Buying a Modular Extension – The Pros & Cons

As they are prefabricated, they can be fitted fast. How fast exactly? We’re talking normally within a matter of days. This also means they are generally a lot less messy than traditional building methods, which means less destruction to your garden and disruption to your neighbours.

The energy efficient materials used to make the wall panels will also be significantly more energy efficient than traditional brick and block. This means that you can achieve a better energy efficiency rating with thinner walls, potentially creating you more floor space.

It’s the speed with which a modular extension can be installed, alongside its superior insulating properties, that makes it so appealing to so many people. They can even be used for transforming old, unused conservatories into brand-new extensions, utilising the existing base in most instances.

But is a pre-fabricated system right for your property? Here are some of your potential concerns answered…

Design restrictions?
Contrary to popular belief, you’re by no means limited by design with a fabricated extension. Our chosen system at Planet, the hup! from Ultraframe, uses ultra-energy efficient panels in place of traditional brick walls, which are equally as flexible in size and shape. They are designed to incorporate a full range of windows, feature doors and roofing systems to achieve your desired look. And there’s no need for you to coordinate expensive architects and tradespeople – Planet can take care of everything for you from design to completion.

Match or contrast?
The age-old question. The same challenge is presented with traditional brick-built extensions – do you try and match your existing brick colour to the closest match or opt for a true contrast with a contemporary rendered or cladded finish? Choosing a modular-built extension certainly doesn’t restrict your choices – there are a whole host of options to help you achieve your desired look. Choose from a range of brick-style finishes, or opt for a render, timber-clad or UPVC-clad option to suit your personal style.

A turn-off for buyers?
In our experience, some people can feel apprehensive about whether a modular extension will create issues for them when they come to sell or re-mortgage their home. Well, the good news is that the hup! pre-fabricated system used at Planet comes fully loaded with Building Regulations approval, and has been independently assessed and approved by the BBA for use in UK housing products. Not only this, but the technology used in our system is also used in new-build housing construction across the UK and has been approved by the NHBC who provide guarantees on new homes. So, no concerns there.

Lifespan?
Our pre-fabricated extension system is built to last. The Steel Construction Institute (SCI) conducted two strength tests on hup! walls and compared them to traditional brick and block walls. Vertical loadings are the same strength as a brick wall and lateral strength is 70% stiffer than a brick wall. And as with all our products and extensions, your project will come with a full 20-year guarantee for added peace of mind.

If you have any further questions or concerns about modular or pre-fabricated extensions and whether they’re right for your home improvement project, please feel free to speak to one of our friendly advisors who will be happy to offer you impartial advice.