensive but are solid and have a top quality finish.

The site is located in town.

Hi everyone, Myself and my partner purchased a plot in Inverness in August last year on which we are going to build our retirement home - we don’t have an immediate or fixed timeline but the plan is to have it complete for March 2026. There was an existing 1950s bungalow on the property which has been demolished by the previous owner and were planning on building a 1 ½ / 1¾ storey SIPS construction 3 bedroom property following the fabric first approach. As well as the usual triple glazing, MVHR etc. we hope to include a sizeable in-roof solar PV and battery storage. To date we’ve only being doing initial research (Self build seminars and trip to the NSBRC) and have yet to engage an architect but will definitely be choosing one with experience of SIPS construction. We’re first timers doing a full self-build but have previously done renovations, remodelling as well as a couple of extensions on our current property. So far, I’ve enjoyed reading the various topics and discussions on the Buildhub forum from fellow self builders. Likewise, we hope to pass on the lessons, and nuggets of information, from our own journey to come. Thank you for having us.

Hi, @markharro When I was down visiting the NSBRC I came across Tescon Pro Clima Roflex products which have options form cables, pipes and ducts. You can see examples of their products on the stand in attached photo.

Hi @markharro, For CCTV on my current property I've recently installed (March) a Eufy S330, their wireless solar powered solution, which works well with all cameras retaining their full charge, albeit over spring/summer. Cheapest option was to buy direct (£799 for 4 camera kit including the base unit and a 1TB hard drive with no monthly fees). Also noticed that Costco have recently started stocking. I'm seriously considering also installing this system on my new build project as it will be a SIPS construction.

Hi @markharro, One option for your EV and Solar to help reduce your cables would be to use Doncaster Cables EV Ultra cable https://youtu.be/OmHtcfWUI4w and their recently released PV Ultra Cable https://youtu.be/OmHtcfWUI4w, both neatening things up and minimising the required penetrations.