Strike a balance between DIY and specialist help

Achieving a balance in any area of life is helpful but none more so than in home improvement.

While setting out on a DIY campaign is commendable and likely to save thousands of pounds if done correctly, some things should simply be left to the experts.

Installing a conservatory is one example where specialist knowledge and experience can be invaluable.

As an external fixing, the conservatory is part of the homes protective membrane that is responsible for keeping out the elements.

A botched DIY job in this situation can be very costly indeed so it is advisable to only go through a reputable company.

According to the Times, there has been an increase in DIY interest since the credit crunch began – with Europes biggest DIY retailer B&Q noting a 30 per cent increase in sales of DIY how to guides.

Georgie Upton explained to the newspaper how she and her partner saved money when doing up their home.

"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."

Ms Upton seems to have gotten the balance right – meaning she has saved money without sacrificing quality and safety where it matters.