Berkshire Bespoke Builders
Double Storey Extensions in Berkshire
A double storey extension adds significant space on both ground and first floor — typically a kitchen or living space below and a bedroom or bathroom above. It delivers the best cost-per-square-metre of any extension type, and Berkshire Bespoke Builders has the structural and building experience to deliver them across Ascot, Bracknell, Reading, Windsor, Maidenhead, Wokingham, and all surrounding areas.
What We Build
We build double storey rear extensions, side extensions over two floors, and side and rear combined two-storey structures. The ground floor typically houses extended kitchen, utility, or dining space. The first floor typically adds a bedroom, bathroom, or en suite. We manage the full structural design coordination, including RSJ beams, padstone design, and roof tie-in to the existing structure.
What Is Included
Every double storey extension quote covers: groundworks and reinforced foundations (double storey loads are heavier than single); full two-storey brick and block superstructure; structural steelwork at first floor and roof level; new roof structure tied into the existing roof; external joinery — windows and doors across both floors; cavity and internal insulation; internal walls and stud partitioning at first floor; plastering throughout; first-fix electrics and plumbing on both floors; building regulation submission and all inspection stage attendance; Building Regulations Completion Certificate.
Typical Costs
Double storey extensions in Berkshire typically cost £55,000–£120,000+ depending on footprint, structural complexity, specification, and whether a bathroom or en suite is included at first floor. They represent better value per square metre than single storey extensions. We provide itemised fixed-price quotes.
Planning & Building Regulations
Double storey rear extensions almost always require full planning permission — they affect neighbouring properties' daylight and sunlight rights and are typically outside permitted development limits. We assess the planning position at the initial site visit and advise on the likelihood of consent. We work with local architects and planning consultants where required.
Our Process
1. Site visit, planning assessment, and structural feasibility check. 2. Fixed-price written quote. 3. Planning application coordination (where required). 4. Building regulation drawings and submission. 5. Agreed programme. 6. Groundworks, foundations, and drainage. 7. Ground floor superstructure and first floor structure. 8. First floor superstructure and roof. 9. External envelope complete — watertight. 10. First fix on both floors. 11. Internal fit out and plastering. 12. Building control inspections throughout. 13. Handover with Completion Certificate.
Why Choose Berkshire Bespoke Builders
- ✓Owner-managed — Pindi Sahota is on site and managing your job personally
- ✓32 years on the tools — time-served builder, 25 years fitting bespoke kitchens
- ✓Fully insured — public liability and employer's liability on every project
- ✓Fixed-price written quotes — itemised by material and labour, no hidden extras
- ✓Building regs managed — we submit applications and attend all inspection stages
- ✓Based in Berkshire — Binfield, Bracknell RG42. No travel surcharges or delays
FAQ
Double Storey Extensions — Common Questions
Does a double storey extension need planning permission?
In almost all cases, yes. Double storey rear extensions exceed permitted development limits and require a full planning application. We advise on this at the initial site visit and can recommend local planning consultants or architects.
How much does a double storey extension cost?
Typically £55,000–£120,000+ in Berkshire depending on footprint and specification. Adding an en suite or second bathroom at first floor increases cost. We provide fully itemised fixed-price quotes.
How long does a double storey extension take?
Typically 16–22 weeks on site from groundworks to practical completion. Planning (if required) adds 8–13 weeks before the build starts.
Can I stay in my home during the build?
For most double storey extensions you can remain at home throughout, though there will be periods of more significant disruption (particularly during roof tie-in). We plan the work sequence to keep you in the house wherever possible.
Do you coordinate structural engineering?
Yes — we arrange structural engineering calculations for the foundation design, RSJ beams, padstones, and first floor structure. This is included in the project management we provide.
Does a double storey extension always need full planning permission?
Most double storey extensions require full planning permission — they are not covered by permitted development. The main exceptions are properties where an Article 4 direction has not been applied and the extension is within permitted development parameters on the ground floor only. We check your specific address and advise at the initial visit.
How much does a double storey extension cost in Berkshire?
A double storey rear extension in Berkshire typically costs £60,000–£130,000 depending on footprint, specification, and roof type. The cost per square metre is lower than a single storey extension because the foundations, scaffolding, and roof are shared across two floors. Adding a bedroom with en suite on the first floor typically costs an additional £20,000–£35,000 on top of the ground floor work.
How long does a double storey extension take to build?
A double storey extension typically takes 18–26 weeks on site. Planning approval usually adds 8–13 weeks before work can begin. We provide a detailed programme at quote stage.
What structural work is involved in a double storey extension?
The structural work includes: deeper and wider foundations to carry the additional load, cavity brickwork or blockwork for both floors, structural steels for any internal openings at ground floor, first floor joists (typically engineered timber), roof structure to match the existing, and all associated building regulation compliance. We commission structural engineer drawings as part of every double storey project.
Can a double storey extension include a new bathroom or en suite?
Yes — the most popular configuration is a kitchen/dining extension at ground floor with a master bedroom and en suite directly above. The bathroom drainage is designed at drawing stage to connect efficiently to the existing soil stack. We manage this with the structural drawings to ensure the SVP route is coordinated with the structural design.
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A single storey extension is the right choice where only ground-floor space is needed — but where a bedroom or bathroom is also required, a double storey delivers far better value. Double storey structures place heavier loads on the ground than single storey, so foundations are engineered to a higher specification — typically reinforced strip or raft foundations.
The full two-storey external envelope is built in cavity brick and block — brickwork matched to the existing house at both ground and first floor level. The new roof is tied into the existing structure — a critical junction that must be engineered correctly to avoid differential settlement and weathertightness problems. For clients who want additional first-floor space without extending into the garden footprint, a loft conversion is sometimes the better option — no planning application needed in most cases.
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