Residential Construction: Essential Tips, Costs & Common Issues
Thinking about building, extending, or fixing your home? You’re in the right spot. This page gathers the most useful articles on residential construction for UK homeowners. From spotting a serious foundation crack to deciding whether to build or buy in 2025, we break down the info you need in plain language.
Key Areas You’ll Find Here
We cover a wide range of topics. Foundation health gets special attention – you’ll learn how wide cracks become a problem, which cement mixes work best, and when a structural engineer is a must. Extension rules are clarified so you know how far you can build without a planning permission headache. If budget is on your mind, we compare the cost of building a new house versus buying an existing one, and list cheap building methods that don’t sacrifice quality.
Materials matter too. Articles on the most durable house materials, raw construction supplies, and the 3‑4‑5 method for perfect right angles help you pick the right products and avoid costly mistakes. Want to turn an attic into a room? Our loft conversion guide tells you which lofts are unsuitable and why.
How to Use This Hub
Each post is written for a specific question you might have. Start with the headline that matches your current project – for example, if you’re worried about a crack, read “Foundation Crack Size: When Is It Serious?” to get a quick width chart and a checklist for contacting an engineer. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, the “Kitchen Installation Services” article walks you through what’s included and what to expect on the day.
All articles are UK‑focused, so the advice fits local building codes, insurance policies, and market prices. You’ll also find practical tips like how to negotiate with a landscaper, what insurance covers for foundation issues, and when to walk away from a house with severe structural problems.
Use the search function to find exact phrases, or scroll through the list below to spot topics that catch your eye. Each summary gives you a snapshot, and the full article dives deeper with step‑by‑step guidance, real‑world examples, and clear bullet points.
We keep the language simple on purpose – no jargon, no fluff. If a term sounds technical, we explain it in everyday words. Our goal is to help you make confident decisions without needing a construction degree.
Got a question that isn’t covered? Drop a comment on any article and we’ll add the info you need. Residential construction can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge it becomes manageable. Browse, read, and start turning your home improvement ideas into reality.