Even if your extension is considered exempted development, you really should concentrate your efforts on the design, however small your extension. It sounds obvious but the function of the extension comes first; is the room to create a new living area? A bigger kitchen? An additional bedroom? You then need to consider the context of […] More
For many self-builders and home improvers underfloor heating (UFH) is now the preferred method of emitting heat, but it’s a good idea to get to know how it works to get the most (the lowest energy bills possible) out of your system. You may remember UFH from the 1960s, when it was installed with inadequate […] More
Securing planning permission can be an uphill battle, here’s how it’s done and some tips on working with the planners. In this article we cover: Who needs planning permission? Those building a new house need planning permission, and those extending or who are changing the use of their house (e.g. garage converted to workshop for […] More
Firmly established in the London architectural scene since 2004, the award-winning practice healycornelius design is a company with Irish roots that recently expanded its operations to the South West of Ireland. We catch up with Managing Director Niall Healy and Regional Director Michael O’Keeffe to learn their views on a rapidly changing industry. Why did you pursue a career in architectural technology? Niall Healy: I loved making and […] More
Is the Coefficient of Performance (COP) the best way to compare heat pumps? In this article we cover: What COP is What other factors to consider when comparing heat pumps Factors that determine operating efficiency Importance of system sizing and installation COP or the Coefficient of Performance is a measure designed to show how many […] More
Q: I plan to install heat recovery ventilation, what do I need to factor into my design? A: There are a lot of things to consider but purely from a house design point of view remember that you will need to think, very simply, of where the vents will go. This is important for system […] More
Q: I am starting a search for an architect to build a replacement farm house and I am putting together a specification of what I’d like in the house my question is how much detail do I need in the specification? Do I need to include photos of other houses I have seen? Do I […] More
Have you ever worn a woolly jumper on a windy day? To keep the shivers out the only solution is to don the coat or parka. Insulation and airtightness barriers work very much in the same way; in fact the analogy also extends to insulation becoming ineffective when wet. Photo taken by Fergal O’ Malley RIAI […] More
Building Control is responsible for ensuring that the Building Regulations, a set of construction standards laid down by the UK Parliament, are enforced in your local Council. There are 11 local councils in NI and they are part of the umbrella group Building Control Northern Ireland. Building standards include requirements on health, structural stability, fire […] More
A: When buying materials, is it enough to look for the CE mark? Not for the materials that are covered by the Building Regulations. A CE marking will only guarantee performance to the minimum European standard and this may not be enough, or adapted to what’s specified in the Building Regulations’ technical guidance documents (ROI) […] More
Top tips to secure planning permission whether you’re building new, extending or renovating in any of the 32 counties of Ireland. In this article we cover: 1. Read, consult and reference your local authority’s planning policy. In NI these are referred to as local development plans or area plans and in ROI county development plans […] More
Find out how to keep on top of the budget and save money with our handy step by step self-build budget guide. In this article we cover: When you set out to build yourself a home, the last thing on your mind is accounting. But keeping a watchful eye on the finances can make the […] More