We reported the pumped concrete foundations, in our previous blog. The contractor is now building the new boundary wall.
Rockwool
Contractors are building the new boundary wall to serve both properties; its cavity will be filled with rockwool. Rockwool offers both heat and sound insulation (solid insulation sheets would transfer sound across the void).
DPC and radon barrier
The architect specified a radon barrier given the historical soil conditions of the area. This is the red membrane in the photo. It will also act as a DPC. When building the new boundary wall, the contractors laid these membranes in situ, then built up from them.
The contractor laid drainage for the new kitchens and utility room, with temporary wastes also set up for make-shift kitchens for our clients.
Building the new boundary wall
The boundary wall itself is standard blockwork which will eventually be plastered. Only the front edge will be faced with ashlar to blend it with the existing building. New ashlar is very expensive so you will see below that we re-use removed stone to minimise costs.
Ashlar Bath stone
The builders will eventually remove the internal walls to create the two open-plan kitchen diners. We will re-use ashlar (Bath stone) from these walls to face the end of the new wall in keeping with the existing properties. We will also retain blocks to face the patio wall on one property (see below).
Garden remodelling
Work also continues on levelling the garden for one of the properties. This proceeds in parallel whilst others are working on the new structure. We are just finalising the fence and wall details for that part of the project which will see a much-improved garden with steps from the new patio. We will re-use some of the retained ashlar to face the patio wall facing the garden as there is a drop of around 1m between the levels.
The next episode of this project will show the boundary wall complete and fitting the new flat roof.
If you are planning your own extension or home improvements in Bath or Bristol, we produce concepts, designs, manage planning issues and oversee contractors. We also provide all furnishings and fittings, delivering the complete project. If you think we can help, we would invite you to read about our complete home renovation service.
