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If you’re looking for a good builder but don’t know where to start, the Federation of Master Builders suggests you follow these guidelines to make sure you get the right person for the job - reports BBC Homes.

Recommendation

- Ask for references and names of previous clients. Speak to them and look at their previous work, if possible.

Deal with an established firm

- Make sure they have an office address, telephone number and use headed notepaper.
- Check they are a member of a reputable trade association, and if VAT is being charged, make sure there is a VAT number shown. Read the rest of this entry »

We recommend that you start with the basics.

* 5m tape measure
* Claw hammer
* Insulated pliers
* Set of screwdrivers
* Electrical test screw driver
* Junior hacksaw
* Stanley knife
* Spirit level
* Small adjustable spanner
* Cost - you can kit out a basic toolbox for around £60

If you want to splash out and spend an extra £45 to £55, then the following items will come in handy:

* Set of five paint brushes: 1in, 1.5in, 2in, 2.5in, 3in
* Roller and tray with three removable roller heads
* Stud detector
* Large adjustable spanner Read the rest of this entry »

Planning your decorating

Planning sounds boring but it does save time in the long run. It helps you think the job through, make all those difficult decisions about colour-scheming, and get together everything you need before you start work.

Budget

If you’re going to redecorate a room, begin by deciding how far you’re going to go. Will you just repaint the walls, ceiling and woodwork? Will you be papering the walls for the first time, or do you want to replace the paper you already have? And how about changing the carpet and curtains, even the upholstery and the lighting? These decisions will often depend on the size of your budget.

You can probably do a quick room repaint for £50, but add some new wallpaper and you’ll at least double the spend. More extensive changes than this will definitely have you dipping deep into your savings. The choice is yours, of course, but be sure you know what you’re in for before you start.

Start a file

Unless you like white rooms, you’ll need paint colour charts, wallpaper and even fabric samples to help you decide which products to use. Buy a cardboard pocket file or a scrapbook from a stationer’s to keep them all in. Read the rest of this entry »