Interior decorating dreams are on the minds of many Don’t Call Me Penny readers. Maybe you have recently moved house. Or are you renovating an old property?
If so, there is probably a lot to do before you start choosing wall colours and bed linen. It may not be all that fun, but it’s essential to get the priority jobs out of the way. Here are some tasks to tick off before you start implementing your interior decorating dreams.
Roofing Issues
If you have roofing problems, there’s a risk of further damage and leaks. Always check to see if your roof is missing tiles or if half the roof has caved in; these need urgent attention. The sooner you fix the roof, the lower the risk of even more substantial damage to the property. If you’re looking for local roofers, it’s wise to ask colleagues and friends for recommendations. You can also use a directory or go online to find firms in your area. It’s usually beneficial to get a few quotes before you decide which company to go for.
Rewiring
If the wiring in your property is dated, it’s worth replacing it. Paying out now will prevent future problems. If your interior decorating dreams include being warm and comfortable, then consider updating your heating system at the same time. If you have an old boiler, out-of-date reverse cycle heating & cooling, or inefficient water service, you’ll save yourself time and money by installing newer versions.
It’s never a good idea to try and fix electrical issues yourself. Electrical injuries can be severe, and many tasks are very complex. In some areas, your insurance will be void if electrical faults are caused by amateur installation. Enlist the services of a local electrician to be on the safe side, and ensure a professional job.
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Asbestos Removal
In years gone by, asbestos was frequently used in the building industry. Today, it has been replaced with much safer materials. If you’ve bought a modern house, it’s very unlikely that you’ll have to worry about asbestos. However, if you’re doing up an old property, this may be an issue that needs resolving immediately. Asbestos removal is not a job you should ever attempt yourself. Exposure to asbestos can increase your risk of a host of health problems. Instead, call a specialist firm like PROAS. These professional companies use specially designed safety equipment to remove and dispose of asbestos in the safest possible manner.
Water Damage
When you buy a house, it’s natural to get excited about your interior decorating dreams once you’ve unleashed your creative flair. Often, there are jobs to do before you can start painting walls or hanging frames. If you prioritise these tasks, you’ll get to the fun bit sooner. Consider having a structural survey undertaken. Call in the experts to check visual and also hidden issues such as imminent water damage, such as from the ceiling.Sometimes water damage may be covered with paint or lighting, even decorative metal sheet laminates, so you won’t know you have a problem until the next deluge.
It’s advisable to get several quotes on fixing problems like this before you make a decision. This can save you money in the long term. If it’s viable, get as much work as possible done before you move in. Once the house is stable, safe, and watertight, you can turn your attentions to executing a fabulous interior makeover.
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