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 Swanley?
In Swanley, a glazed extension typically costs £3,150–£4,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 18 m² project that is roughly £56,500–£84,500. That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (13 m²) | £41,000–£61,000 |
| Typical project (18 m²) | £56,500–£84,500 |
| Larger project (25 m²) | £79,000–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £3,150–£4,700 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Cladding material
- Lighting and finishes
- Access for large glass panels
- Steel framing
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a glazed extension in Swanley?
The approval route for Swanley is set by planning law in England. In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served 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:
- Large-format sliding doors and fixed glazing
- Structural design for steel frames and glass supports
- Foundations, walls and insulated roof
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, heating and finishes
- Contemporary design and planning drawings
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 12 to 16 weeks on site; glazing lead times can be 6 to 10 weeks. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Swanley
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
We work across Swanley and neighbouring areas such as Orpington, Sidcup and Dartford. Postcodes we cover in Swanley include BR8.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about glazed extensions in Swanley
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 Swanley?
In Swanley, a glazed extension typically costs £3,150–£4,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 18 m² project comes to roughly £56,500–£84,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does it need planning permission?
The same rules as other extensions apply, but contemporary designs in conservation areas are assessed carefully. We discuss the design approach with you before applying.
Do you build glazed extensions in Swanley?
Yes. We build glazed extensions across Swanley, including postcodes BR8. Every project starts with a free home visit.
