5 years ago… Home Improvement Trends of 2007

Has a lot changed since 2007? We took a quick peek back at the home improvement trends of 2007, which included the housing market, buy-to-let, DIY and eco-friendly homes.

2007 saw more people than even get bitten by the by-to-let property bug, whilst other homeowners thinking of selling their properties were confronted with the HIPS pack for 3 bedroom houses. Average house prices had risen 156% in the last ten years and homeowners were adding extensions and conservatories to increase their homes value even more.

One report predicted the average house would cost £300,000 by 2012, despite December seeing a third consecutive fall in house prices, signalling, some said, an end to the property boom.

Rented homes were already in great demand as the cost of buying a first home or a larger family proved too much for the British public. This fuelled the by-to-let market as properties were snapped up and consequently let by a growing army of private property investors.

DIY was as popular an obsession with the public as it had ever been. The previous 5 years had seen a steady increase in 'handy women' with Tesco reporting it had sold 21,000 pink tool kits last Christmas.

The flip-side of the coin was increasing numbers of young professionals without any DIY skills, and a culture of 'call in an expert' for even simple tasks was evolving.

Eco-friendly interiors was surely one of the hottest topics of home improvement as house builders started incorporating natural materials like lambs wool insulation. The revolution was truly underway as energy saving lightbulbs were snapped up, although much more was achieved by simply turning the heating down a agree or two and switching off lights when not in a room.

Finally, the 18-24 age group surprised us by getting increasingly green-fingered as Britons spent an average of £180 each on sprucing up their gardens. However, those obsessed with 'keeping up with the Jones' ended up spending ten times as much as last year on landscaped gardens and even driveway turntables.

2007 also saw us launch Loft Quoter - an instant online loft conversion quoting website, joined our growing family of 'Quoter websites. It's regularly updated with the industries latest prices and can still offer free online quotes, whether your attic is traditional trusses or the more modern W shaped trusses in construction.

This story first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 6th February 2012. Click here to read the full newsletter, which also included a round up of the weeks top home improvement offers.

Ditch the Gym membership

Gym Membership Costs Mount

Many gyms charge a joining fee; monthly membership can range from £25 to in excess of £100 and most expect you to commit to a 1-3 year contract. When you come to leave many will impose a minimum notice period of 1-3months.

Stay fit gym free –exercise at home without the expense of gym membership. Here are some simple tips to help you stay fit:

- Increase general activity: be more active in your day-to-day life (e.g. use the stairs instead of the lift,. walk or cycle instead of using the car for short trips).

- Be realistic: set achievable goals. Stick to something you can commit to, start with 1-2 sessions a week. It will be easier to stay on track and build your programme.

- Short can be sweet: Don’t worry if you can’t commit to an hour or 2 hour session, an intense 5-10minute session can be just as effective. The important thing is to stay in the routine of exercising.

- Remain flexible: Your intended routine may get blown off course by work or personal commitments. Don’t get despondent; simply reschedule your exercise when you have more time.

If you're thinking on converting a garage or loft, to make your own Gym area, one concern can be how much home fitness equipment can cost, especially if you're used to commercial Gym grade equipment.

In & Out Fitness specialise in sales and rental of fitness equipment, including refurbished equipment. You could rent a commercial grade running machine or cross trainer for £10 a week - steppers are from £8.75 a week.

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Lack of housing stock forces people to extend and convert for extra room.

If you're currently trying to move house of you're thinking you might move home, to get the extra space for a growing family or a the hobby / work area you've always promised yourself, then prepare for disappointment.

Estate agents around the UK are lamenting the fact that there just isn't enough housing stock on the market, to offer people 'just what they're looking for'.

Would-be home movers are being forced to settle for less or are staying put and increasing the living area of their present homes.

Aside from saving all the costs associated with moving home - legal and stamp duty fees, not to mention removal costs. Extension and conversion costs are very attractive and you also get the benefit of having a direct hand in how that extra space is planned and laid out.

This means a garage can easily become anything from a larger kitchen to en-suite annex. Working from home or about to embark on a new career from home? A garage conversion or extension can add the space you need and by incorporating exterior doors, you can even make your 'office' open to visitors without them having to walk through the rest of your house.

And if you're after more leisure space or room for those pesky teenagers, then converting the loft to become a cinema room or den can give both parties some breathing space. Of course, once those same pesky teenagers have left home, you can revert back to your original plan of a en-suite master bedroom!!

When you're arranging quotes, check with the companies their payment terms. Some may offer payments in instalments as the work progresses, whilst others may have their own terms & conditions regarding payment.

Look out for offers like free flooring, electrics or drawing of plans. Small jobs compared to the overall cost but any savings, that make the most financial sense to you, are always worth exploring.

This article first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 24th October 2011. Click here to read the full newsletter.

Lack of space the problem for most families

running out of room?

Not only are children living at home for longer, the present housing climate means that for many, their first-time property is shrinking in living space.

The result is parents are having to act like free storage depots, looking after everything from furniture to personal items like books and music.

If your home feels like it's busting at the seams with family members and their belongings, then now might be a very good time to get a rough idea of cost for converting your garage or loft.

Because today's housing climate means many would like to move for more space, but are unable to, creating more space out of what you already have is becoming increasingly common and it makes good financial sense too.

Add up all the costs of physically moving home - removals, solicitors, stamp duty, re-decoration etc and by the time you've factored in a higher mortgage payment, converting 'dead space' you already own becomes a very good investment indeed.

Not to mention the added value, the conversion will add to your property.

Because of the construction technique differences between converting your loft and garage, Home Improvement Quotes has two separate dedicated quoting websites - one for each project.

Both allow you to enter your location, approximate room sizes and specify extra's like en-suites etc before giving you an instant online quote - no fuss, no pressure and no salesman.

Click here to try Loft Quoter now. For Garage Conversion quotes, click here.

*this story first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 14th June 2011. Click here to read the full home improvement quotes newsletter.

photo credit: davidd

Loft conversions on a truss roof.

Whilst your loft might look like a maze of timber, it is possible to convert the loft space into a usable room - a spare bedroom with en-suite or a study etc.

A truss roof is easily identifiable by the 'W' shape of the rafters inside your loft which support the roof.

Conversion of such roofs usually involves inserting steel beams down the sides of the loft, onto which wooden battens locate vertically from the corresponding truss. Once this work is done, the old w shaped trusses are removed and the space converted to your new room specification.

The weight of the roof is re-distributed on the new battens and steel beams. The steel beams themselves are usually inserted by removing several edge tiles or even corresponding bricks on the gable end, through which the beam is slid before the access hole is made secure again.

The vertical battens I mentioned earlier also form the framework for the side walls of the interior of the conversion into which access doors can be incorporated to allow storage access to that small space under the eaves of the roof. One keen DIY person I know went one step further by fabricating a moving shelf system so that he could slide the 'cupboard floor' across the eaves entrance allowing him to store more further back from the entrance without having to crawl down the cramped access way to access stored items.

And with Loft conversions being voted the home improvement most likely to add the most value to your home in a recent survey of Halifax property valuers, little touches like extra storage making use of 'dead' space will only make your conversion more appealing, quite aside from making it work for you personally.

If you thought your loft wasn't suitable for conversion, think again. Visit Loft Quoter now for a free online loft conversion quote without the need for any salesman to call on you.

This article first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 16th May 2011. Click here to read the full home improvement newsletter.

Loft conversions top value-adding poll.

A survey by Halifax property valuers has revealed that loft conversions offer the best return in terms of adding value to your home.

Loft conversions were followed by extensions, whilst new kitchens, bathrooms and double glazing also featured highly.

Adding a driveway or off-road parking had jumped by 124%, adding an average of over £2,800 to a homes value compared with just over £1,200 in 2009.

The value of a home with a loft conversion increased by an average of just over £20,000.

However, the property giant warned homeowners to be on their guard and compare prices in their area if they were considering such improvements with a quick return in mind.

They should be taking overall average property prices into account in their area, as it may be unrealistic to expect a particular home improvement to increase the value so dramatically.

More room was most likely to attract buyers, particularly where an area had a lot of similar properties on the market.

The home improvements least likely to add any value to the property were re-decorating and new carpets/flooring.

Remember, you can get an instant online quote for loft conversions, building extensions and other home improvements like kitchens, bathrooms, driveways and double glazing all from the comfort of your own home, without any salesman calling simply by visiting Home Improvement Quotes.

photo credit: les chatfield

This article first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 10th May 2011 - click here to read the full newsletter.

Home Extensions and conversions - Homeowners expanding outwards and upwards

If you're currently trying to sell your home then you'll know it's a pretty desperate situation at present. Yet more figures reveal house prices falling ever-so slightly and the number of property transactions at record lows.

No wonder then that many homeowners are re-appraising the present homes with a view to increasing the living space without having to move.

What are your options?

One of the most popular and cost effective is a garage conversion, especially where the garage is already integral to your home. Many properties with double garages take advantage of converting one and leaving one - the best of both worlds. A garage conversion can incorporate a new dining area, an extension to the kitchen, the creation of a utility room, a new playroom, a home cinema, a cosy snug or even en-suite guest accommodation.

It may be possible to keep the existing garage door and partition a small width off for garden storage - remember, anything presently in your garage like bikes and lawn mowers (not to mention the accumulation of 'junk') will have to go somewhere once work starts and it probably won't be going back once the conversions complete.

Next in the popularity stakes is a loft conversion. Whilst some properties may not be suitable (you can quickly tell by if there's enough room to stand up in the loft space), and modern rafter arrangements might make the task a little more complicated (and costly) but most can be overcome.

Suitable for a variety of uses, by adding dormer windows, you can really open the space out into an imaginative and desirable room.

Basement conversions (if your home has one) can be technically demanding in the initial stages, making sure the room is watertight but once the preparation is completed, then you've another very useful room.

With the relaxing of certain planning rules, more and more homeowners are turning to a full newly built extension. Either single or double storey (depending on your needs, budget and planning restrictions), an extension gives you the opportunity to incorporate several features into the one build - e.g a dining and utility area etc. Because you're starting with a blank canvas so to speak, you can plan the space to suit you. Bare in mind if you come to sell the property later, does the extensions use still offer a new buyer something.

And finally, some 'extensions' you may not have considered.

Conservatories - again with the new less restrictive planning rules in force, it's possible to add a sizeable conservatory to your home - space that can be used for entertaining or the more functional.

Porches - restrictive in size but just having a solid, weather-proof extended entrance means you could possibly empty your present hallway of boots, shoes and coats, making the entrance to your home seem more spacious, and certainly warmer. There are some fantastic upvc porch designs available.

Before carrying out any of the options above, particularly where garages are being converted or you're thinking of loosing a bedroom in favour of a larger bathroom / access to a loft conversion, it's worth checking with a local estate agent.
They'll be able to advise you on what options are a good investment and will add to your homes value and appeal as well as the alterations that will cost you value and a potential buyer in the future.

*This article first appeared in our 14th February 2011 homeowner newsletter - with a weekly subscription of nearly 300,000 readers - click here to read it in full.

photo credit: d sharon pruitt

Cue Popcorn! Cinema admission prices turn us to Home Cinema's

With talk from the major movie studios of making new films available on DVD just 4 weeks after their first cinema release, and the rising costs of taking the family to the cinema (particularly with the pletheroe of 3D releases) - a family of 5 plus drinks and popcorn for the kids can soon get through £50, it's no wonder that more and more households are turning to technology to set up their own home cinemas.

Add to that the convenience of a showing time when you want it, no travelling, nobody walking in front of you and you get to pause the film if you need the toilet. Not to mention the drinks and snacks are cheaper too.

You don't have to go as far as converting the loft or basement, although doing so does make the perfect home cinema room. Good black out blinds and a comfy sofa work just as well.

You'll be able to choose between a large screen (as large as your budget will allow) lcd or plasma television or even a projector and screen (which can be rolled up when not in use). All 3 have their strengths and weaknesses and depending on the layout of your room, you may rule out a projector from the start. That leaves a widescreen TV - best idea is to go and look at a few working, choose which picture you most prefer. There are some very good guarantee periods to be had - some as much as 5 years, depending on the brand and the retailer. And now more and more manufacturers are producing 3D televisions - just in time for Christmas.

No blockbusting action packed film is complete without a body shaking sound track. Whilst your TV will be perfectly adequate, for the full movie experience, you'll want to consider a surround sound system. The usual set up is 4 'surround' speakers (1 in each corner of your viewing area), a dialogue speaker (which is usually situated immediately in front of the screen) and a bass speaker (usually tucked away somewhere).

Of course surround sound systems aren't just for films. Connect them up properly with your Digital service and you'll be able to play normal television through them - very good now that digital broadcasting is upon us - you'll notice an improvement in overall volume levels (with some tv, you may have noticed the dialogue can sound a little lost).

Some systems will even play music CD's and receive radio broadcasts. You may pay extra for systems which will play recordable CD's etc - always check what will play on the system you finally select.

So a good surround sound system actually becomes your new hi-fi system.

Again, budget will dictate what you end up with and it's a good idea to try and listen to a few different systems in action - most high street and electrical retailers have systems all set up for you to try out.

If you're thinking of a dedicated room for your home cinema experience, then converting your loft or a garage into a cinema is an ideal choice. You can get an instant online loft conversion quote from Loft Quoter before being able to compare loft conversion companies operating in your area through our unique homeowner feedback comments and star ratings.

There's an identical service for garage conversions - visit Garage Conversion Quoter for your free online conversion quote.

photo credit: the odd note

Home Improvements that don't need planning permission (usually)

If you've been thinking about a new porch or a conservatory, or perhaps converting your loft or building an extension, the chances are the thought of having to get planning permission first has put you right off the idea.

What you may not have realised is that many home improvement and building projects don't require planning permission, provided a few simple rules are followed. If in doubt, your local planning office will be able to advise or ask your chosen installer / contractor - they should know what's allowed and what isn't.

The Government has relaxed the planning rules on what is 'permitted development', in an effort to remove much of the red tape surrounding home improvements. You'll still need to comply with building regulations though.

For example, you've probably noticed one or two new porches appearing in your neighbourhood. The good news is that for any porch that's under 3 square meters in floor size, planning isn't required. The rule used to be that it couldn't project more than a metre from the front of the house - that may have changed but always check with your preferred installer.

Converting your loft into a usable everyday family room also doesn't require planning permission. This includes fitting Velux windows, although check with your conversion company as these may have to face away from the street facing side of your home.

If you need a little more room and have been thinking about an extension, then you'll be pleasantly surprised to know that a single storey extension doesn't require planning permission if you're extending up to 15% (70 cubic metres) or less of your home's original floor space. This doesn't include previous extensions. You can't build higher than 4 metres (for a pitched roof) or 3 metres (for a flat roof) and the extension shouldn't 'move' your home closer to a road.

You can also build on top of an existing garage as long as it doesn't go any higher than your existing roof, and obeys the same boundary restrictions.

Dreaming of new windows and doors? They don't need planning permission either, including turning existing windows into bay or bow windows. If you're after a conservatory, then the rules are usually the same for a single storey extension, particularly regarding nearness to surrounding boundaries. Again, your installer will be able to advise you further.

So, there's lots of improvements you can get straight on with, although it should be noted that if you live in a listed building or a conservation area etc, then there may well be a few 'hoops to jump through' in order to get permission to carry out any of the improvements we've mentioned above as well as a few we haven't. And because there's no guarantee that permission will be forthcoming, you should never engage a contractor or start work before obtaining permission.

You've heard the story of the Farmer who applied for permission to build a home on the site of a static caravan and who was refused permission? He surrounded the caravan with bales of straw and secretly demolished the caravan and built the house in its place. Much later, he removed the bales of straw.

It was only when he was overheard bragging about his achievement by a local planning officer that he was 'found out' and ordered to knock down the bungalow.

photo credit: gareth davies

Getting a loft conversion rather than moving house.

More of us than ever before are staying put in our homes and extending them, rather than moving house. Over the last few years, applications for planning permission have more than doubled, with homeowners now making up around 53 per cent of the planning authority’s total workload.

There is no doubt that adding extra space to your home automatically adds value, and back in 2008, loft conversions came out top in a research report by Nationwide, adding a massive 21 per cent on to the value of your property! New techniques in loft conversions also mean that previously inaccessible roof spaces, such as trussed roofs, can now be converted – so there is no excuse!

Here's how a typical loft conversion would proceed:

One – What type of roof do you have? The first thing to do when thinking about converting the loft is to have a good look at it – the type of roof you have will determine what can be done with the space. Single roofs – with a triangle of rafters and joists at the bottom are the easiest to convert, but sadly are the least common type! Purlin or double roofs are most common and next easiest to convert – these have timbers running horizontally to support the rafters and V-shaped struts at intervals across the roof. Trussed or ‘W’ roofs were previously impossible to convert, as they were too complex to create a workable space. However, new load-bearing techniques mean that even trussed roofs can now be converted! All roof types must have a minimum height of 2.3 metres to be suitable for conversion.

Two – Planning permission. Do you need to comply with planning permission or any building regulations? This should all be covered before you go ahead with the conversion. Your chosen loft conversion company will probably be able to help with submitting plans and getting permission as part of their completing the conversion for you. They'll know exactly what's required by way of plans and drawings, specifications and building materials to comply with the latest guidelines.

With a loft conversion, you won’t usually need planning permission. Under new laws, homeowners can convert garages and lofts, build extensions and install solar panels and wind turbines without permission, as long as they don’t impact on the neighbours. However any large extensions – over 15 per cent of the overall property size – will still need permission, as will listed buildings and houses in conservation areas. Most objections will relate to concerns over loss of privacy, loss of daylight or noise disturbance. If in doubt, check with your local planning authority before proceeding.

Building regulations apply to all renovations and all work carried out will need to be inspected by the Building Control Surveyor on a regular basis. They will provide you with all the necessary certificates which must go into your HIPs pack when you sell. Building regulations apply to things like structural stability, fire escapes, resistance to fire and damp, ventilation, stairways and insulation.

Three – Time to call the professionals. A professional loft conversion company is a must – they will plan out your whole design for you, and will know what will work best in the space you have. Specialists will also take care of all the paperwork for you when it comes to dealing with planners and building inspectors, and will sign it all off for you to include in your HIPs pack. It is important to shop around for loft specialists – always try to get at least three quotes to compare costs and ideas and try to see examples of their previous work. A loft conversion is a massive undertaking, so make sure you agree everything with your builder – timescales, cleanup processes (you don’t want to live in mess for the duration!) and also check they're insured.

Four – Your loft conversion begins to take shape. Once you have satisfied the planners and regulators, it’s time for the professionals to get going! Depending on the type of loft conversion you have, it could take anything from four to eight weeks to complete.

For the first half of the build, contractors are going to need to access the loft from the outside of the roof, and may need to erect scaffolding – it’s important to tell your neighbours when this is going to happen and for how long – you don’t want to be falling out! The existing joists in your roof will usually not be strong enough to support a habitable room – one that can hold people and furniture – so they will have to be replaced with steel joists. Anything else structural such as roof windows or partition walls will need to be added in the first round of building, so you need to think about these early on. Once the initial structure is in place, builders will turn to installing staircases, electrics and plumbing.

Loft conversions in trussed roofs will be using techniques specifically designed for converting previously inaccessible spaces. These work on a ‘Load-Sharing’ system, where two new steel beams help the individual roof truss carry its original load plus the additional floor load as a result of the conversion. The beams will be cut to the span of the building and stretch from outside wall to outside wall with no internal support. These new systems usually only require three rows of roof tiles to be removed in order to insert the beams – which means minimum disruption!

Five – The finishing touches. Get out those paint brushes - your new room should feel like part of your existing house, so that when it comes to selling, you can then sell as a three-storey property, adding extra value! If you don’t have a lot of room on your landing, you could always look at spiral staircases or alternate-tread stairs in the design, which save space. A loft ladder doesn't count as proper access and would mean you couldn't sell your home with the loft room featured as an actual bedroom.

There are lots of high tech gadgets around which can make your new loft extra special – you could install remote-controlled windows high up in the rafters, or even roof domes which create light and headroom. Roof windows will need special blinds as they are fitted at an angle, and it is important to remember that there is nothing to block the sunlight up there – so screen your windows well if you don’t want your furniture to fade. When furnishing you loft, there are lots of specialist companies who will make low-rise furniture to fit the space. This will make the room appear taller and less cluttered. Also remember there isn’t as much headroom in a loft. Bare this in mind when positioning beds and chairs – you don’t want to keep banging your head!

Loftquoter.co.uk can help you find quotes for all types of loft conversions, in all types of roofs, both conventional and trussed loft spaces and let you see real homeowner feedback on the loft conversion companies around your area.

Loft Conversions on the increase as homeowners see their home as a home rather than just an investment

With an estimated 15% of home owners facing negative equity following the recent recession period, it's not surprising that so many are re-evaluating their present homes.

What was once a secure investment (and for many, a home was seen as just that) is now seen as somewhere desirable that you want to spend many happy years in.

This shift in peoples attitudes has led to a boom in property extensions including loft and garage conversions as homeowners start styling their homes to suit their particular requirements, rather than just seeing an improvement as increasing their investments re-sale value.

And just because there's a drop in property equity, doesn't mean people don't need more space.

With property values such that moving to get the space you want might mean a considerable drop in the sale price, leaving little or nothing as the deposit on that new home, it's no wonder that for those homeowners simply wanting more space, a loft conversion is proving particularly popular.

Loft conversions have benefited in the last couple of year from changes in the planning laws which mean that many conversions come under Permitted Development laws. Add to this the fact that a typical loft conversion creates little mess or disruption to the homeowner until the stairway is built to access the new room/s.

Loft conversions are cheaper than extending outwards and if you value your outdoor space, then you won't loose any garden with a loft conversion. All in all, a loft conversion is a very cost effective way of adding more room to your home, using space that is already there.

Not every loft is immediately suitable for a conversions, however, there are ways around this. Particularly if height is the problem. For example, the shape of the roof can be changed to incorporate a box dormer.

If your home has more modern trussed rafters (those W shaped roof beams visible in the attic), then again, this doesn't rule out a loft conversion but will make it more expensive as the construction is different to allow for the removal of the old trusses without compromising the strength of the roof itself. Your loft conversion company will be able to advise you further on what's required.

Finally, it's all too easy to simply view the conversion as just another room, but consider really going to town and making it a space as unique as your home is. Look through any homes magazine and you'll see stunning attics and lofts transformed with multiple skylights and en-suite fittings etc.

There will never be a better time to get your loft conversions exactly how you want it than when you're actually sitting down with your planner, laying out the space.

Always a good starting point - make sure you get a range of quotes from reputable companies. LoftQuoter can help by giving you a free online quote based on your own approximate measurements and requirements. After you've got your online quote, we can offer you the opportunity to have that quote confirmed in writing from our UK wide database of approved loft conversion companies.

LoftQuoter can offer you instant online quotes based on your own approximate measurements and style of home without the need for a salesman to call round.

Transformers: Garages In Disguise

In the vast majority of houses, getting more space doesn’t require getting the builders in – the space is already there, being wasted. Here’s three ways you can turn the unused space you already have into valuable living space, so you can get the most out of the house you live in.

Garages

The possible uses for a converted garage are only limited by your imagination. Whether you need a Granny annex, an office, a playroom, music room or even a home cinema, a garage conversion is an ideal solution.

The reason for this is that garages are generally just the right size and shape for a multipurpose room – a little larger than an average living room.

Check the latest planning authority guidelines and discuss your particular plans with your conversion company. If the garage is an external one, then usually more work is involved in insulating the walls etc but a good garage conversion can make your property highly desirable when you sell it later on.

Click Here for a free instant onling Garage Conversion Quote

Lofts

Whilst you might have to pinch a bit of space from an existing room or staircase for the new access staircase, there’s no doubt that loft conversions, done properly, not only give you an amazing amount of usable room space, but they also increase the value of your property.

The other really great thing about a loft conversion is you can use the conversion for any purpose – don’t be limited by our most regular requested uses: Bedroom (with or without en-suite), Bathroom, Study or Office, Playroom, Home cinema, Craft room, Teenagers ‘den’.

And the position means you can really let natural light flood in when you want it. Got a roof with a view? Why not open the view up with a comfy observation style lounge?

Finally, don’t be put off a loft conversion if your roof is of a newer trussed construction (where the supporting roof rafters are a prefabricated W shape) – these lofts are equally ripe for conversion, it just takes a little more specialist construction know-how and there are specialist loft companies that only deal in these types of lofts.

For a free and instant Loft Conversion Estimate head to LoftQuoter.co.uk

Basements: Down, Not Out.

Dark and damp basements and cellars can be turned into warm cosy nooks, perfect home cinema’s and gyms or a stylish study or office out of the way of the rest of the house.

It’s worth calling in the experts to discuss the water-proofing of your cellar first and to handle all the structural work etc needed to comply with planning requirements.

In fact, there are even companies that will dig out a new basement for you (where none previously existed). These are becoming hugely popular in London and other inner city areas where planning restrictions mean homeowners can’t extend outwards or upwards, but they can build downwards instead.

Boost Your Energy Efficiency Rating

Since July 2008, to put a house on the market you’ve had to arrange for a Home Information Pack (HIP), containing assorted details about the house, it’s construction, boundary details and planning permission. From April of this year, the HIP must be ready and available by the first day your property goes on the market.

Contained in the HIP is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which potential buyers can use to assess your home’s energy efficiency. Today, we’re giving you some excellent tips on how to give your EPC an adrenalin shot and boost your home’s energy efficiency, and so boost its value.

Even if you aren’t selling your home, improving your home’s energy efficiency makes sense: by combining these tips you could reduce your energy bill by over £300 a year!

Fit or Replace Your Double Glazing.

The Government have downgraded the energy rating of all Pre-2002 double glazing to ‘Average’, whilst the newer units can attain a ‘Good’ or even ‘Excellent’ rating. If your double glazing is starting to get past its best you can increase your home’s overall rating by replacing it with modern energy-efficient units. Making sure your double glazing is up to scratch will also help reduce draughts and noise, making your home a quieter, more peaceful place.

It’s also worth thinking about your window frames, since various window frame makes each carry an energy efficiency rating, and there are a multitude of fittings and finishes available.

The BFRC produce a rating system for windows of A-G, so when shopping for energy-efficient windows, make sure the your provider sells windows with an ‘A’ energy rating, and ask about Low Emission (‘Low-E’) coated panes. Also, look out for the logo of the Energy Saving Trust, who give approval to highly energy-efficient windows

You can find quotes for all kinds of windows and locate window companies using WindowQuoter.co.uk.

Insulate Your Loft and Wall Cavities.

If your walls and loft don’t have appropriate insulation you’ll be losing heat, losing energy, and getting a lower energy performance rating than you should be. Loft and cavity insulation is surprisingly affordable and will save you enough on your fuel bill to make back your costs within 2 years. Thanks to your increased EPC rating you’ll also add value to your home when you sell – probably more than it costs to have the insulation fitted.

A very good time to consider getting your insulation check is when your roof needs repair or replacement, and if yours does, head over to RoofQuoter.co.uk for an instant online quote for roofing work.

Upgrade Your Central Heating System

EPC certificates also look at your boiler and heating control system. If you’ve got an out-of-date combi-boiler you might want to consider replacing that with a more modern and efficient model, but you can also score points for having thermostatic control valves on your radiators, which adjust the temperature of each individual room based on your preferences and allow you greater control over your heating.

Change Your Light Bulbs

Not every energy saving measure needs great expense. Probably the greatest saving you can make on your electricity bill is also the simplest: swap your 100W traditional light bulbs for energy saving alternative bulbs. If your living room has 6 lights which you have filled with 100W bulbs, replacing them all with 20W energy saving bulbs will save you 480W, every hour, without losing any brightness. Even across the life of a standard bulb that’s a huge saving, and coupled with the fact that energy saving bulbs last much longer, it’s an easy decision to make.

Lofty Ambitions: The Perfect Bond Baddy Laboratory

Most people don’t take advantage of their loft space. Either it’s left bare, for the spiders and the moths to look after, or it’s used as storage for all the things that are just waiting to be taken to the Antiques Roadshow – or to the tip.

Your loft could be so much more, though. With a little effort, and the help of LoftQuoter.co.uk, it could in fact become your very own secret Bond Baddy Laboratory. To make this happen, first of all we should examine what all those hideouts have in common.

• Secrecy. A good lab is private, so that the evil master contained within can hatch plans for world domination without pesky and irritating disturbances – particularly from that 007 chap. While laser tripwires and alarm systems are probably overkill for the average household, a concealed entrance (or at least a staircase disguised as an airing cupboard) and a bit of soundproofing (a.k.a. carpet) will go a long way towards keeping out vigilantes and Secret Service Operatives.


• Evil Furniture. What good is having a secret laboratory if you can’t casually spin your chair around and say ‘Good Evening, Mr. Bond’ when your arch-nemesis comes storming in? A large desk and a comfortable swivelling chair are musts, and how about dedicating one wall to a projection screen that can double up as a home cinema – providing an excellent cover story when the authorities come knocking.


• Escape Route. Having given away all your schemes to a hero in captivity, when the master plan is foiled, a self-respecting villain needs to be able to make a quick and effective escape without being caught by the authorities. Ideally this would take the form of a lift down to an underground garage with a getaway Aston Martin standing at the ready – but since the lift might be busy, and building regulations require an adequate fire escape route from a converted loft anyway, you might as well take the stairs.


• Gadgets. Lasers! Lights! Buttons! TV Screens! All good secret lairs have them, and failing that, a train set or Scalectrix track wouldn’t go down badly…


• Shark Tank. Actually, best not.

As you can see, planning your secret hideaway need not be torturous. You don’t have to have a Goldfinger, and there’s no reason to resort to an island resort. A loft (and a fertile imagination) is all that’s required for utter world domination.

Whether your loft conversion comes From Mother With Love or On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, it can still get you a Quantum of Solitude and A View To The Garden. Get an instant online quote, For Your Eyes Only, from LoftQuoter.co.uk – it takes less than 007 minutes, and could save you a Money Penny. After all, You Only Live Twice

Did you Know? - planning permission for loft conversions

Did You Know?

At the moment you don’t need planning permission for a loft conversion, provided it does not exceed 15 per cent of your property’s original living space. Every house is currently entitled to a certain amount of “permitted development”. The only exceptions so far are listed buildings and houses in conservation areas, so if you are unsure, it’s still best to check with the local planning office.

Every conversion does currently need Building Regulations approval, which you can get from your local building control department before you begin the conversion.

However a recent Government White Paper unveiled by Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, outlines changes in the system which could mean that all loft conversions will now need authorised planning permission. So if you are thinking about converting your loft in the near future, it’s probably best to contact your local planning department before you begin, to check that you comply with the new regulations.

You can get an instant online quote for a loft conversion at Loft Quoter - click here to get your online loft conversion quote now.

How to create the perfect home office

Feature - How to create the perfect home office

May 15th saw this year’s first National Work from Home Day. Now nearly 3.5 million people work from home in the UK. But still twenty-five million people in the UK currently commute to and from a fixed place of work, according to the RAC Foundation, of which 18 million people go by car – the rest by other means. If we jump ahead 17 years, reports suggest that by 2025, congestion will waste around £22 billion worth of time in England alone.

Working from home saves time, energy and money, not to mention reducing carbon emissions and pollution – the travel cost savings made in just six months could mount up to the price of a family holiday abroad! So working from home is, in theory, a great idea. It's probably the place where you feel most relaxed – no dress code and you can even wear your slippers under the desk! Yet whether you’ll get as much work done is another question – what you have to take into consideration is the fact that your home will probably include noisy children, doorbell interruptions and the distractions of home comforts.

Remember - if you need somewhere to put your new office, then we can help with garageconversionquoter.co.uk and loftquoter.co.uk - instant online quotes.

If you are thinking about working from home, you need to look at your environment . Here are five top tips to create your own home office:

1) Adapt or extend?
Whether you’re starting up a new business, can’t afford to keep up the running costs of your current commercial premises or simply don’t want to do the long commute to work anymore, then working from home can save you a significant amount of money and ease the burden of debt. Significant savings are going to be made by paying to rent/own, maintain and heat just one building instead of two and with the ever-increasing price of petrol, now’s the time to make the move to a home office.

You have to make the decision as to whether to adapt an existing space, such as a spare room, or add extra space to your house with an extension based on your needs, property and available funds. Before you start planning your new office, take into consideration what features will provide you with the most beneficial working space.

For example, if you’re simply after a quiet secluded workplace then consider using a spare room or convert your basement/loft as these will provide plenty of space without the cost and inconvenience of an extension that could drag on for months.

However, if clients/customers will be visiting the premises on a regular basis then taking them through your house to the basement will not create the best first impression! Consider extending the ground floor of your house, but include a completely separate entrance that will take them straight into your office.

If you need somewhere to put your new office, then we can help with garageconversionquoter.co.uk and loftquoter.co.uk - instant online quotes.

2) Don’t ignore the paperwork
Recently, TSB Insurance warned the growing number of home-workers that they need to ensure they have the correct home insurance in place.

Remember to adapt your existing insurance to protect yourself from accidents in and around the home while in work time, including potential damage to your equipment or loss of data, otherwise a relatively small accident could put your business under threat.

3) How to get the most from the space available
Moving into your own home office is an effective way of saving money and boosting your business’ profits, so don’t be tempted to splash the savings on expensive furniture and designer paintings.

However be sure not to scrimp on the important features of an office. For example, make sure you have enough electrical outlets, suitable lighting and ample storage or filing. Getting the small things right from the start can make your days at work stress-free rather than full of hassle.

To maximise a good-sized office, consider setting your desks up in a U-shape so that you are able to reach all three surfaces without having to walk across the room. If you have a smaller office, buy a little table just big enough for your computer system and then place two more tables either side at an angle, so that it resembles a V-shape. This again enables you to reach all three surfaces without taking up the entire floor space.

Creating a barrier between your office and your home life is the key to a successful move. Don’t be tempted to install a TV or fridge in the same room as it may create the temptation that could inevitably reduce productivity levels – and increase your waist size!

Remember not to live in your office. Make it feel homely by adding colourful plants and photos of your family but don’t be tempted to work overtime just because it is down the hallway.

4) Kitting out a Home Office
Keeping your business facilities separate from your home and family is a very good idea. Young children who use the same computer as you during the evening could easily put it out of action simply by spilling a drink over the key board.

So ensure you install a ‘work-only’ computer, including business only phone line and broadband, into your office. Not only will this reduce the likelihood of damage, it will also make it possible for you to claim back the running costs as a business expense for tax purposes.

Working from home doesn’t guarantee a peaceful retreat away from noisy co-workers or machinery, especially if you also work at the weekends. However, you can take effective steps to reduce the amount of noise that makes its way through to the office.

Sound proofing the room is going to be the most effective way to reduce noise however it will also be one of the most expensive. Experts suggest that to reduce noise at least 25 per cent of a room should have a soft surface, including carpeting and upholstered furniture, as these will absorb noise. Door and window frames can also be sealed to reduce rattling and outside noise when closed.

If you’re going to spend money on anything make sure it’s spent on a quality desk chair and suitable lighting, as they can make a long day in the office a lot more comfortable. Be sure to buy a chair that enables you to sit at eye-level with the computer and fully supports your posture.

5) Must have products
Large rubbish bins – you’ll be surprised how much paper and packaging you get through in just one week and overflowing rubbish is neither tidy nor professional. Most residential properties only have one collection each week, which alternates between recyclables and non-recyclables, so it makes sense to separate your office waste.

A magnetic board/pinboard – if you lose a number on a little scrap of paper there’ll be no colleagues there to back you up!
A landing spot for incoming mail – without a dedicated receptionist or PA important documents, and even cheques, could easily get swept up with everything else.

Creating a home office doesn’t have to be time consuming or expensive and the savings made can make a huge difference to your overall quality of life. Flexible working hours are an option for parents with children under the age of six so consider speaking to your boss about spending more time working from home.

If you’re going to take the plunge and build an office extension then consider designing it in such a way that it can be utilised as a bedroom or dining room in order to add considerable value to the property if/when you come to sell.

Remember - if you need somewhere to put your new office, then we can help with garageconversionquoter.co.uk and loftquoter.co.uk - instant online quotes.

*Taken from our last monthly newsletter to over 250,000 home owners. To receive our free newsletter, click here. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Building a Wet Room

Timeline - Building a Wet Room.
If you are thinking of modifying your second bathroom or en-suite and are looking for something to give a real wow-factor, then a wet room could be the answer. They can instantly transform a small space, where a conventional bathroom suite would be impossible, into a stylish and functional shower room. Increasingly, owners of larger houses are also turning their spare rooms into wet rooms, creating huge spa-style sanctuaries with luxury massage jets and steam room capabilities.

Remember - you can get an instant online bathroom quote at bathroomquoter.co.uk. If you need somewhere to put your new bathroom, then we can help with garageconversionquoter.co.uk and loftquoter.co.uk - instant online quotes.

While its not yet worth replacing your main family bathroom with a wet room – doing so could significantly decrease the value of your home – estate agents are reporting that houses with an additional wet room or wet room en-suite, are selling at a premium of up to £10,000. So go on – treat yourself! Here are the five essential stages to making your wet room a success:

Stage One – Preparing the floor
The most crucial aspect of building a new wet room is drainage. It is essential that the room can drain properly and is completely watertight. Always hire a professional for this stage of the process and never skimp on costs – if the room and floor are not completely waterproof, it could cause extensive damage which will prove costly in the future.

The floor of your new wet room must slope slightly to channel the water down into a drainage system, which will be positioned underneath the original floor. If your house has traditional wooden floorboards – as many houses do – the drainage system is actually quite simple. The contractor will cut a hole into the joists and sink a shower-tray into the floor. The new floor of the room will then be raised fractionally to sit flush with the top of the tray and the door threshold will typically be raised by around 5mm in case the room ever fills with water – if a towel blocks the drainage grate for example!

Once the new floor is in place, it is covered with a waterproof gel to create a watertight membrane which seals the floor before the tiles are laid over the top. The tiles must be laid using totally waterproof adhesive and grout. This stage of completely waterproofing the room is called ‘tanking’ and is the most important stage of the whole project.

While the floor is up, you may also want to consider installing underfloor heating, as the wet room will need to be tiled all over, meaning that when the tiles are cold in the morning, it will really penetrate the whole room!

Stage Two – Choose a shower
Surely the main feature of any wet room has to be the shower? The room will lose all of its magic if the shower you choose is more of a trickle than a jet. A power shower is the only option in a wet room and most people opt for one with a large shower head – after all, a luxurious shower is the reason most people build wet rooms at all! Rainfall showers are the most luxurious on the market and can be big enough to shower two people at once. Alternatively, you could go for multi-jet body sprays, which have jets all the ways down the wall to produce a massaging effect – the ultimate in luxury showering! What better way to unwind after a hard day at work?

However before you choose a powerful shower, make sure you have enough water pressure and that your boiler will be able to provide enough hot water. If not, you may have to install a new pressure pump and boiler system.

Stage Three – Fixtures and fittings
After the all-important shower, you should consider which other fixtures you are going to need in your wet room. It is worth remembering that, because of the nature of a wet room, it is probably not wise to have too many fixtures touching the floor. Obviously the floor will be wet for the majority of the time – although underfloor heating will dry it faster – and any fixtures fastened to the floor could become mildewed or collect mould around the joins. Most bathroom companies will offer fixtures specifically designed for wet rooms which are fully wall-mounted – but you must make sure that the wall is strong enough to support the weight of basin and toilet facilities.

When it comes to taps and shower fittings, chrome is the most contemporary material to use. It gives the most modern feel and most power- and multi-jet showers will already be manufactured in chrome as standard. An excellent addition to any wet room is a chrome heated towel rail – the whole room will be wet or affected by condensation as you shower and a heated rail will keep your towels warm and dry for when you have finished! It will also dry the towels quickly once you’ve left and help to dry out the whole room throughout the day.

Stage Four – Tiling
Once the room is fully prepared, the next stage is to tile it. Wet rooms need more tiles than your average bathroom, as the entire floor, walls and usually the ceiling are all tiled. The most stylish way to decorate your wet room is to use the same tile over all the surfaces, giving the room a spa feel.

Any tiles you pick for a wet room should really be non-porous. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are best and require the least maintenance once the room is complete. If you want to have the sleekest look, you could consider using sheet Corian which comes specifically cut to fit the walls and floor – which means no join or grout lines. Corian is ideal for wet rooms as it is extremely strong and completely watertight. It is available in over 100 colours and can be blended to include two or three colours inset into one wall. Corian is a more expensive option than tiles though and starts at around £300 per linear metre.

If you really want the look of marble or limestone in your wet room, it is possible to use these materials. However remember that they are porous and will need to be treated and resealed every two to three months to prevent water seeping through. Resealing these tiles could cost anything up to £80 a time.

Finally, all tiles which you use in your wet room will need to be non-slip – falling over onto an entirely tiled surface will be painful! Consider your tiles carefully, as they make up the entire decoration and account for most of the safety aspects of your wet room. They are also extremely costly to replace just because you change your mind!

Stage Five – The finishing touches
When accessorising your wet room, it is essential to make sure that all of the items you choose are suitable for a permanently wet area. Choose storage items and accessories for steam rooms, as these will already be pre-treated to protect them from water and condensation. There are many shelving units, towel stacks and chairs designed for steam rooms which would be perfect in a wet room.

If you are using paints on any part of the ceiling, or want to put up pictures or mosaics, check that the materials used are waterproof and suitable for use in areas with high condensation. Once your room is fully decorated and accessorised, you are ready to walk in, relax and enjoy your new wet room!

Remember - you can get an instant online bathroom quote at bathroomquoter.co.uk. If you need somewhere to put your new bathroom, then we can help with garageconversionquoter.co.uk and loftquoter.co.uk - instant online quotes.

*Taken from our last monthly newsletter to over 250,000 home owners. To receive our free newsletter, click here. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Recent poll results revealed + New poll goes live

Our most recent poll asked "What will be your number one home improvement this year?"

50% were concerned with creating more space - perhaps through an extension or loft conversion/garage conversion.

25% were considering remodeling and the remaining 25% were thinking of new fixtures and fittings.

Our new poll asks "Awnings or Conservatory blinds - which could you use most this Summer?"

Take a second to select our answer - we don't ask for any email address or contact details to take part but you could help other home owners decide which is the most useful option.

Use your loft for more than storing the Xmas Tree

Lofts provide a fantastic light and airy living space plus, in some cases, wonderful views of the local village or countryside. But too many home owners across the UK have forgotten about their lofts and are using them simply to store dusty boxes and unwanted items.

Remember our new quoter website LoftQuoter gives you instant online quotes for a loft conversion without the need for a salesman to call. Try LoftQuoter today.

Loft conversions not only add space inside a house but can also add an attractive dimension to the outside. Dormer windows with a pitched roof can blend in with any colour and style of house but adds that extra bit of character – removing the need for low, sloping ceiling that can put some people off loft conversions.

Loft conversions make fantastic bedrooms as they offer generous space, high ceilings and make great sun-catchers. En-suites or dressing rooms can easily be included, making the room very private – ideal for Mum and Dad or as a guest room.

Lofts provide very sleek and airy spaces, so consider including ‘Velux’ windows and spot lights to keep out unnecessary clutter. Staircases are also custom built to use up as little space as possible.

If you’ve always wanted fitted wardrobes now is the perfect opportunity. Furniture can be custom built to fit under any shaped ceiling and is specifically designed to make the most of available space. And, if you’re still not convinced just think of that view over trees and neighbouring houses.

Remember our new quoter website LoftQuoter can help you find local quotes and loft conversion companies and give you an instant online quote without the need for a salesman to call.

Timeline - Getting a Loft Conversion

Timeline: Getting a loft conversion

It would seem that more of us than ever before are staying put in our homes and extending them, rather than moving house. Over the last few years, applications for planning permission have more than doubled, with homeowners now making up around 53 per cent of the planning authority’s total workload. There is no doubt that adding extra space to your home automatically adds value, and loft conversions have recently come out top in a research report by Nationwide, adding a massive 21 per cent on to the value of your property!

New techniques in loft conversions also mean that previously inaccessible roof spaces, such as trussed roofs, can now be converted – so there is no excuse! Here are five essential stages to the loft conversion process.

For an instant online quote for Loft Convertions in both traditional and trussed loft spaces, visit LoftQuoter now.

Stage One – What type of roof do you have?
The first thing to do when thinking about converting the loft is to have a good look at it – the type of roof you have will determine what can be done with the space. Single roofs – with a triangle of rafters and joists at the bottom are the easiest to convert, but sadly are the least common type! Purlin or double roofs are most common and next easiest to convert – these have timbers running horizontally to support the rafters and V-shaped struts at intervals across the roof. Trussed or ‘W’ roofs were previously impossible to convert, as they were too complex to create a movable space. However, new techniques means that even trussed roofs can now be converted! All roof types must have a minimum height of 2.3 metres to be suitable for conversion.

Stage Two – Do you need planning permission?
The first stage of any home improvement project should always be to check its viability – is what you want to do possible? Do you need to comply with planning permission or building regulations? This should all be covered before you go ahead with renovations.

With a loft conversion, you don’t usually need planning permission. Under new laws, homeowners can convert garages and lofts, build extensions and install solar panels and wind turbines without permission, as long as they don’t impact on the neighbours. However any large extensions – over 15 per cent of the overall property size – will still need permission, as will listed buildings and houses in conservation areas. Neighbours have 21 days to object to all changes which will directly affect them – those which will cause loss of privacy, loss of daylight or noise disturbance.

Building regulations apply to all renovations and all work carried out will need to be inspected by the Building Control Surveyor on a regular basis. He will provide you with all the necessary certificates which must go into your HIPs pack when you sell. Building regulations apply to things like structural stability, fire escapes, resistance to fire and damp, ventilation, stairways and insulation.

Stage Three – Call the professionals
A professional loft conversion company is a must – they will plan out your whole design for you, and will know what will work best in the space you have. Specialists will also take care of all the paperwork for you when it comes to dealing with planners and building inspectors, and will sign it all off for you to include in your HIPs pack. It is important to shop around for loft specialists – always try to get at least three quotes to compare and try to see examples of their previous work. A loft conversion is a massive undertaking, so make sure you agree everything with your builder – timescales, cleanup processes (you don’t want to live in mess for the duration!) and also check their insurance policies. The Federation of Master Builders can help you to verify that the company you have chosen is reputable.

Stage Four – How it all works
Once you have satisfied the planners and regulators, it’s time for the professionals to get going! Depending on the type of loft conversion you have, it could take anything from four to eight weeks to complete.

For the first half of the build, contractors are going to need to access the loft from the outside of the roof, and may need to erect scaffolding – it’s important to tell your neighbours when this is going to happen and for how long – you don’t want to be falling out! The existing joists in your roof will usually not be strong enough to support a habitable room – one that can hold people and furniture – so they will have to be replaced with steel joists. Anything else structural such as roof windows or partition walls will need to be added in the first round of building, so you need to think about these early on. Once the initial structure is in place, builders will turn to installing staircases, electrics and plumbing.

Loft conversions in trussed roofs will be using new techniques specifically designed for converting previously inaccessible spaces. These work on a ‘Load-Sharing’ system, where two new beams help the roof truss carry its original load plus the additional floor load as a result of the conversion. The beams will adjust to the span of the building and stretch from outside wall to outside wall with no internal support. These new systems usually only require three rows of roof tiles to be removed in order to insert the beams – which means minimum disruption!

Stage Five – The finishing touches
Once the basic structural systems are in place, it’s time to start plastering, finishing and decorating! Your new room should feel like part of your existing house, so you should always consider installing a proper staircase rather than a flip-down ladder – when it comes to selling, you can then sell as a three-storey property, adding extra value! If you don’t have a lot of room on your landing, you could always look at spiral staircases or alternate-tread stairs, which save space.

There are lots of high tech gadgets around which can make your new loft extra special – you could install remote-controlled windows high up in the rafters, or even roof domes which create light and headroom. Roof windows will need special blinds as they are fitted at an angle, and it is important to remember that there is nothing to block the sunlight up there – so screen your windows well if you don’t want your furniture to fade.

When furnishing you loft, there are lots of specialist companies who will make low-rise furniture to fit the space. This will make the room appear taller and less cluttered. Also remember there isn’t as much headroom in a loft. Bear this in mind when positioning beds and chairs – you don’t want to keep banging your head!

Once your room is decorated and furnished, all that’s left is for you to enjoy your new space and reap the benefits of having a larger home!

Price Engines’ new quoter website www.loftquoter.co.uk can help you find quotes for all types of loft conversions, in all types of roofs, both conventional and trussed loft spaces.