The ROI grant available to replace old lead pipes in Irish homes is now open to all. In this article we cover: All homes built before the 1980s that contain lead pipes can avail of a grant to replace them, thanks to a grant scheme introduced in 2016. As of December 2022 the scheme is […] More
In this episode, David Magnier chats about his self-build in Co Wicklow: Favourite More
Architect Hugh Wallace says Ireland needs a zero VAT rate for home improvements, and vacant homes grants need less red tape. In this article we cover Hugh Wallace’s presentation at the Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) 2023 conference, including: Architect and TV personality Hugh Wallace railed against the VAT regime, building regulations, and conservation officers’ inconsistent […] More
Self-builders who’ve built a new home have been waiting nearly a year to get their VAT refund on their new build projects in NI, even though applications are meant to be processed within six weeks. In this article we cover: One self-builder in NI, who appointed a contractor for his new build project, submitted his […] More
Although materials are no longer a problem to source, and price increases are expected to ease, builders still see inflation and access to skilled labour as threats to profitability in 2023. In this article we cover: After the war in Ukraine pushed up the price of everything from steel to aluminium and brick, consulting firm […] More
Will the cost of building materials go up or down in 2023? In this article we analyse mybuildingsupplies.ie’s building materials price tracker including: Online builder’s merchant mybuildingsupplies.ie has been updating its building materials price tracker for the most common building materials used in Ireland today. The builder’s merchant has used figures on a per […] More
If you’re thinking of installing an air to water heat pump, find out what your options are what to look out for. In this article we cover: A round the turn of the millennium, the market for heat pumps in Ireland (north and south) was still in its infancy – only a handful of heat […] More
Building a one-off house on a greenfield site in the countryside remains the most cost effective way to build a house, says the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI). In this article we cover: Architects’ lobby group the RIAI believes one-off houses in the countryside to be the most cost effective to build, […] More
Laura and Ronan Campbell built themselves a house on Ronan’s parents’ laneway. Here they chat about: Read more about their project on https://selfbuildextendrenovate.co.uk/project/dublin-laneway-house/ Favourite More
With all of the uncertainty around costs, should you build now or wait? Here’s what to consider. In this article we cover: Most large building manufacturers are members of the trade association I work for, Hardware Association Ireland. They tell me they believe that since the start of this year, building material prices have increased […] More
Before you choose ICF as a building method in Ireland, consider the basics: how it complies with regulations and how it impacts on your design and build costs. In this article we cover: Formwork In construction, formwork refers to a temporary shutter/mould into which concrete is poured and formed. You can also mould lime or […] More
Kieran McCarthy of KMC Homes talks about: Favourite More