The Home Improvement Centre » Garage Conversions

Choosing the Right New Garage Door

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:25:15 +0000

When undertaking a home improvement project, attention usually focuses on major building work such as an extension, loft conversion or fitted kitchen. Of course, this is perfectly understandable as these larger projects will very often increase the value of a property whilst providing additional space. Nevertheless, it is important that some of the smaller touches to a home improvement project are not neglected, as one day these can come back to haunt homeowners who are desperate to sell up.

Old and worn-out garage doors are typically unsightly and do very little to encourage potential buyers that the house itself is worth their investment. Undoubtedly, old garage doors have a tendency to break down or become stuck – a poorly functioning garage door implies that the remainder of the house has been neglected too, regardless of whether this is in fact the case or not. Thus, it is well worth putting the ‘wow factor’ back into a property by selecting brand new, fully functional garage doors, of which there are many different types available on the market.

A brand new ‘up and over’ garage door is usually the cheapest and most straightforward type to install. Up and over garage doors represent a good investment provided that they match the general facade of the house and are of a good quality construction. Garages that are situated close to the pavement or road, or where space is at a premium, will often benefit from roller doors, which are not always the most aesthetically pleasing options available but are certainly among the most functional. Indeed, roller doors also allow for cars to be parked up close to the garage itself, as the doors do not require any horizontal swinging space. Sliding doors also offer additional space, whilst it is generally important to consider the security provided by any new garage door.

Garage & Loft Conversions for the Wow Factor

admin — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:02:08 +0000

Although the UK housing market is in considerably worse shape than in 2007 – at least from the perspective of homeowners looking to sell – the number of homes being sold across the country remains at a steady rate.

Unfortunately, whilst certain home improvements such as a garage conversion or extension can add vital space to the home, it is sometimes necessary for larger families to simply move on. Considering the average cost of a home is not expected to return to 2007 levels for several years, now may be a good time for many people to sell.

Therefore, it is crucial homeowners are able to maximise the sale price of their homes in a deflated market. In order to achieve this, the adage first impressions count for everything is arguably the single most important factor to consider when preparing a home for sale. Indeed, a loft conversion or building extension will add thousands of pounds of value to a house but, if the look and feel of the home is wrong, many potential buyers will be turned off before making it to the front door.

Houses with that so-called ‘wow factor’ are, therefore, among the quickest to be sold on the market at the list price. There are a number of simple steps that can be followed to help create a positive first impression. Generally speaking, potential buyers will appreciate a well-kept front garden (however small), so always ensure the front of the home is professionally landscaped. Potted plants and hanging baskets can spruce up exterior walls, which can be pointed for further effect. Also, make sure the house is clearly numbered or named, there is sufficient lighting, window frames are in excellent condition and you have invested in a good quality front door.

Garage Conversions: to Park or Not to Park

admin — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:07:37 +0000

Although a garage conversion enables home-owners and developers the chance to free up valuable space in the home, it may not appeal to everyone. Indeed, those who value their wheels more than their living space will probably want to keep their motorised pride and joy safely tucked away in the garage.

Of course, this assumes that the garage provides enough space for the car, as many new-build properties would have difficulty accommodating an OAP’s electric buggy let alone a large family estate car. In short, the decision to convert a garage will rest largely on preference or necessity.

However, does converting a garage actually increase the value of the home? The more conservative of estimates, which puts the average cost of a garage conversion at around £10,000, suggests that a typical three bedroom family home worth £200K would increase in value by around 10%. Thus, the net profit that might be expected from a typical garage conversion would be in the region of £10,000.

Naturally, such a figure can only be accurately ascertained on a case by case basis. Nevertheless, in broad terms, it is important to consider a number of factors that may affect a garage conversion in terms of overall financial value. First, the size of the garage is crucial in determining both the conversion cost and potential for new living space. Indeed, a double garage may convert to an attractive reception room or gymnasium. However, that figure of £10,000 is very much a ballpark sum, so it is important to obtain a reliable quote before contemplating a conversion. It is also necessary to check building regulations and planning permissions before getting started, whilst it is essential that the property deeds are examined for restrictive covenants.

Loft & Garage Conversions for Extra Space & Value

admin — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:53:37 +0000

The state of the British housing market – a further fall of 1% in the price of an average residential dwelling in January contributed to a fall of nearly 10% year-on-year according to recent figures – precludes moving home for many homeowners. Families grow, nevertheless, and the emphasis in the immediate future is likely to be on maximising the space available in, or adding space to, existing homes.

A garage conversion, for example – whether you choose a DIY approach or employ a specialist company to complete the work for you – can be an affordable way of adding living space, and value, to your home. You may, for example, want to create an extra bedroom, or a home office, or even a dedicated home cinema.

A loft conversion, similarly, can add an extra bedroom, or bathroom, or both, and anything up to 20% to the value of your property. If you are planning to sell your home when the market recovers, however, prospective buyers may find a permanent solution more attractive than a retractable loft ladder, and Velux® roof windows.

Bear in mind that older properties – built in the early Seventies or before – may require less structural work than newer properties and clearance of 7½’ is required for a ceiling at standard height. If headroom is an issue, dormer windows – gabled windows that extend above the height of the original roof – may be a possibility, subject to planning, building, and fire safety, regulations.

If you are in any doubt about planning permission, etc., contact your local planning office. If you are considering an extra bathroom in your loft spaceyou also need to consider the location of soil pipes and the capacity of your existing heating and hot water system.