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 Torquay?
In Torquay, a glazed extension typically costs £2,850–£4,300 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 18 m² project that is roughly £51,500–£77,500. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Torquay are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (13 m²) | £37,000–£56,000 |
| Typical project (18 m²) | £51,500–£77,500 |
| Larger project (25 m²) | £71,000–£107,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,850–£4,300 |
What moves the price most:
- Overheating and energy design
- Steel framing
- Lighting and finishes
- Glazing size, specification and lead time
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 Torquay?
Before anything is built in Torquay, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Energy and overheating calculations where needed
- Cladding or render finish
- Structural design for steel frames and glass supports
- Contemporary design and planning drawings
- Foundations, walls and insulated roof
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Torquay
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
If your home is in Torquay or close by in Paignton, Newton Abbot and Exmouth, 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
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about glazed extensions in Torquay
How much does a glazed extension cost in Torquay?
In Torquay, a glazed extension typically costs £2,850–£4,300 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 18 m² project comes to roughly £51,500–£77,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long do large glass panels take to arrive?
Often 6 to 10 weeks after final measurements, so we order them as soon as the structure is built.
Is VAT charged?
Yes, VAT at the standard 20% rate applies to extensions. Our guide prices include it.
Who approves a glazed extension in Torquay?
Planning matters in Torquay go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Is triple glazing necessary?
Not always. High-performance double glazing can meet the standards; triple glazing helps in exposed locations.
