Home improvement news

Less glamorous repairs can help add value to a property
Small DIY jobs can be as important as a large remodel.

Exposed brickwork ideal for kitchen makeover
Homeowners can give their property a weathered look with a simple DIY technique.

DIY fans need to be aware of asbestos dangers
One person dies every five hours because of asbestos-related diseases.

Home improvement 'can help to revamp the home'
Cheap double glazing can help to make a property more comfortable.

'Driest six months' could boost home improvement fans
The UK is currently enjoying the driest first six months of a year since 1929.

Wooden flooring 'can increase property value'
Home improvement projects can help homeowners get more for their property.

Expert: Homeowners need to take a step back from their property
Before undertaking home improvements, big decisions need to be made.

Home improvements 'can add value to a home'
Personal enjoyment is another big factor in home improvement.

Less is more with home improvement projects
The recession is leading people to opt for the less-is-more approach.

Home improvement is 'good for your health'
Homeowners can get into shape while carrying out DIY tasks around the house.

uPVC window suppliers used for energy-efficient Sussex homes
West Sussex families are to take advantage of cheap double glazing in new homes.

Wallpaper is still 'very much in fashion'
Metallic papers are proving very popular at the moment.

Cheap patio door installation: DIY projects 'sometimes lead to injuries'
Large DIY projects can sometimes lead to injuries, homeowners have been warned.

"Huge rush" to complete home improvement projects
Homeowners will be eager to get their DIY jobs complete before the World Cup.

DIY and home improvement skills 'attractive to women'
Women are looking for men who are good at DIY.

Home improvement 'can make rooms look bigger'
Homeowners can carry out home improvement to enlarge their property.

Home improvement measures 'can increase value of home'
DIY work can also make properties energy efficient.

Eco-friendly home improvements are 'simple'
An expert has said that eco-friendly home improvements are easy to implement.

Home improvement loans can pay for DIY projects
Taking out a loan could pay for home improvements.

Using reputable firm 'could take stress out of home improvement'
Home improvement projects can lead to security concerns.

Home improvement interest 'continues to grow'
More people are now experimenting with home improvement projects.

Preparation is key for bank holiday home improvement
Homeowners need to do their research before attempting DIY over the upcoming bank holiday weekend.

Young people 'should be taught about home improvement'
An expert has advised that it is cheaper in the long run if people know how to do some home improvement work themselves.

Coalition govt to boost upvc window suppliers?
An expert has predicted that there will be agreement between the Tories and the Lib Dems on elements such as refurbishing the existing housing stock with the likes of cheap double glazing.

Changing trends 'could boost popularity of cheap double glazing'
An expert has claimed consumers are looking to cut their home improvement budgets, which encourages them to buy cheap double glazing.

Ninety-year-old building gains cheap double glazing
A historic building in Australia has undergone extensive redevelopment, which included the installation of cheap double glazing, to improve its eco-credentials.

Installing own cheap double glazing 'can result in accidents'
People who try to install their own cheap double glazing or do other difficult home improvements projects themselves can end up in a spot of bother, it has been suggested.

Nearly 200 homes to receive cheap double glazing
Nearly 200 properties in Northern Ireland are soon to receive cheap double glazing and other major external improvements.

Cheap double glazing to be discussed at Grand Designs Live?
At this year's Grand Designs Live, Kevin McCloud is to speak about ways of improving the energy efficiency of properties, which could include installing cheap double glazing.

Woman's anger over cheap double glazing ban
A Henley resident has complained after being told she should not have installed cheap double glazing into her rapidly deteriorating home.

Install cheap double glazing at same time as making home improvements
Those improving their homes could install cheap double glazing at the same time, the National Home Improvement Council has said.

Cheap double glazing: Most Brits value improving home over increasing its value
Some 74 per cent of Brits are more interested in creating the ideal home, perhaps by installing cheap double glazing, than increasing its value, according to recent research.

Assess window sills to see if cheap double glazing should be installed
Examining an existing window's frame and sill is one of the first things to do when assessing if it needs to be replaced with cheap double glazing, Building Design magazine has suggested.

Don't wait until moving to install cheap double glazing
People who can afford to make home improvements, such as installing cheap double glazing, should do so and enjoy them now rather than waiting until they are moving and want to increase the house's asking price.

Homeowners 'should not put off installing cheap double glazing'
People should not delay making improvements to their homes, which could include the installation of cheap double glazing, a commentator has warned.

Home building sector 'showing improved health'
Homeowners are beginning to invest in larger home improvement projects, which could boost the economy, according to an industry expert.

Cheap double glazing production in Rochdale 'now more efficient'
The relocation of a Rotherham-based window and door manufacturer's production may mean that those who have sought double glazing quotes will have their new windows more quickly than predicted.

Cheap double glazing is available in 'a number of stylish designs'
Cheap double glazing is available in a number of stylish designs, according to a glass manufacturer, which may appeal to those seeking double glazing quotes.

Tap into Savings project offers energy saving home improvements
Brits are set to benefit from new funding to support green home improvements.

Cheap UPVC windows: 'The benefits are many'
The benefits of cheap UPVC windows do not end at reducing heat loss, a Bristol-based home improvements company has explained.

Expert: Decide on the sink before seeking bathroom quotes
The first step to getting a bathroom quote should be deciding on the sink.

Bathrooms likely to lead DIY trends this year
Bathrooms are likely to lead DIY trends in 2010, Verdict Research has predicted, which could be of interest to people seeking bathroom quotes.

Landlords 'are using double glazing to increase property value'
Landlords are improving the appeal of their properties to potential tenants by installing double glazing windows, according to IPD Occupiers.

Sports centre to improve energy efficiency with double glazing
The energy efficiency of a sports centre in Australia is to be improved through the installation of double glazing as part of AUD$2.6 million redevelopment works.

Double glazing makes properties 'more attractive' to potential buyers
People looking to buy properties are more attracted to those that have double glazing and other energy-efficient features, according to a property expert.

Bedroom quotes: Florals will be a 'big trend' in 2010
People seeking bedroom quotes who are unsure of how to decorate their newly refurbished rooms should consider the use of flower prints, which are set to be a big interior design trend this year, according to the British Institute of Interior Design.

Privately-owned Birmingham houses to get double glazing
Almost 1,800 privately-owned Birmingham houses are to be assessed to determine whether they meet the Decent Homes standard and whether they require the installation of double glazing.

Councils to develop Low Carbon Framework with ministers
A new scheme will see local authoroties provide residents with home improvements that will complement their double glazing.

Many kitchen quotes 'best for home improvements'
Householders should take into consideration a number of kitchen quotes before choosing a tradesman, according to a home improvement expert.

'More must be done' to encourage commercial building energy saving
Ministers should phase out the country's least energy efficient buildings, such as those without double glazing, by 2020, it has been claimed.

Double glazing installers' work increases due to recent cold spell
More homeowners have been seeking the services of double glazing fitters to avoid being left in the cold should severe winter weather strike again.

London council houses to get double glazing
Council houses in Havering are soon to enjoy the energy-saving benefits of new double glazing windows as the council has been awarded funding from the government's Decent Homes programme.

Dudley bar to receive double glazing?
Dudley Zoo is seeking approval from its local council to renovate and fit double glazing in a bar that has fallen into disrepair.

Double glazing with condensation: No need to replace whole frame
If a double glazing window has condensation, there is no need to replace the whole frame, just the affected unit, according to an online builders' guide.

Double glazing benefits highlighted as UK energy bills up £548 a year
Installing double glazing could ease the pain of having to pay for planned upgrades to the UK's energy infrastructure.

Double glazing helps communities body reach green targets
The Communities Gateway Association has reported that double glazing helped it boost its eco-credentials in 2009.

Double glazing may seem expensive but it 'will cut bills'
Double glazing may not be cheap but it is worth installing as it will save money in bills over time, according to moneysupermarket.com.

Double glazing company enjoyed 20% growth in 2009
A company that sells double glazing windows and provides conservatory quotes achieved growth of 20 per cent last year, regardless of the recession.

Double glazing: Beat the big freeze
As freezing winter weather refuses to loosen its grip on the British Isles, homeowners are being advised of home improvements they can make to ensure they stay warm, such as installing double glazing.

Man waiting for double glazing fears for health
A multiple sclerosis sufferer feels his health will deteriorate if the local housing association does not fit double glazing in his home.

Bedroom designer: coastal look is "ultra-fashionable"
The costal theme is going to be "ultra-fashionable" in 2010, according to an interiors expert, so homeowners may want to suggest the theme to their bedroom designer.

Londoners are 'neglecting' effective double glazing for modern technology
Energy-saving features that have been around for years, such as insulation and double glazing, are being overlooked by Londoners, who are instead turning to more costly and 'trendy' technology, the Mayor of London's environmental adviser has suggested.

'Prepare for next winter' by installing double glazing
The current cold snap has left many people feeling uncomfortable in their own homes, but to prevent the same from happening next year, they should consider installing double glazing.

Use 'eclectic mix of styles' when decorating new bedrooms
A mixture of different ethnic trends is the latest fashion when it comes to decorating new bedrooms, an interior design expert has suggested.

Involve children when designing their new bedrooms
Children should be involved in designing and creating their new bedrooms so that they can learn valuable skills, it has been suggested.

WI hall receives grant for double glazing
A Women's Institute hall near Nottingham is soon to enjoy the money saving benefits of double glazing windows, thanks to a grant for an energy company.

Homeowners in 2010 will be "more inventive" in decorating new kitchens
The year 2010 will see homeowners being "more inventive" when they decorate their new kitchens and other rooms in the house, according to an interior decorating magazine.

Take care with electrics when fitting new kitchens, homeowners warned
Electrical wiring can pose a hazard to those carrying out home improvements such as fitting new kitchens.

Warrington residents to receive double glazing windows?
Residents of Warrington could receive double glazing windows if they agree to allow Golden Gates Housing to take over the council's housing stock.

CBI calls on government to encourage double glazing
The government should support homeowners and businesses in making their properties more energy-efficient by encouraging improvements, which could include double glazing windows.

FMB welcomes Tories' double glazing grant proposal
The Federation of Master Builders has welcomed proposals by the Tory party to provide up to £6,500 to households for energy-saving improvements such as double glazing.

Double glazing bills to be cut by Essex housing chiefs
Bills sent to the leaseholders of houses in an Essex town for improvements, including the installation of double glazing windows, are to be cut, it has been reported.

Conservatives announce cash for double glazing policy
The Tory party has announced that, if elected next year, it will grant thousands of pounds to householders across the UK to make energy efficient improvements to their homes, such as the addition of double glazing windows.

Homeowners want their new kitchens to be 'eco-friendly'
There is currently a trend for eco-friendly new kitchens, according to an interior designer.

Pre-Budget report: 75,000 homes to receive double glazing
The pre-Budget report, announced yesterday by Alistair Darling, said that 75,000 households are to receive double glazing and insulation.

Double glazing for Birmingham council houses
Birmingham City Council is fitting double glazing in all of its council houses.

Double glazing to be 'increasing focus' of Carbon Emissions Reduction Target
Double glazing and other forms of insulation are to become the focus of the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target, according to the department of energy and climate change.

Houses 'can be re-styled in 24 hours'
People waiting for their new bathroom suite or double glazing windows to be fitted can re-style the rest of their home in just 24 hours, according to an interior designer.

Double glazing makes a property 'more appealing'
Houses that have double glazed windows are more attractive to people looking to rent, according to a buy-to-let expert.

Homeowners make improvements to 'please themselves', not buyers
Home improvements, such as new fitted kitchens, are being made to satisfy the current owner of the property, not potential purchasers.

Scottish boating club installs double glazing
The Ness Boating Club in Shetland, Scotland, has installed insulation and double glazing to improve the building and cut energy use.

There will be 'demand' for home improvements in 2010
Many homeowners will add cheap new bedrooms or other home improvements instead of moving in 2010, according to a renovation magazine.

Installing new kitchen appliances will 'make Christmas cooking easier'
Updating a kitchen can improve its functionality and make Christmas cooking easier, according to kitchen specialists.

Flooded homes may need brand new kitchens
Hundreds of homes devastated by recent floods may have to install completely new kitchens and bathrooms.

All Gateshead council houses to get double glazing
Double glazing is to be fitted in every council house in Gateshead.

Leicestershire schools to get double glazing
A grant of £16 million is being given to schools in Leicestershire so that they can add features such as double glazing and new buildings.

OFT warns against bogus doorstep traders
The Office of Fair Trading has launched a campaign to warn homeowners against bogus doorstep traders who offer to carry out home improvements such as fitting cheap UPVC windows.

Double glazing cost estimations 'may have been exaggerated'
Exaggerated estimations of the cost of making environmentally-friendly home improvements will put people off making changes and helping the battle against CO2 emissions, according to whatgreenhome.com.

Site by busy road to get 30 houses with double glazing
Homes planned for a site close to the A34 in Hampshire are to be built with double glazing to reduce noise pollution from the road.

Self-builders need to "educate themselves" before starting to build and installing double glazing
The number of self-builds are increasing but many people do not "understand the implications and the basics" of self-builds when they first consider a project, according to Self-builder.

People getting insulation fitted should 'get double glazing at the same time'
People that are getting their houses insulated should get double glazing fitted at the same time by the people already on site.

Add more 'double glazing to retain heat and let light in'
An interior designer has advised people renovating their homes to add more double glazing.

Leeds homes to get double glazing by Christmas
As part of the government's Decent Homes drive, 92 homes in Leeds are to get double glazing in time for Christmas.

Authorities 'not being informed' about new kitchen electrics
Homeowners are being warned that they must check with building control experts before they alter their kitchens or bathrooms.

New crack-down on cowboy kitchen fitters
The Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom Industries National Training Group is launching a new register of approved home improvement traders, making it easier for homeowners to avoid cowboy builders.

Landlady appeals council's order to fit double glazing
The landlady of a pub in Stoke is appealing a council decision ordering her to install double glazing and reduce opening hours.

Over 3,000 Plymouth council houses to get double glazing
Thousands of council homes in Plymouth are set to get double glazing, new kitchens and bathrooms as the city council moves one step closer to selling the housing stock to Plymouth Community Homes.

'Buy double glazing now' before VAT increase
Those thinking of making home improvements should do so now before the VAT rate increases, a financial adviser has said.

Vicar calls for cash for double glazing in medieval church
The vicar of a 900-year-old church is trying to raise funds to repair the Grade I-listed building.

People "favour colour" in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms this season
Colour is due to make a big come-back in kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms this season, according to an interior designer.

Homeowners install double glazing, but not to "keep up with the Joneses"
In the current climate people do not want to "keep up with the Joneses", according to George Clarke, presenter of Build a New Life and Channel 4's The Home Show.

Village hall gets double glazing thanks to lottery win
The old windows of a village hall in Suffolk are being replaced with double glazing thanks to a grant from the National Lottery.

Use double-glazed window sills for "fix of green"
Window sills of double glazed windows can be used for growing plants and adding a touch of green to a home, according to a garden specialist.

Fitted kitchens increase property value, Brits say
To increase the value of a property, 68.2 per cent of people think kitchen improvements, such as installing a fitted kitchen, are the key.

Installing your own double glazing can create "a lot of damage"
People keen on DIY should steer clear of complicated jobs such as installing new windows.

Energy efficient double glazing 'on the rise'
Home improvements are seeing a move towards ecology, such as the installation of energy saving double-glazed windows, according to a home improvements expert.

Communities encouraged to 'improve property green credentials'
New funding has been made available to communities keen on developing low carbon schemes, such as for home improvements.

UPVC windows advice at the National Home Improvement Show
The National Home Improvement Show takes place this weekend, giving advice to homeowners wishing to make changes to their properties.

Cheap conservatory quote 'preferable to DIY'
Building your own conservatory or installing your own double glazing is not a good idea, according to a home improvements expert.

DIY building is "false economy"
DIY building by homeowners is a "false economy" as hidden risks such as subsidence can incur greater costs, according to research by an insurance company.

Buy-to-let landlords should "buy now"
Buying and improving buy-to-let properties is currently a good idea for cash-rich, market-savvy landlords, according to a letting advice website.

Double glazing grant called for
The government has been petitioned by The Glass & Glazing Federation to give householders £1,000 to get rid of their old windows and get new double glazing.

Improve your home now as tradesmen "compete" to be the best
Business has slowed due to the recession, which has led to a better service from tradesmen, a home improvements expert has said.

Windows contribute to "sustainable construction"
Defra has published a report stating that wood, PVC and aluminium-framed windows have a part to play in creating sustainable buildings.

Homeowners 'making most of their properties'
Property owners are doing all they can to keep their homes well maintained, it is said.

'Incentives needed' for greener homes
Financial incentives must be introduced to encourage people to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, it has been claimed.

Property renovations bring benefits for Strictly star
One of the stars of Strictly Come Dancing has increased the value of her property investments with a range of improvements.

Dangers of DIY home improvement
An incident in Bangor has highlighted the dangers of DIY home improvement.

Basement conversions 'a great way to expand homes'
Homeowners in the UK could add value to their properties by undertaking a basement conversion, it has been suggested.

Personal savings 'used to fund home improvements'
Home improvement work is often solely funded by personal savings, a new poll has revealed.

Home improvements 'could have major green benefits'
An expert has called on the government to introduce home improvement incentives that could have a major environmental impact.

Double glazing coming to Wrexham homes
A number of homes in Wrexham are to be given double glazing under a new scheme organised by the local government, it has been revealed.

Double glazing 'one of the best ways to boost efficiency'
Homeowners can significantly boost their energy efficiency by adding double glazing to their homes, it has been suggested.

Property owners 'must know their limits' on renovations
Homeowners in the UK should "know their limits" when planning renovation work over the bank holiday weekend.

Brits 'lack home improvement knowledge'
Two out of five property owners in the UK lack home improvement skills, according to research.

Adding space 'could attractive property buyers'
New research has suggested that property owners may put themselves in a good position in the market by adding space to their homes.

Ventilation 'key to a good conservatory'
Homeowners must ensure that conservatories are fitted with good ventilation, according to a leading provider.

Now 'a good time' for home improvements
As builders' prices are currently low, now may be a good time to opt for work to be carried out on a home, it has been claimed.

Property extension insurance confusion rife, research shows
A study finds people are unaware they have to tell their building insurer about extension work.

Home improvers advised of waste removal
Cannock Chase Council has issued a warning about flytipping as a result of home improvement work.

One in ten planning major structural improvements to home
Research shows 13 per cent of homeowners will make large-scale changes to their home in the next 12 months.

Women 'tackling home improvements'
Women are increasingly carrying out home improvements and taking charge of projects such as new fitted kitchens and decorating, it has been claimed.

UPVC conservatories 'still in favour'
A large number of property owners across the UK are turning to UPVC conservatories to add space to their homes, it has been suggested.

Conservatories 'can add value to any home'
One expert claims the addition of a conservatory will be a popular way to add value onto a property.

Over 3.5m homeowners 'not in a position to move'
An expert has suggested that over three million homeowners in the UK may not be in a position to move.

Homeowners 'looking to create space rather than sell'
A TV homes expert claims Brits are looking to make the most of their current home rather than move.

Blinds 'help to cool down conservatories'
The installation of blinds in conservatories can help to reduce their temperature, it has been revealed.

Homeowners seeking cut-price kitchen renovations
Many property owners are looking to change the look and style of their kitchens without breaking the bank, according to reports.

Modernising a rundown property 'can be a real opportunity'
Buying a rundown house and fitting double glazing, a new kitchen and bathroom can be a real money-making opportunity it has been claimed.

Home improvement 'can lead to back damage'
An expert has warned Brits of the damage they could do to their back as a result of attempting home improvement.

Entrance to property 'should reflect rest of home'
A lifestyle expert has advised how to get the best out of an entranceway to a property.

Specialist training needed for home improvement, expert says
An expert claims certain home improvement tasks require specialist electrical of plumbing training.

Burglary victim gets Safestyle windows
Safestyle UK has provided double glazing to a woman whose efforts to save for new windows were hit by burglars.

Heating 'a conservatory concern'
Those looking to have a conservatory installed should consider heating issues when selecting a design.

Conservatories 'could be affected by planning issues'
Homeowners should consider whether they need to apply for planning permission before having a conservatory added to their property, it has been claimed.

Conservatories 'the easiest way to add space to property'
The installation of conservatory is the easiest way for homeowners to add space to their property, an expert has claimed.

Homeowners 'must plan ahead for conservatory'
Property owners need to think carefully about a range of issues when seeking conservatory quotes, it has been claimed.

'Style and size' the key conservatory issues
Selecting the style and size of a conservatory is one of the key parts of buying one, an expert has claimed.

Energy saving measures 'the most valuable home improvements'
New research has claimed that the most valuable home improvements are those related to saving energy.

Renovation 'key to adding value'
Undertaking home improvement work could add value the price of a property, an expert has claimed.

Kitchen 'can be the main selling point of a home'
Renovating a kitchen could help a homeowner to sell their property, it has been claimed.

Home improvement 'the most popular reason for equity release'
Those approaching or in retirement are most likely to use equity release to fund home improvement work, a study has suggested.

Double glazing 'a key aspect of a home'
The replacement and installation of windows can be one of the most important changes made to a home, it has been claimed.

Extra money 'would go on home improvement'
New research found that Brits would spend extra money on home improvements if they could afford it.

Caution needed when conducting DIY on older properties
People conducting DIY in older homes need to exercise extra caution as even small renovations can sometimes lead to larger problems, one expert has advised.

New kitchens 'appeal to homebuyers'
A new modern kitchen has been cited as one of the most attractive features of a property by potential homebuyers.

Homeowners 'need expert help for major renovations'
Property owners should not underestimate the need for professional help when making major home improvements.

Homeowners warned over subsidence
Property owners could benefit from getting their homes checked for subsidence before planning home improvements.

Brits waste £350m on renovation mistakes
New figures have revealed that people in the UK collectively pay £350 million a year to fix mistakes made during home improvement projects.

Quarter of over-50s 'go professional for renovation work'
One in four people over 50 in the UK employ tradesmen to carry out home improvement work on their properties, new figures have revealed.

Home improvements 'should be practical'
Property owners need to think practically when planning home improvement work, it has been claimed.

Exterior 'a key consideration for home improvements'
People should bear in mind what impact home improvements could have on the exterior appearance of their property, according to an expert.

Home improvements 'can impact on a property's character'
People planning major home improvement work should consider how it could impact on the character of their property, it has been claimed.

Renovation issue 'dropped from government plans'
The government's new consultation on making properties more energy efficient does not address an issue related to renovation work.

Government considers conservatory standards
The government is looking at ways to boost the energy efficiency of conservatories, it has been revealed.

Home improvement blog launched
A new blog created to offer property owners tips on home improvements including bathroom and kitchen renovations has been launched.

Average home improvement 'costs £1,162'
New research has revealed that the average cost of home improvements or alterations has risen slightly in the past two years.

Renovations can make a home 'stand out from a crowd'
Home improvement work can make a property "stand out from the crowd", an expert has claimed.

Blinds 'can boost a conservatory's style'
Adding blinds to a conservatory can improve the feel and style of the home extension, it has been claimed.

Home improvements 'an easy way to value to a property'
An expert has claimed that home improvement projects are "a really easy way of adding space and value" to a property.

Homes get UPVC windows boost
A range of homes in Shankill have been given major improvements including UPVC windows.

'Simple changes' can make bathroom warmer
Homeowners looking to make their bathroom feel warmer should consider three simple issues, it has been claimed.

Expert praises kitchen renovations
Renovating a kitchen is an ideal way to add value to a property, according to an expert.

Home improvement exhibition confirmed
Details have been revealed about the upcoming Southern Homebuilding & Renovating Show.

Double glazing boost for village hall
A village in Oxfordshire is to benefit from a range of improvements including double glazing.

Homeowners 'can enjoy conservatories all year-round'
Conservatories can be used by homeowners in both the summer and winter months, an expert has claimed.

Bathroom work 'can add 20% to a property's value'
New figures have suggested the financial benefits of home improvement work.

Oldham estate gets double glazing boost
Old properties on an Oldham estate have been given a revamp by a regeneration firm.

Summer is 'the time for home improvement'
An expert has claimed that most people consider home improvement work in the summer months.

Kitchen and bathroom renovations 'are increasingly popular'
An expert has claimed that homeowners are increasingly looking at renovating parts of their properties including bathrooms and kitchens.

Council issues double glazing grant
A £1,500 grant is being awarded to a village hall in Scarborough that needs new double glazing.

Double glazing firm supports local school
A leading home improvement firm has donated a number of computers to a Norwich school.

Conservatory sales to rise?
The number of conservatories sold in the UK could rise in the short-term before new plans make the construction of them more expensive, it has been suggested.

Brits seek loans for home improvements
One in six people are acquiring loans that will fund their home improvements, it has been revealed.

Bathrooms and kitchens 'the first places considered for renovations'
Homeowners tend to consider making changes to either their bathrooms or kitchens before any other room when planning renovations, it has been claimed.

Window manufacturer unveils new designs
Conservatory Outlet has launched a new range of UPVC sash windows designed to replace traditional timber alternatives.

Home improvements 'popular with Brits'
Over half of property owners in the UK have carried out home improvement work in the past year, according to new figures.

Nearly 40% 'planning to improve homes'
The number of people looking for quotes on products including double glazing could rise as research predicts 40 per cent of Brits are looking to improve their homes.

VAT cut on renovations 'would rule out cowboys'
Reducing the rate of VAT paid on home improvements would stop people from falling into the hands of cowboy builders, it has been claimed.

Half of Brits 'lack home improvement skills'
Over half of Brits do not have basic DIY skills, according to new figures from the Energy Saving Trust.

Calls for home improvement rate cut
Small businesses in the UK are calling for the government to cut the level of VAT charged on home improvements and renovations.

Brits 'optimistic' over property value
New research has revealed that Brits often over-estimate the value of their homes.

Lack of planning permission 'could harm property's price'
Recent events in Birmingham have suggested that people who extend their homes without planning permission could struggle to sell the properties.

Countryside home extensions 'should be controlled'
People who live in the country should think carefully before extending their homes, it has been suggested.

Conservatory case highlights planning issue
A case in Seaton has highlighted the importance of seeking planning permission for conservatories.

Conservatories to be more efficient?
Homeowners may have to make their conservatories more energy efficient under new government plans.

Windows 'can create a welcoming atmosphere'
An expert has claimed that windows can define the mood or style of a home.

Steel 'the little black dress of the kitchen'
An expert has claimed that stainless steel provides an ideal finishing touch to a new kitchen.

Carbon Calculator launched for homeowners
People who are thinking about investing in double glazing for their home can now work out their potential savings using an online tool.

Over half of Brits 'not looking to move'
New research has revealed that over 50 per cent of Brits do not intend to move house in the near future.

Property sales 'remain low'
The number of house sales taking place across the UK remains low, according to the latest figures.

Double glazing boost for village hall
A village hall in Gloucestershire has received a boost after getting funding for major refurbishment work.

Home improvements for Manchester homes
Some 40,000 properties are set to have new double glazing or UPVC doors under a new scheme by Eastlands Homes.

Homeowners 'warned of DIY home security'
Direct Line has urged property owners to fit their homes with proper security equipment rather than using homemade measures.

'Stagnant property market creating uncertainty'
Buyers and sellers are currently both uncertain about the state of the housing market, according to online property website Briffy.com.

Simple improvements to raise sale value of a home
A new study of property experts and homeowners has revealed the home improvements which can add value to a property.

Loft conversion 'adds most value to a property'
Research by HSBC has found that a loft conversion is the best home improvement method for adding value to a property.

'Time to come back to the property market'
Real estate firm Savills claims people who left the property market could now be considering getting back in and purchasing homes.

Glasgow homes get double glazing installed
Over 400 homes in Glasgow have had double glazing installed as part of a new £1.5 million scheme.

More to property than making money
Renowned designer Wayne Hemingway claims people should see their homes as more than just a way to make money.

'More convenient to extend current home than move'
Andrew Leech, the director of the National Home Improvement Council, has said it is cheaper and more convenient to extend a property than move to a new house.

Brits spending billions on home improvement
Property owners in the UK have spent £23 billion in the last three months on home improvement in an attempt to insure against falling prices.

Home improvements 'need to be meticulously researched'
An expert has advised householders to research DIY projects before attempting them – or get a professional in to do the job.

Home Retail Group announces full-year losses
Home Retail Group, which owns Homebase, has announced a pre-tax loss of £394.2 million, citing a drop in DIY sales.

Homeowners looking for comfort in their property
Almost a quarter of homes in the UK will be expanded this year as their occupants look to create a nicer living environment, new research suggests.

Brits planning 'substantial home improvements'
A new study has found that a quarter of property owners in the UK are set to invest in home improvement during this year.

House prices down 10% year-on-year
New research has shown that house prices are down ten per cent compared to 12 months ago but sellers are achieving their desired asking price.

Brits attempting dangerous DIY jobs
New research has found that people in the UK are attempting to save money by doing potentially dangerous electrical DIY jobs.

Homeowners 'want to move'
One expert claims property owners in the UK have a pent-up desire to move, which could see people improving their homes to increase value.

Insurer predicts 50% home burglary increase
Norwich Union has predicted there could be a 50 per cent increase in household burglaries in 2009.

Houses 'now more affordable'
The amount of disposable earning devoted to mortgage repayments has dropped, making homes in the UK more affordable, a new study shows.

Home security attitudes shifting
A new study has found that people are still concerned about their safety and could look into home improvements to make their property more secure.

Basement conversions 'superb way of creating space'
The Property Care Association claims a basement conversion can be a rewarding investment for homeowners.

DIY retail market grows during 2008
New figures released show the DIY market in the UK increased by 2.6 per cent year-on-year in 2008.

£16.6bn spent on home maintenance in 2008
New data shows that Brits spent £16.6 billion on home maintenance during 2008, which was an increased figure year-on-year.