What is a Looped Supply?

When most people think of houses in the UK, they picture traditional brick walls, timber frames, and slate roofs. But there’s another method of construction that’s becoming more popular—especially with modern extensions and new-build homes: steel frame house. Steel frame houses use a skeleton of steel columns and beams to support the structure, rather than the more conventional timber framework. This type of construction has been common in commercial buildings for decades, but it’s also been steadily making its way into residential settings, particularly for those looking for speed, precision, and durability in their build. One of the main draws of steel framing is its strength-to-weight ratio. Steel is incredibly strong, yet much lighter than timber or masonry. This makes it ideal for projects that need to span wider spaces without internal supporting walls—think open-plan kitchen diners or large glazed extensions. It also makes it well-suited to tricky plots or sites with poor ground conditions, as the load can be distributed more evenly with less foundation work needed. For home extensions, especially double-storey additions or those with lots of glass, steel frames offer a lot of flexibility. You can achieve slimmer profiles around windows and doors, which means bigger openings and more natural light—something many homeowners are looking for, particularly in kitchen extensions or garden rooms. And because the frame is manufactured off-site and assembled on location, it can often go up much quicker than a traditional build, cutting down on disruption. There’s also the issue of shrinkage and movement. Timber, by its nature, expands and contracts with moisture and temperature changes. Steel doesn’t. This means fewer problems with settling cracks, squeaky floors, or sticking doors. It can also provide better fire resistance, and when treated and installed properly it’s resistant to pests and rot, too. Steel frame houses aren’t a new invention. They were used in large numbers in the post-war period to speed up housebuilding when materials were in short supply. Some of these early steel-framed homes can still be found today, especially in parts of Yorkshire and the North. However, modern steel frame construction is a world apart from those earlier systems. Today’s techniques are far more advanced, with improved insulation, air-tightness, and compliance with building regulations. In terms of cost, steel frames can sometimes work out slightly more expensive than timber initially, but that’s not always the case. The real savings often come from the time saved on site, the reduced need for labour-intensive groundwork, and the potential for better thermal performance if the detailing is done properly. Essentially they tend towards similar costs over the short term, allow for savings long term but also open up flexibility and space in the build. Design is another area where steel really shines. Architects and designers love working with steel because of the flexibility it offers. Curves, cantilevers, and big, open interior spaces are all much easier to achieve with a steel frame. So, if you’ve been dreaming of a striking modern extension with lots of glass and clean lines, steel could be your best bet. That said, not every builder works with steel frames, and not all projects are suitable for it. You’ll need experienced contractors who understand how to work with steel, especially when it comes to integrating it with other materials like brickwork, stonework or timber cladding. You’ll also want to think about things like thermal bridging and insulation, which need careful attention to detail in the design phase. A steel frame house, or steel frame extension, isn’t just about aesthetics or strength. It’s about using the right materials for the right situation. In places like Yorkshire, where the weather can be a bit unpredictable and traditional building styles are often protected by planning regulations, steel frames can offer a modern solution without compromising on character or durability. Check our instagram for inspiration of some of the steel frame buildings we have made!

When Is It Best to Demolish a Building and Start Again? It’s a question that comes up more often than you might think - should you renovate, extend, 'do up' what’s already there, or bite the bullet and start from scratch? In historic towns like York and Harrogate, we’re surrounded by beautiful architecture, listed buildings, and characterful homes. But not every structure can or even should be saved. Knowing when demolition is the more sensible option can save you time, money, and plenty of future headaches. There’s something undeniably appealing about restoring an old property. Keeping original features, uncovering old craftsmanship, and bringing life back to a building with history is hugely rewarding. But sometimes the starting condition, layout and make up of a building makes restoration unviable or at least far less practical than a fresh start. Structural Issues That Go Beyond Repair One of the most obvious signs that demolition might be the better route is when structural integrity is severely compromised. If a building has subsidence, widespread damp, crumbling foundations, or significant roof failure, it’s worth having a proper structural survey carried out. In some cases, the cost of underpinning, rebuilding walls, or replacing entire roofing systems ends up higher than demolishing and building new. In Yorkshire’s older stone buildings, you might find that age and poor maintenance over decades have taken their toll. Rotten timbers, extensive woodworm, and water ingress are common issues in properties that have stood for a century or more. If more than 50% of the structure needs to be rebuilt to make it safe and habitable, demolition often becomes the more cost-effective route. Equally there are pleanty of more modern properties which are just not right for now! When Renovation Costs Keep Spiralling Budget is usually one of the biggest driving factors. Renovations are notoriously unpredictable. You can budget for rewiring, replastering, and new plumbing, but once the walls come down, surprises tend to emerge. If you find yourself in a position where your renovation quote keeps inflating, it’s worth doing the maths. Sometimes starting again with a new build gives you far better value for money. Plus, you’ll benefit from modern insulation, energy efficiency, and layout choices tailored to how you want to live, not how people lived 120 years ago. Modern Living vs. Outdated Layouts Even with a structurally sound building, sometimes the layout just doesn’t work for modern living. In areas like Harrogate, where Victorian and Edwardian terraces are common, you’ll often find small kitchens, tight staircases, and awkward room sizes. Making big changes inside these properties—like creating open-plan living spaces or installing ensuite bathrooms—can be tricky, especially if you’re restricted by load-bearing walls. A new build gives you complete freedom to design a home that suits your lifestyle. You can integrate smart technology, maximise natural light, and ensure accessibility for future needs. That level of flexibility just isn’t always possible with older structures. Planning and Local Considerations Of course, you can’t just knock down a building. Planning regulations are strict. Demolition needs proper approval, and you may have to provide evidence that the building is beyond reasonable repair. That’s why it’s essential to work with a local builder such as AG Developments who understands the regulations and knows how to navigate the planning process. Sometimes partial demolition is an option. Preserving a façade or particular features while rebuilding behind or around them. This can be a great compromise, maintaining a street’s character while giving you a modern structure. Environmental Factors It might seem counterintuitive, but starting fresh can sometimes be the more environmentally friendly option. Retrofitting old buildings to meet modern energy standards can be incredibly difficult and expensive. With a new build, you can incorporate solar panels, heat pumps, superior insulation, and water-saving systems from the outset. You’ll also likely use modern materials that have better performance and a smaller carbon footprint. The Emotional Element It’s easy to forget the emotional side of the decision. People often develop a strong attachment to a property, especially if it’s been in the family for generations. Deciding to demolish isn’t just about money or practicality. But sometimes the best way to honour the past is to create something that will last for the future.

What Is an Orangery? If you’ve been looking at ways to add extra space to your home, chances are you’ve come across the term orangery. An orangery is a type of home extension or building, traditionally built with brick or stone walls and a solid perimeter roof, featuring a large central glazed lantern. The look and feel sit somewhere between a classic conservatory and a full extension. Thanks to their elegant design and excellent insulation, orangeries are often used as year-round living spaces—perfect for a kitchen extension, dining room, or light-filled lounge. They are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners across York and the rest of the UK. The Origins of the Orangery The term “orangery” goes all the way back to the 17th century. Originally, orangeries were built by the wealthy to shelter citrus trees from the harsh winter weather. These grand structures were typically found in the gardens of stately homes and manor houses, where they served both a practical purpose and a status symbol. The idea was to let in as much natural light as possible while still keeping the cold out. The modern orangery has kept much of its charm while evolving to suit today’s homes. You’ll still find the hallmark features—tall windows, solid walls, and a roof lantern—but today’s designs are focused on comfort, energy efficiency, and versatility. How Is an Orangery Different from a Conservatory? While both orangeries and conservatories aim to bring more natural light into the home, they’re constructed quite differently. A conservatory typically has a fully glazed roof and is built mostly from glass, making it a lighter structure but also more prone to temperature fluctuations. In contrast, an orangery features a more solid structure. Brick or stone pillars, a flat insulated roof, and a central roof lantern help regulate the temperature and give the room a more permanent, integrated feel. That makes orangeries a popular choice for homeowners in York looking for a space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the house. With the right design, an orangery can feel like a natural extension of your home’s architecture, rather than an add-on. Modern Uses for Orangeries Today’s orangeries are incredibly versatile. Thanks to their solid build and excellent insulation, they’re ideal for year-round use. Many homeowners use their orangery as a stylish dining area or kitchen extension, while others create a relaxing lounge, a home office, or even a playroom for the kids. Because they offer more privacy and insulation than a conservatory, orangeries also lend themselves well to open-plan living spaces. If you're thinking of a light, spacious kitchen-diner that feels open yet cosy, an orangery could be the perfect solution. We’ve seen a growing trend around York for orangeries that open out onto garden spaces. With the right set of bi-fold, French doors or patio door (check out the huge tripple glazed door we had to crane over a house in Acomb), you can create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living—ideal for entertaining in the warmer months. Do Orangeries Add Value? In most cases, yes. A well-designed orangery can add significant value to your home, especially when it’s been built to a high standard and integrates smoothly with the existing property. Because orangeries offer more usable, practical space than a conservatory, they’re often seen by buyers as a real asset. Of course, the value added will depend on several factors, including the size, quality of materials, and overall design. Talk to us to ensure you are getting the best of your building works! Planning Permission and Building Regulations In most cases, orangeries can be built under permitted development rights, which means you might not need full planning permission. However, this depends on the size and location of the orangery, as well as whether your home is listed or in a conservation area. We have had some amazing results in Harrogate with the historic buildings there, by using some traditional stones they really fit in lovely. Even if you don’t need planning permission, building regulations still apply. These cover everything from energy efficiency and fire safety to ventilation and structural integrity.

If you’re planning on extending your home, you might be looking at keep the costs down without compromising on quality - we all know the cost of living is on the rise! Whether you’re planning a bigger kitchen, a new bedroom, or even just some more space, house extensions don’t have to break the bank — but they do require careful planning. The cheapest way to build a house extension often comes down to being clever with design, materials, and the type of extension you choose. It’s not just about picking the lowest quote; it’s about making smart decisions that reduce labour and material costs while still giving you a functional, attractive space. Keep it simple One of the first things to consider is the design. A straightforward, single-storey extension with a square or rectangular footprint is almost always cheaper than more complex shapes or multi-storey additions. Odd angles, curves, or unusual rooflines look great but cost more due to the extra time and materials needed. Likewise, flat roofs are usually cheaper than pitched roofs — both in materials and labour. While a pitched roof may be more in keeping with the existing property and often lasts longer, a well-installed flat roof can be a perfectly practical and cost-effective choice, especially for rear kitchen or bathroom extensions and will realistically last well in excess of 20 years. Build up, not out In some cases, building upwards instead of outwards can save you money. A two-storey extension will naturally cost more than a single-storey one overall, but it generally costs less per square metre because you’re using the same foundations and roof for twice the space. If you're already doing a single-storey extension. Limit internal changes and plumbing work One of the hidden cost drivers in home extensions is moving or adding plumbing. If your extension involves a new kitchen or bathroom, try to position it near existing plumbing lines. The closer you can keep it to the current setup, the less invasive and expensive the work will be. For example, if you're adding a downstairs bathroom, placing it just behind or below an existing bathroom or kitchen makes life much easier for your builder and plumber — and your wallet. Similarly, avoid major structural changes to the existing building if possible. Knocking through supporting walls, altering floor levels, or rerouting electrics and heating systems will all push up the budget. Keeping the layout simple and working with the existing structure saves time and money. Of course its a ballance between design and budget. Compromising on the design too much to save money can make the build ineffective for you. Choose cost-effective materials Material choices have a huge impact on your final cost. Brick is the most common choice for UK extensions, and it often makes sense to match the existing exterior. But if appearance isn’t a huge priority (say, for a rear extension not visible from the road), you could opt for cheaper alternatives like rendered blockwork or even timber cladding. Inside, you don’t have to go budget, but you can cut costs by choosing mid-range finishes and fittings. If you’re fitting out a bathroom, for example, we always advise our customers that a well-laid, classic white suite and practical vinyl flooring can look just as good as more expensive options — especially when professionally and skillfully installed. Don’t forget planning and building regs It might sound obvious, but getting the paperwork right from the start can avoid costly delays or having to redo work. In some cases, your extension might fall under permitted development, which means you don’t need planning permission — a potential time and money saver. But you’ll still need to comply with building regulations. Working with a reputable builder who understands local planning rules can help you navigate this smoothly. We often work with homeowners from the early planning stages and find that taking the time to get it right upfront means fewer surprises and a smoother build. We have vast experience in the York and North Yorkshire area so know the lay of the land! Don't act as your own project manager One way to add costs is to manage the project yourself and make mistakes! Coordinating individual trades like bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, and decorators can be a nightmare and having a trade onsite but idle quickly adds cost. It's tyoically more effective to just have us do all the management of the build and remove the risk!

A loft conversion is a fantastic way to add space and value to your home, but how long does it actually take? The timeline depends on the type of conversion, your home's size, and any unexpected challenges. Generally, most loft conversions from our experiance in take 6 to 12 weeks. Planning & Preparation Before any work starts, there’s a planning stage that can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. If your conversion is under permitted development, you can move quickly. However, if planning permission is required, approval alone takes up to 8 weeks. Structural calculations and building regulations approval also need to be factored in before construction begins, however the houses around York particularly are well suited for conversions falling under permitted development. Main Construction Phase The actual building work varies depending on the conversion type: Rooflight conversion: 2–6 weeks – the simplest option with minimal structural changes. Dormer conversion: 4–8 weeks – adds headroom and space with a box extension. Hip-to-gable or Mansard conversion: 8–10 weeks – involves extensive roof alterations. Insulation, Plastering & Utilities Once the main structure is complete, insulation, plaster boarding, and plastering are done. After that, electricians and plumbers install lighting, sockets, and radiators. This phase usually takes 1–2 weeks. Finishing Touches The final stage includes flooring, skirting boards, doors, and any built-in storage. Painting and decorating can take up to another week, depending on complexity. Possible Delays & Considerations Several factors could extend the timeline: Weather Conditions – bad weather can slow things down, you dont want a big hole in the roof when its heavy rain! Structural Changes – If your roof needs reinforcement, additional time may be needed. Material Delays – Supply issues can occasionally hold up progress. Access Limitations – Restricted loft access can slow the movement of materials and workers. The best way to get an accurate idea is to have us come round and discuss your ideas and offer our advice!

Considering solar panels for your home extension? Learn about costs, benefits, and key factors like scaffolding and roof suitability in this detailed guide.

Creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space is a perect way to enhance your home extension if you are extending out into the garden space. If you are lucky enough to be close to the York city centre to gain views of the minster or even the holgate windmill its almost a must have but even without these views its an amazing addition to any building work. Incorporate York’s Natural Elements with Native Plants York’s natural beauty and seasonal changes make it an ideal place for a landscape inspired by the local environment. Incorporating native plants not only enhances your garden's aesthetic appeal but also promotes biodiversity by attracting local wildlife. Plants such as foxglove, bluebells, and cowslip thrive in York’s climate and offer vibrant colour throughout the seasons. Work with a local gardener or landscape designer to identify plants that work well with your soil type and garden size. Plan for the sun path and make the most of the sun light you get. You can also add features like bird feeders and bird baths to invite wildlife to your garden. Whilst we don't do the plants we work with some amazing garden designers who can influence the work we do to deliver a lovely space. Create Cozy Seating Areas for Year-Round Enjoyment York’s weather may be a bit unpredictable, but with the right seating area setup, you can enjoy your outdoor space almost year-round. A comfortable seating area can be as simple as a small patio with chairs or as elaborate as a covered outdoor lounge with heating options for colder months. Opt for furniture made of weather-resistant materials like treated wood or metal, and consider adding outdoor rugs and cushions for comfort. Try built-in benches or compact furniture to maximise the area. Adding a pergola or retractable awning can provide shade and shelter, making the space versatile enough to enjoy in rain or shine. Use Hardscaping to Define and Divide Spaces Hardscaping—using non-plant materials like stone, gravel, or wood—can help define spaces within your outdoor area. In York, where gardens often have unique shapes or historic elements, hardscaping can lend structure and depth to your landscaping design. Whether it’s a cobblestone path, a stone retaining wall, or gravel walkways, hardscaping adds functionality while complementing the natural beauty of your plants. Add a Water Feature for Tranquility The sound of running water brings a peaceful atmosphere to any garden, creating a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Even in a small garden, a small pond or fountain can introduce a soothing element. Larger yards may benefit from a more substantial feature, like a waterfall or koi pond, which also enhances the natural beauty of the space. For a simple DIY option, consider a standalone water fountain or small birdbath. A water feature can also encourage birds and other wildlife, enhancing your garden’s biodiversity. Plant for Privacy with Hedges and Climbing Plants Privacy is a priority for many homeowners, especially in city gardens or areas with close-set homes. If you’re looking to create a secluded oasis, hedges, trees, or climbing plants are excellent choices. Planting a hedge along the perimeter of your garden can create a natural barrier, while climbing plants like ivy or wisteria add a lovely green screen on fences or trellises. Climbers can also be trained along yard walls which add a touch of green to the Victorian terrace houses in some areas of York. Consider Lighting for Ambiance and Security Outdoor lighting can transform your garden at night, making it an inviting space even after the sun goes down. From ambient string lights to solar path lights, there are endless options for illuminating your outdoor space. Not only does lighting create ambiance, but it also improves security and visibility around your home. Use soft, warm lighting to highlight pathways, seating areas, and garden beds. String lights work well for patios, while solar-powered lights are perfect for lining pathways. Be mindful of light pollution—choose lighting that’s directed toward the ground to keep your garden softly lit without disturbing the natural surroundings. With thoughtful planning, your home’s outdoor space can become a stunning and functional retreat, perfectly suited to your lifestyle and the local landscape. From planting native flora to installing seating areas, there are countless ways to maximize the beauty and utility of your garden. Embrace York’s unique environment, incorporate some of these ideas, and enjoy your own little slice of paradise right outside your door.

Building a home extension is an exciting journey. Turning your house into the perfect home. Maybe you have just moved in and planned from the start to create the perfect house, or maybe things have changed and now is the right time to convert your home. The process can come with its fair share of challenges, especially for first-time builders. From budgeting missteps to unforeseen delays, there are common pitfalls that can derail even the best-laid plans. Fortunately, understanding these potential hurdles ahead of time can go a long way in ensuring a smooth, successful project. Thats where AG Developments and Construction come in with our years of experiance in the York and Pocklington areas we can ensure smooth sailing. Underestimating the Budget Budgeting is one of the most critical aspects of any home-building project, yet it’s often underestimated. Building an extension involves more than just construction costs—there are planning fees, material upgrades, smart features, and sometimes unanticipated expenses that can crop up. In York, for instance, building costs can vary significantly depending on the area and if it has any historic protection or features. How to Avoid It: Work with a detailed budget from the outset, accounting for every line item, from the initial planning and design to finishes and landscaping. Be sure to factor in a contingency fund of at least 10-15% of the total budget to cover any unexpected expenses. We can help with accurate estimates and highlight where to plan for a contingency. Overlooking Local Planning Permissions and Building Regulations Every local authority has its own planning and building regulations, which are enforced to ensure safe, sustainable construction. York’s council has guidelines that may differ slightly from those in other parts of the UK, especially nearer the city. The outskirts such as Haxby and Strensall are a bit less challenging. Ignoring or misunderstanding these requirements can lead to costly delays and even legal complications. How to Avoid It: Consult with a local architect or planning consultant who understands York’s specific regulations. They can guide you through the planning process, help you avoid missteps, and even handle much of the paperwork on your behalf. It’s also worth checking for any local restrictions if your house is in within the more historic parts of York. Choosing the Wrong Builder A builder can make or break a project. While it may be tempting to go with the lowest bid, this can sometimes lead to subpar work or unanticipated issues that end up costing more in the long run. The area has a range of experienced builders, but not all may specialise or have experiance in the type of build you’re looking for, particularly if you want specific architectural features or eco-friendly design. How to Avoid It: Take the time to research and vet potential contractors thoroughly. Check references, look at previous projects, and ensure they’re familiar with York’s building requirements. Getting quotes from multiple contractors can provide a sense of fair pricing, but always prioritize reputation and experience over cost alone. Check some of our projects! Neglecting Future-Proofing Building an extension is a long-term investment, and it’s easy to overlook future needs while focusing on present wants. This might mean not accounting for family growth, technology advancements, or energy efficiency, which can lead to costly modifications in a few years. How to Avoid It: Plan with the future in mind. If you anticipate growing your family or foresee the need for flexible spaces, include these possibilities in your design. Additionally, consider installing energy-efficient features that could save on utility bills in the long run, which is particularly important as York and the broader UK push for greener building standards. Inadequate Project Management Effective project management is key to keeping a home build on track. Without proper oversight, small delays and overlooked details can snowball, impacting the overall timeline and budget. Relying on contractors alone to manage every detail can sometimes lead to miscommunications and misunderstandings. A key benefit of AG Developments and Construction is we manage the whole project for you so the buck stops with us! How to Avoid It: You can consider hiring a dedicated project manager if your budget allows, or choose a builder with a proven track record in handling end-to-end project management such as AG Developments and Construction. Regularly check in on progress, make decisions quickly, and communicate clearly to avoid bottlenecks. Keeping track of milestones, costs, and timelines will help ensure everyone stays aligned. Ignoring Sustainability Options Sustainable homes are increasingly popular in the UK, not only for their reduced environmental impact but also for the cost savings they offer. However, sustainability can sometimes be an afterthought, especially for builders who aren’t familiar with green building techniques. How to Avoid It: Speak with your architect and builder about eco-friendly options early on in the planning process. For York, where green initiatives are increasingly encouraged, consider adding features like solar panels if you are putting up scaffolding, energy-efficient windows, and high-quality insulation. Not only can these add value to your home, but they can also reduce utility costs over time. AG Developements are very experianced in being sustainable, we even plant trees to offset the impact of our work! Rushing the Design Phase The design phase is where the vision for your home is born, and rushing it can lead to dissatisfaction later on. The temptation to start building as soon as possible can sometimes lead to hasty decisions that don’t align with your long-term vision. How to Avoid It: Take the time to work closely with an architect to fine-tune every aspect of your design. Consider both the functionality and aesthetics of each space, ensuring they meet your lifestyle needs. A well-thought-out design will save money, time, and stress later in the project. Building an extesion to your kitchen or bedroom or even a loft conversion in York offers a unique opportunity to craft a living space just for you. By anticipating these common pitfalls and planning accordingly, you can avoid the complexities of the process with confidence.

Building a new home extension is an exciting journey. The chance to make your home exactly how you want it. Change how you use the kitchen or add a bedroom for a growing family, or a complete renovation. One of the key decisions many people looking at today is whether or not to incorporate smart technology, or rather, which bit of tech to add in. With some really smart things in home automation making things more convenient, energy-efficient, secure, and just more fun, smart home technology is a great option for modern living. As always we like to offer help and advice for any potential customers looking at an extension or build. 1. Smart Lighting Smart lighting is one of the most popular choices for everyone we talk to. Systems such as Philips Hue or LIFX allow you to control your lighting remotely, set schedules, and even change the colour and intensity of lights with a simple voice command or app. They integrate with the likes of Alexa and Siri and are really easy to use for eveyone. Positives : Smart lighting offers convenience and energy savings. Being able to control lights from your smartphone means you never have to worry about leaving lights on when you’re out, which can reduce your electricity bills. Many systems allow you to set lighting scenes, so whether you’re watching a film or hosting a dinner party, your home can be perfectly lit at the touch of a button. Integration with smart assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant also means you can turn lights on or off with your voice, adding another layer of ease. Motion detectors also allow for completely autonomous operation - never again touch a light switch (if you want). Negatives : While smart lighting is a convenient addition, it can be pricey. Installing a comprehensive smart lighting system may require purchasing several smart bulbs or smart switches, which are significantly more expensive than traditional lighting. Additionally, if your internet connection goes down, you may lose some of the system's functionality, though most systems do offer manual overrides. Another consideration is compatibility – not all smart lighting systems work seamlessly with every smart home ecosystem, which could be frustrating if you decide to expand your setup later. 2. Smart Heating and Thermostats Heating your home efficiently is a high priority for most, given the rising costs of energy. Smart thermostats, such as Nest or Hive, have change the way we heat our homes, allowing you to control your heating remotely, set specific schedules, and monitor energy usage in real-time. They even can look at the weather and adapt which we have found to be amazing! Positives : The most significant benefit of smart heating systems is the ability to save on energy costs. Smart thermostats learn your schedule and heating preferences, optimising the temperature to be energy-efficient while still keeping your home comfortable. If you’re away from home for a day or longer, you can easily adjust the heating remotely, avoiding heating an empty house unnecessarily. Even better, coming in from a cold day you can boost the heat to have a toasty warm house. Smart thermostats also provide detailed reports on energy consumption, helping you to identify areas for improvement. Negatives : One downside of smart thermostats is the initial cost. Though they can help reduce your energy bills over time, the upfront investment can be substantial (though its the perfect time if you are replacing your boiler as part of the works). Installation may also require professional assistance if your existing heating system isn’t compatible, adding to the cost. Additionally, while many systems are user-friendly, they can be overcomplicated for those who prefer simplicity. Finally, similar to smart lighting, these systems rely on an internet connection, which could limit their functionality during outages. 3. Smart Security Systems Home security has always been a priority customer, and smart security systems offer enhanced control and peace of mind. From video doorbells like Ring to fully integrated home security systems with cameras, motion detectors, and alarms, smart security allows you to monitor and control your home’s security from anywhere in the world. Positives : Smart security systems provide real-time alerts and remote access, meaning you can check on your property no matter where you are. Many systems also integrate with other smart home devices, such as smart lighting or voice assistants, allowing for a fully interconnected security system. Features like two-way audio on video doorbells mean you can speak to delivery drivers or deter potential intruders even when you’re not at home. For many, the peace of mind that comes with being able to check in on their home via a smartphone app is brilliant. Negatives : While smart security systems offer a high level of protection, they can also be expensive to install, especially if you opt for a comprehensive system. Subscription fees for cloud storage of security footage can add to the ongoing costs. There are also concerns about privacy and data security, as these systems often record sensitive information. If poorly protected, smart security systems could become a target for hackers. Another issue is that reliance on internet connectivity means some features may not function during power outages, potentially leaving your home vulnerable. They are often not insurance rated too. 4. Smart Appliances The inclusion of smart appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens, is becoming increasingly. Some of these appliances offer advanced features such as remote control, energy monitoring, and integration with smart assistants. One York home we did featured a fridge which could create a shopping list or tell you what to make with what is inside! Positives : Smart appliances can make everyday tasks much more convenient. For instance, smart ovens allow you to preheat or adjust cooking settings remotely, and smart fridges can send alerts when you're low on certain groceries. Some smart washing machines offer eco-friendly wash cycles and can be controlled via your phone, meaning you can start a load of laundry while you’re out, ensuring it's ready when you get home. The ability to monitor energy usage is another key benefit, helping homeowners reduce their energy consumption. Negatives : Despite the added convenience, smart appliances come with a hefty price tag compared to their traditional counterparts. Additionally, they are more complex and could be prone to technical glitches. Many of these appliances also rely on software updates to ensure smooth functioning, and outdated software could lead to reduced functionality over time. Compatibility with other smart systems can be an issue as well, making it important to ensure your smart appliances work seamlessly with your chosen smart home ecosystem. 5. Smart Speakers and Assistants Devices like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Home, and Apple’s Siri have become a standard in lots of homes. These voice-activated assistants allow you to control other smart devices, stream music, ask questions, and even control heating or lighting with simple voice commands. Positives : Smart speakers add a level of convenience and accessibility to a smart home. They act as the central hub for other smart devices, allowing seamless control via voice commands. Whether you want to dim the lights, turn up the thermostat, or play your favourite playlist, smart assistants respond almost instantly. Many systems also integrate with third-party services such as Spotify, news outlets, and even home delivery apps, making them a multifunctional tool for modern living. Negatives : The primary downside to smart speakers is their dependence on a stable internet connection. Without it, these devices lose much of their functionality. Privacy concerns are also significant, as smart speakers are always listening for their activation phrase. While companies claim to secure data, some users are uncomfortable with the potential for their devices to record private conversations or store personal data. Additionally, while voice assistants have come a long way in understanding commands, they’re not perfect and may sometimes struggle with accents, including various UK regional accents. If your Yorksire is strong, maby reconsider! Wrap Up Smart technology can bring a lot of benefits when building a new home extension, offering fun convenience, energy savings, and improved security. However, it's essential to weigh these benefits against potential downsides, such as cost, privacy concerns, and reliance on internet connectivity. With some carefullconsideration, and our advice around which technologies fit your needs and lifestyle, you can build a home that is not only smart but also functional and future-proof. Doing this while your home is being worked on is the perfect time as it means doing the job once!