The DIY Home Renovation Manual

Within five years of purchase, with a view to renovation to enhance its value and the quality of life of the owners, the modest home featured in this manual had been transformed with such success that it was valued at more than triple the purchase price. This manual – now updated to reflect current costs and contract legislation – shows South Africa’s homeowners how to transform their homes, whether to enhance their quality of life and the value of their home, or for resale.

The house featured has been used as the example of what was done, but included are easy-to-follow steps, liberally illustrated, to show how these same steps can be applied to any home. The first part of the book shows how the house was transformed into a modern home with an open-plan living area, an upgraded kitchen, bathroom, toilet and an extra bedroom with en suite bathroom and additional staff toilet. Also included are advisory panels to avoid common pitfalls.

The second part of the book describes the technical aspects of building, providing all the information required to undertake relatively simple tasks, such as bricklaying, plastering, mixing concrete, basic electrical and plumbing alterations (with reference to various regulations), tiling, and constructing and fitting cupboards.

Contents: Introduction; Getting started; Tools and equipment; Fitting doors; Converting to open plan; Installing new windows; Installing built-in cupboards in a bedroom; Transforming the kitchen; Creating a dream bathroom; Renovating the toilet; Adding on; Electrical power systems and maintenance; Low-voltage systems and security; Plumbing systems and maintenance; Building principles and techniques; Plastering and skimming; Painting; Saving energy; Wood technology, wood techniques; Out in the garden; Index