Tag: driveway

Architecture & Building

Looking To Build A Carport? Find Out If They Are Valuable

What is a carport? 

A carport is a covered structure used to offer protection to cars. Because they don’t have walls, the open and accessible space makes it easy to park your vehicles underneath. Commonly carports are attached to your house or they can be a separate free-standing structure, depending on what you like.  

Carports are a great alternative if you don’t have a garage or if you can’t afford to build one. They give your cars shelter from the weather and will save you time when it comes to de-icing during the winter months. And in the summer months, a carport keeps your vehicle’s cool and in the shade. 

Also, if you live in an area with a lot of trees and wildlife carports are handy. This is because they can prevent branches from falling on your car or any animal mess. Which ends up keeping the cars clean and shiny.  

Does a carport add value to your home? 

Typically, carports will increase the value of your home, but maybe not in the way you were expecting. They don’t automatically raise the value of your home. In fact, if it’s done right, they are the ideal home improvements, that can make your home desirable.  

Carports are relatively cheap and easy to build. And is an easy way to add extra benefits and value to your home without having to do lengthy and expensive construction.  

Planning permission – 

Planning permission isn’t required for a carport. Provided that: the carport is used for domestic purposes only and the height can’t exceed 4 meters.  

How much is a carport?  

A single carport should cost between £2,000-£4000 to build, with an average carport costing £3,000. Double carports are more expensive and will cost around £5,000 to install. Although, these prices do not include the cost to lay a concrete floor or to hook up to the main services such as electricity, gas, or water.  

Carports are also very versatile, if you have a garage to park your car or if you don’t have a car, they are still very useful. You could use it as cover and shade from the sun, or you could place garden furniture underneath and protect it from the rain. 

Generally, carports are permanent secure structures that can’t be moved. However, some people like to have carports that can be moved so if they decide to move houses, they can take it with them.   

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Architecture & Building

Everything to know about designing a driveway

A nice driveway design can completely transform the first impressions that your home creates. Not only can a driveway increase the aesthetic of your home, but it can also add value to the property as well.  If you’re renovating your driveway here’s everything you need to know.  

What materials should you use for your driveway? 

The materials that you use for your driveway should complement your home’s exterior or any walls in your garden. So, this will affect the colour of the material that you can use. Here are some materials that you might use:  

Gravel or pebble. – 

 They are good-value and an ecologically friendly option, as they retain rainwater rather than sending it into the drains. Gravel also acts as a security feature because you can hear when people are approaching your home. 

Gravel is a good option because it’s affordable and quick and easy to lay. However, it will shift over time so you may need to level it out with a rake from time to time. If holes appear, you can simply add more gravel. And gravel won’t stop the weeds from growing so you will have to maintain the driveway.  

Block paving –  

Usually made from moulded concrete blocks, clay bricks, or natural stone, paving can be permeable to allow water to drain away. Using paving allows you to be creative with your new driveway design, the shades grey, and terracotta are the most popular. Block paving is ideal if you are on a strict budget because it is cheap, and doesn’t need much maintenance. 

Resin-bound gravel and paving –  

This is a single–stone layer, created by applying a film of resin onto the surface, and scattering aggregate on top. Meaning it is quite rough and there may be some loose stone. It’s suitable for slopes and is available in different colours and textures.  

Resin-bond paving gives a smooth and durable surface. Resin-bonded paving is cheaper as it’s quicker to lay and uses less material. 

Cost and longevity –  

An average driveway will cost around £50 to £70 per square meter. Although the prices can vary because each project is different. Resin-bound driveways can last up to 25 years. 

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