PRACTICAL WAYS TO TRIM THE COST OF YOUR RENOVATION

As every renovator knows, inserting steel girders into a building to support walls and ceilings is an expensive process, writes Ruth Bloomfield.

Ben Ridley, director of Architecture for London, recommended substituting timber beams and posts. “This is relatively straightforward in things like loft conversions and often in rear extensions too,” he said. “Timber beams are also easier to manage on site for contractors.

“The problem is that structural engineers default to using steel beams because it’s what they find easiest to calculate, so architects and clients need to be clear on instructing them to design in timber.”

COMPROMISE … YES, REALLY

Compromise on the quality of the finish, said Nick Willson, founder of Nick Willson Architects. “Rather than going top-of-the-range think about inexpensive options like plywood cladding for walls

(it can be painted easily) or painting over brickwork rather than ‘dry lining’ over it with plasterboard – you can always upgrade later. Another example would be to leave ceiling and roof timbers exposed and painted rather than put up plasterboard,” he said. “Again, a different aesthetic but it leaves the option to cover later.”

SLASH COSTS WITH CARPET

Carpet is usually cheaper than engineered wood, so make use of it in spare rooms at least to save money. It is also worth looking at laminate floors. “Some of them are so realistic now that they’re giving real engineered timber boards a run for their money,” said Ms Lander.

You might want a bespoke kitchen but having cabinets built is an expensive business.

IGNORE FARROW & BALL

Don’t get obsessed with designer names when choosing paint. “A five-litre tin of the famed Elephant’s Breath by Farrow & Ball in modern emulsion comes

A far more cost-effective option is to buy a standard carcass – from Ikea, Wickes or Howdens, for example – and get a joiner to make the doors, said Mr Willson.

Don’t leave sourcing materials to the last minute, said Gus Zogolovitch of Unboxed Homes, which specialises in building customisable new homes. “You pay a lot more if you have to run around at the last minute to find something in stock,” he said.

KEEP ARCHITECTS ON A SHORT LEASH

Shop in mainstream building in at £95, compared with £34 for a five-litre tin of Dulux Easycare Washable & Tough range,” said Viki Lander, creative director of architecture and design company Ensoul. supply stores, which will be your most economical option, and keep things simple. “Don’t let your architect draw something that is a non-standard size or a nonstandard material or colour,” said Mr Zogolovitch. “Check it’s available and in stock.”

SPEND SMART

If you have the funds Ms Lander suggested adding solar panels, heat pumps and other technology to keep fuel bills down. A typical 4kW solar panel system would cost £6,000 but rising prices mean the payback time is getting shorter.