What is a glazed extension?

A glazed or contemporary extension uses large panes of glass, slim aluminium frames and modern cladding to create a bright room that contrasts with the original house. Frameless corners, structural glass roofs and minimal sliding doors are typical features.
How much does a glazed extension cost in Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a glazed extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 18 m² project that is roughly £43,000–£65,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Northern Ireland, where labour and materials are typically about 14% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (13 m²) | £31,000–£47,000 |
| Typical project (18 m²) | £43,000–£65,000 |
| Larger project (25 m²) | £60,000–£90,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,400–£3,600 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Steel framing
- Glazing size, specification and lead time
- Access for large glass panels
- Cladding material
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a glazed extension in Carrickfergus?
The approval route for Carrickfergus is set by planning law in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 allows single-storey rear extensions of up to 3 metres on attached houses and 4 metres on detached houses, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary. Houses with removed rights need planning permission, listed buildings need consent, and in conservation areas extensions must stay single-storey and must not come forward of the front or side walls.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Contemporary design and planning drawings
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, heating and finishes
- Cladding or render finish
- Structural design for steel frames and glass supports
- Large-format sliding doors and fixed glazing
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 12 to 16 weeks on site; glazing lead times can be 6 to 10 weeks. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Carrickfergus
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
If your home is in Carrickfergus or close by in Newtownabbey, Bangor and Larne, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about glazed extensions in Carrickfergus
How long does a glazed extension take in Carrickfergus?
Typically 12 to 16 weeks on site; glazing lead times can be 6 to 10 weeks. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Will a glass extension be too hot in summer?
It can be if poorly designed. Solar-control glass, roof overhangs and opening vents reduce overheating, and building regulations may require calculations to show the design works.
Is triple glazing necessary?
Not always. High-performance double glazing can meet the standards; triple glazing helps in exposed locations.
Is VAT charged?
Yes, VAT at the standard 20% rate applies to extensions. Our guide prices include it.
How much does a glazed extension cost in Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a glazed extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 18 m² project comes to roughly £43,000–£65,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for a glazed extension in Carrickfergus?
In Northern Ireland the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 allows single-storey rear extensions of up to 3 metres on attached houses and 4 metres on detached houses, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary. Houses with removed rights need planning permission, listed buildings need consent, and in conservation areas extensions must stay single-storey and must not come forward of the front or side walls.
