Home renovations can be costly but well worth the final result. There is often a temptation to do renovations or improvements at home yourself to save money. While some work can be done effectively by a novice, the vast majority of home improvements should never be attempted by anyone other than a qualified professional. Aside from aesthetic considerations – professionals will be able to do the work to a high quality and stylishly – you will need a professional to ensure work at home is done safely and adheres to building regulations and safety requirements.
It is always a good idea to have a few vital professionals in your contacts list so that you have someone to call on in case of an emergency. Most homeowners have professionals like plumbers, electricians, and gas engineers to call upon in an emergency, but it is worth expanding your list to other areas that could require emergency work from time to time. Planning home renovations can help give you an idea of the type of professionals that could be invaluable for keeping in your contacts list.
Plumbing Work
If you want to add an extra bathroom to your home, expand your kitchen, or have additional radiators installed, you’ll need a professional plumber to do this work for you. Getting the plumbing right is crucial for the long-term structural integrity of your home – low-quality work can lead to leaks or even flooding, which can be catastrophic to deal with. You should research local plumbers who will be familiar with the specific needs of your home and will be able to do the work to the highest possible quality.
Roofing
Your room performs a crucial role in your property, protecting your home from the elements and helping keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer. Because roofing work requires working at height, it is always best to hire a professional for roof repairs or replacements. You might want to replace your roof if it is showing wear and tear that could get worse over time, or if there is damage, you must replace it as soon as possible to keep your home secure, warm, and dry.
Insulation Installation
Insulation is crucial to make your home more energy efficient; it can help keep a property warm during the cooler seasons and cool in summer heat waves. You might not be aware that your insulation requires replacement, but the difference you’ll feel once it has been upgraded will be significant. Insulation technologies are changing day after day, meaning there’s no better time to upgrade your insulation. You can determine whether you need an insulation upgrade by looking at your home on a frosty or snowy morning – if the ice, frost, or snow has melted from your roof faster than your neighbors, it is a sign that your insulation needs improvement. Always hire a professional who can access the wall cavities, ceiling spaces, and under-flooring to install high-quality insulation.
Air Conditioning Installation
Most UK homes don’t have air conditioning units as a standard installation like in other areas of the world. This is because, in the past, the UK hasn’t experienced the same level of heat in the summers as places like the US, Spain, and Japan. However, with the increase in global temperatures, the UK is increasingly experiencing scorching heat waves in the summer months. With properties built to retain heat, this has caused significant issues, particularly for vulnerable people. Installing air conditioning in your home can be an excellent way to ensure that you aren’t badly affected by the heat in the summer, with units ranging in cost from a few hundred pounds to the thousands. You should always get air conditioning installed by a professional to ensure it is energy efficient and able to cool your home effectively.
Landscaping
Most people can manage a little simple gardening, but when it comes to larger projects or outdoor building work, you must use a professional landscaper. Landscapers will be needed for projects such as:
- Patio or decking installation
- Driveway paving or tarmacking
- Putting in fencing and erecting sheds
Landscapers can also do work on the garden itself, including:
- Mowing grass
- Leveling ground
- Weeding
- Planting
- Laying turf
- Tending plants and flowers
It is best to hire a professional and experienced landscaper for your outdoor work, as they will have the knowledge and experience to completely transform your home’s exterior. You can find some excellent recommendations for landscaper gardeners using MyBuilder’s fantastic search tool.
Mould Removal
Mould is every homeowner’s nightmare – it can cause issues with air quality, damage to fixtures and fittings, and be a real challenge to eliminate entirely. You should look for an expert mould removal business that will be able to dry out the affected areas and clean away every trace of mould. They will also be able to identify the source of the mould and ensure that any appropriate repairs (such as in the case of a leak) are done.
Window Replacement
If you need new windows fitted, a professional installation is an absolute must. A professional will be able to install windows properly, ensuring there are no gaps or damage caused to the windows and surrounds. Replacing your windows can be an excellent way to freshen up the look of the property, both on the interior and exterior. You could consider something stylish and timeless, like bay or sash windows that look incredible.
Plastering
Plastering is another household task that must be done well to reap the benefits – there is an art and technique to quality plastering that you should not underestimate. Plastering is often done to cover up damage to interior walls or ceilings, and quality plasterers can also do cosmetic work like crown mouldings. Crown mouldings can be an excellent choice for any home, providing instant style and elegance to a room.
Hanging Wallpaper
On the face of it, hanging wallpaper might seem simple enough. There is, however, a technique and significant skill involved with getting the work done right. In addition, while plain, even walls might be easier to paper over, areas with radiators, corners, light switches, and sockets can be even more challenging. It is best to hire a professional to hang your wallpaper so that the work is done right the first time – wallpaper is pricey, and you don’t want to waste any of the rolls you invest in.
Electrical Work
Any work relating to the wiring or other electrics of your home should only ever be done by a professional. Faulty electrics are one of the leading causes of fire in domestic UK properties, so it is much better to be safe than sorry when you need electrical work done. Look for an electrician with extensive experience and plenty of testimonials from happy previous customers. Some of the work you might get done by an electrician includes:
- Installing additional sockets, light switches or electrical fittings
- Rewiring
- Safety checking
Conclusion
When it comes to home renovations and improvements, you should never settle for anything but the best – in this case, the best means a professional with a wealth of experience and qualifications. While some home works may appear simple enough, there is often much more to the process than you would know; hiring a professional will ensure that your home and family are safe and the work is done to the highest possible quality. It is important to be cautious and take your time choosing the professionals you want to do work with in your home. Look through reviews and testimonials from past customers and independently verify their credentials when possible.
