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Non GAA Discussion => General discussion => Topic started by: JPF on July 23, 2009, 01:29:28 PM

Title: building a house
Post by: JPF on July 23, 2009, 01:29:28 PM
Hi all Ive been a long term reader/fan of this board and rarely have the time to contribute, but am building a 3500 sguare foot house and am looking advice on the following if theres any peoiple with experiences, Id appreciate this, ive seen a lot of stuff so its real experience im looking without the blurb.
1) Efficient heating system - at this stage Im almost certainly not going for ufloor heating - too many scare stories, so I need to go for a different system, assuming rads and probably oil - is there any options? Also insulation needs and eg heat recovery systems / solar panel experiences etc.  Pressured water systems.'
2) Smart home systems - Surround sound in a couple of rooms / lighting / security cameras / bband /tv etc.  What are the options on a sensible enough budget?
Thanks
JPF
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: The Subbie on July 23, 2009, 02:30:39 PM
http://gaaboard.com/board/index.php?topic=13086.0  (http://gaaboard.com/board/index.php?topic=13086.0)

Check this fella out, he's from Laois but despite that i'd say he's your man
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: downtown on February 16, 2019, 10:31:15 PM
hi all, trying to get a house build and looking about the exterior off the house. we had our heart set on stone but its going to cost to much. just wondering is there any other alternatives that is similar to stone than is cheaper? thanks in advance
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on February 16, 2019, 11:23:04 PM
Take it you've looked at the cladding? McGonigles do one and is much cheaper than full stone. Are you looking to do the full house in stone? Sometimes just the outshots/ porch/ sunroom can set a house off without the cost off all stone.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Owen Brannigan on February 17, 2019, 10:35:48 AM
Quote from: downtown on February 16, 2019, 10:31:15 PM
hi all, trying to get a house build and looking about the exterior off the house. we had our heart set on stone but its going to cost to much. just wondering is there any other alternatives that is similar to stone than is cheaper? thanks in advance

Surely the cost is in the labour regardless of whether you clad in real or manufactured stone.  Agree with TrueBlue, stone as a feature can work best against a rendered finish or in combination with some wood cladding.  Too much stone of a particular hue can be hard to look at long term.

This self-build exhibition is on this week and will have stone dressers and manufacturers:

https://www.facebook.com/events/528577350979039/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/528577350979039/)

In relation to stone have you checked out:

https://www.coolestone.co.uk (https://www.coolestone.co.uk)

http://www.aurastone.co.uk (http://www.aurastone.co.uk)

http://www.naturalstoneindustries.com (http://www.naturalstoneindustries.com)

Tullylish Stone
41 Blue Road,
Gilford,
Craigavon,
County Armagh,
BT63 6DA
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: balladmaker on February 17, 2019, 10:37:00 AM
As mentioned by Trueblue1234, McMonagles have a 'Stoneer', which is basically a veneer of real stone facing .... so when it's on, you cannot tell the difference.  I did a porch and sunroom in full stone as they didnt have the stoneer option at the time, but if doing it again, would do it in stoneer, much cheaper and same effect.  I love natural stone on a house.  Have a contact for a brilliant stone mason based in the north but he seems to work everywhere, if you need it, PM me.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on February 17, 2019, 11:57:05 AM
Quote from: JPF on July 23, 2009, 01:29:28 PM
Hi all Ive been a long term reader/fan of this board and rarely have the time to contribute, but am building a 3500 sguare foot house and am looking advice on the following if theres any peoiple with experiences, Id appreciate this, ive seen a lot of stuff so its real experience im looking without the blurb.
1) Efficient heating system - at this stage Im almost certainly not going for ufloor heating - too many scare stories, so I need to go for a different system, assuming rads and probably oil - is there any options? Also insulation needs and eg heat recovery systems / solar panel experiences etc.  Pressured water systems.'
2) Smart home systems - Surround sound in a couple of rooms / lighting / security cameras / bband /tv etc.  What are the options on a sensible enough budget?
Thanks
JPF

There's an excellent group on Facebook: Self Build & Rennovations Ireland
All your questions will be answered on there if you use the search facility
Self build show also in titanic belfast this coming week. Tickets can be got for free on Self Build live Belfast on Facebook
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Ambrose on February 17, 2019, 04:19:42 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 17, 2019, 11:57:05 AM
Quote from: JPF on July 23, 2009, 01:29:28 PM
Hi all Ive been a long term reader/fan of this board and rarely have the time to contribute, but am building a 3500 sguare foot house and am looking advice on the following if theres any peoiple with experiences, Id appreciate this, ive seen a lot of stuff so its real experience im looking without the blurb.
1) Efficient heating system - at this stage Im almost certainly not going for ufloor heating - too many scare stories, so I need to go for a different system, assuming rads and probably oil - is there any options? Also insulation needs and eg heat recovery systems / solar panel experiences etc.  Pressured water systems.'
2) Smart home systems - Surround sound in a couple of rooms / lighting / security cameras / bband /tv etc.  What are the options on a sensible enough budget?
Thanks
JPF

There's an excellent group on Facebook: Self Build & Rennovations Ireland
All your questions will be answered on there if you use the search facility
Self build show also in titanic belfast this coming week. Tickets can be got for free on Self Build live Belfast on Facebook

You'd like to think he has the house built and the family nearly reared in the ten years between the two posts.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: armaghniac on February 17, 2019, 06:56:49 PM
Quote from: Ambrose on February 17, 2019, 04:19:42 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 17, 2019, 11:57:05 AM
Quote from: JPF on July 23, 2009, 01:29:28 PM
Hi all Ive been a long term reader/fan of this board and rarely have the time to contribute, but am building a 3500 sguare foot house and am looking advice on the following if theres any peoiple with experiences, Id appreciate this, ive seen a lot of stuff so its real experience im looking without the blurb.
1) Efficient heating system - at this stage Im almost certainly not going for ufloor heating - too many scare stories, so I need to go for a different system, assuming rads and probably oil - is there any options? Also insulation needs and eg heat recovery systems / solar panel experiences etc.  Pressured water systems.'
2) Smart home systems - Surround sound in a couple of rooms / lighting / security cameras / bband /tv etc.  What are the options on a sensible enough budget?
Thanks
JPF

There's an excellent group on Facebook: Self Build & Rennovations Ireland
All your questions will be answered on there if you use the search facility
Self build show also in titanic belfast this coming week. Tickets can be got for free on Self Build live Belfast on Facebook

You'd like to think he has the house built and the family nearly reared in the ten years between the two posts.

Sure you'd need 10 years to populate a 3500 sq ft house, unless you had several wives.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: awideisneverasgood on February 17, 2019, 07:44:19 PM
Quote from: downtown on February 16, 2019, 10:31:15 PM
hi all, trying to get a house build and looking about the exterior off the house. we had our heart set on stone but its going to cost to much. just wondering is there any other alternatives that is similar to stone than is cheaper? thanks in advance

Recently completed an extension to our house and put some of the cladding on the face of the new extension and the existing porch. Very happy with it turned out and a big saving on stone.

https://www.lbsproducts.com/natural-stone-products/z-stone

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 17, 2019, 09:03:01 PM
i thought people were broke these days and pleading poverty  ???
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: From the Bunker on February 17, 2019, 10:03:50 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 17, 2019, 09:03:01 PM
i thought people were broke these days and pleading poverty  ???

Poor and broke people Buy and build houses too!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on February 24, 2019, 12:54:55 PM
We have crows who sit on the guttering directly above the back door.  Unfortunately, as you'd guess, they poop and it falls down on the path at the back door.  They roost in a clump of trees about 200 yards away but seem to use our roof as a place to stop before they head to the trees.

We've a big plastic owl but not much use.  Somebody told me that I need a pretend owl who's head moves occasionally. 

Any ideas?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trailer on February 24, 2019, 04:35:38 PM
Quote from: marty34 on February 24, 2019, 12:54:55 PM
We have crows who sit on the guttering directly above the back door.  Unfortunately, as you'd guess, they poop and it falls down on the path at the back door.  They roost in a clump of trees about 200 yards away but seem to use our roof as a place to stop before they head to the trees.

We've a big plastic owl but not much use.  Somebody told me that I need a pretend owl who's head moves occasionally. 

Any ideas?
Something is attracting them. Have you a farm nearby?
Few ideas.
Shoot a few and hang them up. Not ideal outside the back door.
Poison. But you never heard that from me.
I've seen people with cds hung up light reflecting scares them apparently. Downside is your house looks like it's had a makeover by a hippy.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: TabClear on February 24, 2019, 04:56:58 PM
Quote from: marty34 on February 24, 2019, 12:54:55 PM
We have crows who sit on the guttering directly above the back door.  Unfortunately, as you'd guess, they poop and it falls down on the path at the back door.  They roost in a clump of trees about 200 yards away but seem to use our roof as a place to stop before they head to the trees.

We've a big plastic owl but not much use.  Somebody told me that I need a pretend owl who's head moves occasionally. 

Any ideas?

I be heard if you contact NIE and say they are roosting on power lines they will send you out a cd of hawk noises!! No idea if it's effective or how you would even go about it!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Owen Brannigan on February 24, 2019, 05:01:57 PM
Quote from: TabClear on February 24, 2019, 04:56:58 PM

I be heard if you contact NIE and say they are roosting on power lines they will send you out a cd of hawk noises!! No idea if it's effective or how you would even go about it!

https://www.birdbusters.com/scare_bird_deterrent.html (https://www.birdbusters.com/scare_bird_deterrent.html)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Taylor on March 04, 2019, 11:10:49 AM
Has anyone ever bought houseplans online or is it best to go through a local architect?

Assume it is more expensive to go local?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: gander on March 04, 2019, 11:21:57 AM
Quote from: Taylor on March 04, 2019, 11:10:49 AM
Has anyone ever bought houseplans online or is it best to go through a local architect?

Assume it is more expensive to go local?

dunno, But I know my self build mortgage required the architect to sign off on each stage of the build, not sure how thatd work if you bought them online
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: lfdown2 on March 04, 2019, 01:37:11 PM
Quote from: Taylor on March 04, 2019, 11:10:49 AM
Has anyone ever bought houseplans online or is it best to go through a local architect?

Assume it is more expensive to go local?

I pulled a set of plans from the internet and passed them to an architect friend to draw up. Don't do it. I have been back through planning twice as what I had used didn't suit the site, my advise would be to get a good architect with experience of the specific type of build you are looking for.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on March 11, 2019, 06:09:45 PM
Anyone a rough idea of solicitor price to sell a site? Got a quote and it seems high given the value of the site.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Ambrose on March 11, 2019, 10:14:54 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on March 11, 2019, 06:09:45 PM
Anyone a rough idea of solicitor price to sell a site? Got a quote and it seems high given the value of the site.

A grand ish plus VAT

Shop around, you could save a decent amount just by making a few phone calls. Also watch they don't try to throw in a few hidden extras.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on August 15, 2019, 03:14:25 PM
Quote from: 1884 on April 24, 2019, 05:52:15 PM
I am currently looking at drawing up plans.
I was just wondering what the going rate is per sq foot? I am looking to sort out our budget and take it from there. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Have been thinking about a 2500sq ft traditional square build.

I know this can all depend on spec and design etc but any help would be greatly appreciated!

Anyone have an idea on the current rate per square foot? have heard the cost of some materials such as insulation have went sky high.
am looking to build in East Tyrone area and would be a traditional square build as well.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Erne Man on August 15, 2019, 03:41:05 PM
Clarshack - just going through this process at the minute. Bought a site last year, and plans passed back in March, and currently have plans with a number of builders for pricing.
Material prices have increased significantly (even in the last year) - insulation certainly impacted by raw material shortage. GBP rate not helping the material prices, as raw material souring from outside UK. Added to that is the demand for good tradespeople in Greater Dublin, leading to a relative shortage in NI.
Our design isnt the traditional square build (less than 2,500sq ft though), but the architect was estimating a "live-in" price of somewhere between £90 - £100 per sq ft for a good finish, albeit that rate is dependent on what you spend on kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping etc.
To be honest I'm expecting builders prices + a slight uplift on some of their PC sums, to come in around  £110 per sq ft.

Architect and associated Fees, Electricity connection etc could easily add another £5 - £8 per sq ft to that, depending on how rural & complex the site is. We got an NIE quote of £10k for connection, but have spoken to people in more rural locations paying £15k - £18k.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: illdecide on August 15, 2019, 03:55:22 PM
Quote from: Erne Man on August 15, 2019, 03:41:05 PM
Clarshack - just going through this process at the minute. Bought a site last year, and plans passed back in March, and currently have plans with a number of builders for pricing.
Material prices have increased significantly (even in the last year) - insulation certainly impacted by raw material shortage. GBP rate not helping the material prices, as raw material souring from outside UK. Added to that is the demand for good tradespeople in Greater Dublin, leading to a relative shortage in NI.
Our design isnt the traditional square build (less than 2,500sq ft though), but the architect was estimating a "live-in" price of somewhere between £90 - £100 per sq ft for a good finish, albeit that rate is dependent on what you spend on kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping etc.
To be honest I'm expecting builders prices + a slight uplift on some of their PC sums, to come in around  £110 per sq ft.

Architect and associated Fees, Electricity connection etc could easily add another £5 - £8 per sq ft to that, depending on how rural & complex the site is. We got an NIE quote of £10k for connection, but have spoken to people in more rural locations paying £15k - £18k.

For years it was always priced around £50 - £60 sq foot but as you say things changed a lot over the last decade...Not sure about them rates but you're probably not for away in fairness. Trades men are (good ones) are getting harder to get. there are so many gobshites out there it's not even funny calling themselves tradesmen
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Erne Man on August 15, 2019, 04:23:26 PM
Those rates would be estimated contractor managed build Illdecide - as opposed to true "self-build", which would defintely be cheaper (but seriously time consuming!).
Its not an exaggeration to say the material prices for your housebuild package overall have probably increased by 15% - 20% since the Brexit vote in 2016!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on August 16, 2019, 08:59:00 AM
Quote from: Erne Man on August 15, 2019, 03:41:05 PM
Clarshack - just going through this process at the minute. Bought a site last year, and plans passed back in March, and currently have plans with a number of builders for pricing.
Material prices have increased significantly (even in the last year) - insulation certainly impacted by raw material shortage. GBP rate not helping the material prices, as raw material souring from outside UK. Added to that is the demand for good tradespeople in Greater Dublin, leading to a relative shortage in NI.
Our design isnt the traditional square build (less than 2,500sq ft though), but the architect was estimating a "live-in" price of somewhere between £90 - £100 per sq ft for a good finish, albeit that rate is dependent on what you spend on kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping etc.
To be honest I'm expecting builders prices + a slight uplift on some of their PC sums, to come in around  £110 per sq ft.

Architect and associated Fees, Electricity connection etc could easily add another £5 - £8 per sq ft to that, depending on how rural & complex the site is. We got an NIE quote of £10k for connection, but have spoken to people in more rural locations paying £15k - £18k.

Thanks, does that price per sq ft include the cost of your site?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on August 16, 2019, 12:03:37 PM
You going with block built or timber frame?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Erne Man on August 16, 2019, 12:06:17 PM
Afraid not Clarshack - site was separate.
To be honest I've been chatting to a few QS's over the past few months, and without them seeing plans etc they are quoting £90 - £100 off the top of their head. That is for walk in, fully contracted build - to good finish i.e. high level insulated, MVHR, u/floor heating, external landscaping etc.
They were all arguing the same factors: material price increases, labour shortages & rates increases.

If you are considering a build the only way to truly know, is to get the plans drawn up and get builders to price. You'll get anecdotal rate guidance like my estimates here, but every build and site are different.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on August 16, 2019, 12:31:02 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on August 16, 2019, 12:03:37 PM
You going with block built or timber frame?

was thinking of timber frame.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on August 16, 2019, 10:59:28 PM
Quote from: clarshack on August 16, 2019, 12:31:02 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on August 16, 2019, 12:03:37 PM
You going with block built or timber frame?

was thinking of timber frame.
Look at SIP housing construction
Set price from the design, delivery date from the factory
Less time on site
Weather tight much quicker - windows ordered off plans
You can get much better standard of insulation all through the house - floor, walls, roof.
Higher airtightness value
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Hereiam on August 17, 2019, 01:06:54 PM
In terms of cost the timber frame house is not much cheaper. I would be carefull with timber frame as i have seen frames going up with poor looking timber bring used, walls distorted in all directions. Air tightness and level of insulation is the pro's. One thing that is a must with timber frame is to install a good MVHR system as the house will be so air tight.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on August 18, 2019, 09:11:32 PM
Quote from: Hereiam on August 17, 2019, 01:06:54 PM
In terms of cost the timber frame house is not much cheaper. I would be carefull with timber frame as i have seen frames going up with poor looking timber bring used, walls distorted in all directions. Air tightness and level of insulation is the pro's. One thing that is a must with timber frame is to install a good MVHR system as the house will be so air tight.
SIPs
Structural Integrated Panels
Chipboard, solid insulation and internal membrane covered chipboard
House can be up in 10 days
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: liam_shack on August 19, 2019, 02:47:17 PM
Quote from: Erne Man on August 15, 2019, 03:41:05 PM
Clarshack - just going through this process at the minute. Bought a site last year, and plans passed back in March, and currently have plans with a number of builders for pricing.
Material prices have increased significantly (even in the last year) - insulation certainly impacted by raw material shortage. GBP rate not helping the material prices, as raw material souring from outside UK. Added to that is the demand for good tradespeople in Greater Dublin, leading to a relative shortage in NI.
Our design isnt the traditional square build (less than 2,500sq ft though), but the architect was estimating a "live-in" price of somewhere between £90 - £100 per sq ft for a good finish, albeit that rate is dependent on what you spend on kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping etc.
To be honest I'm expecting builders prices + a slight uplift on some of their PC sums, to come in around  £110 per sq ft.

Architect and associated Fees, Electricity connection etc could easily add another £5 - £8 per sq ft to that, depending on how rural & complex the site is. We got an NIE quote of £10k for connection, but have spoken to people in more rural locations paying £15k - £18k.

I recently got my connection completed and as you have stated being in a rural area, my quote from NIE was actually over £10k.    However I was able to go another company who carried out the majority of the work.  They put up the poles and new transformer and laid the cable to my meter box.  I don't think many people factor this cost in when budgeting for a new build, certainly I hadn't considered it would cost me as much. 

I think this is a fairly new thing but they are definitely worth a call for a quote if nothing else.  I saved about 20% on my NIE quote, and found them very helpful throughout.

Here is a link to their site.

https://www.electricityworx.com
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on August 21, 2019, 02:10:22 PM
Quote from: Erne Man on August 16, 2019, 12:06:17 PM
If you are considering a build the only way to truly know, is to get the plans drawn up and get builders to price. You'll get anecdotal rate guidance like my estimates here, but every build and site are different.

I have plans drawn up. If anyone could pm me some reputable builders in the mid ulster area it would be very much appreciated.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: lfdown2 on August 21, 2019, 02:44:33 PM
I am just about to start a self build, long road ahead. Was wondering would anybody who has done similar recently have any supplier recommendations, I am particularly interested in the following;

- Structural steel
- Insulation (all Kingspan spec but wondering who is the alternative, at least to keep them honest)
- Doors & windows
- Roof slates
- Hollowcore flooring

Would be interested in price and service/quality recommendations.

I am in the south Down area but would give anyone a shout.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Stevie Nicks on August 21, 2019, 03:03:46 PM
Quote from: lfdown2 on August 21, 2019, 02:44:33 PM
I am just about to start a self build, long road ahead. Was wondering would anybody who has done similar recently have any supplier recommendations, I am particularly interested in the following;

- Structural steel
- Insulation (all Kingspan spec but wondering who is the alternative, at least to keep them honest)
- Doors & windows
- Roof slates
- Hollowcore flooring

Would be interested in price and service/quality recommendations.

I am in the south Down area but would give anyone a shout.

Quinntherm is a good alternative and should be a good bit cheaper, at least worth pricing against Kingspan!
For the slates contact Tegral/Capco and their reps will call out to site
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: andoireabu on September 10, 2019, 07:15:42 PM
Fitting a new kitchen in a house and the extractor hood is too far from the existing duct to put in new ducting to join into it. Can't punch a new hole in the wall so having to use a charcoal filter.  Anyone any experience of these?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: laceer on September 10, 2019, 08:56:16 PM
Buying a house off plan and starting to speak to contractor about finishes. What way are upgrades normally paid for, up front or on completion? Can they be added to mortgage and is there normally scope for bargaining? Any tips on buying in a new build development would be much appreciated.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Mike Tyson on September 10, 2019, 09:29:51 PM
Quote from: laceer on September 10, 2019, 08:56:16 PM
Buying a house off plan and starting to speak to contractor about finishes. What way are upgrades normally paid for, up front or on completion? Can they be added to mortgage and is there normally scope for bargaining? Any tips on buying in a new build development would be much appreciated.

Going through the same myself. In our case, and from talking to others it seems to be standard across the board, the mortgage only covers the 'basic' package so to speak. Any upgrades - kitchen units, additional under-felt, larger tiles etc - at an additional cost are paid for on completion along with deposit via the solicitor. We've found with the developer there was zero scope for bargaining on any upgrades they were offering.

Our kitchen was through a third party who we had small scope for bargaining but only because we are spending a hefty enough amount with him. He was honest in our first meeting and said he didn't need to bargain as he had the contract for 80+ houses and knew we couldn't go elsewhere before completion. From talking to a kitchen fitter I know it would have worked out roughly the same price if we had got the basic kitchen and then post move in refitted our choices.

The majority of the time the developer has you over a barrel when it comes to upgrades, told us £45 for additional sockets anywhere in the house and £200 to get a socket on our kitchen island for example.

Any other questions, happy to help via reply or PM.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: laceer on September 10, 2019, 09:44:58 PM
Thanks - appreciate the response. We're meeting with contractor next week so compiling a list of questions. House isn't due to be started for another 6 weeks so we've a bit of time to suss things out.May take you up on that PM at some point!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on September 11, 2019, 04:08:25 PM
Has anyone installed a MHRV system in their house?
How do you find it? worth the money?
What type of heating system did you install alongside it?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on September 11, 2019, 04:16:17 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on September 11, 2019, 04:08:25 PM
Has anyone installed a MHRV system in their house?
How do you find it? worth the money?
What type of heating system did you install alongside it?

Yeah we put one in. We were going close to a passive spec so windows didn't have trickle vents etc so MHRV was a must. It's one of those things that it's hard to notice what the difference is, but we have noticed less dust in the house than our previous one and my asthma hasn't been near as bad. Whether that's down to the MHRV or not I don't know. But as the house is airtight, we don't have any drafts and heating is minimal compared to previous house (Which was smaller).
We went for underfloor heating. EDIT* Sorry oil heating as well. We were going down the route of a Ground source heat pump before Arlene f**Ked it up on us.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on September 11, 2019, 04:35:37 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on September 11, 2019, 04:08:25 PM
Has anyone installed a MHRV system in their house?
How do you find it? worth the money?
What type of heating system did you install alongside it?

Yeah. Great job. No 4 inch holes for extractor fans needed to be cored to outside of wet rooms.. Boost function to clear steam after a shower. No stale smells in house. Worth every penny
Went for the Vent axia unit. Oil and stove with back boiler combo heating system
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on September 11, 2019, 08:40:34 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on September 11, 2019, 04:35:37 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on September 11, 2019, 04:08:25 PM
Has anyone installed a MHRV system in their house?
How do you find it? worth the money?
What type of heating system did you install alongside it?

Yeah. Great job. No 4 inch holes for extractor fans needed to be cored to outside of wet rooms.. Boost function to clear steam after a shower. No stale smells in house. Worth every penny
Went for the Vent axia unit. Oil and stove with back boiler combo heating system
rads or underfloor?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on September 11, 2019, 09:48:43 PM
Radiators
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on September 12, 2019, 10:40:11 AM
I would be keen on MHRV, it just seems a minefield as to what heating system to pair along with it
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on September 12, 2019, 12:48:07 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on September 12, 2019, 10:40:11 AM
I would be keen on MHRV, it just seems a minefield as to what heating system to pair along with it

You can use any heating system along with it. It doesn't affect it either way
You have to ventilate the house some way, either with trickle vents in windows and extractor fans in wet rooms
All houses now are trying to be as air tight as possible. Trickle vents and extractors have the opposite effect
MVHR extracts the stale air from your house and as this stale air is being removed it warms up the fresh air coming in.
Depending on the room, you'll have an extract or fresh air flow in the ceiling
Speak to Atlantic Air in Dunamore, Cookstown or Homecare in Donaghmore, Dungannon. Both recommended.
Email them your plans and they'll price it up for you
http://www.atlanticairtesting.com/
https://www.homecaresystems.biz/about-us-mvhr-ventilation-installers-ni/
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on January 06, 2020, 07:50:52 PM
Just wondering if anyone on here would have an idea of what a fully qualified and good rep architect would charge in fees for house from scratch 2700 sq foot for full job?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Ed Hardy on February 10, 2020, 06:07:58 PM
Anyone from the North any experience in claiming tax back from self build? Got the house signed off by building control February 2019, so was able to get the final draw of the mortgage just got it spent there before xmas so only getting around to claiming the tax now, says on the tax website returns should be filled in within 3 months of house being signed off, Ive never heard of this before, anyone shed any light on it?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on February 10, 2020, 09:59:27 PM
Quote from: Ed Hardy on February 10, 2020, 06:07:58 PM
Anyone from the North any experience in claiming tax back from self build? Got the house signed off by building control February 2019, so was able to get the final draw of the mortgage just got it spent there before xmas so only getting around to claiming the tax now, says on the tax website returns should be filled in within 3 months of house being signed off, Ive never heard of this before, anyone shed any light on it?

From what you are saying you got full Building Control Approval Certificate issued in Feb 2019? Whatever document you are using as evidence of completion you have 3 months from document date to get your claim in. If your claim is late you need to send accompanying letter explaining delay. You have a couple of options here:

1 Send the letter explaining why late along with building control cert  as evidence
2 a letter from your bank or building society to certify last date the loan instalment was released
3 Rates District Valuer Certificate of valuation

I would go for option 2 if the rates crowd haven't been with you yet? All of the above is in the notes with the claim form on the website on pages 6-7.

The helpline number is on their website but don't mention you have full building control if going for option 2

Came across this site on another forum
Some good advice
https://www.vat431.co.uk/

Good luck with it as it's usually a tight sum of money and you don't want to be missing out
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Jim_Murphy_74 on February 10, 2020, 10:15:29 PM
If you are thinking of building in the south I would hold out for a free house from the Shinners.

/Jim.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Cavan19 on February 10, 2020, 10:58:09 PM
Quote from: Jim_Murphy_74 on February 10, 2020, 10:15:29 PM
If you are thinking of building in the south I would hold out for a free house from the Shinners.

/Jim.

Yep Mary Lou is winding up the mixer it's out of diesel though so she just called slab to drop over some.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Ed Hardy on February 10, 2020, 11:03:12 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 10, 2020, 09:59:27 PM
Quote from: Ed Hardy on February 10, 2020, 06:07:58 PM
Anyone from the North any experience in claiming tax back from self build? Got the house signed off by building control February 2019, so was able to get the final draw of the mortgage just got it spent there before xmas so only getting around to claiming the tax now, says on the tax website returns should be filled in within 3 months of house being signed off, Ive never heard of this before, anyone shed any light on it?

From what you are saying you got full Building Control Approval Certificate issued in Feb 2019? Whatever document you are using as evidence of completion you have 3 months from document date to get your claim in. If your claim is late you need to send accompanying letter explaining delay. You have a couple of options here:

1 Send the letter explaining why late along with building control cert  as evidence
2 a letter from your bank or building society to certify last date the loan instalment was released
3 Rates District Valuer Certificate of valuation

I would go for option 2 if the rates crowd haven't been with you yet? All of the above is in the notes with the claim form on the website on pages 6-7.

The helpline number is on their website but don't mention you have full building control if going for option 2

Came across this site on another forum
Some good advice
https://www.vat431.co.uk/

Good luck with it as it's usually a tight sum of money and you don't want to be missing out

Thanks for the advice. Il contact them in the morning 1st thing.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on February 11, 2020, 12:02:42 PM
if precast concrete foundation slabs were to be supplied and fitted for a self build, should the invoice be zero rated for VAT?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Erne Man on February 11, 2020, 12:22:49 PM
Clarshack - my understanding is that if it is invoiced to your builder/contractor there will be VAT charged, but the builder wont pass the VAT onto you as it is a new build, and assuming the builder is VAT registered.
If the product is being invoiced to you, and is supply and fit by the manufacturer, my understanding is that they dont have to charge VAT, so long as they have your building control reference.
Our build is being managed by the contractor so all materials invoiced to him, but our gas fire supplier & installer who we are buying from directly, told me about the zero rated option.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on February 11, 2020, 12:59:36 PM
Quote from: Erne Man on February 11, 2020, 12:22:49 PM
Clarshack - my understanding is that if it is invoiced to your builder/contractor there will be VAT charged, but the builder wont pass the VAT onto you as it is a new build, and assuming the builder is VAT registered.
If the product is being invoiced to you, and is supply and fit by the manufacturer, my understanding is that they dont have to charge VAT, so long as they have your building control reference.
Our build is being managed by the contractor so all materials invoiced to him, but our gas fire supplier & installer who we are buying from directly, told me about the zero rated option.

That's true if you have a contractor involved who is doing the work but if you are self building anything that is is supplied and fitted on site is zero vat rated. So if the guys doing your slabs fit them into place then they shouldn't charge you VAT. If they delivered them and left them beside the house for you to fit or someone else then they would have to charge you VAT.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on February 11, 2020, 02:38:07 PM
thanks.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 12:47:19 PM
anybody here used insulated pre-cast slabs. how does the insulation compare to traditional floor insulation?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on February 25, 2020, 01:15:21 PM
Quote from: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 12:47:19 PM
anybody here used insulated pre-cast slabs. how does the insulation compare to traditional floor insulation?

Would depend on your heating system
Are you going underfloor? If so I wouldn't go near them as you would want the heat to immediately deflect upwards into your screed acting as thermal mass rather than heating extra concrete for no real reason?(you would be wasting energy heating the slab and have a slower response time)
Go with traditional pre stressed or precast. Get them to seal the cores. McGarritys or Spanwright would been keen
Put down your floor insulation and clip your UFH heating pipes to the insulation
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 07:37:23 PM
No not getting underfloor heating.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on February 26, 2020, 01:31:05 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 25, 2020, 01:15:21 PM
Quote from: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 12:47:19 PM
anybody here used insulated pre-cast slabs. how does the insulation compare to traditional floor insulation?

Would depend on your heating system
Are you going underfloor? If so I wouldn't go near them as you would want the heat to immediately deflect upwards into your screed acting as thermal mass rather than heating extra concrete for no real reason?(you would be wasting energy heating the slab and have a slower response time)
Go with traditional pre stressed or precast. Get them to seal the cores. McGarritys or Spanwright would been keen
Put down your floor insulation and clip your UFH heating pipes to the insulation

I ended up with 75mm of insulation below my UFH.

The newer screeds only need to be 50mm deep rather than the 100mm for a standard concrete screed..


Title: Re: building a house
Post by: redzone on April 16, 2020, 03:00:50 PM
Anyone clean a k rend house with hydrochloric acid put on with a back sprayer. If so what ratio. Cheers
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on April 22, 2020, 11:17:04 PM
Does anyone know of a good forum for questions re self build - I use boards.ie as well as this for discussion but here is more the GAA talk and boards tends to be alot of the southern lads which means different building regs and costs. I would need more opinions from the wee six on this. :)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 22, 2020, 11:21:23 PM
There's a fb group called 'SelfBuilders & Home Improvers Ireland' which can be useful.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 22, 2020, 11:31:20 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on February 26, 2020, 01:31:05 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 25, 2020, 01:15:21 PM
Quote from: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 12:47:19 PM
anybody here used insulated pre-cast slabs. how does the insulation compare to traditional floor insulation?

Would depend on your heating system
Are you going underfloor? If so I wouldn't go near them as you would want the heat to immediately deflect upwards into your screed acting as thermal mass rather than heating extra concrete for no real reason?(you would be wasting energy heating the slab and have a slower response time)
Go with traditional pre stressed or precast. Get them to seal the cores. McGarritys or Spanwright would been keen
Put down your floor insulation and clip your UFH heating pipes to the insulation

I ended up with 75mm of insulation below my UFH.

The newer screeds only need to be 50mm deep rather than the 100mm for a standard concrete screed..

How much more expensive per square metre would 50mm liquid screed roughly be compared to 100mm standard screed?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tony Baloney on April 22, 2020, 11:57:58 PM
Any of these magic cleaners suitable for concrete coping stones?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: redzone on April 23, 2020, 08:24:57 AM
I use the hypochlorite on the window cills and copings. Give it a good soaking first
50=50 I put it on but I seen someone else say 3=1 on here
It worked the best on the k rend
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on April 23, 2020, 09:05:48 AM
Quote from: clarshack on April 22, 2020, 11:31:20 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on February 26, 2020, 01:31:05 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on February 25, 2020, 01:15:21 PM
Quote from: clarshack on February 25, 2020, 12:47:19 PM
anybody here used insulated pre-cast slabs. how does the insulation compare to traditional floor insulation?

Would depend on your heating system
Are you going underfloor? If so I wouldn't go near them as you would want the heat to immediately deflect upwards into your screed acting as thermal mass rather than heating extra concrete for no real reason?(you would be wasting energy heating the slab and have a slower response time)
Go with traditional pre stressed or precast. Get them to seal the cores. McGarritys or Spanwright would been keen
Put down your floor insulation and clip your UFH heating pipes to the insulation

I ended up with 75mm of insulation below my UFH.

The newer screeds only need to be 50mm deep rather than the 100mm for a standard concrete screed..

How much more expensive per square metre would 50mm liquid screed roughly be compared to 100mm standard screed?
God, it was 10 years ago I did it. Back then it was probably an additional £1.5K for the whole house and even then I had to standard screed three wet room floors as you obviously can't get a fall in the RTU screed I used as it's like water going in.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on April 23, 2020, 01:07:09 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 22, 2020, 11:21:23 PM
There's a fb group called 'SelfBuilders & Home Improvers Ireland' which can be useful.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/816924585093717/?ref=share
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: andoireabu on May 06, 2020, 11:15:31 AM
Is there any issue with moving a water tank in the attic from the middle of the attic into the eaves?  Our tank takes up a lot of the usable floor space so I was looking at moving it out of the way.  The plumber says it can be done and I spoke with a joiner who said as long as it is supported off the wall plate, it would be fine.  Just wondering if anyone here has done the same?

Our attic has a standard truss layout as shown in B. 2.5 on page 152 of the following link

https://www.woodspec.ie/docs/Woodspec%20Final%20-%20Section%20B.pdf (https://www.woodspec.ie/docs/Woodspec%20Final%20-%20Section%20B.pdf)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 10, 2020, 09:59:55 PM
What would you expect to pay for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and per week hire? Mid ulster area.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2020, 10:06:00 AM
A friend of mine is have a sun room extension done 3x3m that way he doesn't needed planning permission apparently, 14,000 and he's doing the wiring himself and family doing the plumbing. I'd imagine one radiator and lighting and a socket or two required for that space.

Would it cost that much if you did all the donkey work? Foundations sourced the materials, paying a bricky to take it to roof level and a joiner for the his end and so on?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 11, 2020, 10:42:19 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2020, 10:06:00 AM
A friend of mine is have a sun room extension done 3x3m that way he doesn't needed planning permission apparently, 14,000 and he's doing the wiring himself and family doing the plumbing. I'd imagine one radiator and lighting and a socket or two required for that space.

Would it cost that much if you did all the donkey work? Foundations sourced the materials, paying a bricky to take it to roof level and a joiner for the his end and so on?

built an extension in 2016, size was 4.3 x 3.2m cost was £18k but we had to pile the foundations at a cost of 3k. we had very little plumbing to do as well, think the labour to connect the radiator up was about £120.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: illdecide on May 11, 2020, 11:35:29 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2020, 10:06:00 AM
A friend of mine is have a sun room extension done 3x3m that way he doesn't needed planning permission apparently, 14,000 and he's doing the wiring himself and family doing the plumbing. I'd imagine one radiator and lighting and a socket or two required for that space.

Would it cost that much if you did all the donkey work? Foundations sourced the materials, paying a bricky to take it to roof level and a joiner for the his end and so on?

Don't know the in's and out's of planning but i was always under the impression any permanent structure that extrudes from the dwelling that was not part of the original planning would need permission. Unless there are special rules for sun rooms (genuinely not sure)
If you were doing your own foundations would you be competent enough to know how far down to dig and what type of foundations to use? Not being a d**k here just asking.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: illdecide on May 11, 2020, 11:45:05 PM
Quote from: andoireabu on May 06, 2020, 11:15:31 AM
Is there any issue with moving a water tank in the attic from the middle of the attic into the eaves?  Our tank takes up a lot of the usable floor space so I was looking at moving it out of the way.  The plumber says it can be done and I spoke with a joiner who said as long as it is supported off the wall plate, it would be fine.  Just wondering if anyone here has done the same?

Our attic has a standard truss layout as shown in B. 2.5 on page 152 of the following link

https://www.woodspec.ie/docs/Woodspec%20Final%20-%20Section%20B.pdf (https://www.woodspec.ie/docs/Woodspec%20Final%20-%20Section%20B.pdf)

Be careful with this...will the plumber or joiner stand over it if anything structurally went wrong? There is some weight in that tank when full (prob about 10kn), it's a great idea to move it as they do take up some space but i'd be looking at advice from a Structural Engineer first. Is there not an easier way? Can you not get a pressure system in instead of open vented (prob work out cheaper too, ask your plumber to look at that for you and get a costing of him)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on May 12, 2020, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: illdecide on May 11, 2020, 11:35:29 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2020, 10:06:00 AM
A friend of mine is have a sun room extension done 3x3m that way he doesn't needed planning permission apparently, 14,000 and he's doing the wiring himself and family doing the plumbing. I'd imagine one radiator and lighting and a socket or two required for that space.

Would it cost that much if you did all the donkey work? Foundations sourced the materials, paying a bricky to take it to roof level and a joiner for the his end and so on?

Don't know the in's and out's of planning but i was always under the impression any permanent structure that extrudes from the dwelling that was not part of the original planning would need permission. Unless there are special rules for sun rooms (genuinely not sure)
If you were doing your own foundations would you be competent enough to know how far down to dig and what type of foundations to use? Not being a d**k here just asking.

I'd have very good direction on that side of things, my brother was a bricklayer for 20 years before he downed tools and changed jobs, my youngest brother is a bricklayer and my dad was a bricklayer and had his own squad for many's a year, so plenty advice on the founds I hope and two skilled brickies and I laboured first my dad for over a year when the yard closed.

I was surprised also on the planning, that's why I put a question mark on it, still not sure but the lad getting it done is an electrical contractor.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: el_cuervo_fc on May 12, 2020, 03:18:23 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 12, 2020, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: illdecide on May 11, 2020, 11:35:29 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 11, 2020, 10:06:00 AM
A friend of mine is have a sun room extension done 3x3m that way he doesn't needed planning permission apparently, 14,000 and he's doing the wiring himself and family doing the plumbing. I'd imagine one radiator and lighting and a socket or two required for that space.

Would it cost that much if you did all the donkey work? Foundations sourced the materials, paying a bricky to take it to roof level and a joiner for the his end and so on?

Don't know the in's and out's of planning but i was always under the impression any permanent structure that extrudes from the dwelling that was not part of the original planning would need permission. Unless there are special rules for sun rooms (genuinely not sure)
If you were doing your own foundations would you be competent enough to know how far down to dig and what type of foundations to use? Not being a d**k here just asking.

I'd have very good direction on that side of things, my brother was a bricklayer for 20 years before he downed tools and changed jobs, my youngest brother is a bricklayer and my dad was a bricklayer and had his own squad for many's a year, so plenty advice on the founds I hope and two skilled brickies and I laboured first my dad for over a year when the yard closed.

I was surprised also on the planning, that's why I put a question mark on it, still not sure but the lad getting it done is an electrical contractor.

Planning regulations allow permitted development for extensions to dwellings without requiring planning permission.  A side extension can be up to 4 metres in height and less than half the width of the original house.

In a single storey extension :-a.  the extension does not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 4 metres for a detached house or 3 metres for any other type of house; b.   the height of the extension does not exceed 4 metres; c.   no part of the extension is within 3.5 metres of any property boundary with a road opposite the rear wall of the house.

In an extension with more than one storey: -a.  the extension does not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 metres; b.   no part of the extension is within 7 metres of the property boundary opposite the rear wall of the house; c.   the roof pitch of the enlargement is as far as practicable the same as that of the original house.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on May 12, 2020, 03:48:15 PM
Sorry to hijack thread - do garages (standard size pretty much) need planning permission El Cuervo?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: el_cuervo_fc on May 12, 2020, 07:20:37 PM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 12, 2020, 03:48:15 PM
Sorry to hijack thread - do garages (standard size pretty much) need planning permission El Cuervo?

Depending on the size, but you can build a garage without needing Planning Permission if you meet the following criteria:


The garage is used for domestic purposes only. 
The ground area covered by the garage/car port and any other buildings within the boundary of the property, excluding the original house, is not more than half the total area of the property.
No part of the garage is in front of the principal or side elevation of the original house that faces onto a road.
The maximum height of the garage/car port is 4 metres.
The maximum eaves height of the garage/car port is 2.5 metres if it is within 2 metres of the property boundary.
No part of the garage is within 3.5 metres of the boundary with a road to the rear of the house.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on May 12, 2020, 07:25:45 PM
Great stuff El Cuervo ta v much i think all this i can work with

Good man
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: el_cuervo_fc on May 12, 2020, 08:58:47 PM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 12, 2020, 07:25:45 PM
Great stuff El Cuervo ta v much i think all this i can work with

Good man

Not a bother.  :)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on May 12, 2020, 10:53:34 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 10, 2020, 09:59:55 PM
What would you expect to pay for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and per week hire? Mid ulster area.

Probably work out cheaper to buy it second hand and sell on when finished
If you are waiting on tradesmen you wouldn't want to be paying by the week
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: From the Bunker on May 13, 2020, 01:26:01 AM
Quote from: giveherlong on May 12, 2020, 10:53:34 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 10, 2020, 09:59:55 PM
What would you expect to pay for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and per week hire? Mid ulster area.

Probably work out cheaper to buy it second hand and sell on when finished
If you are waiting on tradesmen you wouldn't want to be paying by the week

Yes! Have had first hand experience of this!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on May 13, 2020, 03:19:44 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on May 12, 2020, 10:53:34 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 10, 2020, 09:59:55 PM
What would you expect to pay for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and per week hire? Mid ulster area.

Probably work out cheaper to buy it second hand and sell on when finished
If you are waiting on tradesmen you wouldn't want to be paying by the week

Def cheaper to buy and flog it on at the end. You won't lose money and depending on what way the building game is you could make a couple of quid on it. If you stick it up yourself you are into health and safety territory especially if something happens. To be right the scaffolding needs to have a ticket to certify it has been put up correctly. You'd need a scaffolding company to do that and most will only do it if they supply and erect the scaffolding. For a standard house you could be looking around £1k to put the scaffolding up and ticket it, £100 a week hire and £1k to take it all down again. That's very rough approximation of costs. The real killer is having scaffolding up and men not coming near you for weeks or months and you paying the hire on it.

You can buy your own and stick it up and hope that nothing happens as you could be in a sticky spot with insurance if it did. If you know someone in a scaffolding company they might be willing to ticket it for you but most won't want to do this if you have put it up yourself.

The joke is you'll have a plaster come in and they beat the bars of the scaffolding everywhere anyway regardless as they are in their way. It'll be held up with string when they are finished. Like a giant game of jenga.....lol.


Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Taylor on June 08, 2020, 12:10:42 PM
Going to put solar panels on the shed out the back.

Any recommendations in the North would do this or any do/dont on solar panels?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on June 08, 2020, 12:38:33 PM
Quote from: Taylor on June 08, 2020, 12:10:42 PM
Going to put solar panels on the shed out the back.

Any recommendations in the North would do this or any do/dont on solar panels?

While I can't recommend them I have come across these guys a few times in the past speaking to them myself as I was looking into these at one point:

https://www.solarfix.co.uk/

Without any grants or ROC's payments at the minute I don't know if the investment in them has any real payback. I'd like to understand teh payback of these a bit more at the minute myself.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 12:25:26 AM
Can't decide on air source heat pump or traditional oil boiler

I like the idea of having lower heating bills and having one bill for heating and electric but is the additional cost worth this and has anyone had any experience with these. I am obviously getting the sales pitch from a couple of companies.

Need to make up my mind as NIE need to price how much my connection will be and this will be a factor.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: redzone on June 26, 2020, 06:12:37 AM
How much is the air source
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 09:52:06 AM
Air Source Heat Pump is £3500-4000 more expensive.

Putting in underfloor heating either way but it suppose to be more efficient with a heat pump. However not sure about hot water temps with ASHP

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: gander on June 26, 2020, 03:38:00 PM
Quote from: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 09:52:06 AM
Air Source Heat Pump is £3500-4000 more expensive.

Putting in underfloor heating either way but it suppose to be more efficient with a heat pump. However not sure about hot water temps with ASHP
I have one and hot water isnt an issue, 55 degrees or more if wanted.  the hot water tank still has a built in emersion to bring the temp above what the heat pump can give - has to to disinfect it
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on June 27, 2020, 09:36:07 AM
Quote from: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 12:25:26 AM
Can't decide on air source heat pump or traditional oil boiler

I like the idea of having lower heating bills and having one bill for heating and electric but is the additional cost worth this and has anyone had any experience with these. I am obviously getting the sales pitch from a couple of companies.

Need to make up my mind as NIE need to price how much my connection will be and this will be a factor.

If you are going underfloor, a Heat Pump would be your best option combined with solar to provide warm water. The built in immersion will provide back up for winter

Whatever you go with try and get the house airtight, well insulated and heat recovery ventilation is a good investment

Your other option is stand alone oil burner, Grant condenser is very efficient. Send your plans to Grant and they will price you up both options
You can also incorporate a stove with back boiler to this system but you need to get your plumbing set up right with Maxi pod type hot water tank/buffer tank

Speak to a good plumber who is up to speed on both set ups  before you make up your mind
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on June 27, 2020, 11:01:46 AM
Quote from: giveherlong on June 27, 2020, 09:36:07 AM
Quote from: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 12:25:26 AM
Can't decide on air source heat pump or traditional oil boiler

I like the idea of having lower heating bills and having one bill for heating and electric but is the additional cost worth this and has anyone had any experience with these. I am obviously getting the sales pitch from a couple of companies.

Need to make up my mind as NIE need to price how much my connection will be and this will be a factor.

If you are going underfloor, a Heat Pump would be your best option combined with solar to provide warm water. The built in immersion will provide back up for winter

Whatever you go with try and get the house airtight, well insulated and heat recovery ventilation is a good investment

Your other option is stand alone oil burner, Grant condenser is very efficient. Send your plans to Grant and they will price you up both options
You can also incorporate a stove with back boiler to this system but you need to get your plumbing set up right with Maxi pod type hot water tank/buffer tank

Speak to a good plumber who is up to speed on both set ups  before you make up your mind

Thanks that's great advice.

One of the guys who is trying to sell me the heat pump told me that he has a customer who put it in that I can go talk to who is very pleased with it. £1400 for the year to run electric and heat and hot water on a similar size house to what I will build.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on June 27, 2020, 12:19:18 PM
Quote from: WT4E on June 27, 2020, 11:01:46 AM
Quote from: giveherlong on June 27, 2020, 09:36:07 AM
Quote from: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 12:25:26 AM
Can't decide on air source heat pump or traditional oil boiler

I like the idea of having lower heating bills and having one bill for heating and electric but is the additional cost worth this and has anyone had any experience with these. I am obviously getting the sales pitch from a couple of companies.

Need to make up my mind as NIE need to price how much my connection will be and this will be a factor.

If you are going underfloor, a Heat Pump would be your best option combined with solar to provide warm water. The built in immersion will provide back up for winter

Whatever you go with try and get the house airtight, well insulated and heat recovery ventilation is a good investment

Your other option is stand alone oil burner, Grant condenser is very efficient. Send your plans to Grant and they will price you up both options
You can also incorporate a stove with back boiler to this system but you need to get your plumbing set up right with Maxi pod type hot water tank/buffer tank

Speak to a good plumber who is up to speed on both set ups  before you make up your mind

Thanks that's great advice.

One of the guys who is trying to sell me the heat pump told me that he has a customer who put it in that I can go talk to who is very pleased with it. £1400 for the year to run electric and heat and hot water on a similar size house to what I will build.

I would treat anything a sales man has to say with a huge pinch of salt
Join this Facebook group if you are building a house https://www.facebook.com/groups/816924585093717/?ref=share
Use the search button on there at top of page to search heat pump/air source heat pump which will help your research
Hundreds of different opinions on there depending on who you talk to. Renewable building regs much stricter in South
Some horror stories on sky high electric bills if pump is undersized, controls/stats not set right or house not airtight. If house isn't air tight with heat pump you are wasting your time
The key with any of these systems is preventing cold air leaking in so you got to get the basics of insulation and air tightness sorted first. If you want air tight heat recovery is a must
Personally I have seen heat pump and oil at first hand. Each has its own pros and cons
If your house is well insulated and air tight it will take very little to heat your home regardless
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on June 28, 2020, 04:56:04 PM
Quote from: WT4E on June 26, 2020, 12:25:26 AM
Can't decide on air source heat pump or traditional oil boiler

I like the idea of having lower heating bills and having one bill for heating and electric but is the additional cost worth this and has anyone had any experience with these. I am obviously getting the sales pitch from a couple of companies.

Need to make up my mind as NIE need to price how much my connection will be and this will be a factor.
I am considering exactly the same thing myself.
I like the idea of the A2W but unsure if it makes sense from a cost point of view
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on June 28, 2020, 10:22:03 PM
The better you insulate, the longer the payback.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on July 13, 2020, 12:24:38 PM
Whats a typical price for plans? House is just past the outline planning stage so need everything from here on out. Been quoted £3300 for plans and mortgage supervison. Is this high?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: balladmaker on July 13, 2020, 01:05:56 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 13, 2020, 12:24:38 PM
Whats a typical price for plans? House is just past the outline planning stage so need everything from here on out. Been quoted £3300 for plans and mortgage supervison. Is this high?

10 years ago, I paid an architect £1 a sq foot to draw up plans, and get it through planning permission, once through planning stage, didn't have much further interaction with the architect, as he asked for a further £3k to be available for any questions around the build, which I declined. 

Took the plans to a QS to draw up a bill of materials, and approx staged costs for the build, and that was used for mortgage purposes. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on July 13, 2020, 02:47:43 PM
Thanks, I should have been an architect!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on July 14, 2020, 04:55:41 PM
Hi, can someone advise me please if you have to allow for stamp duty on buying a building site?

Site has full planning permission, however construction has not yet started. Based in the North.

I own my current residence, so in essence does a building site constitute a second home?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trailer on July 14, 2020, 04:59:07 PM
Quote from: God14 on July 14, 2020, 04:55:41 PM
Hi, can someone advise me please if you have to allow for stamp duty on buying a building site?

Site has full planning permission, however construction has not yet started. Based in the North.

I own my current residence, so in essence does a building site constitute a second home?

Yes when you buy it. But wasn't stamp duty paused there recently?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RadioGAAGAA on July 14, 2020, 05:03:31 PM
Quote from: trailer on July 14, 2020, 04:59:07 PM
Quote from: God14 on July 14, 2020, 04:55:41 PM
Hi, can someone advise me please if you have to allow for stamp duty on buying a building site?

Site has full planning permission, however construction has not yet started. Based in the North.

I own my current residence, so in essence does a building site constitute a second home?

Yes when you buy it. But wasn't stamp duty paused there recently?

I think the decision is made, but its not yet in effect...?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on July 14, 2020, 05:04:12 PM
My understanding is that there is still 3 % surcharge for second homes.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trailer on July 14, 2020, 05:04:48 PM
Quote from: God14 on July 14, 2020, 05:04:12 PM
My understanding is that there is still 3 % surcharge for second homes.

Sorry North or South?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on July 14, 2020, 05:12:06 PM
North
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Rois on July 14, 2020, 05:28:31 PM
Quote from: God14 on July 14, 2020, 05:04:12 PM
My understanding is that there is still 3 % surcharge for second homes.
Yep - completed on a new house on Friday and had to pay the 3%.

Claim the 3% back if you sell the current house within 3 years (that's what I'll be doing).

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RadioGAAGAA on July 14, 2020, 05:38:24 PM
3 years or 2?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on July 14, 2020, 05:47:19 PM
How much can be saved by not using a contractor and sorting out the tradespeople yourself? Is it worth the extra stress and hassle?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Rois on July 14, 2020, 06:21:07 PM
Quote from: RadioGAAGAA on July 14, 2020, 05:38:24 PM
3 years or 2?
3

Per HMRC website:

If you're replacing your main residence
You will not pay the extra 3% SDLT if the property you're buying is replacing your main residence and that has already been sold.

If you have not sold your main residence on the day you complete your new purchase you'll have to pay higher rates. This is because you own 2 properties.

You can apply for a refund if you sell your previous main home within 36 months.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on July 14, 2020, 06:37:28 PM
Thanks Rois, I suppose I hoped that because the site wasn't in construction, the tax wouldnt apply
But its fairly clear in that info you posted
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Rois on July 14, 2020, 07:10:09 PM
It might not apply, I don't know the situation when you don't have another residence to move into, but your solicitor will be the one you need to convince. I just know that you have to pay the additional second property rate despite the stamp duty holiday when you buy a second home.

Give me a day and I'll check with a colleague.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RadioGAAGAA on July 14, 2020, 07:43:55 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 14, 2020, 05:47:19 PM
How much can be saved by not using a contractor and sorting out the tradespeople yourself? Is it worth the extra stress and hassle?

If you don't have a fair idea what goes into building - or don't have family that does, then IMO your only likely to end up stressed, over budget, behind schedule and eventually getting someone in anyway to manage it.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: ThroughTheLaces on August 10, 2020, 02:29:15 PM
Hi folks, couple of questions. Currently looking at either buying or building in the not too distant future (26 counties)

1) Which would people recommend we do in the own experience? Obviously a personal choice but building my own home was never an absolute must-do for me, so easy going on that.
2) Can't seem to find much info online, does anyone know current approximate rates psm/psf to build? (We have a site)
3) Currently own a small property in the north. Would this help or hinder me here?

Any other basic do's and dont's would be welcome. Fairly green on it!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on October 10, 2020, 04:38:43 PM
Timber frame v traditional blocks, which is better?

Starting a self build shortly and this is one of the big first decisions. I've heard timber frame are better for heat retention but don't keep noise out as much?
Have a friend who swears by timber frame, but then he's in the timber business so there's bias.
Found a timber frame thread on the board but it's 12 year old and wondered how much has changed in the meantime.

Has anyone used timber frame and would they recommend it?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: balladmaker on October 10, 2020, 05:23:09 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 14, 2020, 05:47:19 PM
How much can be saved by not using a contractor and sorting out the tradespeople yourself? Is it worth the extra stress and hassle?

I got a price for a contractor, but decided not to go down the contractor route.  So hired the different trades in as they were needed.  I'm not from a building background and didn't know alot about it, but was lucky with the trades people we got e.g fella who did the foundations, recommended a brickie, the brickie recommended the roofer/joiner ... the roofer/joiner recommended a plumber and electrician, same roofer/joiner recommended fella to put the floors in, plasterer etc. etc. 

All in all, the build came in 17k more than the original contractor's price, but we got a better spec'ed house than what was included in the contractors price e.g. slate instead of tiles, oak instead of pine, underfloor heating system.  So was happy enough.  It's fair to say the joiner was a massive help in the overall process, and he did well out of it too with the work going his way.

I loved the whole process, enjoyed the craic with the different trades, and didn't really find it stressful ... apart from sorting out steel for the build which I found a challenge at the time.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: illdecide on October 11, 2020, 01:05:03 PM
Quote from: Rois on July 14, 2020, 06:21:07 PM
Quote from: RadioGAAGAA on July 14, 2020, 05:38:24 PM
3 years or 2?
3

Per HMRC website:

If you're replacing your main residence
You will not pay the extra 3% SDLT if the property you're buying is replacing your main residence and that has already been sold.

If you have not sold your main residence on the day you complete your new purchase you'll have to pay higher rates. This is because you own 2 properties.

You can apply for a refund if you sell your previous main home within 36 months.

Rois how does it work if you own your home and then inherit another through your parents will etc. You will own two homes but one was obviously given to you with no money passing hands. (Sorry i know you're not a solicitor)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on March 28, 2021, 09:53:38 PM
Has anyone got an idea what is the best product I can use to dampproof the inside surface of a poured concrete retaining wall?
I'm going to be building off the retaining wall and using it as the outer leaf of 100mm cavity wall for garage
I've to do around 9m x 2m.
Sheeting, spray on etc? Thanks
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on March 28, 2021, 11:32:18 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on March 28, 2021, 09:53:38 PM
Has anyone got an idea what is the best product I can use to dampproof the inside surface of a poured concrete retaining wall?
I'm going to be building off the retaining wall and using it as the outer leaf of 100mm cavity wall for garage
I've to do around 9m x 2m.
Sheeting, spray on etc? Thanks

KÖSTER Deuxan Professional
Applied with Trowel
More here and sounds like similar job: https://www.facebook.com/365044586981264/posts/1901981836620857/?d=n
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on March 29, 2021, 10:06:00 AM
Quote from: giveherlong on March 28, 2021, 11:32:18 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on March 28, 2021, 09:53:38 PM
Has anyone got an idea what is the best product I can use to dampproof the inside surface of a poured concrete retaining wall?
I'm going to be building off the retaining wall and using it as the outer leaf of 100mm cavity wall for garage
I've to do around 9m x 2m.
Sheeting, spray on etc? Thanks

KÖSTER Deuxan Professional
Applied with Trowel
More here and sounds like similar job: https://www.facebook.com/365044586981264/posts/1901981836620857/?d=n
Thanks. Looks like a good product
I was hoping to do the internal/negative side of the retaining wall
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: lfdown2 on March 29, 2021, 11:16:17 AM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on March 29, 2021, 10:06:00 AM
Quote from: giveherlong on March 28, 2021, 11:32:18 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on March 28, 2021, 09:53:38 PM
Has anyone got an idea what is the best product I can use to dampproof the inside surface of a poured concrete retaining wall?
I'm going to be building off the retaining wall and using it as the outer leaf of 100mm cavity wall for garage
I've to do around 9m x 2m.
Sheeting, spray on etc? Thanks

KÖSTER Deuxan Professional
Applied with Trowel
More here and sounds like similar job: https://www.facebook.com/365044586981264/posts/1901981836620857/?d=n
Thanks. Looks like a good product
I was hoping to do the internal/negative side of the retaining wall

Where are you based? I had some pain in the hole with waterproofing a basement and getting it through building control in the north. I ended up with a (expensive) fully enveloped structure; membrane beneath the base and returned up the base edge, an applied membrane painted on the external face down to meet the base membrane, and a membrane applied to the internal face which directed any ingress of water to a cavity drain which expelled at the end of the retaining wall.

If you like and want to pm me your email I can send you a detail.

I had an added complication of having a couple of rooms in the basement and as such it was upgraded from solely a garage and that increased the spec.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on March 29, 2021, 10:20:56 PM
midlands
its not a basement we're doing but a retaining wall between us and neighbours as there is a 2m height difference. then building off the retaining wall for a new structure with cavity wall.

I've had three different builders/blocklayers tell me three different ways they would do it. I however think none of them actually have a clue what they are talking about
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on April 20, 2021, 12:49:03 PM
The building control cert is only one of several documents you can use as evidence in the North
You Can also use rates cert or a letter from your bank or building society
You can make 1 claim 3 months after the date of the document you are using as evidence
See page 14 on this PDF - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/828064/VAT431NB_form_and_notes.pdf
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 01:28:30 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

How much did you end up paying per sqf?
We have a 2900sqf 2 storey with the planning department at the minute and would like to have an idea of what's coming.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Franko on April 20, 2021, 01:43:11 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 01:28:30 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

How much did you end up paying per sqf?
We have a 2900sqf 2 storey with the planning department at the minute and would like to have an idea of what's coming.

£95 - £100 for a high standard of finish, outside work on top of that.

Not what you want to hear but building materials prices are going through the roof at the minute.

As an example - 1m3 of 35/40N concrete was £59-60 a year ago - you could pay £70 plus now.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on April 20, 2021, 01:53:01 PM
Quote from: Franko on April 20, 2021, 01:43:11 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 01:28:30 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

How much did you end up paying per sqf?
We have a 2900sqf 2 storey with the planning department at the minute and would like to have an idea of what's coming.

£95 - £100 for a high standard of finish, outside work on top of that.

Not what you want to hear but building materials prices are going through the roof at the minute.

As an example - 1m3 of 35/40N concrete was £59-60 a year ago - you could pay £70 plus now.

Wood up serious price at min as well.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 02:30:08 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 01:28:30 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

How much did you end up paying per sqf?
We have a 2900sqf 2 storey with the planning department at the minute and would like to have an idea of what's coming.

Believe it or not we built a 2700sqf (2 storey) in 2020 for £65 per sqf in Tyrone area, and that's it painted, tiled and wooden flooring etc and I think it's a decent finish. This also included electric (£3k) and water connections but didn't include any other fees such as architect's. Expect to pay 20%+ extra in 2021 however.

Should add that we Project Managed this ourselves and the best thing we ever did was get a QS to do up costings and this meant we didn't go over budget as too many people lose the run of themselves when building a house.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 02:47:05 PM
Quote from: giveherlong on April 20, 2021, 12:49:03 PM
The building control cert is only one of several documents you can use as evidence in the North
You Can also use rates cert or a letter from your bank or building society
You can make 1 claim 3 months after the date of the document you are using as evidence
See page 14 on this PDF - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/828064/VAT431NB_form_and_notes.pdf

Thanks for this link.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Will it ever end on April 20, 2021, 03:13:38 PM
Clarshack how much of that £65 psf did you have the labour carried out on by yourself?

A finished house - landscaped / driveways etc will cost much closer to £100 psf
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 04:21:04 PM
Quote from: Will it ever end on April 20, 2021, 03:13:38 PM
Clarshack how much of that £65 psf did you have the labour carried out on by yourself?

A finished house - landscaped / driveways etc will cost much closer to £100 psf

Didn't do any labour myself. There's just gravel on the driveway and no landscaping done so i'd say you could spend a fortune on that all right.
There's no fancy stonework either.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Armagh Girl on April 20, 2021, 08:40:30 PM
For those of you who self built, and managed themselves - when sourcing building supplies did you price around at various suppliers or did you just go to 1 main supplier.  Our QS has done an itemised price guide for us, but various buliders, roofers etc say you need to price around.  Any advice would be helpful.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on April 20, 2021, 09:58:19 PM
Price round the big things, but in the main, used the one builders yard for everything else. You just won't have time to price everything.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on April 20, 2021, 10:47:30 PM
You can get some local dry lining companies that come with their own strippers, and I'm not talking paint strippers
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 11:03:58 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on April 20, 2021, 10:47:30 PM
You can get some local dry lining companies that come with their own strippers, and I'm not talking paint strippers

Watched the first video, didnt see the big deal.

Then I watched the rest of them....
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on April 20, 2021, 11:15:12 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 11:03:58 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on April 20, 2021, 10:47:30 PM
You can get some local dry lining companies that come with their own strippers, and I'm not talking paint strippers

Watched the first video, didnt see the big deal.

Then I watched the rest of them....

Mobile phones !!! Some of these guys are getting divorced and sacked!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: grounded on April 21, 2021, 08:23:30 AM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

That was my reading of that. Once we had the completion certificate we had 3 months to submit claim.
   I may be wrong but it may also be 3 months from when your rates was issued i.e. they can say that you were living in the house from!
     
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on April 21, 2021, 11:06:31 AM
Quote from: Armagh Girl on April 20, 2021, 08:40:30 PM
For those of you who self built, and managed themselves - when sourcing building supplies did you price around at various suppliers or did you just go to 1 main supplier.  Our QS has done an itemised price guide for us, but various buliders, roofers etc say you need to price around.  Any advice would be helpful.

We went between 2 local builders merchants, which ever one was cheaper for the required materials.

One thing I would recommend doing is using Attic Trusses for your roof, our plans had a traditional cut roof but we changed to use Trusses and even though the Attic Trusses were a bit more expensive it means you could potentially use your attic in the future as a games/cinema room etc
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on April 21, 2021, 11:52:05 AM
Quote from: clarshack on April 21, 2021, 11:06:31 AM
Quote from: Armagh Girl on April 20, 2021, 08:40:30 PM
For those of you who self built, and managed themselves - when sourcing building supplies did you price around at various suppliers or did you just go to 1 main supplier.  Our QS has done an itemised price guide for us, but various buliders, roofers etc say you need to price around.  Any advice would be helpful.

We went between 2 local builders merchants, which ever one was cheaper for the required materials.

One thing I would recommend doing is using Attic Trusses for your roof, our plans had a traditional cut roof but we changed to use Trusses and even though the Attic Trusses were a bit more expensive it means you could potentially use your attic in the future as a games/cinema room etc

You can do that with a cut roof as well. Just a case of using the right timber for the future.

Also, with regard to VAT you can add any receipts in the window after getting your building control cert and submitting your VAT claim so long as you have the claim submitted within the 3 months.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Armagh Girl on April 21, 2021, 08:58:13 PM
Thanks for the advice, thats what i thought.  We are presently using 1 company for the Bricks, Cement etc and trying to decide who to go to for most of the other stuff.  My brother is the Roofer/Joiner/Site Manager so not worrying about the Roofing too much.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: dubai2000 on April 25, 2021, 07:22:04 PM
Anyone hit me up with what is the best wood stain (clear) for a 75meter fence? Preference is to stain it and leave it for at least 10 years  8)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: laceer on April 28, 2021, 07:29:26 PM
Quote from: dubai2000 on April 25, 2021, 07:22:04 PM
Anyone hit me up with what is the best wood stain (clear) for a 75meter fence? Preference is to stain it and leave it for at least 10 years  8)

Have a similar job ahead of me - any recommendations would be much appreciated.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:07:01 PM
Anyone got mechanical heat recovery ventilation? Is it a spoof or is it any use? Architect seems to think its necessary to get through building control. Could do without it as it seems pretty expensive.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on July 31, 2021, 08:55:08 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:07:01 PM
Anyone got mechanical heat recovery ventilation? Is it a spoof or is it any use? Architect seems to think its necessary to get through building control. Could do without it as it seems pretty expensive.

Got one. Not sure what you mean? It's something that operates in the background and you don't notice anything overly different. We went with very airtight house, not trickle vents etc. So MHRV essential. Meant to filter the air and help in reducing heat loss. But as mentioned, there's never a time when I've went "god that MHRV's a great job". But the house is easy heated, dust doesn't seem to hang in the air as much etc. Seems to do what it's meant to.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:58:45 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 31, 2021, 08:55:08 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:07:01 PM
Anyone got mechanical heat recovery ventilation? Is it a spoof or is it any use? Architect seems to think its necessary to get through building control. Could do without it as it seems pretty expensive.

Got one. Not sure what you mean? It's something that operates in the background and you don't notice anything overly different. We went with very airtight house, not trickle vents etc. So MHRV essential. Meant to filter the air and help in reducing heat loss. But as mentioned, there's never a time when I've went "god that MHRV's a great job". But the house is easy heated, dust doesn't seem to hang in the air as much etc. Seems to do what it's meant to.

Have heard people say they don't notice any difference, bathroom window still needs to be open when in the shower etc.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on July 31, 2021, 10:52:23 PM
If you are going for an air tight house without trickle window vents and external wall fans in bathrooms, the least you need is a central ventilation system without heat recovery, cost  depending on the number of bathrooms and the size of the  house would be typically £2,500 - £3,000 for a 2,000 ft2 house.
Heat recovery can be added to this if required, personally I don't feel it's worth the extra cost, it is not needed for building control, ventilation is require however.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on July 31, 2021, 11:40:33 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:07:01 PM
Anyone got mechanical heat recovery ventilation? Is it a spoof or is it any use? Architect seems to think its necessary to get through building control. Could do without it as it seems pretty expensive.
It's definitely money well spent
No point spending thousands on insulation/airtightness without it
No need for bathroom window open. Will clear shower steam in under an hour
Vent axia is a decent model
Try Homecare in Donaghmore or Atlantic Air in Dunamore/Kildress
There's plenty more suppliers than BEAM out there
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on July 31, 2021, 11:42:04 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:58:45 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 31, 2021, 08:55:08 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 31, 2021, 08:07:01 PM
Anyone got mechanical heat recovery ventilation? Is it a spoof or is it any use? Architect seems to think its necessary to get through building control. Could do without it as it seems pretty expensive.

Got one. Not sure what you mean? It's something that operates in the background and you don't notice anything overly different. We went with very airtight house, not trickle vents etc. So MHRV essential. Meant to filter the air and help in reducing heat loss. But as mentioned, there's never a time when I've went "god that MHRV's a great job". But the house is easy heated, dust doesn't seem to hang in the air as much etc. Seems to do what it's meant to.

Have heard people say they don't notice any difference, bathroom window still needs to be open when in the shower etc.
The bathroom will steam up, but clears quickly. Think that's the whole point, it'll take the warm air from the bathroom and use it to warm fresh air from outside. Rather than opening a window and freezing the house.  Our system at the time was roughly 4.5k. We needed a ventilation system anyway as we were going for close to passive spec, so took the gamble. It's just one of those things, ticks away in the background and you don't notice it. How much an impact it's actually making on the HR side I don't know
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Hereiam on August 01, 2021, 12:23:07 AM
Your Architect is talkin through his hole if he's telling you building control require it. It's not a requirement.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 01, 2021, 12:35:28 AM
Quote from: Hereiam on August 01, 2021, 12:23:07 AM
Your Architect is talkin through his hole if he's telling you building control require it. It's not a requirement.

He said it was that or solar panels. Contractors are offering cheaper alternatives, some sort of positive input system?
However architect still adamant that hear recovery ventilation is necessary. He's also pushing for a storm soakaway which I've been warned off by others as it will flood.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tony Baloney on August 01, 2021, 09:34:25 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 01, 2021, 12:35:28 AM
Quote from: Hereiam on August 01, 2021, 12:23:07 AM
Your Architect is talkin through his hole if he's telling you building control require it. It's not a requirement.

He said it was that or solar panels. Contractors are offering cheaper alternatives, some sort of positive input system?
However architect still adamant that hear recovery ventilation is necessary. He's also pushing for a storm soakaway which I've been warned off by others as it will flood.
The issue with the PIV we have is that it is fitted at a single point and it just blows air through the house to keep the air moving. The brother in law has the MHRV system and it's a far superior job so if you can dig out thr money I'd go for it. As for the comment re. steam in the bathroom, these aren't industrial air-handling units so they're not going generate many air changes per hour - it is a system that tips away in the background keeping your air clean and moving but without you feeling it circulating.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on August 01, 2021, 10:44:09 AM
Regarding the soakaway, much better if you can connect the storm water from gullies to the main storm line if one is available or in to a nearby stream / river.
If a public storm isn't available and soakaway or sump is the only option; you should locate it in an area on site that is suitable, depending on the amount of surface water to be drained and the type of ground, maybe consider a second sump for good measure lined with a membrane and filled with clean stone.
Main storm line is definitely the preferred option if available.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 12, 2021, 10:48:14 PM
Stairs.

Concrete or timber? Have heard concrete ones can add tens of thousands of pounds, this is curved ones we're talking about. Does anyone have these? Were they worth it? Was it alot of hassle with calculations and foundations? Did you end up with concrete slabs across the entire floor upstairs?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on August 12, 2021, 11:16:44 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 12, 2021, 10:48:14 PM
Stairs.

Concrete or timber? Have heard concrete ones can add tens of thousands of pounds, this is curved ones we're talking about. Does anyone have these? Were they worth it? Was it alot of hassle with calculations and foundations? Did you end up with concrete slabs across the entire floor upstairs?

Feel your pain. We went with curved stairs. Ended up going wooden, prices were crazy for concrete.  Got the stair maker to come out and measure up so calculations were all with him. We were putting slabs down upstairs anyway.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 12, 2021, 11:39:09 PM
Just finished patio, was wondering best filler for the joints?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on August 13, 2021, 09:11:01 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 12, 2021, 11:39:09 PM
Just finished patio, was wondering best filler for the joints?

Depends on the type of paving that was used. Some will require a mortar mix either as a wet slurry or pointed into the joints. Some will just be a simple case of dry sand brushed into the joints. It really all depends on the paving used and how it was laid. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: JohnDenver on August 13, 2021, 09:38:24 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 12, 2021, 11:39:09 PM
Just finished patio, was wondering best filler for the joints?

Rompox is decent. Flexible to fill the joints but then hardens and should be frost and weed proof.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on August 13, 2021, 10:07:29 AM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on August 12, 2021, 11:16:44 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 12, 2021, 10:48:14 PM
Stairs.

Concrete or timber? Have heard concrete ones can add tens of thousands of pounds, this is curved ones we're talking about. Does anyone have these? Were they worth it? Was it alot of hassle with calculations and foundations? Did you end up with concrete slabs across the entire floor upstairs?

Feel your pain. We went with curved stairs. Ended up going wooden, prices were crazy for concrete.  Got the stair maker to come out and measure up so calculations were all with him. We were putting slabs down upstairs anyway.

I did the same and would seriously recommend it to anyone. Far less noise when the young ones are bullocking about up there.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on August 13, 2021, 11:30:59 AM
Quote from: johnnycool on August 13, 2021, 10:07:29 AM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on August 12, 2021, 11:16:44 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 12, 2021, 10:48:14 PM
Stairs.

Concrete or timber? Have heard concrete ones can add tens of thousands of pounds, this is curved ones we're talking about. Does anyone have these? Were they worth it? Was it alot of hassle with calculations and foundations? Did you end up with concrete slabs across the entire floor upstairs?

Feel your pain. We went with curved stairs. Ended up going wooden, prices were crazy for concrete.  Got the stair maker to come out and measure up so calculations were all with him. We were putting slabs down upstairs anyway.

I did the same and would seriously recommend it to anyone. Far less noise when the young ones are bullocking about up there.

Totally agree on the slabs for upstairs. Well worth it.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 13, 2021, 11:55:58 AM
Quote from: 93-DY-SAM on August 13, 2021, 09:11:01 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 12, 2021, 11:39:09 PM
Just finished patio, was wondering best filler for the joints?

Depends on the type of paving that was used. Some will require a mortar mix either as a wet slurry or pointed into the joints. Some will just be a simple case of dry sand brushed into the joints. It really all depends on the paving used and how it was laid.


Quote from: JohnDenver on August 13, 2021, 09:38:24 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 12, 2021, 11:39:09 PM
Just finished patio, was wondering best filler for the joints?

Rompox is decent. Flexible to fill the joints but then hardens and should be frost and weed proof.


So it was a stone based leveler and mortar for the slate paving.. gaps are about 14mm... right will pick that up and try it.. many thanks guys
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on August 13, 2021, 02:19:37 PM
Quote from: Nailer on August 01, 2021, 10:44:09 AM
Regarding the soakaway, much better if you can connect the storm water from gullies to the main storm line if one is available or in to a nearby stream / river.
If a public storm isn't available and soakaway or sump is the only option; you should locate it in an area on site that is suitable, depending on the amount of surface water to be drained and the type of ground, maybe consider a second sump for good measure lined with a membrane and filled with clean stone.
Main storm line is definitely the preferred option if available.
Rainwater harvesting tank is a good investment imho
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Armamike on August 13, 2021, 04:14:28 PM
Quote from: clarshack on August 13, 2021, 11:30:59 AM
Quote from: johnnycool on August 13, 2021, 10:07:29 AM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on August 12, 2021, 11:16:44 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 12, 2021, 10:48:14 PM
Stairs.

Concrete or timber? Have heard concrete ones can add tens of thousands of pounds, this is curved ones we're talking about. Does anyone have these? Were they worth it? Was it alot of hassle with calculations and foundations? Did you end up with concrete slabs across the entire floor upstairs?

Feel your pain. We went with curved stairs. Ended up going wooden, prices were crazy for concrete.  Got the stair maker to come out and measure up so calculations were all with him. We were putting slabs down upstairs anyway.

I did the same and would seriously recommend it to anyone. Far less noise when the young ones are bullocking about up there.

Totally agree on the slabs for upstairs. Well worth it.

Just pray you don't get a leak from a shower.
Slabs are a nightmare if you get a leak from an upstairs shower (which there often is!).  Far easier and cheaper to get it sorted and find the root of the problem from downstairs if there's plasterboard.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Flanker on August 17, 2021, 11:05:38 AM
Anyone recommend a good heating engineer/plumber.
Looking to look at some form of air source / ground source / solar combination to plug into existing underfloor heating.
Have spoken to a few people who have knowledge in their own area but finding it hard to find someone who has good knowledge to bring it all together. Co Antrim/Derry area
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on August 17, 2021, 11:28:32 AM
There's a guy Francis Glackin from Cookstown, would be worth having a chat to. He's plumber  that specialises in renewable energy. FG plumbing think the company name is.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Flanker on August 17, 2021, 12:25:27 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on August 17, 2021, 11:28:32 AM
There's a guy Francis Glackin from Cookstown, would be worth having a chat to. He's plumber  that specialises in renewable energy. FG plumbing think the company name is.
Thanks is/was he from Bellaghy direction
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on August 17, 2021, 12:36:38 PM
Think he might have been alright. It was a while ago I was speaking with him.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 06:37:49 PM
Kitchen worktops ... any decent shout outs to companies that provide them?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: pbat on August 31, 2021, 08:00:08 PM
Stone Unlimited in Dromore done mine a few months ago and done an excellent job,
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on August 31, 2021, 10:03:28 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 06:37:49 PM
Kitchen worktops ... any decent shout outs to companies that provide them?
Maghera Granite 👍
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 10:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, she's looking, (as I wouldn't have the foggiest on types, or be allowed to pick!! ) a thin composite stone she was talking about... is there much difference in price? I'd imagine the granite was more expensive.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Fear Bun Na Sceilpe on August 31, 2021, 11:08:28 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 06:37:49 PM
Kitchen worktops ... any decent shout outs to companies that provide them?

Just got a quartz, hard kept ,stains easy and not easy to shift
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 08:51:16 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 06:37:49 PM
Kitchen worktops ... any decent shout outs to companies that provide them?

have used Maghera Granite on lots of different jobs, very good outfit
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 08:52:39 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 10:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, she's looking, (as I wouldn't have the foggiest on types, or be allowed to pick!! ) a thin composite stone she was talking about... is there much difference in price? I'd imagine the granite was more expensive.

is she looking at Corian or a similar product? Very Very expensive, but lasts a lifetime

dont go for the polished, gloss type though
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 01, 2021, 09:27:09 AM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 08:52:39 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 10:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, she's looking, (as I wouldn't have the foggiest on types, or be allowed to pick!! ) a thin composite stone she was talking about... is there much difference in price? I'd imagine the granite was more expensive.

is she looking at Corian or a similar product? Very Very expensive, but lasts a lifetime

dont go for the polished, gloss type though

New kitchen, so don't mind spending a few quid but don't want her to take the piss!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 09:29:52 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 01, 2021, 09:27:09 AM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 08:52:39 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 10:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, she's looking, (as I wouldn't have the foggiest on types, or be allowed to pick!! ) a thin composite stone she was talking about... is there much difference in price? I'd imagine the granite was more expensive.

is she looking at Corian or a similar product? Very Very expensive, but lasts a lifetime

dont go for the polished, gloss type though

New kitchen, so don't mind spending a few quid but don't want her to take the piss!

She'll take the piss
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on September 01, 2021, 09:58:55 AM
put in a cheap one.
change it in a few years
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Franko on September 01, 2021, 01:41:38 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on September 01, 2021, 09:58:55 AM
put in a cheap one.
change it in a few years

Never understood that logic

Why buy loads of cheap ones (of anything) instead of fewer expensive ones?

Spend the rest of your life looking at something cheap and nasty, for the same outlay as something good but pricey.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 01, 2021, 07:11:51 PM
Quote from: Franko on September 01, 2021, 01:41:38 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on September 01, 2021, 09:58:55 AM
put in a cheap one.
change it in a few years

Never understood that logic

Why buy loads of cheap ones (of anything) instead of fewer expensive ones?

Spend the rest of your life looking at something cheap and nasty, for the same outlay as something good but pricey.
Fashions change. Some people would rather spend less money on lots of clothing items as they change their look regularly, whereas a fella I used to work with wouldnt spend less than 200 quid on a pair of shoes as they'd last for years and arguably bypass changing fashions. I know a doll at work who has plenty of money and she changes her kitchen every few years. Different strokes and all that.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: manfromdelmonte on September 01, 2021, 11:51:11 PM
Quote from: Franko on September 01, 2021, 01:41:38 PM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on September 01, 2021, 09:58:55 AM
put in a cheap one.
change it in a few years

Never understood that logic

Why buy loads of cheap ones (of anything) instead of fewer expensive ones?

Spend the rest of your life looking at something cheap and nasty, for the same outlay as something good but pricey.
Its not the same outlay though and it does exactly the same job.
You put things on the counter.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on September 02, 2021, 04:23:42 AM
Try Lamont Stone for worktops and upstands, good professional outfit, quartz is a lot cheaper than granite, all depends on the budget. Best to let the boss choose!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on September 02, 2021, 07:03:16 AM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 09:29:52 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 01, 2021, 09:27:09 AM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 01, 2021, 08:52:39 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 10:27:38 PM
Thanks guys, she's looking, (as I wouldn't have the foggiest on types, or be allowed to pick!! ) a thin composite stone she was talking about... is there much difference in price? I'd imagine the granite was more expensive.

is she looking at Corian or a similar product? Very Very expensive, but lasts a lifetime

dont go for the polished, gloss type though

New kitchen, so don't mind spending a few quid but don't want her to take the piss!

She'll take the piss

Can confirm. Doing my best to fight off getting an "lighting consultant" at the minute, whatever that is.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 02, 2021, 01:01:29 PM
Direct them to Cosentino up at Nutts Corner, they do Silestone and Dekton........you'd need several credit cards to pay for it
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on September 02, 2021, 01:23:00 PM
how much is concrete a metre these days?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 02, 2021, 01:52:02 PM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 02, 2021, 01:01:29 PM
Direct them to Cosentino up at Nutts Corner, they do Silestone and Dekton........you'd need several credit cards to pay for it

She mentioned Silestone, thought it wasn't that expensive??!!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 02, 2021, 03:39:49 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 02, 2021, 01:52:02 PM
Quote from: Tyrdub on September 02, 2021, 01:01:29 PM
Direct them to Cosentino up at Nutts Corner, they do Silestone and Dekton........you'd need several credit cards to pay for it

She mentioned Silestone, thought it wasn't that expensive??!!

its not that bad, and a bloody good product too, the Dekton though is bloody dear
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: giveherlong on September 02, 2021, 09:29:42 PM
Quote from: clarshack on September 02, 2021, 01:23:00 PM
how much is concrete a metre these days?

35N is £70m3 (+vat if you are paying it)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Brick Tamlin on September 02, 2021, 09:34:20 PM
Some of youse boys must have the balls in the wife's handbag by the sound of it. Lighting consultant my arse. Tell her to wise up.
Never ever let the woman deal with tradesmen or suppliers. They be rubbing their hands when they see them coming.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on September 02, 2021, 10:47:58 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2021, 06:37:49 PM
Kitchen worktops ... any decent shout outs to companies that provide them?
PM Marble in Dungannon.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 02, 2021, 10:54:25 PM
Quote from: Brick Tamlin on September 02, 2021, 09:34:20 PM
Some of youse boys must have the balls in the wife's handbag by the sound of it. Lighting consultant my arse. Tell her to wise up.
Never ever let the woman deal with tradesmen or suppliers. They be rubbing their hands when they see them coming.

Like I'm going to pick or want to pick a kitchen!  I haven't that feminine touch ;)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on September 03, 2021, 11:05:28 AM
Quote from: Brick Tamlin on September 02, 2021, 09:34:20 PM
Some of youse boys must have the balls in the wife's handbag by the sound of it. Lighting consultant my arse. Tell her to wise up.
Never ever let the woman deal with tradesmen or suppliers. They be rubbing their hands when they see them coming.

Any boy who says he wear the trousers in the house is either pissed and sitting at the bar, or a bloody liar...which are you?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Brick Tamlin on September 03, 2021, 01:11:37 PM
Neither. I just don't believe in letting her run amok and vice versa. If things are equal then when it comes to home improvements etc both parties agree or it doesn't get bought. Simple.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 03, 2021, 01:23:31 PM
Quote from: Brick Tamlin on September 03, 2021, 01:11:37 PM
Neither. I just don't believe in letting her run amok and vice versa. If things are equal then when it comes to home improvements etc both parties agree or it doesn't get bought. Simple.

I'm perfectly happy to let her pick the majority of things, I've no eye for decorations and what works with that colour scheme and so on.. Picking the TV and barbecue set is about my interests are. Though I did pick the last sofa, mainly because she couldn't decide taking ages and I was getting pissed off!

Hell Id be happy to use the money for the kitchen and go on holidays!!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Fear Bun Na Sceilpe on September 03, 2021, 01:47:26 PM
I found out years ago that you just nod the head and say "thats ok love, whatever you want", works wonders
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on September 04, 2021, 08:37:31 AM
The worst words a man can hear from his other half is "I was just thinking.....". 99 times out of 100 that involves spending big money.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on October 19, 2021, 09:54:44 PM
Anyone paid for painters recently for the interior of a new build? Whats the rough rate? We have a 4bed 2800sqft house, was wondering what it will cost. 5k? 10k?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on October 19, 2021, 11:25:57 PM
Internal painting for a 2800 ft2 house should be around 5k if the doors are pre-finished, add another £25 per door if they require painting too.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on October 20, 2021, 04:23:16 AM
Quote from: Nailer on October 19, 2021, 11:25:57 PM
Internal painting for a 2800 ft2 house should be around 5k if the doors are pre-finished, add another £25 per door if they require painting too.

Good man thanks
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Taylor on October 20, 2021, 08:25:17 AM
Dont be going for any fancy colours first time round - paint the house white for now - you will have plenty of time to change
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on October 20, 2021, 08:27:32 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on October 19, 2021, 09:54:44 PM
Anyone paid for painters recently for the interior of a new build? Whats the rough rate? We have a 4bed 2800sqft house, was wondering what it will cost. 5k? 10k?

Don't rush into painting it, let it settle for a couple of years first. You will only have to repaint when the cracks appear.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Mhic Easmuint on October 20, 2021, 08:42:38 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on October 19, 2021, 09:54:44 PM
Anyone paid for painters recently for the interior of a new build? Whats the rough rate? We have a 4bed 2800sqft house, was wondering what it will cost. 5k? 10k?

5 years back, we got the whole inside of a slightly bigger new build sprayed white for about £1200 including the paint. (Spraying might be an option on a new build). Then the painting of skirting and doorframes was another £800 or so.  Whole house was sprayed in 2.5 days.
Have only pained one of the kids rooms since. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 08:27:38 PM
Would anyone know what sort of fee i'd be looking at for planning permission in NI for putting up a large tent that would be used for car detailing?

https://www.dancovershop.com/uk/product/storage-shelter-pro-7x7x3-8-m-pvc-w-skylight-grey.aspx

It would be well hidden off the road down a private lane and the neighbours wouldn't cause any bother in reporting it for not having permission only problem is it would be technically a commercial property and i wouldn't want it to affect any insurance issues
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: StPatsAbu on October 23, 2021, 08:59:49 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 08:27:38 PM
Would anyone know what sort of fee i'd be looking at for planning permission in NI for putting up a large tent that would be used for car detailing?

https://www.dancovershop.com/uk/product/storage-shelter-pro-7x7x3-8-m-pvc-w-skylight-grey.aspx

It would be well hidden off the road down a private lane and the neighbours wouldn't cause any bother in reporting it for not having permission only problem is it would be technically a commercial property and i wouldn't want it to affect any insurance issues

So you even need PP for temporary structures?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 09:18:24 PM
Quote from: StPatsAbu on October 23, 2021, 08:59:49 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 08:27:38 PM
Would anyone know what sort of fee i'd be looking at for planning permission in NI for putting up a large tent that would be used for car detailing?

https://www.dancovershop.com/uk/product/storage-shelter-pro-7x7x3-8-m-pvc-w-skylight-grey.aspx

It would be well hidden off the road down a private lane and the neighbours wouldn't cause any bother in reporting it for not having permission only problem is it would be technically a commercial property and i wouldn't want it to affect any insurance issues

So you even need PP for temporary structures?

According to NI planning website the 2 catagories it requires planning permission for is because its over 30m2 and not being used for domestic purposes
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Main Street on October 23, 2021, 11:56:33 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 09:18:24 PM
Quote from: StPatsAbu on October 23, 2021, 08:59:49 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 08:27:38 PM
Would anyone know what sort of fee i'd be looking at for planning permission in NI for putting up a large tent that would be used for car detailing?

https://www.dancovershop.com/uk/product/storage-shelter-pro-7x7x3-8-m-pvc-w-skylight-grey.aspx

It would be well hidden off the road down a private lane and the neighbours wouldn't cause any bother in reporting it for not having permission only problem is it would be technically a commercial property and i wouldn't want it to affect any insurance issues

So you even need PP for temporary structures?

According to NI planning website the 2 catagories it requires planning permission for is because its over 30m2 and not being used for domestic purposes
Would it not be cheaper to  hire somebody else to do the detailing?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nanderson on October 24, 2021, 04:33:13 AM
Quote from: Main Street on October 23, 2021, 11:56:33 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 09:18:24 PM
Quote from: StPatsAbu on October 23, 2021, 08:59:49 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on October 23, 2021, 08:27:38 PM
Would anyone know what sort of fee i'd be looking at for planning permission in NI for putting up a large tent that would be used for car detailing?

https://www.dancovershop.com/uk/product/storage-shelter-pro-7x7x3-8-m-pvc-w-skylight-grey.aspx

It would be well hidden off the road down a private lane and the neighbours wouldn't cause any bother in reporting it for not having permission only problem is it would be technically a commercial property and i wouldn't want it to affect any insurance issues

So you even need PP for temporary structures?

According to NI planning website the 2 catagories it requires planning permission for is because its over 30m2 and not being used for domestic purposes
Would it not be cheaper to  hire somebody else to do the detailing?
It's starting my own business
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on January 20, 2022, 10:58:26 AM
If you're using a contractor to build a house do you need your own house insurance or does the contractor cover that until they've finished?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: rrhf on January 20, 2022, 11:04:27 AM
They should be covering that until handover that but always worth asking what is covered. Any subcontractors that you employ will need to supply their details to him for approval.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on January 22, 2022, 05:21:43 AM
RRHF is correct, the contractor takes possession of the site and is responsible until it is completed and the house is handed over to you. Strictly speaking he controls who can enter the site throughout the contract period, as an employer you have responsibilities under the Health  & Safety Regulations but your architect will keep you right on this. An N1 form should be submitted to the H&S Executive in advance notifying them of the project. Very often contractors don't bother too much with the H&S paperwork for one off houses and the job gets done but you should be aware of your responsibilities in any event. The builder should prepare a H&S plan for the project which is a live document, risk assessments and method statements for each item of work should be added to it as the job progresses and as been suggested already, he should check his sub contractor's insurance prior to starting on site.
You or your architect should request a copy of your builder's insurance in advance, and if it is due renewal during the contact, ask for a copy at that time.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 22, 2022, 09:25:42 AM
Getting new kitchen at the minute, with knocking down a wall to extend the kitchen and tiles throughout..

I have to say the guy we got doing it has been very good, he's organised everything run very smoothly, was having nightmares about cowboy builders and shitty work, but touch wood he'll be finished next week ish!!

Oh and not hard to pay, just my wife has went over budget with other shit!

That'll be 3 weeks of eating microwave shit! And living in the front room! Would budget living in an Airbnb 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: general on January 22, 2022, 08:56:35 PM
purchased new house mid sept - kitchen circa 20 years old, quality fantastic, dont think we would get the same quality again if we bought new one.

any recommendations for replacement worktops (stone) and kitchen spraying?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on January 24, 2022, 05:35:14 AM
Take a look back on this thread, there were a number of companies recommended  for granite worktops and quartz. Not sure about spray / hand painting recommendations,
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 24, 2022, 08:41:56 AM
Quote from: Nailer on January 24, 2022, 05:35:14 AM
Take a look back on this thread, there were a number of companies recommended  for granite worktops and quartz. Not sure about spray / hand painting recommendations,

We got the doors painted by a guy from Ards direction, gave the kitchen a real do up at the time, good job, mid Ulster granite is where we got our new work top, expensive enough to be fair, waiting on it to be fitted so can't say how it is until then
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Last Man on January 24, 2022, 10:27:58 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 24, 2022, 08:41:56 AM
Quote from: Nailer on January 24, 2022, 05:35:14 AM
Take a look back on this thread, there were a number of companies recommended  for granite worktops and quartz. Not sure about spray / hand painting recommendations,

We got the doors painted by a guy from Ards direction, gave the kitchen a real do up at the time, good job, mid Ulster granite is where we got our new work top, expensive enough to be fair, waiting on it to be fitted so can't say how it is until then
We had ours done by Lamont Stone. They wont work from drawings, instead do a 3D laser scan of the installed carcasses. They then take full responsibility for anything that doesn't fit.
Again not cheap but 6 years on no issues.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on February 11, 2022, 01:15:53 PM
Anyone any experience with getting connected using Openreach?
Got a bill for just £200 from them for "site survey plus duct and cable".
I take it this isn't the total bill and they'll charge for digging, connecting to the network etc?

Can't get anyone on the phone.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on February 11, 2022, 01:58:00 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on February 11, 2022, 01:15:53 PM
Anyone any experience with getting connected using Openreach?
Got a bill for just £200 from them for "site survey plus duct and cable".
I take it this isn't the total bill and they'll charge for digging, connecting to the network etc?

Can't get anyone on the phone.

I think they quoted me something similar. Can't remember if it was an actual invoice or not. I didn't pay it and am in the house about 5 years now (broadband and all). I wouldn't bother paying it till they come looking for it, provided they have left the ducting and cable with you. They don't install the duct, cable etc. You have to do that yourself taking it from the house to whatever pole they surveyed to. You just pull the cable from the house to the roadside box they also supply. They will come back when you are ready to be connected and hook it up at either end.

They also usually leave a fibre cable you can pull through at the same time to leave it in place if/when fibre is strung from the pole passing your property.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Franko on February 11, 2022, 02:36:28 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on February 11, 2022, 01:15:53 PM
Anyone any experience with getting connected using Openreach?
Got a bill for just £200 from them for "site survey plus duct and cable".
I take it this isn't the total bill and they'll charge for digging, connecting to the network etc?

Can't get anyone on the phone.

Sent you a pm RH
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Erne Man on February 11, 2022, 02:56:34 PM
Folks, have any self builders on here had any luck trying to get a Fibrus connection to their new build?
Our house has a Fibrus fibre line & box about 25m from the front door, but because the build hadn't commenced when Project Stratum was rolled out, I can't get access to it.
I've tried talking to Fibrus who don't want to know. They recommended talking to a local MLA who is even less interested!
I've been told it will be 5yrs before Fibrus release their infrastructure for general use, but don't know whether they will release to new builds outside Stratum before then.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on February 22, 2022, 12:58:57 PM
Does anyone have any experience of exterior wall cladding. I am looking at a terraced house in Belfast with a 2 storey extension out the back with no cavity wall. I am looking some way to limit heat loss and want to factor in the costs.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Look-Up! on February 22, 2022, 07:43:27 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 22, 2022, 12:58:57 PM
Does anyone have any experience of exterior wall cladding. I am looking at a terraced house in Belfast with a 2 storey extension out the back with no cavity wall. I am looking some way to limit heat loss and want to factor in the costs.
Considering something similar for a stone house but no practical experience with it. I believe you're talking around 6 inches onto your wall by all accounts so it will have implications for your roof and windows. Old window sills will more than likely not be protruding that far but that's manageable but roof soffit could be a major problem. How big is the overhang on the roof? Also interested to hear from any builders with experience.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on February 22, 2022, 08:58:28 PM
Quote from: Look-Up! on February 22, 2022, 07:43:27 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 22, 2022, 12:58:57 PM
Does anyone have any experience of exterior wall cladding. I am looking at a terraced house in Belfast with a 2 storey extension out the back with no cavity wall. I am looking some way to limit heat loss and want to factor in the costs.
Considering something similar for a stone house but no practical experience with it. I believe you're talking around 6 inches onto your wall by all accounts so it will have implications for your roof and windows. Old window sills will more than likely not be protruding that far but that's manageable but roof soffit could be a major problem. How big is the overhang on the roof? Also interested to hear from any builders with experience.
From memory it had 5windows and a set of patio doors. If I add that and a bit of roofing it may not be worth the investment.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on May 03, 2022, 08:42:47 PM
Looking at buying a small plot of land with a derelict house. NIE has been disconnected many years ago as it was coming in overhead and onto the gable peak. The main pole is at the opposite side of the main road directly opposite the house. Anyone know what NIE will be looking to charge to cross the main road with a cable? Category B road, ie main road with white line up the middle. Basically a days work but I've heard these guys can have thousands for this kind of thing?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 03, 2022, 09:44:19 PM
Quote from: knockitdown on May 03, 2022, 08:42:47 PM
Looking at buying a small plot of land with a derelict house. NIE has been disconnected many years ago as it was coming in overhead and onto the gable peak. The main pole is at the opposite side of the main road directly opposite the house. Anyone know what NIE will be looking to charge to cross the main road with a cable? Category B road, ie main road with white line up the middle. Basically a days work but I've heard these guys can have thousands for this kind of thing?

Not the exact same as yours but mine was £5400 to run an underground cable from the house 70m to the transformer just at the entrance to my site. Didnt have to dig up the road or cross the road. Got it done in a day. Have heard horror stories of 15k+ from ones who's nearest transformer is half a kilometre away. Have you one nearby at least?

What I will say is get onto NIE asap if you want to get the work done. I applied last May and the job was only done a fortnight ago!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Armagh Girl on May 03, 2022, 09:59:55 PM
Just paid around £3600 for NIE to take a cable across land underground 150metres.  Put an application or make an enquiry to NIE as they are really on the ball at getting back to you, they will carry out a survey and also give you a Dual Pricing for Full Works Option and Non Contestable Option (we chose the Full Works as it was most competitive).  We had a fella Mark McConaghey in NIE who dealt with us and he was brilliant from start to finish.  If for some reason you don't go ahead with it you don't have to. It is all very smooth running and everything was done at the time he stated it would be. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on May 03, 2022, 10:23:32 PM
Thanks folks. I get the feeling I could be on the wrong side of a 10k bill here given it's to cross a main road and all their fees associated with that!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 16, 2022, 01:07:40 PM
Quote from: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.

I'm about halfway through. Was told by contractor that the price of insulation is up a fortune so price is bring revised. Stone up a bit too. Think timber has stabilised. Plywood board for flooring was hard to get but they got sorted.
If you wait, is it likely to get better... or worse? Depending on your life situation you may want in quicker or be able to wait a while.
I don't think you're mad if you go ahead. There's nothing to say prices won't continue to rise and you'll regret not starting sooner. I'm certainly glad we started when we did.
There are houses going up all over the country so alot of people certainly think its worth going for now.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on May 16, 2022, 01:08:06 PM
Quote from: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.
Costs are through the roof to be honest. Everything from wood, steel, etc unreal prices. But how long will you be waiting til things are any better? It's one of those things where if your going to build, may as well get on with it. But try and make sure you've allowed for price increases in your budget. Things are going up weekly at the minute!!

Edit. Redhand beat me to it but same jist!!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 16, 2022, 01:16:29 PM
Quote from: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.

Built my house for £65 square foot that we project managed ourselves in 2020 but that will have increased significantly since then. Was actually talking to someone yesterday who reckons it's now at £175 just for a basic finish, but that was getting a builder to do it all.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 16, 2022, 01:26:47 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 16, 2022, 01:16:29 PM
Quote from: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.

Built my house for £65 square foot that we project managed ourselves in 2020 but that will have increased significantly since then. Was actually talking to someone yesterday who reckons it's now at £175 just for a basic finish, but that was getting a builder to do it all.

Ours was about 95-100 for basic builders finish but then we got a few extras. It's a money pit no matter what way you look at it!
65 per Square foot is good going, even if it was a few years ago.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Will it ever end on May 16, 2022, 01:27:21 PM
Clarshack I think you should clarify the £65 psf comment as it can be quite misleading to some posters.

Is the £65 psf you paid only for the superstructure? Was a majority of the work carried out by yourself & therefore labour for various trades not factored in to this so it looks artificially low? Does it include utility connection costs?

It's an extremely competitive build rate you achieved.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on May 16, 2022, 01:27:31 PM
Will the price of raw materials ever go down now though?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 16, 2022, 02:35:07 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 02:30:08 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on April 20, 2021, 01:28:30 PM
Quote from: clarshack on April 20, 2021, 10:49:55 AM
have a question on claiming vat back on a new build in the north. is the cut off point for buying and claiming vat on materials the date when you get the building control certificate? or can you buy paving stones and kerbs etc after that date but as long as the claim is submitted within 3 months of receiving the completion certificate?

How much did you end up paying per sqf?
We have a 2900sqf 2 storey with the planning department at the minute and would like to have an idea of what's coming.

Believe it or not we built a 2700sqf (2 storey) in 2020 for £65 per sqf in Tyrone area, and that's it painted, tiled and wooden flooring etc and I think it's a decent finish. This also included electric (£3k) and water connections but didn't include any other fees such as architect's. Expect to pay 20%+ extra in 2021 however.

Should add that we Project Managed this ourselves and the best thing we ever did was get a QS to do up costings and this meant we didn't go over budget as too many people lose the run of themselves when building a house.


I posted this last year.

I should have said the price per sqf excluded the purchase of the site, and any landscaping.

We got the different tradesmen in at the relevant stages. Only thing we really did ourselves was the loft insulation as nobody else really wants to touch it as it's a horrible nasty kind of job.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trailer on May 16, 2022, 05:26:55 PM
Quote from: OrchardRow on May 16, 2022, 12:38:12 PM
Hi all, any advice appreciated. Just wondering what the views are on the building at the minute - I am planning to start in a couple of weeks (no spade in the ground yet) and am wondering am I wise in the head? Mortgage, PP, BC, etc. all approved.

Is there anyone in the thick of it at the minute and what are prices, availability of materials, etc. like? Are these likely to come down? House is near touching 3000sq ft. Building in the north.

I'm all set to build and am going to give it to the end of the year. I have the site cleared, but no founds dug just yet. I might be silly but I can see trades becoming a bit more freely available and certainly grounds work men are handy got at the minute which tells its own story.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: illdecide on May 17, 2022, 10:06:48 AM
I'm managing an extension atm and it's hard work TBH, the Contractor is yapping daily about prices of materials and he's doing my head in. We know the price of the materials but it's out of our control. If i was planning a build atm I would def be holding off as there is no way this is going to continue like this and I believe there is recession coming which will soon tumble the price of everything...of course that's just my opinion and I may be wrong.

On a separate note...why do people build these mansion of houses when doing a self build and have 1-2 kids and sure it's only a short time down the road when they're gone to Uni etc or married etc and the two of you are in this massive house, why build them so big?.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 10:48:53 AM
Someone said to me recently that it might be cheaper to heat the hot water with immersion heater (Electric) in summer when no other oil is needed rather than put (now expensive) oil on for 30-40mins in morning and evening for hot water. I thought this sounded wrong but don't have the expertise to figure it out. Anyone any idea.

I came from a home where if you left the immersion heater on by accident you got a right big slap! :)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on May 17, 2022, 10:55:31 AM
The trouble with waiting is the cost of building is increasing quicker than you can save, which I have found out to my cost.
I have put off building for a while now, but I am now in a worse position than if I have just pulled the trigger 2 years ago. (although Covid was the big issue there too)
So hard to know what to do, and house prices in general are starting to get silly again too.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: JohnDenver on May 17, 2022, 11:14:04 AM
Quote from: illdecide on May 17, 2022, 10:06:48 AM
I'm managing an extension atm and it's hard work TBH, the Contractor is yapping daily about prices of materials and he's doing my head in. We know the price of the materials but it's out of our control. If i was planning a build atm I would def be holding off as there is no way this is going to continue like this and I believe there is recession coming which will soon tumble the price of everything...of course that's just my opinion and I may be wrong.

On a separate note...why do people build these mansion of houses when doing a self build and have 1-2 kids and sure it's only a short time down the road when they're gone to Uni etc or married etc and the two of you are in this massive house, why build them so big?.

Would agree with you on this front. Is it a case of keeping up with the Jones'?  Granted with covid and a lot of now hybrid WFH type jobs, an extra bedroom is good for an office space, but as you say a lot of these houses are mansions for the general family size now. 

Although maybe with the price of houses and building now, the children might be living at home for a lot longer!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 17, 2022, 11:17:40 AM
Quote from: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 10:48:53 AM
Someone said to me recently that it might be cheaper to heat the hot water with immersion heater (Electric) in summer when no other oil is needed rather than put (now expensive) oil on for 30-40mins in morning and evening for hot water. I thought this sounded wrong but don't have the expertise to figure it out. Anyone any idea.

I came from a home where if you left the immersion heater on by accident you got a right big slap! :)

That will probably be the way to go. Keep as much oil as you can heading into the autumn/winter.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on May 17, 2022, 01:25:41 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 17, 2022, 11:17:40 AM
Quote from: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 10:48:53 AM
Someone said to me recently that it might be cheaper to heat the hot water with immersion heater (Electric) in summer when no other oil is needed rather than put (now expensive) oil on for 30-40mins in morning and evening for hot water. I thought this sounded wrong but don't have the expertise to figure it out. Anyone any idea.

I came from a home where if you left the immersion heater on by accident you got a right big slap! :)

That will probably be the way to go. Keep as much oil as you can heading into the autumn/winter.

Put a solar panel on the roof, great job.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: TabClear on May 17, 2022, 01:59:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on May 17, 2022, 01:25:41 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 17, 2022, 11:17:40 AM
Quote from: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 10:48:53 AM
Someone said to me recently that it might be cheaper to heat the hot water with immersion heater (Electric) in summer when no other oil is needed rather than put (now expensive) oil on for 30-40mins in morning and evening for hot water. I thought this sounded wrong but don't have the expertise to figure it out. Anyone any idea.

I came from a home where if you left the immersion heater on by accident you got a right big slap! :)

That will probably be the way to go. Keep as much oil as you can heading into the autumn/winter.



Put a solar panel on the roof, great job.

Has anyone here any experience of solar water heating tubes on the roof? Would be interested to know cost/payback on those. My house is pretty well insulated so the heat does not be on from April to about October usually. But between us the hot water requirements is probably four showers a dau on average. At the minute the water is all oil heated so I a thinking those tubes might be good for summer?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 02:23:43 PM
Also interested in the solar but didn't have the money when building to provide for them

I wonder will there be grants coming back on renewables with the way the world is heading or did Cash for Ash finish this!!!!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: bigarsedkeeper on May 17, 2022, 03:37:07 PM
Quote from: TabClear on May 17, 2022, 01:59:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on May 17, 2022, 01:25:41 PM
Quote from: clarshack on May 17, 2022, 11:17:40 AM
Quote from: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 10:48:53 AM
Someone said to me recently that it might be cheaper to heat the hot water with immersion heater (Electric) in summer when no other oil is needed rather than put (now expensive) oil on for 30-40mins in morning and evening for hot water. I thought this sounded wrong but don't have the expertise to figure it out. Anyone any idea.

I came from a home where if you left the immersion heater on by accident you got a right big slap! :)

That will probably be the way to go. Keep as much oil as you can heading into the autumn/winter.



Put a solar panel on the roof, great job.

Has anyone here any experience of solar water heating tubes on the roof? Would be interested to know cost/payback on those. My house is pretty well insulated so the heat does not be on from April to about October usually. But between us the hot water requirements is probably four showers a dau on average. At the minute the water is all oil heated so I a thinking those tubes might be good for summer?

I put them on when I built my house 12 years ago. Similar to you I wouldn't have much heating on from May to September. My hot water and heating are separate though so I knock off the oil completely from now to usually mid September. Mostly during that time there's more than enough hot water to do everyone. I'd say a month either side of that you only need to boost the hot water for 10-15 minutes per day to keep the water hot for everyone's needs (family of 5). I think the rest of the year I have it on 20 minutes in the morning, then another 2 boosts of 10 minutes later on.

Cost wise I got them for a lot less than you'd pay today no doubt. I can't remember the exact price but it was around £2k and the plumber did it with the rest of the house.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on May 17, 2022, 03:44:19 PM
Quote from: WT4E on May 17, 2022, 02:23:43 PM
Also interested in the solar but didn't have the money when building to provide for them

I wonder will there be grants coming back on renewables with the way the world is heading or did Cash for Ash finish this!!!!

I put on evacuated tubes, purely hot water back 14 odd years ago and think it's a great job for hot water over the summer and also with a bit of direct sunlight during the winter would lift the ambient temp in the tank to 30 odd degrees so the oil has to do less to get the heat up a bit.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Ethan Tremblay on May 17, 2022, 04:21:08 PM
Was considering solar's myself, has anyone any ideas about electric solar panels? Any use?

My thinking would be along the lines of yourselves, stick the immersion on for hot water during the summer and have the solar's take the bite out of that. 

Regarding the exuberant houses going up, how can they face the rates bills every year. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: thebigfella on May 17, 2022, 04:40:09 PM
Solar water not really worth the investment, PV may be more expensive but ROI much better. If you are using a heat pump, it can be hooked to battery for hot water anyway which is more efficient. If you have an electric car, the PV also can directly be used to charge it during the day.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 01, 2022, 08:23:01 PM
Anyone go with an underground oil tank? Is it a handlin/expensive to put in?

Thinking of the benefits - harder to steal, out of sight, no smell etc
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: From the Bunker on August 01, 2022, 09:43:12 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 01, 2022, 08:23:01 PM
Anyone go with an underground oil tank? Is it a handlin/expensive to put in?

Thinking of the benefits - harder to steal, out of sight, no smell etc

Don't be putting expense on yourself in regard to a presently volatile resource.

If Oil goes belly up you are left with a Tank in the ground that is good for nothing.

Put the Tank in a Cage if you need protection from being stolen. Put plantation, shrubs, creepers around it if you want to camouflage.

Bottom line...........don't invest in something that looks to have no future.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: armaghniac on August 01, 2022, 10:44:26 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on August 01, 2022, 09:43:12 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 01, 2022, 08:23:01 PM
Anyone go with an underground oil tank? Is it a handlin/expensive to put in?

Thinking of the benefits - harder to steal, out of sight, no smell etc

Don't be putting expense on yourself in regard to a presently volatile resource.

If Oil goes belly up you are left with a Tank in the ground that is good for nothing.

Put the Tank in a Cage if you need protection from being stolen. Put plantation, shrubs, creepers around it if you want to camouflage.

Bottom line...........don't invest in something that looks to have no future.

Exactly. If you are going to dig up the garden then put in pipes for a heat pump or similar.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 02, 2022, 09:05:08 AM
Cheers lads. Should have said its a new build so digging up the garden is no hassle as there is no garden yet. Thing holding me back was the cost of the tank itself.

Are heat pumps a viable option yet?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on August 02, 2022, 09:39:13 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 02, 2022, 09:05:08 AM
Cheers lads. Should have said its a new build so digging up the garden is no hassle as there is no garden yet. Thing holding me back was the cost of the tank itself.

Are heat pumps a viable option yet?

Most oil tanks are gravity fed, so if you sink it in the garden, where are you putting the oil burner?

Oil doesn't flow uphill.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: balladmaker on August 02, 2022, 10:13:19 AM
My oil tank is approx. 6 feet below the burner over a run of about 20 yards, tiger loop was used to lift the oil uphill.  No idea how it works, but it hasn't let me down as yet.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: johnnycool on August 02, 2022, 10:37:46 AM
Quote from: balladmaker on August 02, 2022, 10:13:19 AM
My oil tank is approx. 6 feet below the burner over a run of about 20 yards, tiger loop was used to lift the oil uphill.  No idea how it works, but it hasn't let me down as yet.

There you go, every day is a school day.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on August 02, 2022, 10:53:35 AM
Quote from: balladmaker on August 02, 2022, 10:13:19 AM
My oil tank is approx. 6 feet below the burner over a run of about 20 yards, tiger loop was used to lift the oil uphill.  No idea how it works, but it hasn't let me down as yet.

Your circulating pump is lifting the oil uphill, the Tiger loop is a deaerator. It removes any air that would otherwise interrupt the supply of oil to the boiler.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on August 06, 2022, 04:13:12 PM
Has anyone went for K Rend for a new build?is it worth the extra money?
Any issues with it going green ( we have a lot of trees around the site.)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on August 06, 2022, 08:00:09 PM
Got k rend about 5 years ago with a new build. Nice job and no issues with it turning green ( had heard that was an issue alright). Plenty of mature trees in the garden as well with no issues.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 06, 2022, 08:15:42 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on August 06, 2022, 04:13:12 PM
Has anyone went for K Rend for a new build?is it worth the extra money?
Any issues with it going green ( we have a lot of trees around the site.)

Yes just got it put on. Great looking finish and well worth it. Get the one that is the most waterproof. Plasterers warned me about it turning green as there a line of trees close to one side. I've heard there's stuff you can put on one a year that keeps algae away.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: stiff breeze on August 06, 2022, 08:37:02 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 02, 2022, 09:05:08 AM
Cheers lads. Should have said its a new build so digging up the garden is no hassle as there is no garden yet. Thing holding me back was the cost of the tank itself.

Are heat pumps a viable option yet?

Air source heat pumps in conjunction with solar panels and plenty of insulation and air tightness is a viable option
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on August 08, 2022, 07:09:20 AM
Quote from: stiff breeze on August 06, 2022, 08:37:02 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on August 02, 2022, 09:05:08 AM
Cheers lads. Should have said its a new build so digging up the garden is no hassle as there is no garden yet. Thing holding me back was the cost of the tank itself.

Are heat pumps a viable option yet?

Air source heat pumps in conjunction with solar panels and plenty of insulation and air tightness is a viable option

The problem with heat pumps (and likewise with electric cars) is the capacity is not there on the grid to deal with all of this. There is a big push for these things but the infrastructure is far from ready and there isn't much sign of it being upgraded to meet the demand of every house having an electric car/heat pump.

I was talking to a building contractor recently and he said NIE near shite themselves when they apply for new electricity supply to developments incase there are heat pumps and electric charging points in the houses.

If you do go with a heat pump, insulation and air tightness are absolutely key. You'd be better to spend your money there than fancy designs etc as they are much more difficult and expensive to retro fit down the line.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Hereiam on August 08, 2022, 09:13:25 AM
With the change in the building regulations any new homes July this year are going to need either PV panels or air/ground source heat pumps to pass.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on August 08, 2022, 11:06:56 AM
Quote from: Hereiam on August 08, 2022, 09:13:25 AM
With the change in the building regulations any new homes July this year are going to need either PV panels or air/ground source heat pumps to pass.

Is that in the North Hereiam?

Was there a change recently in the south where you have to put in electric heating systems? Not sure if I picked it up wrong from a southern friend. But he was saying all new houses weren't allowed oil/ gas/ solid fuel systems? (I'm in the north)
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Hereiam on August 08, 2022, 12:55:17 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on August 08, 2022, 11:06:56 AM
Quote from: Hereiam on August 08, 2022, 09:13:25 AM
With the change in the building regulations any new homes July this year are going to need either PV panels or air/ground source heat pumps to pass.

Is that in the North Hereiam?

Was there a change recently in the south where you have to put in electric heating systems? Not sure if I picked it up wrong from a southern friend. But he was saying all new houses weren't allowed oil/ gas/ solid fuel systems? (I'm in the north)

Yea this is in the North
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 01:23:19 PM
What are anyone's experience with A2W heat pumps?
I have read such mixed views on them. I would really like to go that route but struggling to justify the extra expense v an oil burner.
What are the running costs like?
I am based in the north btw
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: thebigfella on August 18, 2022, 02:44:35 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 01:23:19 PM
What are anyone's experience with A2W heat pumps?
I have read such mixed views on them. I would really like to go that route but struggling to justify the extra expense v an oil burner.
What are the running costs like?
I am based in the north btw

From where? If I listen to the oul fella i'd would have built a cave as there would be nothing to go wrong  :D
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 07:48:27 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on August 18, 2022, 02:44:35 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 01:23:19 PM
What are anyone's experience with A2W heat pumps?
I have read such mixed views on them. I would really like to go that route but struggling to justify the extra expense v an oil burner.
What are the running costs like?
I am based in the north btw

From where? If I listen to the oul fella i'd would have built a cave as there would be nothing to go wrong  :D
I have heard alot of people talk about huge electric bills with the ASHP , for me the whole point s thattheyare cheaper to run than oil. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on August 18, 2022, 07:51:35 PM
They are very very sore on electric I've heard. The cost of electric probably negating any benefit to them. Plus the initial outlay is expensive. I'm putting oil in.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tony Baloney on August 18, 2022, 07:53:08 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on August 18, 2022, 02:44:35 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 01:23:19 PM
What are anyone's experience with A2W heat pumps?
I have read such mixed views on them. I would really like to go that route but struggling to justify the extra expense v an oil burner.
What are the running costs like?
I am based in the north btw

From where? If I listen to the oul fella i'd would have built a cave as there would be nothing to go wrong  :D
Sounds like my missus. Doesn't matter what car manufacturer is mentioned but she has heard from such and suchs cousin they they had bother with said brand of car therefore they must be a terrible car and aren't to be touched.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 08:46:40 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on August 18, 2022, 07:53:08 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on August 18, 2022, 02:44:35 PM
Quote from: blewuporstuffed on August 18, 2022, 01:23:19 PM
What are anyone's experience with A2W heat pumps?
I have read such mixed views on them. I would really like to go that route but struggling to justify the extra expense v an oil burner.
What are the running costs like?
I am based in the north btw

From where? If I listen to the oul fella i'd would have built a cave as there would be nothing to go wrong  :D
Sounds like my missus. Doesn't matter what car manufacturer is mentioned but she has heard from such and suchs cousin they they had bother with said brand of car therefore they must be a terrible car and aren't to be touched.
;D sounds familiar
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on September 27, 2022, 09:56:26 PM
Anyone got a land mortgage to buy a site? Not looking to build just yet (given the current circumstances) but have the opportunity to buy the site we want now.

And while on the subject, a general rule of thumb would have been £90sqft for a self build (I'm led to believe to get u in). Anyone able to advise what it is today given the price rises over the last few years?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on September 27, 2022, 10:50:51 PM
Quote from: knockitdown on September 27, 2022, 09:56:26 PM
Anyone got a land mortgage to buy a site? Not looking to build just yet (given the current circumstances) but have the opportunity to buy the site we want now.

And while on the subject, a general rule of thumb would have been £90sqft for a self build (I'm led to believe to get u in). Anyone able to advise what it is today given the price rises over the last few years?

I'll PM you.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 11:07:16 AM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?

I haven't a clue. If i had eat on al time even with TRV and heat down low wont it use more oil than I would like????

I see online it should be used in conjunction with a room stat. I dont have one
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on October 12, 2022, 12:03:15 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 11:07:16 AM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?

I haven't a clue. If i had eat on al time even with TRV and heat down low wont it use more oil than I would like????

I see online it should be used in conjunction with a room stat. I dont have one

Bog standard TRV is your job, there is a frost protection setting that will keep the rad off (valve closed) for the majority of the time but open the valve & heat the rad when it senses things getting really cold and a danger of pipes freezing over. Great job.
You dont need a room stat just for that one rad, in fact when there is a room stat & trv in the same room they can compete against each other so its better you dont have

https://www.screwfix.com/p/white-angled-thermostatic-trv-lockshield-15mm-x/31811



Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 02:12:12 PM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 12:03:15 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 11:07:16 AM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?

I haven't a clue. If i had eat on al time even with TRV and heat down low wont it use more oil than I would like????

I see online it should be used in conjunction with a room stat. I dont have one

Bog standard TRV is your job, there is a frost protection setting that will keep the rad off (valve closed) for the majority of the time but open the valve & heat the rad when it senses things getting really cold and a danger of pipes freezing over. Great job.
You dont need a room stat just for that one rad, in fact when there is a room stat & trv in the same room they can compete against each other so its better you dont have

https://www.screwfix.com/p/white-angled-thermostatic-trv-lockshield-15mm-x/31811

Thanks God14. So sorry for being stupid on this. If I left my heating on all day then the boiler wouldnt run that radiator alll day it would only call for heat when it was required via the mechanism in the Valve?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on October 12, 2022, 02:46:23 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 02:12:12 PM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 12:03:15 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 11:07:16 AM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?

I haven't a clue. If i had eat on al time even with TRV and heat down low wont it use more oil than I would like????

I see online it should be used in conjunction with a room stat. I dont have one

Bog standard TRV is your job, there is a frost protection setting that will keep the rad off (valve closed) for the majority of the time but open the valve & heat the rad when it senses things getting really cold and a danger of pipes freezing over. Great job.
You dont need a room stat just for that one rad, in fact when there is a room stat & trv in the same room they can compete against each other so its better you dont have

https://www.screwfix.com/p/white-angled-thermostatic-trv-lockshield-15mm-x/31811

Thanks God14. So sorry for being stupid on this. If I left my heating on all day then the boiler wouldnt run that radiator alll day it would only call for heat when it was required via the mechanism in the Valve?

yes, exactly that
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 03:09:38 PM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 02:46:23 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 02:12:12 PM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 12:03:15 PM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 11:07:16 AM
Quote from: God14 on October 12, 2022, 09:45:24 AM
Quote from: WT4E on October 12, 2022, 09:20:38 AM
I have a room in my house which is not on a thermostat its just got on double radiator (the rest of the house UFH with zoned thermostats)

I was wondering how I could easily regulate the heat in that room so that it wont be cold but also won't call for heat constantly and waste oil.

I was looking at smart radiator valves but don't understand how they work if they are switching off when warm enough wont they just turn off too quickly as they right beside the radiator?

can you not just use a traditional TRV? Turn the rad down low?

I haven't a clue. If i had eat on al time even with TRV and heat down low wont it use more oil than I would like????

I see online it should be used in conjunction with a room stat. I dont have one

Bog standard TRV is your job, there is a frost protection setting that will keep the rad off (valve closed) for the majority of the time but open the valve & heat the rad when it senses things getting really cold and a danger of pipes freezing over. Great job.
You dont need a room stat just for that one rad, in fact when there is a room stat & trv in the same room they can compete against each other so its better you dont have

https://www.screwfix.com/p/white-angled-thermostatic-trv-lockshield-15mm-x/31811

Thanks God14. So sorry for being stupid on this. If I left my heating on all day then the boiler wouldnt run that radiator alll day it would only call for heat when it was required via the mechanism in the Valve?

yes, exactly that

Thanks God14 the walkin wardrobe will now be used in Winter! As it will be warm! LOL
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on October 26, 2022, 09:09:03 PM
Any tilers here or anyone know what they charge a square metre?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on October 26, 2022, 09:19:36 PM
£22m2 thru the books
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on October 26, 2022, 09:29:54 PM
Quote from: knockitdown on October 26, 2022, 09:19:36 PM
£22m2 thru the books

Been quoted 20 per square yard, sounds about right then? Though it won't be through the books.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on October 27, 2022, 09:14:15 AM
Aye not far away
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nanderson on November 04, 2022, 09:01:18 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
I sleep with my window on the latch to improve air flow and I'd never have condensation on the window. Obviously if you like a warm house leaving windows on the latches will let heat escape though
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: WeeDonns on November 04, 2022, 09:03:29 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
I've the same problem
Apparently the solution is to install a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) fan to remove humidity from the air
I had a guy supposed to come over the summer to put one in but never did, thinking of doing it myself

Some people run dehumidifiers in the house if drying washing indoors
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: STREET FIGHTER on November 04, 2022, 09:38:34 AM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 04, 2022, 09:01:18 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
I sleep with my window on the latch to improve air flow and I'd never have condensation on the window. Obviously if you like a warm house leaving windows on the latches will let heat escape though

100%- I'd be happy enough with that in my room although the Missus would have something to say!

It's the kids rooms mainly
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: STREET FIGHTER on November 04, 2022, 09:40:15 AM
Quote from: WeeDonns on November 04, 2022, 09:03:29 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
I've the same problem
Apparently the solution is to install a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) fan to remove humidity from the air
I had a guy supposed to come over the summer to put one in but never did, thinking of doing it myself

Some people run dehumidifiers in the house if drying washing indoors

Thanks- dehumidifiers listed as one of the options online- something to think about...
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on November 04, 2022, 09:56:46 AM
are trickle vents not supposed to prevent this?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on November 04, 2022, 10:58:34 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 04, 2022, 09:40:15 AM
Quote from: WeeDonns on November 04, 2022, 09:03:29 AM
Quote from: STREET FIGHTER on November 03, 2022, 09:41:26 PM
Perhaps there's a better thread....however....

Anyone any useful recommendations to prevent condensation gathering on the inside of windows at this time of the year....

Just a problem in the winter mornings....
I've the same problem
Apparently the solution is to install a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) fan to remove humidity from the air
I had a guy supposed to come over the summer to put one in but never did, thinking of doing it myself

Some people run dehumidifiers in the house if drying washing indoors

Thanks- dehumidifiers listed as one of the options online- something to think about...

We installed a PIV in the loft of an old farmhouse in the Mournes, used by some societies and clubs. When the building isnt in use it got a lot of condensation and mould, the PIV has alleviated this. Really beneficial
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Itchy on November 04, 2022, 11:11:10 AM
Excessive humidity likely means you've got water getting in somewhere. Warm air can absorb more moisture than cold air. When warm humid air touches cold surface like a window it will drop in temperature and so release water onto the window. So while a dehumidifier works, don't forget to try and determine where the humidity is coming from in the 1st place.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Tyrdub on November 04, 2022, 01:37:07 PM
yep, this is an old old farmhouse, lots of holes originally, but all filled up now.

Perfect place for a team bonding session up the Mournes
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: OrchardRow on November 15, 2022, 09:09:21 AM
Hi everyone,

I put a message in a few months ago and have since started the build. Moving along pretty well at the minute with blockwork moving up to wall plate. Costs have been reasonable so far, but I know the fun is about to start when we get into roofs, windows, M&E, etc.

Just on this - has anyone used a renewable generation installer to design and install their M&E? I am specifically thinking of Dalys in Lisburn. I am bound by mortgage conditions to have a heat pump and triple glaze but would like to explore solar, MVHR systems, etc. while I am at it to make the most of it. You'll only get a chance to do it once!

Any advice or experiences appreciated!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on November 15, 2022, 09:33:52 AM
Quote from: OrchardRow on November 15, 2022, 09:09:21 AM
Hi everyone,

I put a message in a few months ago and have since started the build. Moving along pretty well at the minute with blockwork moving up to wall plate. Costs have been reasonable so far, but I know the fun is about to start when we get into roofs, windows, M&E, etc.

Just on this - has anyone used a renewable generation installer to design and install their M&E? I am specifically thinking of Dalys in Lisburn. I am bound by mortgage conditions to have a heat pump and triple glaze but would like to explore solar, MVHR systems, etc. while I am at it to make the most of it. You'll only get a chance to do it once!

Any advice or experiences appreciated!

PV panels with integrated Battery storage is something im interested in myself. 14nr 400w PV panels with a 5KW battery storage wont eliminate your electric bill, but will dramatically reduce it. Generate your own energy through the day, store it, and use it in the evening when your home from work
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Walter Cronc on November 21, 2022, 09:43:20 PM
Slightly off topic but has anyone got one of those ring doorbells? Seems to be a few options cost wise online.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: snoopdog on November 21, 2022, 10:00:14 PM
Quote from: Walter Cronc on November 21, 2022, 09:43:20 PM
Slightly off topic but has anyone got one of those ring doorbells? Seems to be a few options cost wise online.
I have one. Just linked to the phone. To be honest it's a pain in the Hole. Can get an add on like a bell for inside. I need to get one. If your phones on silent which it usually is working from home you miss alot of calls.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on November 21, 2022, 10:03:03 PM
Quote from: snoopdog on November 21, 2022, 10:00:14 PM
Quote from: Walter Cronc on November 21, 2022, 09:43:20 PM
Slightly off topic but has anyone got one of those ring doorbells? Seems to be a few options cost wise online.
I have one. Just linked to the phone. To be honest it's a pain in the Hole. Can get an add on like a bell for inside. I need to get one. If your phones on silent which it usually is working from home you miss alot of calls.

So if you have your phone on silent it doesn't even ring?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Jeepers Creepers on November 21, 2022, 10:07:56 PM
Buy an indoor chime (bell) and a spare battery. They take hours to charge.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: JohnDenver on November 22, 2022, 08:34:04 AM
Quote from: snoopdog on November 21, 2022, 10:00:14 PM
Quote from: Walter Cronc on November 21, 2022, 09:43:20 PM
Slightly off topic but has anyone got one of those ring doorbells? Seems to be a few options cost wise online.
I have one. Just linked to the phone. To be honest it's a pain in the Hole. Can get an add on like a bell for inside. I need to get one. If your phones on silent which it usually is working from home you miss alot of calls.

If you have an alexa device like an echo dot - you can use it as your chime i'm nearly sure?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 10:17:54 AM
Anyone notice their new build gong through an unholy amount of heating oil at the start? Going through 300L a month roughly at the minute and we aren't even living in it
That's just the underfloor and rads upstairs, not even any hot water.

Builder said its normal for a house drying out and it takes time to calm down.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on December 13, 2022, 10:51:17 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 10:17:54 AM
Anyone notice their new build gong through an unholy amount of heating oil at the start? Going through 300L a month roughly at the minute and we aren't even living in it
That's just the underfloor and rads upstairs, not even any hot water.

Builder said its normal for a house drying out and it takes time to calm down.

Yes - expect that for 12 months.
Have you the roof well insulated? Alot of people get to the stage youve described and are trying to dry the house out without the loft well insulated. Load up on it well, money well spent
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 11:05:50 AM
Quote from: God14 on December 13, 2022, 10:51:17 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 10:17:54 AM
Anyone notice their new build gong through an unholy amount of heating oil at the start? Going through 300L a month roughly at the minute and we aren't even living in it
That's just the underfloor and rads upstairs, not even any hot water.

Builder said its normal for a house drying out and it takes time to calm down.

Yes - expect that for 12 months.
Have you the roof well insulated? Alot of people get to the stage youve described and are trying to dry the house out without the loft well insulated. Load up on it well, money well spent

Loft is insulated well but there are 2 holes in an upstairs roof into the loft where sun tunnels will be installed. Heat is likely flying up through it into the loft. Each hole is about 18-20inches each in diameter.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on December 13, 2022, 11:57:18 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 11:05:50 AM
Quote from: God14 on December 13, 2022, 10:51:17 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 10:17:54 AM
Anyone notice their new build gong through an unholy amount of heating oil at the start? Going through 300L a month roughly at the minute and we aren't even living in it
That's just the underfloor and rads upstairs, not even any hot water.

Builder said its normal for a house drying out and it takes time to calm down.

Yes - expect that for 12 months.
Have you the roof well insulated? Alot of people get to the stage youve described and are trying to dry the house out without the loft well insulated. Load up on it well, money well spent

Loft is insulated well but there are 2 holes in an upstairs roof into the loft where sun tunnels will be installed. Heat is likely flying up through it into the loft. Each hole is about 18-20inches each in diameter.

temporary fix / a sheet of ply and some loft wool.
The heatloss through the those holes would unfortunately keep the room stats in those zone's calling for heat full time.
You will still burn through loads of oil that first year regardless though.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 12:14:33 PM
Quote from: God14 on December 13, 2022, 11:57:18 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 11:05:50 AM
Quote from: God14 on December 13, 2022, 10:51:17 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on December 13, 2022, 10:17:54 AM
Anyone notice their new build gong through an unholy amount of heating oil at the start? Going through 300L a month roughly at the minute and we aren't even living in it
That's just the underfloor and rads upstairs, not even any hot water.

Builder said its normal for a house drying out and it takes time to calm down.

Yes - expect that for 12 months.
Have you the roof well insulated? Alot of people get to the stage youve described and are trying to dry the house out without the loft well insulated. Load up on it well, money well spent

Loft is insulated well but there are 2 holes in an upstairs roof into the loft where sun tunnels will be installed. Heat is likely flying up through it into the loft. Each hole is about 18-20inches each in diameter.

temporary fix / a sheet of ply and some loft wool.
The heatloss through the those holes would unfortunately keep the room stats in those zone's calling for heat full time.
You will still burn through loads of oil that first year regardless though.

Good tip cheers.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: knockitdown on January 14, 2023, 09:03:42 PM
Anyone taken out their oil boiler and put in an air source heat pump? Is there much (or any) saving on the running cost and how's the heat pump fair out in freezing temps?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: armaghniac on February 27, 2023, 03:56:53 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

You can put additional wireless points on the ends of the Cat5 cable, to ensure excellent coverage.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 04:03:44 PM
Quote from: armaghniac on February 27, 2023, 03:56:53 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

You can put additional wireless points on the ends of the Cat5 cable, to ensure excellent coverage.

How would one go about doing this? As in Wi-Fi boosters?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LC on February 27, 2023, 06:28:29 PM
Do no harm to keep the Cat 5 in, better looking at it than looking for it.  I got Sky Q installed a few weeks ago and even though we have upgraded the broadband through Openreach Sky are saying that for the main box to 'talk' to a smaller box in the upstairs bedroom I will need to connect via Cat 5 as wireless signal internally will not be strong enough.  Pre-cast slabs in the upstairs which is one of the main issues so need to get the spark on board at some stage.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 06:47:09 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

It will depend on how good your wifi is throughout the house. If you have spots with poor coverage you may want boosters and the cat5 is the best way to minimise losses through concrete and steel.
You may also want to consider having a cable running to your tv in the good room, rahther than depend upon the wireless coverage in that room.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 06:47:09 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

It will depend on how good your wifi is throughout the house. If you have spots with poor coverage you may want boosters and the cat5 is the best way to minimise losses through concrete and steel.
You may also want to consider having a cable running to your tv in the good room, rahther than depend upon the wireless coverage in that room.

I have the BT discs in and thankfully have good coverage across the house. But would have tried to use the cat 5. How would I go about linking the cat 5 up with the Wi-Fi. Mines all pulled to the attic. Do I just plug the one in beside the router and that'll link to the rest??
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Mhic Easmuint on February 27, 2023, 09:36:14 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 06:47:09 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

It will depend on how good your wifi is throughout the house. If you have spots with poor coverage you may want boosters and the cat5 is the best way to minimise losses through concrete and steel.
You may also want to consider having a cable running to your tv in the good room, rahther than depend upon the wireless coverage in that room.

I have the BT discs in and thankfully have good coverage across the house. But would have tried to use the cat 5. How would I go about linking the cat 5 up with the Wi-Fi. Mines all pulled to the attic. Do I just plug the one in beside the router and that'll link to the rest??

Built at a similar time and have the same set up. (Though Cat 6)
All those cables throughout the house go back to the attic, in a small rack.
I have a network switch in the rack as well (Something like this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08MKWYN5T?tag=ps-uk-netgear-002-21&ascsubtag=wtbs_63fd214a778dca9483390401&me=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE)

Then from my BT Hub I have a cable going from the back of it, to the Cat 6 port in the wall which goes to the attic, then one from that port into the network switch. 
Any network port around the house you want active for internet you just need to plug a cable from the network switch to the necessary point on the patch panel which leads to the necessary room you need the connection.

The likes of TV/Gaming etc will generally get a better connection with a network cable. 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 09:59:37 PM
Similar to Mhic Easmuint, but my internet comes directly into my office and from there it runs through a switch which carries it to the tv's downstairs and to a couple of roof mounted POE boosters around the house.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: 93-DY-SAM on February 27, 2023, 11:51:54 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 09:59:37 PM
Similar to Mhic Easmuint, but my internet comes directly into my office and from there it runs through a switch which carries it to the tv's downstairs and to a couple of roof mounted POE boosters around the house.

Snap but I also have my main Sky box in a cabinet there as well and the signal is sent to the TV in our living room with HDMI over CAT. Keeps the sky box tucked out of sight. If any device is our house has a lan port and is fixed to one place I always go cat cable over wireless.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on February 28, 2023, 08:13:54 AM
Quote from: Mhic Easmuint on February 27, 2023, 09:36:14 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: LeoMc on February 27, 2023, 06:47:09 PM
Quote from: trueblue1234 on February 27, 2023, 03:34:36 PM
Quick question, we built a house 5-6 years ago and was told to run Cat 5 cable to all rooms, that it would future proof the house and so on.

So 5 years later, we still haven't done anything with it as most things seem to be going wireless. Is it actually useful and should we be doing anything with it?
I'm in the process of doing up the "good room" and we are moving a couple of sockets as we're putting in built in shelving. We have a roll of this cat 5 sticking out too and was just thinking I'd cut it off and close up the opening. Would I be wrong to do this?

It will depend on how good your wifi is throughout the house. If you have spots with poor coverage you may want boosters and the cat5 is the best way to minimise losses through concrete and steel.
You may also want to consider having a cable running to your tv in the good room, rahther than depend upon the wireless coverage in that room.

I have the BT discs in and thankfully have good coverage across the house. But would have tried to use the cat 5. How would I go about linking the cat 5 up with the Wi-Fi. Mines all pulled to the attic. Do I just plug the one in beside the router and that'll link to the rest??

Built at a similar time and have the same set up. (Though Cat 6)
All those cables throughout the house go back to the attic, in a small rack.
I have a network switch in the rack as well (Something like this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08MKWYN5T?tag=ps-uk-netgear-002-21&ascsubtag=wtbs_63fd214a778dca9483390401&me=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE)

Then from my BT Hub I have a cable going from the back of it, to the Cat 6 port in the wall which goes to the attic, then one from that port into the network switch. 
Any network port around the house you want active for internet you just need to plug a cable from the network switch to the necessary point on the patch panel which leads to the necessary room you need the connection.

The likes of TV/Gaming etc will generally get a better connection with a network cable.

I have this set up. Only difference is that the network switch sits in a cupboard in a bedroom instead. Reason being he said you didn't want to be crawling through the attic some night when it goes down.
The ports in each room are handy. Think patio/outdoors area. Is your WiFi network going to carry to it? Having a wireless port on the end of a Cat5 cable is handy in the room adjacent. Modern foil backed insulation boards just kill WiFi over longer distances.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Rodders88 on February 28, 2023, 01:47:49 PM
Chaps, bit of advice needed. Currently thinking of buying a site and building our own house. Noting to big, roughly 2,000sq feet. Asked a few local builders just to get an idea and all 3 gave me different prices lol one said £100, 2nd man said £120 and 3rd man said £150 per sq foot. Anyone who has built in the last 12months give me a better idea?? Cheers
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on March 11, 2023, 07:19:23 AM
£120 ft2 would get you a basic specification, it all depends on your level of finish, sanitary ware, kitchen, tiling,doors etc.. Storey and a half works out slightly cheaper than single storey as you have rooms in the roof space, less roof area foundations etc.. White PVC windows are the cheapest option for windows, if you go for sliding sashes for example the price goes up significantly, same goes for the roof, concrete tiles are cheapest option, natural slate is way more expensive, there are thin edge tiles and other options in between.
A flat site is obviously cheaper to build on than a sloping site, ensure electricity is available nearby as it can be expensive if you have to take it a distance.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on March 11, 2023, 10:53:59 AM
Quote from: Rodders88 on February 28, 2023, 01:47:49 PM
Chaps, bit of advice needed. Currently thinking of buying a site and building our own house. Noting to big, roughly 2,000sq feet. Asked a few local builders just to get an idea and all 3 gave me different prices lol one said £100, 2nd man said £120 and 3rd man said £150 per sq foot. Anyone who has built in the last 12months give me a better idea?? Cheers

I don't believe it can be done for £100 now or at least I'd wonder what finish it is.
Mine is just finishing and I was able to do it for £110 or so. That was priced in 2021 and didn't include:

Floors, alot of tiles and labour(16k), that's 2 bathrooms tiled to the roof in that, 1 quite big
Bathrooms fitted out (8k for the stuff)
Solicitor, Architect. Engineer (maybe 6-7k for all)
NIE (We were 5.5k but know ones quoted 15k! Depends on transformer location, layout of site etc). It's the biggest pain of the whole thing...
NI Water (1200 maybe)
Beam MVHR and vacuum (6k)
Appliances 6k

Someone else mentioned the tiles that look like slates. I went with them, they look great and alot cheaper than slates. If you're picky about the slates you might want them though.
There is alot of money to spend outside of the builder, and it's only went up since then. PM if you want more info or that, happy to help.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Rodders88 on March 13, 2023, 03:54:04 PM
Thanks for the info lads. The site is fully serviced already so Electric, water etc is already there, just have to hook into it. We are going ahead with the site so fingers crossed it all works out. I know I can get the materials at the right price and will have to run the build myself. 2,000 square foot house and I'm aiming to get it done for £200k.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Walter Cronc on March 13, 2023, 03:59:34 PM
Any one of any companies (in the north) that do off site/pre fab house extensions? Thinking of a timber clad side extension for the house.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on March 19, 2023, 07:21:29 AM
How much is a shipping container now?
For building materials?

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: PMG1 on March 19, 2023, 02:32:10 PM
Quote from: marty34 on March 19, 2023, 07:21:29 AM
How much is a shipping container now?
For building materials?
You would get a decent second hand one for c£3k, you would actually get a used curtain side trailer for less
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on March 19, 2023, 05:19:26 PM
Quote from: PMG1 on March 19, 2023, 02:32:10 PM
Quote from: marty34 on March 19, 2023, 07:21:29 AM
How much is a shipping container now?
For building materials?
You would get a decent second hand one for c£3k, you would actually get a used curtain side trailer for less

Thanks.

They're got a lot dearer this past year for some reason.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on May 16, 2023, 08:09:57 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.

hmmmm  you might need a PIVU (positive input ventilation unit). Ventaxia do a good one, or nuaire drimaster. £250 mark, but there is a bit of work in the installation.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: pbat on May 16, 2023, 08:48:04 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.

I'd replace the MDF first before investing in ventilation. If it was mouldy it would spread, MDF can hold a lot of moisture and unlike natural timber wont doesn't dry out fully. If its a new build house It shouldn't need additional ventilation, should have been designed in. Is any of the paint on the walls bubbling or flaky in the area the MDF is mouldy, if not I don't think you have damp issues.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 09:43:24 AM
Quote from: pbat on May 16, 2023, 08:48:04 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.

I'd replace the MDF first before investing in ventilation. If it was mouldy it would spread, MDF can hold a lot of moisture and unlike natural timber wont doesn't dry out fully. If its a new build house It shouldn't need additional ventilation, should have been designed in. Is any of the paint on the walls bubbling or flaky in the area the MDF is mouldy, if not I don't think you have damp issues.

Theres nothing wrong with the house itself, the joiner used mdf that had mold on it already. Don't know if it was lying outside before he used it or whatever.
Was checking if I should get him to replace it or paint over it?

Worried just because one area it was used in was the laundry chute where clothes will pile up in.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on May 16, 2023, 11:01:20 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 09:43:24 AM
Quote from: pbat on May 16, 2023, 08:48:04 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.

I'd replace the MDF first before investing in ventilation. If it was mouldy it would spread, MDF can hold a lot of moisture and unlike natural timber wont doesn't dry out fully. If its a new build house It shouldn't need additional ventilation, should have been designed in. Is any of the paint on the walls bubbling or flaky in the area the MDF is mouldy, if not I don't think you have damp issues.

Theres nothing wrong with the house itself, the joiner used mdf that had mold on it already. Don't know if it was lying outside before he used it or whatever.
Was checking if I should get him to replace it or paint over it?

Worried just because one area it was used in was the laundry chute where clothes will pile up in.

get him to replace the affected MDF as it could spread.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Keyser soze on May 16, 2023, 11:34:37 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 09:43:24 AM
Quote from: pbat on May 16, 2023, 08:48:04 AM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 06:50:18 AM
Quote from: clarshack on May 15, 2023, 11:35:30 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 15, 2023, 11:02:37 PM
Mdf mold in a new build house.
Is it normal? Moldy mdf was used in a few places in the house. Should I be mentioning it or is it easy enough to clean off? Have already tried a little bleach and water with little success, should I just paint over it or get it replaced?

Sounds like you have a moisture issue which you need to address first. When did you first notice the mould?

The mdf used by the joiner was moldy before he put it on.

I'd replace the MDF first before investing in ventilation. If it was mouldy it would spread, MDF can hold a lot of moisture and unlike natural timber wont doesn't dry out fully. If its a new build house It shouldn't need additional ventilation, should have been designed in. Is any of the paint on the walls bubbling or flaky in the area the MDF is mouldy, if not I don't think you have damp issues.

Theres nothing wrong with the house itself, the joiner used mdf that had mold on it already. Don't know if it was lying outside before he used it or whatever.
Was checking if I should get him to replace it or paint over it?

Worried just because one area it was used in was the laundry chute where clothes will pile up in.

File under "no brainer".
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 16, 2023, 12:08:37 PM
Cheers!
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: RedHand88 on May 18, 2023, 01:15:38 PM
Sorry folks another question I'm stumped with.

Anyone know how to finish the underside of concrete curved stairs? Plasterers say skim won't stick, painter had mentioned some sort of resin but now he reckons it won't stay on either and won't do it. Thought about getting a piece of wood cut to cover it but it's awkward because as I said the stairs are curved.

Any suggestions from anyone in this field?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: clarshack on June 12, 2023, 09:50:16 AM
anyone else hearing about construction slowing down?

was talking to a man who works in construction and he says they have no work at the minute. he is blaming the cost of living crisis along with continued interest rate rises as people are getting quotes for builds and when they do their calculations they just wouldn't be able to afford the mortgage.

Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on December 02, 2023, 09:18:42 AM
Not related to building a house but a repair.

Damp patch in ceiling below bathroom.

Seems to be shower area. Any way of sorting it without having to take shower tray out?
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Milltown Row2 on December 02, 2023, 09:29:58 AM
Quote from: marty34 on December 02, 2023, 09:18:42 AMNot related to building a house but a repair.

Damp patch in ceiling below bathroom.

Seems to be shower area. Any way of sorting it without having to take shower tray out?

Nope!! I've same problem at the minute... check your sealant inside shower unit, seal at base around door and bring the sealant up the sides to head height...

Obviously take off the old stuff, squirt DW40 around the sealant and scrape off

If that doesn't work good luck getting a plumber or shower unit fitter!! Still trying to get one for months now
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Deerstalker on December 02, 2023, 09:31:16 AM
You probably just need the shower tray resealed so you can probably just do that without removing the tray 
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: marty34 on December 02, 2023, 11:36:29 AM
Thanks. Much appreciated.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Nailer on December 08, 2023, 05:52:27 AM
Be sure and remove the existing sealant around the tray and wipe the joint clean, use Trans 7 sealant if you want clear colour or you can get it a colour to match your tiles, white to match the tray?
It is more expensive than ordinary silicone but is well worth it as you'll only need one tube.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: ThereAndBackAgain on December 08, 2023, 08:22:29 AM
I read somewhere that you shouldn't use WD40 to take sealant off as it's very hard to remove all traces of it and even a tiny residue will interact with your new sealant.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: God14 on December 08, 2023, 08:50:54 AM
Tiled showers upstairs are a mess. Wouldnt have one about me. Over time water will leak through the grout. Especially if your Mrs takes as long in the shower as mine.

Multipanel the walls of the shower. Completely waterproof, with a multipanel shower seal tray kit to suit. Job done.
Title: Re: building a house
Post by: Walter Cronc on February 19, 2024, 03:17:25 PM
Anyone any recent experience/advice of building an extension? Is using an off site company (build & crane into position) usually very costly?

Not sure if I want the hassle of sorting tradesmen myself but costs will likely determine that.