Mark Brinkley

Mark Brinkley

Mark is the author of the ever-popular Housebuilder’s Bible and an experienced builder. The Housebuilder’s Bible is the go-to hardback for self builders; originally published in 1994, it is updated every two years with up-to-date build costs and information on planning and building regulations, and is currently in its 14th reiteration.

He has written for publications such as Homebuilding & Renovating for over three decades. An experienced self builder, his latest self build, a contemporary eco home built to Passivhaus principles, was created on a tight urban brownfield plot.

Latest articles by

MVHR ducting

What’s it Like Living with Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery

By Mark Brinkley published

Experienced self-builder Mark Brinkley reflects on life with MVHR

Contemporary timber clad home

Soundproofing and Noise Control Guide

By Mark Brinkley last updated

A potent mix of open plan living, tall ceilings, lots of glass and hard floors – not to mention our children staying around longer – means noise is an issue that needs addressing in extension or self build projects. Mark Brinkley explains

Self-build with corten cladding

What is Corten?

By Mark Brinkley published

Corten, a weathered steel, has many benefits for self builders and extenders looking for something distinctive, says experienced builder Mark Brinkley

Blockwork extension

A Guide to Blockwork

By Mark Brinkley published

While timber frame enjoys a lot of hype in the self-build market, masonry has not yet had its day. Mark Brinkley weighs up the options

man plastering a wall

Wet Plaster or Dry Lining?

By Mark Brinkley published

What’s the best way to finish internal walls and ceilings? Mark Brinkley looks at the main options and their cost — and explains how to make the right decision for your home

Roof trusses

Roof Structures Explained

By Mark Brinkley published

There are more ways than ever to build a roof structure – some quicker and easier than others. Mark Brinkley explains the various options, including the flat, curved, panellised and trussed roof variations

Pocket door room divider

How to Choose Pocket Doors

By Mark Brinkley published

Pocket doors are a great solution for open plan spaces and small rooms alike, but the key to getting a pocket door right is all about what’s going on behind the plasterboard

A contemporary cedar-clad home built on a conservation site in the historic city of Bath

Flat Roofs: A Handy Guide

By Mark Brinkley published

Flat roof structures offer numerous advantages, from design and material options through to cost. But is it the right option for your project?

Open doorway in studwork wall

Internal Walls: Stud or Solid?

By Mark Brinkley published

What options do you have for the internal walls of your self build, and how do you choose? And, how do you check whether an existing wall in your renovation is loadbearing or not? We answer these questions and more

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