Author: ASK

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How do I stop a leak in my roof?

ASK Building & Repairs hep people to fix leaks in your roof.

When we think of a leaking roof, the picture that pops into our heads is usually that of water pouring through a ceiling. While the signs of damage can be much more subtle, there’s no doubt that a leaking roof is a cause for concern and something that needs resolving. As a building and repair company in Derby, we’re often asked the question, ‘How do I stop a leak in my roof?’ In this blog, we discuss what to do if you have a roof leak, how to stop it temporarily and why hiring a professional roofer is the best solution.

What causes a roof to leak?

Many things can cause a leak in your roof. General wear and tear is the most common culprit, but broken/loose roof riles can lead to water trickling. Bad weather is another factor that can cause damage to a roof, mainly if there’s been a lot of rain or strong winds.

How do I find the leak in my roof?

If you suspect you have a leak in your roof, it’s a good idea to identify the problem so you can see the extent of the damage. Start by seeing if you can spot any signs of water on the walls and ceiling, such as watermarks and damp patches. If you have access to your loft, pop up and see if you notice a musty or mouldy smell or excess moisture. Circling the area with chalk (if you have any) will help you mark the original location and indicate how far the water is spreading.

A good time to investigate a leaking roof is after rainfall, as visible water can help you to pinpoint where the drip is coming from. Just don’t attempt to climb onto the roof yourself. Not only is this extremely dangerous, but you could accidentally cause more damage, which could bump up the cost of repairs.

Can I stop a leak in my roof?

Unfortunately, a roof leak won’t heal itself. The longer you ignore it, the worse the damage will be, which means bigger repairs in the long run. Because mending roofs and working at height is dangerous business, it’s best to leave the work to a professional roofer, however, you can do some first aid to try and minimise the damage. This won’t necessarily stop the leak, but can it help to keep costs down:

Catch the water

Try and contain the water in a bucket by placing it under the leak. This will also give you an idea of how much water is collecting.

Release the built-up water

This can sound a bit daunting but it’s a good idea to pierce a hole and create a channel for water to escape from. This will help you to control the flow of the leak too.

    Move furniture out of the way

    It goes without saying, but moving any furniture or belongings out of the way is also a good idea so they don’t suffer any water damage. You could also cover your carpet with plastic sheeting if you have any to hand.

    Take photos

    If you plan on claiming repair work through your insurance company, it’s worth taking some photos, as you may need to provide them as part of your claim. ASK Building and Repairs can help you with this, as we have plenty of experience in completing work under home insurance policies.

    Although you could apply a generous amount of roof patch to the leaking area, this will only serve as a temporary fix to stop the leak from causing any further damage. If you want to stop a leak in your roof, we’d always recommend speaking to a professional who can assess the damage and repair your roof safely.

    Why should I use a professional roofing service to stop a leak in my roof?

    If you’re a confident DIYer, the thought of fixing a cracked roof tile that’s causing a leak might seem simple, but it’s a dangerous job that’s best left to the professionals. Not only will they have the correct equipment, they’ll also be able to identify any other structural issues that need attention before they cause problems in the future.

    Hiring a qualified roofer will also give you peace of mind that the repair has been done properly. The last thing you want to do is cause more damage to your roof by accidentally breaking tiles and worsening the water leak. Ultimately, having a leak in your roof can be very stressful, and professional roofers are very experienced in solving the problem quickly, safely and with minimum disruption.

    Contact ASK Building & Repairs in Derby

    If you have a leak in your roof and would like to find out more about getting it fixed, please give ASK Building and Repairs a call on 07773 019 410 or send an email to info@askbuildingandrepairs.com. We’ll happily come out to your property to take a look at the problem and provide you with a no-obligation quote that will cover all aspects of the repair.

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    Using trusted builders in Derby like ASK Building & Repairs

    Finding trusted builders in Derby - use ASK Building & Repairs

    As a building and repair company, we receive a lot of enquiries from people who need work doing to their homes as part of an insurance claim. It could be that a pipe has burst in their kitchen and caused water damage. They often come to us if they are struggling with finding trusted builders in Derby.

    Or that a wall needs repairing after being hit by a car. But regardless of the circumstances, our customers often ask us whether they need to use the contractor recommended by their insurance company or if can they use a trusted builder in Derby instead.

    Here we discuss the benefits of choosing your own building company to carry out repair work as part of an insurance claim and how ASK Building and Repairs can help you.

    You are in control of the trader you have in your home

    As the policyholder, you are entitled to choose who carries out the work if you have repairs done to your property as part of an insurance claim. It’s quite likely that your insurance company will try and persuade you to choose a contractor they recommend because they have been offered a discounted rate for the work they receive.

    But this can often lead to contractors cutting corners because they need to complete more jobs to cover the cheaper rate they charge. You are very much in control of the builders you have in your home, so whether you’re happy to go with the insurance company’s recommendation, or you want to choose a trader that you know and trust, the choice is entirely yours.  

    What are the advantages of choosing your own trusted builder if you need insurance work doing?

    We regard ourselves as being trusted builders in Derby and understand the importance of feeling comfortable with the people who are working in and around your home. If you choose your own contractor to carry out our repairs as part of an insurance claim, you will have more control over the situation.

    Finding trusted builders in derby

    You may well know a builder who has completed work on your home before who you like and wants to use again because of their attention to detail. It could also be argued that the insurance company choose their contractors based on cost as opposed to reputation, which doesn’t always bode well, particularly if some of the work will be unsupervised.

    Dealing with an incident involving property repairs is stressful enough, so selecting a builder you’re familiar with and who is local to you can make the situation much easier.

    ASK Building and Repairs can help if your insurance company are dragging their feet

    The truth is that even if you’ve been paying into a policy for years, insurance companies will try and find a loophole if they can. ASK Building & Repairs has plenty of experience in completing work as part of home insurance claims and are happy to advise where we can.

    All too often, clever wording is used to try and sway the property owner into making a decision they’re not happy with, so speaking to us can give peace of mind, especially if the insurance company aren’t accommodating your needs.

    ASK Building and Repairs can also liaise with the insurance company on your behalf to cut down on admin tasks and help to free up your time. We make the process of finding trusted builders in derby so much easier.

    Finding your trusted local builders today – ASK Building & Repairs

    If you’d like to speak to Guy about any property repair work you need doing as part of an insurance claim, you can call him on 07773 019 410 or send an email to info@askbuildingandrepairs.com.  

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    I need help with my garden

    ASK Building & Repairs help with garden repairs.

    Despite starting out as a property repair company, one of the most common phrases we’d hear from customers is, ‘I need help with my garden.’ Sometimes people would get in touch because they’d brought a house to renovate and found the garden needed attention too. On other occasions, customers wanted their garden to reflect their lifestyle, so it was easier to maintain. And often, gardens would need gutting and clearing to get rid of dead plants and other debris. In the end, the demand for garden work was so high we decided to add it to the range of home and repair services that ASK Building & Repair provides. Here we look at some of the most frequent requests we receive about gardens and how we can help you.

    ‘I need help with my garden – when should I book the work in?’

    Although we provide garden maintenance services all year round, if you’re after big changes, it’s best to book the work during the cooler months. Not only is it easier to get the materials we need, but our contractors also have better availability. Booking early also means your garden will look its best in time for summer.

    Garden makeover

    No one wants to be sat outside on a warm evening with their garden in disarray because it’s in the middle of having a makeover. So, by getting the project started in winter or spring, it will be finished when you want to get the most use out of it. If you’re interested in making some smaller changes to your garden, there is a better chance of availability during the summer months, but larger projects are best booked in towards the beginning of the year.

    ‘I need help with making my garden easier to look after.’

    Gardening is a hobby that a lot of people enjoy, but fitting it in can be difficult, especially if you have a large garden that needs attention. Over the last few months, we’ve seen an increase in demand for gardens that are easy to look after without compromising on presentation. The whole point of having a nice area outside is to enjoy and make the most of it, which is difficult to do if it’s overgrown and requires a lot of work.

    Make changes to your garden

    ASK Building & Repairs can help by making changes to your garden so it’s easier to look after. Adding shale, bark or paved areas all help to reduce general upkeep, and rockeries are self-sufficient but still a great way to display plants and flowers. Whether you have an idea in mind that you want to execute or would like some advice on ways to make your garden easier to look after, we can help.

    ‘I need help with clearing my garden.’

    It’s very easy for gardens to become overgrown and need stripping back. This doesn’t necessarily mean that all plants and hedges need to be ripped out and taken away. Instead, it’s a great opportunity to remove any dead overgrowth and past its best so other things have more room to flourish.

    Garden clearance is a common request we receive

    Garden clearance is a common request if a house has been purchased and the outside needs some attention or if a customer cannot keep on top of their garden and requires more than a quick tidy-up. We can also dismantle and remove any old or unsafe structures, such as sheds and decking and organise skips to remove the debris. It’s brilliant to see a garden transform, and removing waste is the first step to take if you want to start afresh.

    Need help with your garden?

    If you need help with your garden and would like us to visit your property to take a look, please phone Guy on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com. We’re happy to help with small garden jobs and more significant projects, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

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    How should I choose a local building and repair company?

    Choose a local Building and repairs company available by ASK Building & Repairs.

    Choosing a local building and repair company to care for your home and garden repairs is a big decision. Not only are you investing your time and money into their business, but you need to ensure you’re happy with whoever works in or around your property.

    As reputable builders in Derby, we understand that it can be challenging to know whether you’ve chosen the right company for the job you need to do. To simplify things, we’ve put together some of the questions we think it’s worth asking building and repair companies before you agree to their quotes.

    Are they local to you?

    When you start to research a building company, it’s a good idea to find out whether they’re local to you and familiar with your area. If you’re in Derby, choosing a local business can have advantages because you’ll be dealing with people who are in the same community. They’ll also understand the importance of providing a personal, reliable service and will be more likely to go above and beyond to maintain their local reputation.

    Who will you be dealing with to find a local building and repair company?

    If you phone ASK Building and Repairs to enquire about a service, Guy will be the person who answers the phone and comes out to your property to discuss your enquiry. By having one point of contact, you won’t be passed from pillar to post and will always be able to speak to the person organising the work.

    You’ll also be able to get to know Guy before the repair or building work begins on your property, and he will be able to put your mind at rest if you have any queries or concerns. One of our pet hates is being put on hold while we wait to be connected to the right person, so we take communicating with our customers very seriously. We’ve even worked with a local marketing agency in Derby to help us with our communication.

    Are they happy to work on smaller projects?

    Some reputable builders in Derby prefer to take on more extensive construction and renovation projects. There will always be a demand for this work, but it’s essential to know that some traders are happy to take on smaller jobs too. Sometimes, finding the time to work through a list of DIY tasks can be difficult when we lead busy lives, and calling in a building and repair company can help reduce our ‘to-do lists.’

    Other factors are also to consider, such as mobility or not having the correct equipment needed to tackle the job yourself. At ASK Building and Repairs, we will never dismiss a job that customers may dismiss as being ‘too small or ‘not worth bothering someone about.’ All property repairs are essential, regardless of the time it takes to complete them, but it’s worth checking to see that the business you enquire with can meet your needs from the start.

    Can they show you examples of their work?

    Regardless of whether you need plastering, plumbing, painting, or gardening services, it’s not unreasonable to ask prospective building companies to show you photos of projects they’ve worked on. This can give you peace of mind if you want to ensure the builder is reputable and has the necessary experience.

    When looking for a local building and repair company, it’s also a good idea to have a look at their social media pages, as these can feature photos of projects they’ve completed in the form of ‘before and after’ posts. Ultimately, if the company you enquire with has any respect for their customers, they’ll go the extra mile to reassure you or address any reservations you have.

    Contact a local building and repair company

    If you’d like to speak to Guy at ASK Building and Repairs about a job you’d like doing or would like to learn more about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can phone Guy on 07773 019 410 or send an email to info@askbuildingandrepairs.co.uk.

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    Tips on getting your garden summer ready

    Utilise builders in Derby

    In light of the RHS Chelsea Show that’s being held in London this week, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to discuss all things green with Guy, our director. Alongside running ASK Building and Repairs, Guy is a keen gardener with an allotment where he grows plants, fruit, and vegetables. In this blog, he discusses what you can do to make the most of your garden, current trends and why people looking for builders in Derby could also speak to Guy about getting their garden ready for summer.

    Guy, what is your favourite flower and why?

    I love sweet peas and carnations because they were my Grandad’s favourite flowers and he used to have them in his garden. They’re quite easy to grow and smell beautiful. My wife also loved those, and I used to pick them for her.

    Do you have any tips for people who are quite new to gardening?

    Wildflowers are a great choice if you want some colour in your garden and are good for the environment because they attract bees and other insects. You can buy a packet of wildflower seeds from garden centres, and they tend to come back year after year. Sunflowers, cornflowers and sweet peas could also be planted now and are fast-growing so you still have time to enjoy them in your garden over the summer.

    What can people do that will make a big difference to the look of their garden?

    If you want to give your garden a bit of a facelift, painting your fence a new colour can make an outdoor space look very different. Adding shale or slate is also great for a garden makeover, as it can be used for making borders or pathways. You can dig down through the shale and plant into the soil so your flowers grow but are self-contained.

    Use your local builders in Derby to help

    It can also be used to keep weeds under control, so it’s a great way to make your garden look neat but with very little maintenance. We cover both fence painting and garden maintenance as part of our services and always enjoy transforming outdoor spaces for our customers.

    Are there any gardening services that have experienced an increase in popularity?

    Since the pandemic, we’ve noticed that patio areas are more popular because people want somewhere to relax or entertain so they can make the most of their gardens. We’re also getting a lot of requests for rockeries, which are great if you want a low-maintenance garden because the plants in them tend to spread out. They also look great year after year, so they’re a real investment. Artificial grass is another popular choice for those who want their garden to look good but don’t have a lot of time to spend on it. We can help with all of these types of projects so our customers can enjoy a space with very little upkeep.

    What sort of plants are good to purchase at this time of year?

    If you want to invest in some new plants, check their labels or packets to make sure they’ll survive the frost so you can enjoy them year after year. Lavender is a good choice because it’s quite hardy and won’t get damaged in frosty weather. The bees love it too!

    Use builders in Derby to build your roses

    Roses, especially climbing or rambling roses, are also lovely and spread up the fence, which looks really pretty. If you plant them now, you should still get some colour this year if you buy a decent-sized plant and look after it properly.

    Is it too late to get gardens ready for summer?

    We generally advise people to get big garden projects booked in early to avoid disappointment, but we can still help with getting the outside of your home ready for summer. If you don’t want a complete overhaul of your garden but want it to have a bit of a makeover, decking is a great choice and installing steps can add interest or make it more accessible.

    As builders in Derby – we can assist you

    Regarding planting flowers, bedding plants will be available for another month or so in garden centres, so it’s worth looking and seeing what’s there. Although we’re builders based in Derby, we will always happily assist with any garden projects you have in mind or want to pursue. Gardening is a real passion of mine, and it’s lovely when customers want to discuss their plans with me.

    Contact your local builders in derby – ASK Building & Repairs

    If you’d like to learn more about the gardening or maintenance services ASK Building and Repairs provides in Derby, please call Guy on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com.

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    What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola?

    What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola?

    If you fancy adding some shade and functionality to your garden, the idea of investing in a gazebo or pergola has probably crossed your mind. Although they’re both similar when it comes to their purpose, they do have important differences that should be considered before you decide to make a purchase.

    Because we provide garden services in Derby, people often speak to us for advice on choosing the right structure for their outdoor space. In this blog, we look at the difference between a gazebo and a pergola to help you pick the proper structure and design for your garden.

    What are the characteristics of a pergola?

    • A pergola is simple in design, with a slatted, rectangular roof supported by four columns or pillars.
    • Because they have open sides and let in light, pergolas are great for creating a living or dining space where you want to stay bright and sunny.
    • Pergolas can be standalone structures or extend from the side of your property for a more seamless look.
    • They come in varied shapes and sizes to suit the size of your garden and can be made from a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, stone or even aluminium.  
    • Pergolas tend to be secured onto the ground, which is why you see them attached to a patio or decking.
    • Because pergolas are open structures, you must add furniture underneath to make it a functional space. The seating isn’t attached or built-in.
    • Pergolas are more versatile than gazebos and easier to customise to your own taste. They’re also very easy to decorate with hanging lights, plants, or vines placed over the top.

    What are the characteristics of a pergola and a gazebo?

    • A gazebo is a freestanding, rounded structure with a covered roof, providing complete shade.
    • Gazebos tend to have a more intricate design than a pergola and are more enclosed. They usually have one open entrance and half-walls on the remaining sides, so they offer more shelter from the elements.
    • Because they’re freestanding, gazebos have their own foundation and are usually raised from the ground with a step that takes you inside.
    • Unlike pergolas, gazebos stand-alone and are placed further away from the property. They are best for creating a shaded centrepiece in the garden.
    • Gazebos often come with built-in benches along the sides, so you don’t need to purchase other furniture to sit on.
    • Because they have more structure than pergolas, gazebos tend to be more decorative. Their railings, arches and spindles can be quite ornate, especially compared to a pergola’s four posts.
    • A gazebo is typically made from wood, and it’s very rare to see them made from other materials such as metal and stone.

    How do you know whether a gazebo or a pergola is the right choice for your garden?

    The main difference between a pergola and a gazebo is that pergolas define a space and help you to make the most of it, whereas gazebos create a space because they’re set apart from your property.

    Make the correct choice for your home

    To make the correct choice for your home, it’s important to think about your needs and what you want to use your outdoor structure for. If you want a more shaded design and a separate space that you can use for entertaining and relaxing, a gazebo is a good choice. However, a pergola is the better option if you want a structure that provides partial shade, more light and an obstructed view.

    The other thing to consider before making an investment is the size of your garden. If you have a big lawn, a gazebo is ideal for creating extra living space. But if you have a limited surface area outside, a pergola can act as an extension of your home without requiring as much room.

    Speak to ASK Building and Repairs for advice on making the most of your garden and home

    If you’re considering purchasing a structure for your garden but would like some advice on the right option, ASK Building & Repairs can help. Whether you’d like a pergola or gazebo installed or you’d like to give your outdoor space a complete makeover, you can contact us at 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.co.uk. We’ll answer any questions that you have about the project you have in mind and provide you with a no-obligation quote if you’d like one.

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    What are the pros and cons of installing artificial grass?

    Artificial Grass - Installing artificial grass with ASK Building & Repairs

    Artificial lawns can be a controversial subject. While some people have made the decision to swap from real grass to artificial variety, others are still very much against making the switch. At ASK Building and Repairs, we regularly install artificial grass in Derby and are often asked whether it’s a good investment for the garden. To help you determine whether it will suit your lifestyle, we’ve looked at the pros and cons of installing artificial grass and having it in your garden, so you can make a balanced decision.

    What are the benefits of installing artificial grass?

    Low maintenance

    If you’re not a fan of gardening, artificial grass could be the solution you’re looking for. Because it doesn’t need mowing or watering, it requires very little maintenance and upkeep. This means you don’t have to dedicate time to keeping your garden tidy when you’re busy or if it isn’t something you enjoy.

    Weather resistant

    Unlike natural grass, the artificial kind looks excellent in all weather throughout the year. You won’t have to worry about it going yellow in the summer, being muddy or not draining correctly when it rains. Instead, you’ll have a lawn that looks aesthetically pleasing, whatever the season, and be useable all year round. 

    Child-friendly

    If you have little ones, artificial grass is a child-friendly alternative because it’s mess free and requires no chemicals or pesticides for its upkeep. Its cushioned texture also makes it a comfortable surface for them to play on, particularly when they’re young. Installing artificial grass is also a good option if you have play equipment in your garden, such as slides or trampolines, because the lawn underneath them won’t fade or discolour.

    Good for allergy suffers

    Because artificial grass is allergy-free, it’s perfect for hay fever sufferers. Grass pollen is commonly a cause of symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes and a scratchy throat, which can make spending time in the garden difficult. Artificial turf is pollen-free, so you’ll be able to enjoy your new lawn without worrying it will trigger your allergies.

    Mud free

    Muddy laws can be a real bugbear in winter when the weather is wetter, especially if you have a dog who likes digging! Artificial lawns are mud-free, which means no more muddy footprints, no more digging for our pets and less time spent cleaning the floors. 

    What are the cons of installing artificial grass?

    It can heat up on hot days

    As much as England isn’t known for its tropical climate, artificial grass can get hot in extreme heat. Spraying the grass with cool water, wearing shoes and not sitting directly on the grass can all help in the event of a heatwave, but it’s worth noting that a real lawn won’t reach such a high temperature.

    It can take the joy away from gardening

    As much as the low-maintenance aspect of artificial turf can be a selling point for some people, others prefer the look and smell of a real lawn. If you find gardening enjoyable and take pride in its appearance, you may prefer to stick with real grass instead of synthetic to keep your garden as natural as possible.

    Reduces biodiversity

    Installing artificial grass could reduce the biodiversity of your garden because it’s not a suitable habitat for wildlife. As much as they can look like the real thing, the synthetic fibres don’t provide any food for living creatures such as birds and insects because they restrict access to the soil underneath. If you’re big on nature, this option might not tick the right box for you.

    Natural grass is longer-lasting

    Depending on the quality of installation and the type you go for, artificial grass is expected to last 7-15 years. This is still long and will provide you with years of fuss-free lawn. However, some people still prefer the natural option because it requires more maintenance and has a longer lifespan. 

    If you’re interested in installing artificial grass but unsure whether it’s the right choice, we’re happy to discuss it with you. Please contact Guy on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com, and he will talk through the options with you or arrange to view your garden and provide a no-obligation quote.

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    How to add value to your home – part 2

    Add value to your home with ASK Building & Repairs

    In our previous blog, we visited the topic of adding value to your home and what you can do to get the selling price you’re after. As a building and repair company in Derby, we’re often asked to make improvements to properties to make them more appealing to potential buyers. Providing advice on home improvements is what we do!

    From small maintenance tasks such as updating paintwork to bigger projects like insulating the loft, we can help get your home ready for selling so viewers think it’s worth every penny. Here’s how to add value to your home.

    Resolve structural issues

    As much as decorating and updating the inside of your home can boost its appeal, cosmetic improvements are fairly pointless unless any structural issues are addressed first. These can include external defects such as a leaking roof, missing roof tiles and a broken chimney stack, or internal problems like dampness, structural cracks in the walls or a collapsed floor.

    This sort of work will be at the more expensive end of the scale when it comes to getting your home market-ready, but failing to address these tasks could make a big difference to the figure you sell it for. It’s best to discuss any structural issues with a builder or surveyor who will offer professional advice on resolving them. Once your home’s foundation is secure, you can update its aesthetics, knowing you’re in a better position to ask for the selling price you want.

    Rewiring an old house

    Whether you’re selling the house you’re living in or buying a property to renovate and market for a profit, the electrics may need updating if the building is old. Rewiring the house might well cause some disruption, but installing a modern unit with an RCD (residual current device) is a valuable safety feature because it will automatically switch off the electricity if there is a fault. If you reassess the electrics, adding an extractor fan in the bathroom is also worth considering. This is especially important if the room isn’t well-ventilated, as this accelerates the growth of mould.

    You could also think about updating the lighting to make the most of the available space or add extra sockets to make the home more user-friendly. If you’re unsure whether your property needs rewiring or in need of an electrical update, you can speak to us for advice so you can make an informed decision.

    Insulate your loft to improve your EPC rating

    As energy bills remain sky-high and the cost of living shows no sign of changing, a home that saves money will stand out to a potential buyer. One of the ways you can add value to your property is by insulting your loft and making it more energy efficient. Up to 25% of the heat lost will be through the roof, so making this change has the potential to significantly reduce your outgoings. Providing advice on home improvements is what we do!

    How it adds value to your home

    This will increase the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, which many buyers check before even viewing a property. Because economic features are very much on the radar, people can often be willing to spend more on a property if they can see their long-term outgoings will be less. What’s more, there is a direct link between improved EPC rating and higher property value, so opting to get your loft insulated could see you get the selling price you’re after.

    Project in mind? – How to add value to your home

    Whether you have a big project in mind or have a snag list of smaller jobs to get through, ASK Building and Repairs can take the pressure off your shoulders and free up your time. We are based in Derby and are happy to view properties throughout the Midlands to provide a non-obligation quote and discuss the work in person. If you’d like to speak to us, please call 07773 019 410 or alternatively, you can email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com.

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    How to add value to your home – Part 1

    Update your garden with ASK Building & Repairs to add value to your home

    If you’re thinking of selling your home, it’s important to add as much value to it as possible. This doesn’t always mean you need to begin a big construction project or renovate every aspect of the property, but there are repair and maintenance jobs that will make a big difference to its appeal.

    How to add value to your home

    First impressions count for a lot when you’re trying to sell up, but as a building company in Derby, we can take the pressure off and help to make your home as desirable as possible for potential buyers. 

    Update your home’s exterior to make the right impression  

    The outside of your home is the first thing people will see, so it’s important to make sure it’s in good shape. Buyers are likely to decide whether they like a property before they’ve even set foot out of the car, so the exterior needs to make sure it sets the right tone for the rest of the viewing.

    Repainting brickwork is a good starting point, along with making sure your doors and windows are clean and damage free. You could also repair any broken cladding or consider adding plants and a trellis to soften the property’s appearance. Sometimes even the smallest changes can make a huge difference to your home’s kerb appeal and help it sell for the price you want, so it’s worth focusing your attention on or hiring the skills of a professional.

    Make sure your garden is neat and tidy

    Making sure your garden is well-kept and tidy will reflect well on your home. You don’t necessarily need to re-design your backyard, but there are steps you can take to ensure potential buyers have a good first impression of your property.

    Adding a fence (or fixing a broken one) will improve privacy, while a decking area will add a functional living area between the house and the garden. It’s also a good idea to carry out basic tasks such as weeding, cutting back overgrown hedges, and ensuring the lawn is mowed and well-kept. If this sounds like too much maintenance, then there is always the option of artificial grass. You could also add coloured plants or paving slabs to your garden to add interest or a patio area for relaxing. Whatever you choose, the main thing is to ensure your garden is neat and tidy and shows viewers its full potential. A landscape gardening company can advise and help ensure your front and back yard is an extension of your home.

    Address any decorating work and focus on the small details

    Painting and decorating are usually the first tasks that spring to mind when it comes to updating your home before it goes on the market. You don’t need to give every room in the house a makeover, but smoothing over the small details will make a big impact.

    Painting over any scuff marks or watermarks, replacing loose wall tiles and filling in cracks in the ceiling are all tasks that should be ticked off your list before the estate agent takes photos. It’s also advisable to replace mouldy sealants in the bathroom, get rid of peeling paint and mend any dripping taps so potential buyers aren’t tempted to form a snag list of improvements. These jobs can be easily resolved if you’re a confident DIYer but are also covered by ASK if you want assistance or professional advice.

    A range of building services provided by ASK Building & Repairs

    As a building and repair company in Derby, we provide a range of services that will help to get your property ready for selling. From painting and decorating, to gardening and brick work, we can visit your home to discuss the work you’d like doing and provide you with a no-obligation quote.

    Let us help you add value to your home

    If you’d like to speak to us about the project you have in mind, please call ASK Building and Repairs on 07773 019 410 or email info@askbuildingandrepairs.com. He will answer any questions that you have and arrange an appointment to visit your property and discuss the work in person.

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    Five reasons why spring is the perfect time to repaint the outside of your home

    ASK Building & Repairs can help with your exterior paint work in Derby

    Whether you’re in Cornwall or Derby, updating the paint work outside your home can make a massive difference to its appeal. It’s easy to overlook a property’s exterior in winter when we spend a lot of time inside. Still, as the lighter evenings lure us out of hibernation, it’s an excellent time to turn our attention to outdoor maintenance jobs and building repairs. Here are five reasons why spring is the perfect time to focus on painting projects and get the outside of your home looking its best for summer.  

    Spring provides the perfect painting weather

    Bad weather and paint are not a good combination. Although you can paint outside your home any time of the year, it’s best executed in mild weather. Cold temperatures can cause fresh paint to stain or grow mildew due to excess moisture, and hot weather can make it dry too quickly, then blister and crack. The spring climate is an excellent middle ground to freshen up your home’s exterior because the heat isn’t intense but severe frosts should be over and done with for a while.

    Increases the value of your home

    If you want to sell your property, it must look its best so it appeals to potential buyers. First impressions count greatly if you want your home to stand out for the right reasons, and painting the outside will give it an instant makeover. By making your property look its best, you’ll increase the value of your home and be in a better position to have the asking price accepted. If you’re hoping to have photos taken of your home in time for summer so you can get it on the market, spring is the perfect time to get started on any exterior paint work, which we can help with, especially if you are in Derby, and get the ball rolling.

    Give your home exterior some TLC

    It’s easy to neglect the outside of your home. With so much to do inside, paint work often gets put to the back of the to-do list as we focus on less time-consuming tasks. However, after years of being exposed to UV rays, ice, wind and storms, there comes a point when the exterior paint will suffer and could even change colour. Alfresco painting projects don’t need to be implemented every spring. Still, if the elements have taken their toll and the outside of your home looks stressed, the milder weather this season will give you the perfect opportunity to fix the problem.

    More drying time for exterior paint work in Derby

    Now the clocks have gone forward and British Summer Time has officially begun, we have more daylight hours, and the evenings are longer. This means more drying time for exterior paint work, especially on warm days. If you begin a painting project outside in the winter, the damp and cold weather will affect how long it takes to dry. Whether it’s you or a building repair company doing the painting, the dark afternoons will also affect the working day’s length because it’s nearly dark by 4pm. By carrying out the work in the spring, you’ll have more daylight hours to finish the job, and the paint will dry much better.

    More time for fun in the sun

    Whether you’re planning on repainting your fence or giving the outside of your home a facelift, if you tackle the job in the spring, your home will look its best in time for summer. There are very few who want to spend their days off outside painting in the hot sun or who want to host a BBQ outside a house that looks faded in colour. By beginning exterior projects in the spring, you’ll get the hard work out of the way in time for summer, so you can make the most of the weather and long evenings outside a home that looks its best.

    Contact ASK about exterior paint work in Derby

    If you’d like us to visit your property and offer a no-obligation quote for any exterior paint work in Derby, please call ASK Building & Repairs on 07773 019 410 or send an email to info@askbuildingandrepairs.co.uk. We’re always happy to give advice or go through any queries you may have.

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