Rogersp

Many thanks for your input, really appreciated. I had considered EWI but the bricks used are really attractive and in exceptional condition so I know from an aesthetical view I know SWMBO would have a fit if I fitted EWI. The reason I'd dismissed cavity insulation was because of a feature on Skill Builder where Roger B criticised CWI could lead to internal damp etc., so thought IWI would be the best option as long as I would not be at risk interstitial condensation. I suppose I should ask the question, hoiw many people have suffered issues with CWI. Maybe more research. Thanks again

Hi, After a few years of looking a building plot in Cheshire, that I could afford, I've now sold my home and have pushed the button purchase an untouched but cared for 1970's bungalow. This will be my last home where I will be carried out in a box! As I've said the bungalow is almost untouched but think double glazing and central heating were added but both are looking tired along long with the original kitchen. Add to that a poor layout I've decided to more or less gut it and remodel the space, which is mostly all stud work, adding a 4/5 metre extension to the rear to create 7 x 7 metre open living area overlooking a sizable garden. I've already contacted the Heat Geeks who will do a Heat Loss survey taking into consideration the changes I'm planning which: Install ASHP along with larger pipework if required Bathrooms Kitchen Upgrade wiring to include RCBO protection Install Triple Glazing MVHR system etc., etc I know, I'm probably going to spend more that the building is worth but managed to purchase the property about £120/130k below similar properties sold in the locality so feel I have funds to play with even if I do over spend. So, onto my dilemma. I'm still waiting for confirmation if the property has cavity insulation although I'm unable find any filling holes. I suppose i could drill a few holes in the mortar and poke in a camera. Anyway, my question: If the wall cavities are filled can I still add internal wall insulation, 25 or 50mm PIR, then reboard/skim without an increase risk of interstitial condensation? Opinions and experiences would be gratefully received Thank you

House Builder Bible is a great start point if i was you I’d find an old edition on fleabay to start with. Obviously the pricing will be out of date but you can allow for some inflation to build a budget. If it looks good buy the latest edition as a sanity check but bear in mind he uses pricing from his local area if I recall correctly. No doubt someone will recommend other reading

Hi Still on the hunt for a building plot within my budget which poses the first question: If a survey of existing property in the surrounding geography equals x 000s of £s, what percentage would one expect to pay for a building plot in that geography. I just want to be cautious that I don't over pay for a building plot and build a house thats well above the market pricing for that area. I realise this a real variable but wondered if someone had a quick and dirty formulae to apply? Secondly, looking at both enclosed panel and SIP construction for the shell/frame construction but came across this company based in the uk at the Grand Designs show at the NEC: https://www.taloelements.co.uk/index.html and the parent company or supplier to the above company: https://www.jetta-talo.fi/ Accessing the parent company WS, utilising Translate, has more details and Specification looks very good, or is it? I have witnessed similar homes being built in Sweden where such houses appear to be erected very quickly and are weather tight within days and are well regarded. Has anyone any experience of this company of opinions on the quality of the product and any experience of dealing with them. I'm still building a rough cut budget and looking at many options so would be grateful for any input. Many thanks

Hi All Great forum. After many years of thinking about we're about to take the plunge. House will be on the market in a few months and we'll rent a place while we look for a plot to self build. As I'm retired I want to be able to live on the ground floor so will design the house to accommodate this in the future. Our plan is a 1.5 story SIP shell with a block and K render skin. I hope to engage a builder who will completed the foundations for the SIP supplier to erect the shell then they can complete the roof along with the block work and the utility services etc. As I have some experience in the trade I'm hoping the builder will accommodate me utilising members of my family to complete rendering, plastering, electrics, heating etc. My only concern is the complexities of Health and Safety if contractors are not appointed by the builder? Just reading up on this on this but if anyone has any advice please do respond. Also looking for a recommended SIP supplier but struggling and speaking to local builder they look at me as though I've lost the plot talking about and OSB insulated frame. I'll keep you posted.