Why Hot Summers Are Making Patios Move and Crack in Essex
Sunken, rocking or cracked patio after the hot summer? Here’s how Essex clay shrinks and swells under your patio, and how to stop it happening again.
Design and Build vs Hiring an Architect and a Builder Separately
The pros and cons of using one design and build firm versus hiring an architect and a builder separately.
Porcelain or Sandstone Patio? Which Is Right for Your Garden
An honest comparison of porcelain and sandstone patios: looks, maintenance and how each one should be laid.
How to Choose a Builder in Chelmsford: 10 Questions to Ask
Ten questions to ask any builder before you sign anything, plus the warning signs to watch out for.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room?
The height and size limits for garden rooms and outbuildings, when you need planning and when building regs apply.
Garage Conversions: Planning, Building Regs and What to Check First
What you need to know about planning, building regulations and what to check before converting your garage.
Party Wall Agreements Explained: What You Need to Know Before You Build
A plain English guide to the Party Wall Act: what work it covers, serving notice, surveyors and who pays.
Block Paving, Porcelain or Gravel? Choosing a Driveway or Patio
Our honest take on block paving, porcelain, sandstone and gravel, plus the planning rules for front driveways.
Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension?
A plain English guide to permitted development and when you’ll need planning permission for an extension in Chelmsford and Essex.