Balance DIY with external help

With money tight for many families in the UK, it seems more and more are willing to try their hand at DIY home improvements.

According to the Times Online, Europes biggest DIY retailer B&Q has seen a 30 per cent rise in sales of how to DIY guides since the financial crisis begun.

But while the hands-on approach is commendable for jobs such as painting and decorating or even laying a carpet or laminate flooring, specialists should be brought in for any external work such as building a conservatory or glazed extension.

As the outside of the house is the first line of defence against the elements, it makes sense not to skimp on specialist knowledge.

Georgie Upton told the newspaper website that she saved thousands by looking into what work she could do herself.

"We got a plumber to connect our new bathroom suite and also paid specialists to do some work in the kitchen and recondition our sash windows," she said.

"Other than that, weve done everything – from painting and decorating to tiling."

Finding the correct balance of DIY and outside help seems to be the cheapest way to a beautiful, safe home.