The Importance of Clean Air and Ventilation in Your Extension
Gary Newell • 1 June 2024
At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we're passionate about creating beautiful, functional extensions that transform your home. But a stunning extension isn't just about aesthetics – it's about creating a healthy and comfortable living environment. That’s why we prioritise proper ventilation and air quality in every project we undertake.
Why is Clean Air Important in Your Extension?
Believe it or not, the air inside your home can be [1]2-5 times more polluted than the air outside. This is because everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, and even breathing release pollutants into the air. In a poorly ventilated extension, these pollutants can become trapped, leading to a range of health concerns, including:
- Respiratory problems like asthma and allergies
- Headaches and fatigue
- Eye irritation
- Difficulty concentrating
The Benefits of Proper Ventilation in Your Extension
By incorporating a well-designed ventilation system into your extension, you can:
- Reduce pollutants: Fresh air dilutes and removes harmful contaminants, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.
- Control moisture: Proper ventilation helps prevent condensation and mould growth, which can damage your extension and trigger allergies.
- Improve comfort: Fresh air circulation keeps the temperature and humidity levels comfortable, especially important in well-insulated extensions.
- Boost concentration: Good air quality can improve focus and productivity, perfect for creating a home office in your extension.
Different Ventilation Options
In the UK, we have several ventilation options to consider for your extension, both natural and mechanical:
Natural Ventilation:
- Windows: This is the most basic and cost-effective option. Strategically placed windows allow for fresh air to enter and stale air to escape. You can consider tilt-and-turn windows for more flexibility in controlling airflow.
- Window trickle vents: These are small vents built into modern windows that allow for a constant trickle of fresh air, even when the window is closed. This helps maintain background ventilation, particularly important in new, energy-efficient extensions where gaps and cracks have been sealed.
- Air bricks: These are bricks with built-in vents that allow air to enter and exit the building through the walls. They are most commonly used in older homes but can be incorporated into new extensions as well.
Mechanical Ventilation Systems:
- Extractor fans: These are typically installed in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and odours. They can be intermittent or continuous.
- Continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV): This system uses low-powered fans to continuously extract stale air from wet rooms like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Continuous Mechanical Balanced Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): This is the most sophisticated option. MVHR systems extract stale air while simultaneously bringing in fresh air. They also recover heat from outgoing air and transfer it to incoming fresh air, improving energy efficiency. This can be a good option for larger extensions or those in areas with colder climates.
Choosing the Right Ventilation Option:
The best ventilation option for your extension will depend on several factors, such as the size and layout of the extension, the number of occupants, and your budget. Take a look at the building regulations for more information.
- The Building Regulations: Building regulations in the UK outline the minimum ventilation requirements for new extensions https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/home-user-guide-template/existing-home-ventilation-guide.
Jigsaw Construction Surrey: Building Healthy Extensions
At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we work closely with you to understand your needs and design an extension that prioritises both style and health. We can advise you on different ventilation options.
Investing in clean air and ventilation is an investment in your health and well-being. Let Jigsaw Construction Surrey help you create a beautiful and healthy extension you'll love for years to come.
Contact us today for a free consultation! https://www.jcs-ltd.co.uk
[1] https://www.cfpdirect.co.uk/news/20-shocking-facts-about-indoor-air-pollution/
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Planning a home extension in Surrey , a loft conversion , or even a new build? One of the biggest early considerations is whether you’ll need planning permission . For many homeowners, the process can seem confusing—but with the right knowledge and an experienced Surrey construction company by your side, it becomes much simpler. At Jigsaw Construction Surrey , we’ve supported countless homeowners through planning applications, helping them move smoothly from paperwork to building work. Here’s our step-by-step guide to navigating planning permission in Surrey. Step 1: Do You Need Planning Permission in Surrey? Not all building projects require formal approval. Some fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), which may allow you to extend or convert your home without submitting a full application. However, in Surrey, these rights can be restricted if your property is: Within a conservation area A listed building Situated in the Green Belt 👉 Before starting your project, check with your local Surrey council or ask our team at Jigsaw Construction Surrey for guidance. Step 2: Understand Local Planning Policies Each borough—Guildford, Elmbridge, Woking, Epsom & Ewell, and others—has its own Local Plan, which sets rules for building work. These policies cover: Building scale and height Design and materials Neighbour impact (privacy, light, outlook) Environmental impact Researching these guidelines early gives your project the best chance of success. Step 3: Create Detailed Plans A strong planning application depends on clear, accurate documents. Typically, you’ll need: Architectural drawings (site plans, elevations, floor layouts) A Design & Access Statement explaining how your design fits local policy Supporting reports (e.g., tree surveys, flood risk assessments) At Jigsaw Construction Surrey , we collaborate with skilled architects to make sure every application is thorough and professionally presented. Step 4: Submitting a Planning Application in Surrey Applications are submitted online via the Planning Portal or your local council’s website. Fees vary depending on the type of project. Once submitted, your application enters the consultation stage. Step 5: Neighbours & Community Consultation Neighbours and other stakeholders are invited to comment on your application. Common concerns include: Loss of light or privacy Parking and traffic impact Design compatibility with the local area Tip: Talking to your neighbours in advance can reduce objections and speed up the approval process. Step 6: The Planning Decision Most councils in Surrey aim to decide within: 8 weeks for smaller projects (such as home extensions) 13 weeks for larger developments If approved, you’ll receive a decision notice with any conditions. If refused, you can appeal—or make changes and reapply. Step 7: After Planning Permission – Building Regulations Even if planning permission is granted, you’ll still need to meet Building Regulations . These ensure that your project is structurally sound, energy-efficient, and safe. Our team at Jigsaw Construction Surrey helps clients every step of the way—from planning permission through to Building Regulations approval and construction. Why Choose Jigsaw Construction Surrey? Navigating planning rules can be complex, but we make the process stress-free. As trusted Surrey builders , we: Advise if planning permission is required for your project Work with architects and planning consultants Submit and support your application Deliver high-quality home extensions, loft conversions, and renovations With our experience, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your project is in expert hands. ✅ Thinking about a home extension or loft conversion in Surrey? Contact Jigsaw Construction Surrey today to discuss your plans—we’ll guide you through planning permission and bring your project to life.