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Best Colors to Paint Your House

What are the best colors to paint your house? 

Painting your house is one of the easiest ways you can improve the exterior of your home. Hiring a painting services company for your house can be exactly what it needs to feel fresh or get ready for the market. 

The color you decide to paint your home can have a huge impact though. And a bad paint job with unflattering or unsightly colors is hard to recover from. It’s not as easy as picking a color and going. 

What are some things to consider when picking colors?

The siding of the house will draw the most attention, but the impact will be determined by the smaller elements of your home’s exterior – things like the front door, window trims and even the railings can make your house pop.

So you have to pick multiple colors that work well together. Sometimes this means varying shades of the same color, or it can mean colors that add a nice contrast. And if your house is close to other houses, you’ll want to take their colors into consideration too.

What colors work best for home exteriors? 

A professional painting services company will be able to tell you what colors would work best for your home. But right off the bat, there are a few colors that you can’t go wrong with. 

  • Gray: Gray in all shades will work well for an exterior color, mostly because of how well it works with other colors. Pair it with similar earthy tones or with bold colors, gray is sure to be a hit. 
  • White: You might be tempted to shy away from the color. But really, a fresh white coat of paint can make accent colors fun and give your home a clean look. 
  • Navy: Bold colors might seem scary. But if you pair them with the right accent colors, navy can be a great way to make your home stand out. 

Have a color in mind? 

If you’re set on a color, call a professional and talk out your options. Our craftsmen at Handyman Connection will be happy to provide you with consultation and painting services to help make your home great. 

*Not all services provided in all areas, check with your local office.

The post Best Colors to Paint Your House appeared first on Handyman Connection.

3 Renovations Renters Can Make

Trying to find a rental unit with personality among big city markets without breaking the bank – such as Toronto, Calgary, or Vancouver MLS rental listings – can be a challenge. However, this does not mean that your new space can’t reflect you. Although making a rental space more your own can be a challenge and big renovations may not be an option, there are a few modifications that you can make to personalize your rental without worrying about losing your deposit.

Brighten Up the Walls

If the walls in your current rental are a bit drab but your landlord isn’t open to you painting, there are a number of different ways for you to transform your walls. Try peel and stick wallpaper – it is a relatively easy installation and removal process. If it is too costly or too time consuming to cover all the walls in the room, think about doing an accent wall to add a touch of colour to the space. You can also bring this idea into other spaces such as the kitchen by incorporating it as a backsplash. Another simple way to add a bit more intrigue to your walls is to use Washi tape to create different unique patterns. Using washi tape is an easy solution if you are hoping to avoid leaving a mark on your walls.

Out with The Old

There are a number of places within a rental space that, with simple alterations, can be revived. Consider switching the current showerhead you have out for something that is a bit nicer. While this may not seem like much, it can make a big difference in the overall look and function of your bathroom.

A similar switch that can be made in different parts of your space is changing up your lighting. Lighting can really transform the overall aesthetic of any room. Dependent on what you are envisioning, there are certain fixtures and bulbs can make a room feel more elegant or cozy. The most important thing about all of these adjustments is remembering to keep the originals in case your landlord does not love the changes as much as you do. It is also important to keep the originals in case you would like to take your new additions with you when you move out of the space. It also may be worth it to consider splurging on these items if you plan on taking them with you.

Playing with Paint

It can be hard to tell whether or not your landlord will be against you using a bit of paint in your rental. However, the best and the only way to truly know is to ask them. If they approve of you using paint to update the space, you may want to avoid using colours that are too vibrant unless you plan on painting again before you move out. However, if you are looking to be a bit more adventurous with your paint job, consider getting approval to create a chalkboard wall within the apartment. This can be a fun way to add more playful and temporary design elements to a space. But don’t be discouraged if your landlord doesn’t love this idea, there are some peel and stick chalkboard wall options that could work just as well.

You should also consider talking to your landlord about taking on bigger renovation projects. Having their approval can offer you a bit more flexibility when it comes to the kinds of changes you can make to your rental. There is also the possibility that your landlord will reimburse you if your improvement adds value to the property. So feel free to start looking at variety of properties because it doesn’t matter if you are looking at smaller pieces MLS listings or larger suburban rentals, these tips can work for renters anywhere.

Zoocasa is a full-service brokerage that offers advanced online search tools to empower Canadians with the data and expertise they need to make more successful real estate decisions. View real estate listings at zoocasa.com or download our free iOS app.

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Going on Vacation

home-security-edmonton

As winter break is nearing, many of us start planning those sun vacations. Whether you’re planning on getting away over the winter break or are heading away this year, keep your home safe and protected with these helpful tips:

1. Make it look like someone is home.

In most cases an intruder will not attempt a break-in if it looks like someone is home. The best way to give the appearance that people are home is through smart lighting. Companies that offer home automation can provide a range of home automation technology and home security, including a programmable lighting system. You can have certain lights in your home turn on in the evening to make it appear like you’re home from work. You can also control your lighting from your mobile phone, even while you are enjoying the sun on a distant beach! Learn more about custom-built home security systems.

Not looking to install home automation in your home? A more cost-effective solution is purchasing outlet timers from your local hardware store. These inexpensive timers will allow you to set your lights to turn on and off during certain times of the day. Make sure you have them actually turn off at night. Having your lights on all day and night is a tell-tale sign that no one is home.

2. Turn off the water.

You never know what can go wrong with your plumbing system while you are on vacation. A leaky pipe or a faulty hot water tank could cause major water damage while you are away. Alberta’s weather is very unexpected and we can still experience winter like weather.  Since we live in a cold climate, you also have to worry about your pipes freezing, bursting and flooding your house. In addition to turning off your water to minimize damage should a problem occur, you should also have a friend or family member check your house every few days. Not only will they be able to detect problems before they become a major issue, most insurance companies will not cover damaged caused by frozen or burst pipes unless you had someone checking in on your house.

3. Monitor your heat.

While it’s a good idea to turn down the thermostat to save energy and reduce your heating bill while you are away, you want to make sure your house is still well heated. The main reason for this is to prevent water and your pipes from freezing. The last thing you want is to come home to frozen pipes and ice blocks in the toilet and hot water tank. The most cost-effective way to monitor your heat while you are away is to install a wireless thermostat that you can monitor and program from your mobile phone or device while you are on vacation. Learn how to install a digital thermostat.

4. Lock and secure your windows and doors.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but locking windows is something that can slip your mind while you’re busy getting ready to go on holiday. Statistics from the United States have shown that nearly 30 percent of all home invasions are unforced entry, meaning the intruder likely came in easily through an unlocked window or door.

You can also reinforce your windows and sliding patio doors with a dowel security bar. If your entry doors are older and damaged, it might be worth it to replace them with newer, more secure doors from exterior door companies. Not only will you increase your home security, you’ll also benefit from improved energy efficiency and increased property value.

5. Secure the garage door.

Most homes have an attached garage with a front-facing garage door. Make it more difficult for intruders to enter from your home from your garage by unplugging the electric garage door opener. You can also secure your garage by installing a padlock on the overhead door latch and putting a thick bolt through the track of the door to make entry impossible.

After taking these safety and security precautions, it is still important to tell your neighbours or a friend that you will not be home. They can keep an eye on your house for you and can help make it look like people are home by keeping your parked vehicles, driveway and walkways clear of snow. Enjoy your vacation and have peace of mind knowing your home is protected while you are away.

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance. 

 

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

5 Creative Stair Painting Ideas

Looking to add a fresh, new element to your home decor? Hoping to update one of the most used areas of your dwelling?

You’ve come to the right place. And don’t worry, you don’t have to build anything new or paint them yourself (we can do that for you).

You can change your space by entertaining some of these creative stair painting ideas.

1. Choose the Risers or the Steps

The risers are the vertical parts on the staircase that give gaps between the next step.

Consider painting the risers one color and the steps another. The risers can be the accent, painted in a dark color like grey or black.

Or you can do the reverse, making the accent piece the step and giving the risers a nice, neutral paint.

This would work with using two different wood paint finishes, too. If you already have wood stairs, this could mean simply refinishing stairs in two different colors.

2. Get Vibrant With Stair Painting

If your home has mostly neutral colors like grey, white, black, or brown, consider making your stairs the highlight of color and energy.

You can go full-out with it, like the Scala staircase in Wuppertal, Germany, painting a rainbow by making each step a different color. Or, you can choose one color and make it ombre as the steps go up.  You can splash color on either or both the steps and risers.

READ >>> 10 Painted Stair IDEAS

3. Paint a Runner

If you want to keep a traditional element while updating your staircase, consider painting a runner.

This means painting a stripe down the middle. Or, you can do it reverse, painting just the outside parts of the steps.

If you’ve ever seen the movie Home Alone, you might get inspired to paint a red runner down the middle with a wooden outside finish. This will give your home a royal, warm vibe.

4. Use Patterns or Shapes

Chevron is still incredibly popular, so consider painting the risers with a chevron pattern while keeping the steps one solid color.

You could even decorate with lines, shapes, or words if you have certain designs or symbols that resonate with you.

One idea is to paint words of affirmation on your steps so that when you climb them every day, you are inspired, encouraged, and uplifted.

5. Make Them Ornate

To really make them the centerpiece of your home, paint stairs in a unique way.

You could do a faux marble or a painted brass paint.

Drawing inspiration from mosaics, you could make the risers on your staircase have small painted details, like the mosaic-style staircases in San Francisco.

You don’t have to do tile to do this—you could find a pattern you like and have it painted on with a stencil.

Find Something That Fits Your Style

Finding the best stair painting ideas depends on you and your home’s style.

You may want to match the colors or themes you already have, or opt for something completely different. Perhaps you don’t want to change it up—you can still do some stair refinishing and make them seem sparkly and new.

If you’re looking for stair staining in Toronto, check out Platinum Pro Painters

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Calls for Future-Proofed Housing Policy

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has called for sustainable construction and future-proofed housing policy to be at the forefront of the agenda for the 2019 General Election. 

The RICS launched its own manifesto on Thursday advocating its aspirations for the UK to be carbon-neutral and for this to be reflected within the homebuilding industry.

The RICS manifesto, titled A new approach for the built and natural environment has warned the future government that to go green, policies affecting the built environment must be overhauled. 

It has made more than 35 recommendations for the future government to consider for the built and natural environment, focusing on housing supply and climate change. 

The manifesto says: “Local authorities and the communities they legislate for must start looking at planning in terms of building a community and adding value to the existing community. 

“Government must regard housing development as vital to the continued quality of the community and not just meeting top down, numerical targets. We can no longer sustain a one track idea of building to meet housing targets by building houses for people to live in, but start building communities and homes for people to live.”

This pledge aligns with a study from Eurocell this week which revealed two-thirds of Brits believe the homebuilding industry is not considering community growth enough. 

Innovation

Additionally, RICS has targeted driving low carbon innovation in the development of new builds. “We believe the next government, regardless of configuration, needs to provide a holistic approach to monetary policy and support for the built environment. This will range from internationally significant issues, such as driving low carbon innovation and future infrastructure investment.”

Self build homes have already shown how environmentally-friendly builds can lower running costs and be more sustainable in the long term. 

Hew Edgar, head of UK government relations and city strategy at RICS, said: “Failure to address the issues highlighted within the manifesto in a planned, cohesive way will have a serious impact on the wider economy, which will exacerbate existing housing and infrastructure deficit, and hinder any aspirations to be one of the greenest countries in the world.”

RICS also stated its intention to review the use of Permitted Development (PD) rights, noting that “evidence shows that removing planning oversight and control in this way can lead to inappropriate development and poor outcomes”. 

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

Loft Conversion: Beginner’s Guide to Extending Up

Creating more space in your home with a loft conversion is a great way to make better use of underused existing space before you think about adding more with an extension. Additionally, if you are in need of an extra bedroom, taking on a loft conversion makes more economic sense than adding a large, and potentially unnecessary, two-storey extension.

If you are looking to add value to your home, according to a recent survey by sellhousefast.uk, a loft conversion adds an average of £23,754.57 to the value of your property.

There is a lot to consider when planning a loft conversion, from assessing your existing roof structure, planning in a new staircase as well as how you will heat, light and ventilate the space. You will also need to ensure that Building Regulations are met when it comes to the new staircase and fire doors.

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission for a loft conversion and costs start at around £15,000 for a basic room-in-the-roof loft conversion, up to around £55,000 for a ready-made room option that is built off-site and then craned into position.

This guide will explain the process and highlight the different options available and their costs.

If you are looking for ideas for your new space, check out our gallery of great loft conversion ideas.

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How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost?

Your loft conversion cost will depend on multiple factors including the existing roof structure and pitch, specification and the extent of remodelling work or alterations needed to accommodate the new staircase.

Here, we’ve listed the different types of loft conversion and their approximate costs:

Room in Roof Loft Conversion

Prices start at around £15,000 for a room in the roof loft conversion, which is the cheapest and most straight forward option.

This will usually involve:

  • the reinforcement of the floor
  • a couple of skylights
  • added insulation
  • a staircase to the loft
  • electrics, lighting and heating
  • fire safety measures to comply with Building Regulations such as fire doors and smoke alarms.

Dormer Loft Conversion

This is as the above, but with the addition of dormer windows. This will increase the usable floorspace and can be used to add head height which gives you more options when it comes to placement of the stairs.

A dormer loft extension will cost upwards of £20,000. However the average dormer loft conversion with a double bedroom and en suite costs about £35,000–£45,000.

Changing the Roof Structure for a Loft Conversion

This option is the most expensive as it requires the complex removal and rebuild of the existing roof. This could be a hip-to-gable loft conversion or a mansard conversion, for example. You will need to hire a designer and secure planning permission.

This type of work is likely to cost upwards of £40,000.

Ready-made room options will cost around £55,000 for the average home. These are fabricated off-site and then craned into position.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?

Not always. In most cases, loft conversions tend to be considered Permitted Development (PD), but your design will need to adhere to a number of specified parameters.

If you plan on extending beyond the limits and conditions of PD, or your property is listed or located in a conversation area, then you will need to apply for planning permission. You will also need planning permission if you are altering the roof height or shape (which may be the case if you have to raise it for headroom).

Rooflights and dormers can be installed under PD, but they must not sit forward of the roof plane on the principal elevation, nor must they be higher than the highest part of the existing roof.

Always check with your local planning office before you start any work.

Loft Conversion Building Regulations

When converting a loft, you will need Building Regulations approval. A building control surveyor will inspect your conversion at various stages and will be responsible for issuing a completion certificate upon final inspection.

If your home is semi-detached or terraced, then you will need to notify your neighbours of your planned work if it falls under the requirements of the Party Wall Act.

When it comes to a loft conversion, you are most likely to be concerned with Parts L, K, B and P of the Building Regulations.

Under Part L, you will need to minimise heat loss through walls, floors and most importantly, the roof. This can be achieved through effective insulation of the space.

Part K of the Building Regulations sets measures to prevent, falling, collisions and impact. This demands a minimum headroom of 2m in all escape routes, including the stairs. This head height can be reduced to 1.8m at the edges of a stairway if allowing for a sloping roof, as long as the centre of the flight is 2m.

Parts B and P are concerned with fire and electrical safety respectively. Seek guidance to ensure you are compliant throughout the project.

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Can All Lofts be Converted?

Assessing your loft space’s suitability for conversion involves considering numerous factors, including:

  • available head height
  • roof pitch
  • roof structure
  • obstacles such as water tanks or chimney stacks

Measuring Head Height for a Loft Conversion

When you measure from the bottom of the ridge timber to the top of the ceiling joist, you need to have at least 2.2m of usable space for a conversion to be suitable.

While the Building Regs impose no minimum ceiling height for habitable rooms, you will need to factor in the 2m headroom required for stairs (although you could relax this to 1.8m on the edge of the stair if needs be).

Top Tip

Ask your designer to clearly illustrate how much headroom there will be across the floor in the finished space.

Some people are disappointed by how much standing space they actually have, and this isn’t always easily conveyed on plans.

If the initial roof space inspection reveals a head height of less than 2.2m, there are two available – but costly – solutions that will require professional input.

Solution 1: Raise the Roof

This is structurally feasible, but the major problems are the high cost and getting planning permission approval. If the whole roof area needs removing, a covered scaffold structure, to protect the house from the weather during the works, would also be required.

Solution 2: Lower the Ceiling in the Room Below

This will require all the existing ceilings in question to be removed, causing much mess. With this method a plate will need to be bolted to the wall using shield anchors or rawlbolts, for the new floor joists to hang from. There is also a need for a suitable tie between the roof structure and the dwarf wall formed, to prevent the roof spreading.

You will also have to assess whether the space you are gaining in the loft makes up for the space you are losing in the rooms below.

(MORE: How to convert your loft if you have a difficult roof construction)

Is My Roof Pitch Right for a Loft Conversion?

The higher the angle of the roof pitch, the higher the central head height is likely to be, and if dormers are used or the roof is redesigned, the floor area, and potential for comfortable headroom, can be increased.

Does my Roof Structure Allow for Conversion?

Traditional frame type roof structures are often the most suitable type for loft conversions, allowing the space to be opened up relatively easily and inexpensively. The rafters may need to be strengthened or additional supports added (your structural engineer will advise on what is required).

Trussed roofs require greater structural input, normally involving the insertion of steel beams between loadbearing walls for the new floor joists to hang on and the rafter section to be supported on — together with a steel beam at the ridge.

Will I Need to Move the Water Tank When Converting my Loft?

Without the roof space for water tanks and plumbing, the heating and hot water system may have to be replaced with a sealed system.

Unvented hot water cylinders make a better choice than replacing the boiler with a combi boiler, but they do take up a cupboard-sized room, which you will have to find space and budget for.

Do I Need a Designer for my Loft Conversion?

You have two main options (both will deal with planning permission, if required, and Building Regulations approval):

Option 1: Architect or Designer

Taking this route means that you can steer the design to your exact, bespoke specifications, but remember that, as this is likely to be a relatively small project, the design fees are likely to be a high percentage of the overall costs.

Your architect or designer will produce drawings which you then put out to tender, and you may find that you need to also hire a structural engineer.

(MORE: How to find the right architect)

Option 2: Design and Build Company

For an all-inclusive service (and price) then a design and build contractor is a great option. Design solutions and details are more likely to be standardised so you may find that you have less creative flexibility. 

Sponsored by Protek

What Insurance Do I Need if I am Converting my Loft?

If you are carrying out loft conversion works and are managing the project yourself you should arrange conversion insurance to cover the new works and the existing structure. This is because most home insurers will exclude loss or damage whilst the property is undergoing alteration or renovation.

It’s worth discussing your project with a specialist site insurance provider like Protek as loft conversion projects can be complex and often include liability assumed under the Party Wall Act 1996.

Site insurance caters for both the existing element of the property that’s being converted and all the new conversion works that go into the process. The existing structure is usually your house — so if the property collapses while creating a new opening for example, the renovation insurance will cover it and completely replaces the requirement for buildings insurance, which is not suitable.

All the works, including any temporary works, materials, plant tools and equipment need to be covered. Public liability and employers liability is automatically included to ensure you are adequately protected.

Adding a Staircase to a Loft Conversion

The ideal location for a staircase to land is in line with the roof ridge: this will make best use of the available height above the staircase.

The minimum height requirement above the pitch line is 2m, although this could be reduced to 1.9m in the centre, and 1.8m to the side of a stair.

In practice, the actual position will depend upon the layout of the floor below, and where necessary the available height can be achieved using a dormer or adding a rooflight above the staircase or, if appropriate, converting a hip roof end to a gable.

  • Maximum number of steps: the maximum number of steps in a straight line is 16 (typical installation usually only requires 13 steps)
  • Step size: the maximum step rise is 220mm, whereas the step depth or ‘going’ is a minimum of 220mm; these measurements are taken from the pitch point. The step normally has a nose that projects 16-20mm in front of the pitch line. However, the ratio of size must not exceed the maximum angle of pitch requirement of 42°. Any winders must have a minimum of 50mm at the narrowest point. The width of steps is unregulated, but in practice the winders are likely to limit the reduction in width.
  • Balustrading: The height minimum is 900mm above the pitch line, and any spindles must have a separation distance that a 100mm sphere cannot pass through.

(MORE: Staircase Design Guide)

Do I Need to Replace the Ceiling Joists When Converting a Loft?

In most cases, additional new joists will be required to comply with the Building Regulations as existing ceiling joists are unlikely to be able to take a conversion floor.

Your structural engineer will specify the size and grade required.

The new joists span between load-bearing walls, and are normally raised slightly above the existing ceiling plasterwork by using spacers below the joist ends. This spacing must be sufficient to prevent any new floor joist deflection from touching the ceiling plaster below.

The new joists run alongside the existing joists. Above window and door openings, thicker timbers are used to bridge the opening, so that pressure is not put on the existing opening lintel.

Rolled steel joists (known as RSJs) are also specified to distribute the load, and in some installations are used to carry the ends of the new joists. If head height is limited, then thicker joists, more closely spaced, can be specified.

Bringing Natural Light into a Loft Conversion

You have two feasible options when it comes to bringing in natural light — rooflights or dormers.

Rooflights

The most straightforward method is to use rooflights that follow the pitch line of the roof. This type is fitted by removing the tiles and battens where the rooflight will be fitted. The rafters are cut to make way for the rooflight after suitably reinforcing the remaining rafters.

The rooflight frame is then fitted and flashings added before making good the surrounding tiling.

This type of window is the most economic, and more likely to be allowed without planning permission.

Dormer Windows

Dormers not only give natural light but can add space to a loft conversion. They are particularly effective where the pitch angle is high, as the useful floor area can be increased.

The mansard type will give maximum conversion roof space because it projects the maximum available head height, thus giving a greater usable floor area. A hip to gable conversion has a similar effect.

Dormers and other similar conversions are normally installed by opening up the roof, and cutting the required specified timbers to size on site.

Some loft conversion companies will make the dormers off site in their workshop and lift into place. This process allows quick installation, and quick weatherproofing.

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Adding Artificial Lighting in a Loft Conversion

As in any successful interior scheme, different light sources should be combined, including ambient (substituting for daylight), task (reading, working) and accent (to add atmosphere) lighting.

Lighting options on sloping ceilings include downlights and track lighting. A section of flat ceiling beneath the ridge or within a dormer window is the ideal surface for downlights. Where the ridge is higher, it may be possible to suspend pendants or a track lighting system.

Ambient lighting can also be provided using floor and table lamps, providing they are on a switched lighting circuit so that they can be controlled, and ideally dimmed from the main wall switches.

Extensions normally increase the heat load requirement of the house and so the boiler has to be upgraded, but a loft conversion may require little extra capacity as the space will be well insulated and can improve the overall energy efficiency of the house.

Options for heat emitters in attic rooms include radiators, underfloor heating, or a combination of both, perhaps with electric underfloor heating mats in bathrooms.

However, if a bathroom is added, a boiler upgrade may be necessary. It is a good idea to switch to an unvented system that does not require header tanks but relies on mains pressure (as long as it’s at least 1.5bar).

(MORE: Guide to Underfloor Heating)

Insulating a Loft Conversion

The roof structure can be insulated in one of two main ways:

Cold Roof Loft Insulation

The most straightforward is to use a ‘cold roof’ method.

This involves filling the space between the rafters with 70mm-thick slab foam insulation, ensuring that there is 50mm spacing between the roofing felt and the insulation (for ventilation via the roof and soffit vents).

In addition, 30mm slab insulation is attached to the inside of the rafters, giving a total of 100mm of insulation. The rafter thickness is often less than 120mm, so a batten may be required along each rafter to allow the 50mm spacing and the 70mm insulation.

The roof section requires 300mm of mineral wool insulation (e.g. Rockwool), or 150mm of slab foam insulation, such as Celotex.

Warm Roof Loft Insulation

This method uses 100mm Celotex insulation or similar over the rafters, and a covering capping, followed by the tile battens and tiles. This is not really a practical option unless the roof coverings have been stripped off. It could be used with a dormer, especially if it has a flat roof.

Continuity of insulation between walls and roof is required to avoid any cold bridging. The dormer walls can be insulated with 100mm Celotex between the studwork.

The internal partition walls use a 100mm quilt that will provide sound insulation. Plasterboard is attached to one side of the wall then the quilt inserted, followed by plasterboard on the other side.

Insulation is also placed between floor joists, and this is typically 100mm-thick Rockwool fibre or similar — mainly for its sound-reduction properties.

Your Building Control inspector will specify exactly what you require.

(MORE: How to insulate a roof)

Insulating the Floor

Insulating the floor can be achieved by a mineral fibre quilt laid between the joists. Use the heavier, denser sound insulation quilt.

Insulating Party Walls

It is often necessary to insulate party walls — both against heat loss and noise. Introducing timber studwork with mineral fibre insulation will allow you to achieve both and it can be covered with sound-rated plasterboard.

Getting Ventilation Right in a Loft Conversion

To maximise energy efficiency, the roof space should be made as airtight as possible, and to counter this it is essential to introduce controlled ventilation to prevent the risk of condensation and maintain good air quality.

This means including background ventilation (airbricks and trickle vents) and rapid ventilation (via windows), plus extract ventilation in wet areas, such as bathrooms or a kitchen.

Attic bathrooms are not required to have a window providing the extract fan can provide rapid ventilation.

(MORE: How to solve condensation)

Adding a Bathroom in a Loft Conversion

If you are adding a bathroom you’ll need to think about the location of existing services. Adding hot and cold water supplies is straightforward, branched off the existing plumbing system either at the boiler or from the floor below. Flexible plastic plumbing is easy to thread through the joists.

Existing soil pipes are likely to be vented above roof level and it may be possible to boss a connection into this, or into another soil pipe on the floor below. Where there is no existing soil stack you may be able to add one; otherwise, a smallbore flexible waste pipe can be used to connect to the drains.

If you are going to put a bedroom in the attic then it makes sense to try and fit in a bathroom, but do follow these tips:

  • Place a shower where there is full headroom
  • A bath can be tucked under the eaves
  • A WC ideally needs full headroom, as does a washbasin
  • wetroom can be a space-efficient option, but needs full tanking
  • Use the voids in stud walls for concealed shower and tap mixers
  • Concealed cisterns in metal frames for building into studwork are ideal
  • Good lighting and large wall-to-wall mirrors create the illusion of space
  • Wall-mounted sanitaryware helps make a small bathroom appear more spacious

Loft Conversion Fire Safety

Single storey

Ensure that the new windows are large enough and low enough to escape from:

  • Egress window openings are needed to serve all first floor habitable rooms, but not bathrooms
  • Openings should be at least 450mm x 450mm and at least 0.33m2 in area
  • Rooflights are usually top opening — you must ensure the bottom of the opening is between 800mm and 1,100mm from the floor

Two storey

Things become more complicated if your loft conversion transforms a two-storey house into a three-storey home:

  • Escape windows that are over 4.5m from ground level are not viable. Instead, the Building Regs require a protected stair enclosure that leads right down to the final exterior door
  • If your staircase rises from a room, rather than a hall, you have two choices:
    1. It can be entirely enclosed within a hallway to an external door
    2. The staircase can be enclosed in a lobby at the base of the stairs. The lobby will have two separate doors, to offer a choice of either a front or back route of escape. These doors and the lobby walls will need to be fire-resistant and most likely open outwards into the rooms to avoid fouling the bottom of the stairs. If the doors do not open outwards into the rooms, they will be acceptable as long as they create viable options for escape in the event of a ground floor fire
  • For open plan homes, where the staircase lands in an open plan space, a sprinkler system may be the only option.

Floor Joists

The new floor joists of your loft conversion will need to offer at least 30 minutes’ worth of fire protection, which could mean replastering the ceilings in those first floor rooms below.

Doors

The loft room will also have to be separated by a fire door, either at the top or bottom of the new stairs.

The existing doors on the stairway to both ground and first floor should be able to provide 20 minutes of fire resistance or be replaced. They can’t be glazed either (unless with fire-rated glass), so you may want to consider windows or rooflights to bring daylight to the stairwell.

Smoke alarms

Mains-powered smoke alarms should be installed on each floor of your home and interlinked so that they all sound off when one is activated. Most have a rechargeable battery as a back up that allows the supply to be extended from a lighting circuit if necessary.

Wireless, radio-linked alarms can be fitted if you can’t hardwire to the ground floor ceiling.

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This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

General Election 2019: What Does Labour’s Manifesto Mean for Self Builders and Renovators?

The Labour Party has announced it will tackle the affordable housing crisis in the UK by building more low-cost homes and improving energy-efficiency standards.

In its manifesto released on Thursday, Labour also pledged to tackle climate change by introducing a zero-carbon standard for new homes. 

The policies are positive steps for the homebuilding industry, and while self builders, renovators and home improvers are not directly addressed, these pledges clear a path for improved quality and more affordable housing built across the UK. 

However, Claire Lloyd, editor of Homebuilding & Renovating, has questioned the details behind the policies. She said: “It’s unclear as yet as to how Labour aim to deliver more low-cost homes, but Self Build Wales – a scheme which will make more funding and plots available to help young adults and families build their own affordable homes – could perhaps provide a roadmap for achieving this pledge.” 

(MORE: Self Build: A Complete Guide)

How Will Labour Reduce Housing Costs?

Labour has pledged to “act on every front to bring the cost of housing down and standards up, so that everyone has a decent, affordable place to call home”.

The party will build more low-cost homes reserved for first-time buyers and reform Help to Buy to focus it on first-time buyers struggling to afford hefty deposits. 

Labour will also create a new Department for Housing and set out a strategy to augment the construction sector with rising numbers of skilled workers. 

(MORE: How to build a house for under £150,000)

Zero-Carbon Homes Standard

Labour will tackle the climate crisis and cut energy bills “by introducing a tough, new zero-carbon homes standard for all new homes”.

It will upgrade millions of existing homes to make them more energy efficient, and roll out heat decarbonisation technologies such as heat pumps, solar hot water and hydrogen to invest in reducing the costs of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production. 

These initiatives, Labour pledges, will reduce the average household energy bill by £417 per household per year by 2030. However, it is unclear how this calculation has been made. 

“We will trial and expand tidal energy and invest to reduce the costs of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production. We will upgrade almost all of the UK’s 27 million homes to the highest energy-efficiency standards […] and eliminating fuel poverty,” the manifesto says. 

(MORE: What is an eco home?)

Landbanking Developers

Labour will additionally set up a new English Sovereign Land Trust with powers to buy land at a lower cost. Rather than selling off land to the highest bidder, Labour will use public land to build the housing.

Moreover, developers will face “use it or lose it” taxes on stalled housing developments, meaning land supply will not be left locked.

Joseph Daniels, founder of modular developer Project Etopia, said of this move: “By going after landbanking developers and focusing on the crucial element of land supply, Labour have really shown they are determined to look properly at the real causes behind periodic declines in housebuilding.”

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

Homebuilding Industry Is Not Considering Community Growth, Report Suggests

Two-thirds of people in the UK believe that the homebuilding industry is not focused enough on supporting community infrastructures, a new report shows. 

A white paper from Eurocell reveals that 66% feel that too much emphasis is placed on the construction of homes, rather than the development of communities, while seven in 10 feel not enough consideration is afforded to the provision of educational, health and sports facilities within communities. 

The Eurocell report, which surveyed 1,000 people, with an equal split between homeowners, private renters and social housing occupants, has questioned planners and developers for focusing solely on building homes quickly, without consideration for the infrastructure needed to support them. 

The government has recently come under pressure for falling behind on its target of building 200,000 starter homes since 2014, while its aim to build 300,000 new homes annually has been called into question after it was revealed in October that the number of new build homes under construction in the UK has fallen to the slowest quarterly rate for three years. 

Eurocell said of its report: “It is estimated that, to address this and ensure that the housing stock deficit is erased, the UK needs to build 340,000 new homes every year until 2031. This is putting the residential construction sector under increasing pressure to not only meet, but exceed, the Government’s current pledge to build 300,000 new homes annually.”

Planning Decisions

An additional 55% of respondents said they felt that speedily building a high volume of homes negatively impact community spirit, while 44% reported that there was a failure to extend existing services such as doctors’ surgeries to account for new residents. 

The top factor identified by 37% of respondents for helping to improve the development of communities was involving local residents to input on planning decisions, while 36% called for greater collaboration between planners and service providers.

Earlier this month, a custom build housing scheme was announced that aimed to enable architects and homebuyers to work together to create better homes, which its project team believes “has the potential to be an exemplary approach to a new way of development”.

Meanwhile, Graven Hill is one of the influential sites transforming the self build movement through the creation of self build communities, which feature primary schools, community centres, shops and restaurants.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

4 ways an electrician can improve your home’s value

A professional electrician can do more for your home that just stop by for a routine maintenance check. In addition to the typical electrical services offered, electricians can help both maintain and improve the value of your home.

C2 Contracting in Edmonton is a general contracting company that is dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction. They share some of the ways their electricians can help boost your home’s value:

1. Certified and professional electrical work

Most electrical work is not something that should be DIYed by homeowners. While it may save money at the moment, electrical work can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Any potential buyers who see a home’s electrical system was done by the owner, will likely be less inclined to make an offer. With a professional electrician, however, not only are they qualified to handle the job, but any work will be certified. Having the stamp of a professional will both add value to your home and add interest to any potential buyers.

2. Provide energy saving tips 

An energy-efficient home that saves money is a majorly attractive aspect to buyers. Plus, while you save money each month, your home gains value for being so efficient. By bringing in a professional electrician, they will be able to take a look at your home and suggest some changes. This could mean swapping in LED lighting, updating old electrical systems and appliances or even just regularly getting a maintenance check. Even small things can add up to help improve your home, which in turn maintains and improves its value. Read about even more easy energy saving tips for your home.

3. Update any outdated lighting design 

It’s easy to become used to the way your lighting works or to automatically reach for the lights when a room is too dark. That being said, if you can’t remember the last time you got any work done or got an update, consider doing so. Bad lighting is a major culprit when it comes to losing out on energy efficiency and having higher electrical bills.

An electrician will be able to suggest some lighting changes to help improve both the mood and lighting in a room. Bad lighting makes a room dark and creates a closed-off feel. Likewise, too much lighting is blinding and electrically wasteful. Plus, with the right lighting design and accent lights, it can create a look to improve a room’s overall interior design.

4. Update your old panel for value and safety 

It’s important and worthwhile to have your electrician take a look at your electrical panel. If your home is an older model, it may be likely that it has an old fuse box or breaker panel. These older models aren’t built to handle the modern-day electrical demands, so they have a risk of overheating and sparking fires. For safety reasons, that’s why it’s important to have them checked, but it is also a long-term investment. An updated panel will be better suited to handle any electrical needs now, while later it can be used as a selling feature to buyers. By showing that your home has been maintained and taken care of professionally, it adds value to the home. Potential buyers will know that they are buying a ready to live-in home and not a financial fixer-upper!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com/

5 step guide to planning the perfect bathroom renovation

As both one of the most used rooms and one of the most personal, it’s important that you are happy with your bathroom. A dysfunctional and outdated bathroom can be a headache. That’s why, when you do plan to do a renovation, you want to ensure the job is done right and the results are perfect. A sure way to guarantee that is to remember that planning is key!

Bathrooms Bathrooms Bathrooms.com  in Edmonton is an expert bathroom renovation company. They share some important steps to consider before you start the renovations:

Step one: start with the basics

Tile selection and desired features are important; however, the foundation of any good bathroom renovation is building a waterproof envelope.  You can install the most beautiful tile available, but if you have not covered the basics, within a short period of time, it will be a smelly, moldy mess.  The starches in most wallboard is food for mold.  Spending the money now for a properly installed waterproof system, such as Wedi or Schluter will keep your bathroom functional and beautiful for the next 20 years.  A properly installed bathroom renovation will add over twice the value to your home as compared to the cost.

Step two: what’s the reason? 

Yes, one reason will be that you want to update the look of your bathroom, but what else? Any renovation is usually done with a purpose in mind, such as a larger, more functional kitchen. Or, knocking out that wall specifically to create a family room to host and entertain in. With your bathroom, it’s the same idea. What new needs and design layout does your bathroom need?

Is the renovation you are thinking of one or more bathrooms?  Are you are renovating to update the look, or is it to meet a specific need, such as aging in place, or a larger tub for soaking away the cares of the day?

Step three: Design and accessories 

Next, you need to decide how extensive a renovation you want.  Do you just want to change out the bathtub or shower and surrounding walls, or do you want new flooring?  What about extra lighting, a new vanity, a new toilet, or perhaps removing the old medicine cabinet? Check out universal bathroom features to keep or add to your renovation.

Step four: organization 

Storage spaces are key in a new bathroom, especially if you want a clutter-free room! Think about what storage units you want. Are lower cabinets and vanities with slide-out drawers right for you? Or would you rather have wall mounted shelving to open more floor space? If the bathroom is for visiting grandparents or kids, keep height and easy accessibility in mind as well.

Also, consider space with your fittings and fixtures. Do you want a larger shower area or more bathtub space? What about a large vanity with two sinks or just one with more counter space?

Step five: construction time! 

Now that you have a game-plan and budget already, it’s time to begin renovating! The planning stage is complete and it’s time to let the professionals tackle the actual transformation. Goodbye ugly bathroom, hello dream bathroom!

Bathroom Renovations in Edmonton

Bathrooms Bathrooms Bathrooms Ltd. is a company with a passion for bathrooms.  They love taking smelly, moldy, dysfunctional bathrooms and making them the most beautiful rooms in your home, from the inside out. When you work with them, you are guaranteed both top-quality customer service and, most importantly, top-quality results.

Don’t hesitate to contact them now!

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This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

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