Either way, you are best being as cost effective in sprucing up your properties in the current climate!
The stickiness of the housing market means that we may have to stay put for longer in a space that isn’t quite to our current requirements. Also to save extra cash means that we must attempt those tricky DIY jobs ourselves.
Just evaluating residential housing transactions in 2008, it is projected to be the lowest number of house moves for 50 years and is said to be some way below 800,000 sales. In more exhilarating times for the housing market the Land Registry states that almost one in three homeowners moved house in the UK between 2002 and 2006.
A recent study showed a whopping 91% of homeowners who were planning a move are now staying put for at least another six months (by Credit-Expert). Another poll showed that 2.7m owners have called off their plans to move this year (by RatedPeople.com ).
With this in mind Builder Superstore has put together a few thrifty tips to get you started.
Kitchens
Sprucing up your kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. It can be achieved by even just adding new doors and handles to exisiting units. The beauty of this is that they are often modular in size and easily replaced. You’ll be able to find the look you’re after and have them installed over one weekend. All the major DIY outlets offer quality real wood doors to take away. Worktops too can be replaced – a little more work and more expensive however top notch work surfaces can reinvigourate a whole kitchen.For kitchens a minimal amount of wall tiles can brighten things up which can be very cost effective. We have fantastic ranges of quality natural and ceramic wall tiles at low prices. Vibrant splashbacks and upstands can add much to a kitchen and offer a more simple solution to tiling if the wall is skimmed. Builder Superstore are currently working on an exciting range of splashbacks and upstands that will knock your socks off – coming soon!
Why not try replacing old, grubby window coverings to add a new dimension to the room. Ikea offer one of the cheapest ranges of blinds and are usually more contemporary than those on offer in the major DIY outlets.
Flooring must be updated and ceramic or porcelain tiles are the perfect option, especially with the latest 10% OFF on all porcelain tiles at Builder Superstore. Team this together with underfloor heating and the whole room will be transformed. Laminates are very cost effective however can swell when used in areas with excess water – which ruins the look. A particular favourite is vinyl adhesive floor tiles as they are very cheap and quick to install and the finish has the appearance of scraped real wood.
Bathrooms
This room is a deal breaker for any prospective buyer so pull out all the stops to make this add the wow factor. Even if you are staying put the room will be greatly enhanced by a few minor additions.
Cleaning old tiles can bring them back to life – bleach can remove any mildew on the grout. If they have had one too many nights on the tiles then sanding them down to for painting will rid you of any unsightly ceramica.
In terms of sanitaryware, without replacing the whole bathroom furniture, new branded taps will add a quality feel to the room and bring plain units back to life. A new shower curtain or enclosure will make the place look new aswell. Christmas with the in-laws will be more bearable if the bathroom is clean and tidy.
For quick and cheap cleaning of the shower head and screen try soaking it in distilled white vinegar for an hour or so.
Looking for Paving or Tiling? Speak to Builder Superstore
With next-day delivery to most of the UK, a wide range of tiles , paving , grout , adhesive and sealant , we can supply all of your tiling and paving needs. We offer secure payment facilities so you or your client can choose the tiles and paving you want and order them from us with complete peace of mind. Browse the site to find exactly what you’re looking for, or call us on 08000 192 405 or email contact@buildersuperstore.co.uk
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