General Building Seven Sisters: Questions to Ask First

General Building Seven Sisters: Questions to Ask First

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Chimney Removal and Repair Crouch End: Support Above

NStar Builds, a family and friends run North London building company, covers chimney removal and repair in Crouch End and the surrounding North London area. When a chimney breast is removed downstairs, the masonry above must be supported on steel or taken down to the roofline. It must never be left hanging in the ceiling void.

What happens when a chimney breast is removed?

When the lower breast goes, the stack above needs new support. It is supported on steel, or removed right through to the roofline. Leaving the upper breast unsupported is the mistake to avoid.

NStar Builds first flat conversion in Highgate checks whether the breast is load bearing and whether it shares a party wall. The breast then comes out floor by floor with support for the sections above, and the roof is properly sealed afterwards.

How to find a good builder in London?

Start with finished work you can see and a past client you can speak to, then get an itemised quote in writing. In London, ask how they handle party walls and conservation areas. NStar Builds gives a free, no obligation quote after visiting the property.

Can you live at home during building work?

Often you can, but it depends on which rooms are affected and when. The kitchen and the bathroom are the rooms that matter most. A temporary kitchen in another room makes a big difference.

Dust gets everywhere, whatever is sealed off. Move belongings out of adjoining rooms too. Set working hours at the outset, and let the neighbours know what is coming.

What is the difference between a builder and a building contractor?

In practice the terms overlap. A building contractor usually takes responsibility for a whole project under contract, while "builder" is often used for anyone doing building work. The useful question is who is accountable for the whole job, not what they call themselves.

Should you extend or move house?

Moving costs money that stays with other people: stamp duty, agents, solicitors and removals. Extending spends it on the building itself. What matters is whether you would stay once it is done.

Not every house can be extended the way its owners want. Garden depth, the neighbours and any conservation area all limit what is possible. NStar Builds offers a free site visit and quote, a solid figure to set against moving costs.

NStar Builds builds in Crouch End and the areas around it, and every quote is free. Call 0203 576 0166 for chimney removal and repair.

NStar Builds, Crouch End. Call 0203 576 0166.

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