
Heather Campbell
Heather Campbell is deputy editor of the SelfBuild magazine. Email: heather.campbell@selfbuild.ie
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How affordable will it be to self-build in the UK in 2025?
UK’s construction industry is expected to grow in 2025, but rising input costs remain a challenge. So, what does this mean for self-builders? In this article we cover: How affordable will it be to self-build in the UK in 2025? If you’re planning to build your own home, you may be wondering if it’s affordable […] More
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How much will your roof cost in the UK?
To find out how much your new roof will cost, you need to know its size, shape, ridge height, style and roof covering. In this article, we cover: A roof’s design directly affects a property’s look, with its shape, colour and texture creating a strong visual impact. Roof structures fall into two main categories — […] More
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Where to start when costing your build
Estimating the cost of a new build or renovation can be overwhelming. This guide outlines where to start when budgeting your project. In this article we cover: Building on a budget It is possible to build on a modest budget, but design choices often increase costs. Every upgrade adds up, and budget overruns typically result […] More
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in Advice, Building methods, Construction drawings, Construction overview, Energy Efficiency, Airtightness & The Environment
Concrete wall construction in the UK
Building your walls with concrete usually means using the popular block build, but other options exist. In this article we cover: In the UK, concrete remains the most common building method. But what is it, how is it used, and what are its pros and cons? What is concrete? Concrete is made from cement, water […] More
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Self-build mortgages explained
Find out what self-build mortgages are, how they work, how they’re different to regular mortgages and how to get one in the UK in 2025. In this article we cover: A self-build mortgage will help you get the funds to get started building your home. However, they are quite different to a standard mortgage. Here’s […] More
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The cost of blockwork and timber frame walls
From materials to insulation, your wall construction method impacts cost. Here’s what to consider. In this article we cover: When we talk about external walls in terms of cost, we mean the main structure of the property’s outer envelope. This is usually the key structural component and also what gives the house much of its […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Construction overview, Cost savers, Cost Series, Design, Extension/Renovation Advice, Free Content, On site, Pre design, Working out your requirements
How much does an extension cost?
Thinking about extending your home and wondering what the price tag might be? Here’s a breakdown of the key costs to keep in mind. In this article we cover: Budgeting based on an average cost per sqm or sqft can be risky — especially when it comes to house extensions. A quick search online shows […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Cost Series, England, Free Content, Other key structural decisions, Scotland, Wales
Cost of upper storey floors
How much your upper storey structural floors will cost, from the various types of joists to concrete options. In this article we cover: The cost of structural floors is influenced by several factors, including material choice, sound insulation, thermal insulation, fire resistance, structural stability and service integration. It is crucial to have a qualified engineer […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Construction drawings, First fix: Watchpoints, Second fix: Watchpoints
Cost of plumbing and electrics in the UK
How much your plumbing and electrics will cost when building new or renovating in the UK today. In this article we cover: The systems that run your home such as heating, ventilation and hot water can be a major expense. Heating and plumbing, in particular, often go over budget. As a design evolves, energy regulations […] More
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in Advice, England, Extension/Renovation Advice, Free Content, Insulation and airtightness: Watchpoints, On site, Scotland, Wales
Guide to external wall insulation in the UK
Your guide to planning for, and installing external wall insulation for homes in the UK. In this article we cover: External Wall Insulation (EWI), also known as ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems) is a method of insulating the outside walls of either a new or existing house and involves directly applying insulation panels to […] More
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in Advice, Cost savers, Design, Extension/Renovation Advice, Interior Advice, Interiors, The design brief and getting the space right
Staircase costs
Discover the main factors that will impact your staircase costs – making it one of the most expensive items to budget for. In this article we cover: Back in the day, staircases were just practical structures meant to help us get from one floor to another. They were often tucked away between walls and out […] More
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How much do house foundations cost?
Explore the key factors influencing your house foundation’s cost and the different types of foundations available. In this article we cover: Getting a good handle on the costs of getting your self-build project out of the ground is vital for staying within budget. It helps to know what to expect so you can plan accordingly. […] More