There’s a slightly uncomfortable truth about self building that, in my opinion, doesn’t get talked about enough: building projects are hard to manage. Run right, they feel controlled and predictable. When they’re not properly coordinated, the opposite happens: delays stack up, costs creep, mistakes happen and stress levels rise. Good project management is what keeps
The post Do You Need a Professional Project Manager for Your Self Build? An Expert Shares the Benefits appeared first on Build It.

Adding a single-storey house extension can transform your property – greatly enhancing living space, improving functionality and adding value. Prices vary depending on location, layout, complexity and specification – but if you’re satisfied an extension is the best way forward, go for it. Once you’re sitting in your beautiful new space, the hard work and
The post How Much Does it Cost to Build an Extension in 2026? Your Complete Guide appeared first on Build It.

Now more than ever, many homeowners are choosing to renovate their existing house rather than relocate, transforming their property into an energy-efficient, sustainable home that offers lowered running costs and is fit for the future. From upgrading insulation and retrofitting low-carbon heating systems through to incorporating renewable technologies and sustainable building materials, eco-renovation is no
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Renovating a home can be one of the most rewarding types of property development project. You could end up with a wonderfully characterful property that’s personal to you and is worth much more than your initial investment. However, you’ll need to observe, research and understand before you take the plunge. This involves assessing the project’s
The post What You Need to Know Before Renovating a House – How to Assess a Project’s Potential appeared first on Build It.

Timber cladding is an attractive external finish that works across a wide range of schemes and architectural styles. The cost of timber cladding, however, can vary depending on the type of timber you choose, the size and complexity of the project, and how much preparation and maintenance the cladding will require. The broad selection of
The post How Much Does Timber Cladding Cost? This is What to Budget for Exterior Wood Cladding in 2026 appeared first on Build It.

For any self builder or homeowner undertaking a renovation, a contractor becoming insolvent mid-project is their biggest fear. Due to the impact of unpredictable global events and increasing materials costs, this is becoming a very real risk. Insolvency occurs when a company or individual cannot pay debts that they are liable for, leaving them unable
The post What Happens if Your Builder Goes Bust in the Middle of Your Project? appeared first on Build It.

Choosing the exterior finishes for a self build or renovation is not just about how the house will look on completion. From timber cladding to metal, stone, slate, concrete tiles and fibre cement, there are plenty of options for the facade and roof. The materials you specify need to suit the architecture, budget and practical
The post How to Design a House with a Low-Maintenance Exterior appeared first on Build It.

Staircase ideas come in all shapes and sizes, but investing in the right design that meets your practical needs and ties in with your home’s architecture can really transform a space and how you move throughout it on a day-to-day basis. Staircases often take pride of place in a floorplan, and in many cases, they’re
The post 36 Amazing Staircase Ideas – How to Choose & Design a Staircase for Your Project appeared first on Build It.

If you’re planning a self build, renovating a property, or looking to add space, light and value to your current home, then you can’t afford to miss Build It Live – the UK’s most practical and informative self build and renovation event. Covering all aspects of self build, home improvement and renovation, Build It magazine is
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