Start planning your spring renovations
Do you have some home improvements in mind this year? There’s no better time than the present to start planning for your spring renovations.
Planning for your renovation will depend on the size and scope of the work you wish to have carried out. With all types of home improvement, the key to success is doing your research and ensuring your budget is in line with your expectations.
Here are some of the things you should consider when planning your spring renovations…
Check the condition
First up, make sure the area of your home where you want to do some renovations is up to scratch. If you suspect damp, subsidence or even an infestation of pests, it’s best to call in an expert to check out the situation before any work commences.
Check your guttering if you’re having any exterior work done. Climbing plants can also cause problems and the elements can take their toll on your roof. Many homeowners fail to clean their gutters regularly causing an overflow into their wall cavity and creating thousands of pounds worth of damage which isn’t generally covered by home insurance.
If your planned renovation includes any form of plumbing, such as in the kitchen or bathroom, it’s also a good idea to get your pipes and drains checked too. Nowadays many companies offer a free survey to check before work commences but it is always handy to keep a little bit of your budget aside for the unforeseeable.
Draw up your design
From bathrooms to kitchens, it always pays to have a visual representation of your finished renovation. You can draw up your ideas yourself or cut images from your favourite magazines and take them to your installer who should be able to draw it up as a 3D visual.
Get a survey
Most home improvements require a survey to ensure the work can be carried out and obtain exact measurements for any products to be ordered. External works that add space to your home or change the structure often require permission from the local authority, although you may be able to proceed without one under the new Permitted Development rights.
Deal with the paperwork
If your planned renovation does not fall under permitted development rights (such as building into a roof space or garage) you will need to look into planning permission, building regulations and even listed building consent if applicable. You can find details about planning permission and building regulations at planningportal.co.uk.
Set your budget
It is important to be realistic with your budget and expectations, as every designer or supplier is led by your requirements and the last thing they want to do is offer you something which you cannot afford. The good news is many companies now stock alternatives to most items so they can work with all budgets, for example tiles and tiling can be expensive but new stylish wall panelling is generally cheaper, easier to install and does the same job!
Find inspiration
Now for the fun bit! Browse websites like Houzz or Pinterest to find endless inspiration for every room of your house. You could also make a vision board to collect all of your ideas in one place and see how the bigger picture fits together. We’re experts in helping people realise their home improvement visions, so talk to us today about your forthcoming renovation plans.