These are the most expensive renovations for Belfast homeowners to carry out, according to new research

A new study has unveiled the most expensive home renovations for Belfast homeowners to carry out.

The research team at Sheet Materials Wholesale examined data from sources including Checkatrade, HomeOwners Alliance, and Beams Renovation to determine the home improvement projects with the highest average costs.

With renovation costs remaining high, the study highlights the importance of understanding the true price of major home improvements before committing to a project, particularly for Belfast homeowners trying to balance extra living space with rising household costs.

According to a report by the Financial Times, property prices in Belfast are rising rapidly, which may lead many homeowners in the city to consider whether improving their current home is more cost-effective than relocating elsewhere.

This is why it's more important than ever for homeowners in the area to understand the true cost of major renovation work before committing to a project that could quickly become more expensive than expected.

The study found that 20m2 extensions (around the size of a single garage) are the most expensive home improvement project for homeowners in Belfast to undertake.

According to the data, getting a 20m2 extension will now cost an average of £50,000.

Meanwhile, bigger extensions are even more costly, with a 30m² extension (about the size of a small studio apartment), costing an average of £72,000, while a 50m² extension (around the size of a small one or two-bedroom apartment) could set you back by an average of £120,000.

While it’s estimated that a house extension may add 10 to 20% to your home’s value, it’s crucial to draw up a detailed price plan prior to the extension.

Last-minute changes are one of the biggest cost inflators when it comes to home extensions. Ensure that you finalise the layout, electrics, plumbing, window placements, and structural decisions in advance.

According to the data, loft conversions will also set homeowners back by an average of £50,000. While loft conversions can be either cheaper or more expensive, depending on size and location, it’s important to remember that this sought-after home improvement can increase your property value and create additional living space.

If you’re looking to keep costs down, then a Velux loft conversion is often on the cheaper side, costing homeowners an average of £27,500. This type of conversion involves installing roof windows without altering the roof's actual structure, allowing for improved natural light without creating any additional space.

However, there are multiple factors that can rack up the costs of a loft conversion, mainly revolving around size and the complexity of the layout. One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is to create a detailed plan and budget prior to seeking out a contractor.

The data found that replastering walls and ceilings is the second-costliest home improvement project. The cost of replastering, combined with hacking off the existing plaster, will set homeowners back by an average of £26,500. It’s important to consider whether the walls and ceilings need a full replaster, or whether skim-coating or patching cracks can provide the same result at a reduced cost.

If you’re looking to keep costs down, then it’s also important to prepare the wall yourself. Remove any loose plaster, dust, or any grime that will prevent the plaster from adhering to the wall correctly. Priming the walls with a PVA adhesive can also help to keep costs low.

A kitchen extension with a footprint of 12m² (around the size of a large garden shed) is identified as the third-most expensive home improvement project, with an average cost of £19,500. Like with any extension project, the size and complexity of the kitchen can have a significant impact on the overall cost. If possible, try to keep the plumbing in the same place. Relocating dishwashers, sinks, and gas supplies can drastically increase costs, which is why it’s best to plan the extension around existing features.

Other costly home improvement projects include kitchen remodels, garage conversions, and wall replastering.

Max Fetisov, the head of marketing and ecommerce at Sheet Materials Wholesale, has commented on the study,

“In the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, home improvement projects are often put on the back burner. However, it’s important to emphasise that by completing the correct planning and budgeting, home improvement doesn’t have to be such a costly subject.

“If you’re looking to undergo various home improvement projects at once, then it may be worthwhile to teach yourself some simple but essential DIY tricks. For example, plastering and painting skills can end up saving you thousands in the long run, as exhibited by this research.

“Keep in mind that planning is key when it comes to home improvement. Taking the time to correctly map out a thorough budget and seeking out numerous quotes can help you save thousands.

"For Belfast homeowners in particular, the figures highlight why it’s so important to weigh up renovation costs against the type of property and space available.

"In many parts of the city, where terraced homes and older properties are common, projects like extensions, loft conversions, and replastering can quickly become more complex than expected.

"Factoring in structural work, access issues, and the condition of existing walls or roofs from the outset can help prevent costs from spiralling later in the project.”