The quick way to find a local Home Improvements specialist

What is home improvement?

Home improvement encompasses a wide range of projects aimed at enhancing your home’s functionality, aesthetics, and overall value. These projects can vary from simple cosmetic updates like painting and decorating to major renovations such as kitchen remodels or adding extra rooms. Whether you’re looking to modernise your living space, increase energy efficiency, or prepare your home for sale, professional home improvement services can help you achieve your goals.

What types of tradespeople would I need for a home improvement job?

Home improvement projects often require a variety of skilled tradespeople to ensure that each aspect of the job is completed to a high standard. Here’s a detailed look at the types of tradespeople you might need for different types of home improvement jobs:

Builders

Builders are essential for any structural changes or major renovations to your home. They handle tasks such as building extensions, adding new rooms, converting attics or basements, and making significant alterations to the layout of your house. Builders can also manage large-scale projects, coordinating with other trades to ensure the work is completed efficiently and safely.

Electricians

Electricians are responsible for all electrical installations, repairs, and upgrades. Whether you’re rewiring your home, installing new lighting fixtures, or adding power outlets, a qualified electrician ensures that all electrical work meets safety standards and building codes. They are also essential for integrating modern smart home technologies and ensuring energy-efficient electrical systems.

Plumbers

Plumbers handle any work related to water systems in your home. This includes installing and repairing pipes, fitting new bathrooms or kitchens, and ensuring proper drainage. Plumbers are crucial for any projects involving water supply, such as bathroom remodels, kitchen renovations, and installing appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.

Carpenters

Carpenters provide a wide range of services, from constructing structural elements like staircases and frameworks to creating custom cabinetry and furniture. They are skilled in working with wood and other materials to build and install items that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Carpenters are essential for bespoke projects and detailed interior work.

Painters and Decorators

Painters and decorators enhance the appearance of your home through painting, wallpapering, and other finishing touches. They prepare surfaces, select appropriate materials, and apply paint or wallpaper to achieve a polished look. Their work can transform the interior and exterior of your home, adding value and improving the overall aesthetic.

Flooring Specialists

Flooring specialists are experts in installing and repairing various types of flooring, including hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, and carpet. They ensure that floors are laid correctly, providing a durable and attractive surface. Flooring specialists also advise on the best materials for different areas of your home, taking into account factors like foot traffic and moisture levels.

Roofers

Roofers are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and installing roofs. They work with a variety of materials, such as shingles, tiles, and metal, to ensure your home is protected from the elements. Roofers are crucial for addressing leaks, replacing damaged sections, and installing new roofing systems.

Landscapers

Landscapers focus on improving the outdoor areas of your property. They design and execute plans for gardens, patios, driveways, and other landscape features. Landscapers can also handle tasks such as planting, lawn care, building retaining walls, and installing outdoor lighting and irrigation systems. Their work enhances curb appeal and creates functional, beautiful outdoor spaces.

Tilers

Tilers specialise in laying tiles on floors, walls, and other surfaces. They work with materials like ceramic, porcelain, stone, and glass to create durable and attractive surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas. Tilers ensure that tiles are properly aligned, grouted, and sealed, providing a long-lasting finish that is both functional and decorative.

Glaziers

Glaziers, or window fitters, are experts in installing and repairing glass features in your home, such as windows, doors, and skylights. They work with various types of glass to ensure that installations are secure, energy-efficient, and visually appealing. Glaziers can also install custom glass features like shower enclosures, mirrors, and glass balustrades.

Plasterers

Plasterers prepare and apply plaster to walls and ceilings to create smooth or textured finishes. They are skilled in both traditional plastering techniques and modern drywall installations. Plasterers play a key role in achieving a high-quality finish for interior walls and can also work on decorative plasterwork and mouldings.

What home improvements add the most value?

Certain home improvement projects can significantly increase your home’s value. These include:

• Kitchen Remodels: Upgrading your kitchen with modern appliances, new cabinets, and quality countertops can provide a high return on investment.
• Bathroom Renovations: Updating fixtures, tiling, and adding extra bathrooms can enhance your home’s appeal.
• Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Installing energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation can reduce utility costs and increase your home’s market value.
• Adding Living Space: Converting attics, basements, or building extensions adds usable square footage, which can attract buyers and boost property value.
• Curb Appeal Enhancements: Improving the exterior appearance of your home with landscaping, new siding, or a fresh coat of paint can make a strong first impression.

Other home improvement FAQs

What home improvement decreases a home’s value?

Some improvements might not yield the desired return on investment and could even decrease your home’s value. Overly personalised renovations, excessive high-end upgrades in a modest home, or projects that reduce the number of bedrooms can negatively impact your property’s value.

How long does it take to flip a house?

The time required to flip a house varies depending on the extent of renovations needed and the availability of contractors. On average, a house flip can take anywhere from a few months to a year, from purchasing the property to completing the renovations and selling it.

What is the easiest home improvement?

One of the easiest and most cost-effective home improvements is painting. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the look and feel of a room, making it a quick and impactful upgrade.

Sign up as a home improvement expert

Sign up with Rated People to connect with high-quality homeowners looking for home improvement services. We do the legwork by providing you with leads, so you only need to quote for jobs that match your skills. With tens of thousands of ads posted every month, there’s always a demand for your services. Join today to grow your business with Rated People.

Get more quotes today