Hungry for home improvement?

Homeowners in Scotland last year spent almost twice as much on home improvements as they did in 2019, according to a survey.

The lack of foreign holidays and lockdown have contributed to a massive rise in the number of internal and external revamps happening up and down the country.

The survey, which was carried out by online tradesman directory Checkatrade, found that in Scotland in 2019, the average amount spent on home improvements was around £1,661, compared to a staggering £2,936 spent on interior and exterior renovations last year in Scotland. That is an increase of 77% and a figure that is well above the UK average.

In the UK, the average expenditure was £2,608 last year.

And in 2021, the hunger for home improvements is showing no signs of slowing down, as we continue to invest in our homes and boost the look and feel of our living spaces. In fact, in total, 79% of homeowners across the UK believed there was room for improvement in their homes.

The sharp rise in cash being splashed on the home is understandable as lockdown and, for many, furlough, afforded us time to do the DIY projects at home and, for the more challenging work needing done, we called in the experts.

As you may have guessed, it was kitchens and gardens that had the highest amount of money spent on them, while home offices saw the biggest increase in expenditure year-on-year.

In the near future, a third (30%) of homeowners, who answered the survey, said they “intended to redecorate their living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms” whilst almost one-in-four (23%) were thinking about a garden revamp. Flooring was also a future plan for many, with a fifth (22%) of UK homeowners wanting to lay new carpets or flooring soon.

For those in a trade, it is encouraging statistics. For homeowners, it is inspiring as we share ideas with friends and family about our future plans and hopes for our homes and pass on any recommendations for kitchen installers, carpet fitters, or gardeners.

This guide, called Inside Out, brings you plenty of ideas and inspiration for revamping the inside or outside of your home. Whether your kitchen needs more creativity or your living spaces need lifted, there are professionals who can help you achieve your dream look. Inside, you will discover features on how to improve the look and feel of the rooms in your home with some soft furnishings and why it is important to invest in statement pieces that are built to last. Or perhaps you are planning on having a new bathroom fitted? Turn to Pages 6&7 for more on how to create this relaxing sanctuary. You may have often considered installing a new kitchen, one of the best ways to increase your property’s value, on Page 8 you will discover when the time is right with our six signs it’s time for a new kitchen.

A third of homeowners intend to redecorate their living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms

They say never judge a book by its cover but when it comes to the outside of your home, the same cannot be said. This is why it is important to invest in the exterior of your home as well as interior. Think about ways you could boost the look of your home from the front, consider new front or garage doors, roofing, and double glazing or an extension or conservatory. And what is your garden saying about you? Uncover some gardening tips inside to make the most of your outdoor spaces too.