Preston is the best place to make home improvements based on factors like the planning permission approval rate, tradespeople reviews, as well as the number of hardware stores, research from wood flooring firm Flooring Hut.
The Lancashire city has a planning permission planning rate at 96%, 8.3 hardware stores per 10,000 people, as well as 28.40 waste disposal services per 10,000 people.
Other strong cities in which to carry out a renovation are Portsmouth, Manchester, and Brighton.
Paul Brewster, chief executive of Flooring Hut, said: “Among the various aspects of home renovations, flooring can be particularly challenging to get right.
“The complexity of selecting, installing, and maintaining flooring often requires a keen eye for detail and expertise.
“Mistakes in flooring installation can lead to significant issues, both aesthetically and functionally.”
Portsmouth stands out for its volume of hardware stores – 12.49 per 10,000 people – offering residents easy access to supplies for any renovation project.
Manchester excels in terms of tradesperson quality, with an outstanding review score of 9.85/10.
Brewster wrote a guide on the five common mistakes to be aware of when making a renovation.
Five common mistakes to be aware of include:
- Incorrect subfloor preparation: Failing to properly prepare the subfloor can lead to uneven surfaces and premature wear. Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installing new flooring. This step is crucial for a smooth and durable finish. Neglecting this could result in repair costs exceeding £2,000.
- Ignoring acclimation: Many types of flooring need to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. Whether it is luxury vinyl or wooden flooring, Follow manufacturer guidelines for acclimation times; improper acclimation could devalue your home by up to £5,000 if the flooring needs replacement sooner than expected.
- Miscalculating material needs: Buying too little or too much material can lead to delays or wasted resources. Measure your space carefully and account for any patterns or cuts required. It’s wise to purchase a little extra to cover any mistakes or future repairs. For more information, check out our guide on how to measure carpets.
- Failing to follow installation instructions: Different flooring types have specific installation requirements. Not following these instructions can compromise the flooring’s performance and appearance. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and consider professional help if needed; overlooking these could lead to repairs costing £3,000 or more.
- Removing Original Flooring Features: Many homeowners may be tempted to pull up original flooring in favor of cheaper alternatives, but this can devalue your home. Original features not only add character but also significant value. Trends on TikTok have highlighted the importance of preserving such elements, which can appreciate your property by up to 20%.