When planning a house extension in Bury, one of the first big decisions homeowners face is whether to build a single-storey or double-storey extension. Both options offer incredible benefits, but the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, space requirements, and the long-term value you want to add to your property.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and cost differences of single vs double-storey extensions to help you make the best decision for your Bury home.
Why Consider a House Extension in Bury?
Bury has become a highly desirable place to live, with its mix of period homes, modern developments, and excellent commuter links to Manchester and beyond. Many homeowners are choosing to extend their homes rather than move, saving money on stamp duty and estate agent fees while tailoring their property to suit their lifestyle.
Whether it’s creating a larger kitchen-diner, adding an extra bedroom, or boosting property value, extensions remain one of the most popular home improvement projects in Bury.
What is a Single-Storey Extension?
A single-storey extension adds extra space to the ground floor of your property. Typically built at the rear or side of a home, it’s often used to create:
- Open-plan kitchen-diners
- Home offices or playrooms
- Utility rooms or boot rooms
- Extended living spaces
Pros of Single-Storey Extensions
- Lower cost: Single-storey builds are usually less expensive than double-storey projects.
- Quicker construction: They take less time to complete, causing less disruption.
- Perfect for lifestyle upgrades: Great if you want a large family kitchen or open-plan entertaining space.
- Design flexibility: Can feature roof lanterns, skylights, and bifold doors for lots of natural light.
Cons of Single-Storey Extensions
- Takes up garden space: A single-storey extension may reduce outdoor space, especially in terraced or smaller Bury homes.
- Less cost-efficient per square metre: While cheaper overall, you get less space compared to a double-storey extension.
What is a Double-Storey Extension?
A double-storey extension expands your home both at ground level and above, adding space to multiple floors. Homeowners often use them to create:
- A large ground-floor kitchen-diner plus an extra bedroom upstairs
- An extended living room and a new en-suite master suite
- Multiple new bedrooms for growing families
Pros of Double-Storey Extensions
- Maximises space: Adds significantly more usable area compared to single-storey builds.
- Cost-efficient per square metre: While more expensive overall, you get more value for the money.
- Boosts property value: Ideal for resale, as additional bedrooms and bathrooms are highly attractive to buyers in Bury.
- Futureproofs your home: Perfect for growing families or those wanting a forever home.
Cons of Double-Storey Extensions
- Higher cost: More labour, materials, and time are required.
- Planning permission likely needed: Unlike many single-storey projects that fall under permitted development, most double-storey builds require planning approval.
- More disruption: Longer construction timelines and potential structural work mean more inconvenience during the build.
Cost Comparison: Single vs Double-Storey Extensions in Bury
While costs vary based on size, design, and finishes, here’s a rough breakdown for homeowners in Bury in 2025:
- Single-Storey Extension:
- Average cost: £1,800 – £2,500 per m²
- Typical 20m² extension: £36,000 – £50,000
- Double-Storey Extension:
- Average cost: £2,000 – £2,800 per m²
- Typical 40m² extension (20m² per floor): £80,000 – £110,000
Key point: A double-storey extension isn’t double the price of a single-storey one because you’re only adding extra walls and floors, not duplicating groundworks and roofing. This makes double-storey builds more cost-effective per square metre.
Which is Best for Your Bury Home?
The decision depends on your budget, long-term plans, and space requirements.
Choose a Single-Storey Extension if:
- You want to create an open-plan kitchen-diner or family living area
- You’re on a tighter budget
- Outdoor space isn’t a priority for you
- You want a quick project with less disruption
Choose a Double-Storey Extension if:
- You need more bedrooms or bathrooms for a growing family
- You want to significantly increase your home’s value
- You’re planning to stay in your home long term
- You want the most cost-efficient space per square metre
Will a House Extension Add Value in Bury?
Yes – both single and double-storey extensions can add significant value to your property.
- A single-storey extension that creates a modern kitchen-diner can add up to 10–15% to your home’s value.
- A double-storey extension that adds bedrooms and bathrooms can boost value by 20–25%, particularly in Bury’s competitive family housing market.
Final Thoughts
When weighing up single vs double-storey extensions for your Bury home, the choice really comes down to budget and lifestyle. If you’re simply looking to improve your living space, a single-storey extension is ideal. But if you want to futureproof your home, maximise value, and create multiple new rooms, a double-storey extension is the smarter investment.
At 3D Construction, we specialise in house extensions in Bury and across the North West. Whether you’re planning a single-storey kitchen extension or a double-storey project with added bedrooms, we’ll guide you through every stage – from planning and design to construction and finishing.
Contact our expert team today to discuss your house extension plans in Bury and get a free, no-obligation quote.
