Advice
Latest Advice

Central heating season is fast approaching – make sure your system is in tip-top condition with our autumn heating checklist
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
The essential six-step autumn central heating checklist experts say you should carry out now, before the arrival of colder weather

I price up house renovations for a living – this is what yours could really cost
By Tim Phillips Last updated
After costing countless building projects, our expert quantity surveyor breaks down a typical budget and reveals what a realistic full-house renovation could cost

12 plants that can turn a garden wall into a beautiful living feature
By Teresa Conway Published
From softening hard landscaping to giving wildlife a place to thrive, these plants can cover a wall and turn an overlooked feature into a garden showstopper

10 trees to plant now for a garden full of vibrant berries in autumn and winter
By Sarah Wilson Published
Give your garden a seasonal boost with these beautiful trees with berries, which provide a valuable food source for birds when they need it most

'Going out to tender' is a common phrase when self-building or extending, but what does it actually mean?
By Tim Phillips Published
Expert quantity surveyor, Tim Phillips, explains what's involved in the tendering process, how to get it right, and the common pitfalls to avoid

How much will renewable technology costs add to your build or renovation budget?
By Tim Phillips Published
From solar PV to heat pumps, renewables are becoming increasingly commonplace on projects. Our quantity surveyor lays out the common cost considerations

Are your carbon monoxide alarms protecting you enough? How I discovered a carbon monoxide leak that monitors missed
By David Hilton Published
Your carbon monoxide alarm should warn you of danger, but does it work as hard as it could? Following a recent near-miss, our expert thinks not, and here's why

Ever wondered why your paint colour looks nothing like you expected? This little-known number could be the reason why
By Gabriella Dyson Published
The answer could be hiding in a measurement called LRV. Here’s what the experts want you to know before you pick your next shade of paint

Move over colour drenching, cloud capping is the hottest new paint trend – here's how to make it work in your home
By Gabriella Dyson Published
After years of colour-drenched rooms, white ceilings are making a surprising comeback. Here’s how professional painters and colour analysts make cloud capping successful without losing impact

Not all electrical sockets are the same – here’s how to choose the right one to make everyday life so much easier
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Electrical sockets are easy to overlook, but they can make a surprising difference to how practical and convenient your home feels. Experts explain the different types and what to consider before choosing yours
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.