Is a timber frame extension cheaper than a traditional brick extension?

Usually yes — both in materials and build time. Per-square-metre rates are typically £100–£200/m² cheaper, and the build programme is weeks shorter. The saving comes from the factory-made frame and faster on-site erection.

Do I need planning permission for a single-storey extension?

Often no, under permitted development. Rear single-storey extensions up to 3m (semi/terrace) or 4m (detached) usually qualify, extendable to 6m/8m under prior approval. Conservation areas and listed buildings are different — we confirm for your specific property.

What if my house is in a conservation area?

Permitted development rights don't apply in conservation areas, which cover a large part of Bath. You'll need a formal planning application. We can work with your architect on designs that satisfy conservation requirements.

How long does a timber frame extension take from start to finish?

Typical single-storey extension: 8–12 weeks on site after frame delivery, plus 4–8 weeks factory lead time before that. Total 12–20 weeks. Add time at the front if planning permission is needed.

Bristol · Timber Extensions by city

Timber Extensions in Bristol

Timber frame extensions — typically cheaper and faster than traditional blockwork, with the same building-regs compliance. TM Carpentry handles the structural carpentry side: frame, roof structure, sheathing and external cladding. Building regs apply regardless of construction method, and Bath has a lot of conservation-area properties where permitted-development rights don't apply. Available across Bath, Bristol and Keynsham — see the areas covered for specific neighbourhoods.

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What's included

Every timber extensions job covers the items below — always. The exact specification depends on your space and what you want it to do.

Timber frame construction
Roof structure (cut and truss)
Sheathing and breathable membrane
External cladding or render carrier
Internal studwork and first-fix carpentry
Coordination with bricklayer / groundworker trades

About timber extensions in Bristol

What timber extensions typically look like in Bristol

Bristol timber extensions typically work within Victorian terraces (BS3, BS6, BS7) and 1930s semis (BS9). Single-storey rear extensions up to 3m (attached) or 4m (detached) qualify for Permitted Development on most Bristol jobs — no application needed. Two-storey extensions, side-return extensions on corner plots, and extensions in the Clifton, Cotham or Montpelier Conservation Areas need a planning application.

Honest note: The descriptions below are generalisations — what's typical or commonly found across Bristol's neighbourhoods. Every property is different, so Tom will always confirm what's actually there on the site visit before quoting.

Planning & permissions

The planning context in Bristol

Most Bristol extensions under 3m (attached) or 4m (detached) rear depth qualify for Permitted Development, especially on standard terraced or semi-detached properties. Larger extensions, two-storey extensions, side-return extensions on corner plots, and any extension in the Clifton, Cotham or Montpelier Conservation Areas need a planning application. Listed Building Consent is required for any extension to a Grade II listed property (scattered across BS8 and parts of BS6 / BS9). Bristol City Council's planning applications typically take 8 weeks — faster than B&NES — and the application fees are lower. Building Regulations apply to all extensions regardless of size or construction method. Tom will flag what's needed on the site visit.

Common timber-extension patterns in Bristol

Common Bristol timber extension patterns: 4m single-storey rear extensions on Victorian terraces (sized to fit the typical 8–12m rear gardens), 5–6m rear extensions on 1930s semis (the wider rear gardens of BS9 support longer extensions), side-return extensions on Victorian semis (knock-through the side passage to widen the kitchen, common in BS3, BS6, BS7), and (on the larger plots in BS9) wraparound extensions combining rear + side-return into an L-shape kitchen/family room. Two-storey extensions are common in Henleaze and Westbury-on-Trym where the plot size supports them. Most Bristol extensions are clad in timber (cedar or larch) or render carrier — Bath stone replication is rarely needed. Most jobs require a structural engineer (loads + foundation design).

Areas in Bristol