Side return extension BEFORE a loft conversion?

[IKnowNothing85]

We want to do a loft conversion and a single storey side return / rear extension on our Victorian terrace.

The loft is a want, the side return / rear extension is more of a need as it will improve our daily life a lot more. We cannot afford to both at the same time and is likely to be some years between these jobs.

Would we be silly to do the rear / side extension BEFORE the loft? I'm aware it's advised the other way round but what are the reasons why (apart from the obvious)? Will it be prohibitively more expensive? Cause a crazy amount of damage?

For background the house is a typical Victorian mid-terrace. Two floors high, with two reception rooms in the main part of the house and a kitchen in the old bit that sticks out, out back (what is that Victorian extension part called?!). We have back access. The loft conversion will only be going on the main part of the house (not the old extension bit)

 

[stevie888]

Loft work may develop cracks if knock throughs are done afterwards. extension may complicate access to loft though you can work off the roof if it's flat.

Most important is to try to future proof so you don't have to undo stuff. Eg any steels over knock throughs should allow for any additional loading from loft etc,

The name you're after is outrigger.

Don't write off the section of roof over the outrigger: there is potential space there and the height you're allowed under PD is limited by the main ridge so headroom won't be an issue

 

[Ivor Windybottom]

If the loft extension isn't going over the extension then you could do either whenever you want.

The only possible issues are access for scaffolding and goods in/out. If you're cutting off your back garden then loft first might be better.

How are you building a side extension on a mid terrace?!

 

[IKnowNothing85]

Thank you @stevie888 thats very helpful. What would yoou do with the space above the outrigger, out of interest?

@Ivor Windybottom the side return is being done on the 'outrigger' which is a narrow extension built to the back of the house that is old, maybe original? It houses a narrow kitchen at the moment, which we want to widen to the full width.

 

[Ivor Windybottom]

In that case it may be an issue for the loft, if you'd need scaffolding up the back of the original building to access it. You may be creating a difficulty that requires more expense further down the line.