| Restoring a building can also be a much more cost | | | | quality finish. |
| effective method than demolishing a building and | | | | Once you've researched builders you'll need to set |
| starting from scratch. | | | | yourself a realistic budget for the building |
| Sometimes it's critical that restoration work begins | | | | restoration work. Once you've received a good |
| in order to make a structure safe. This may | | | | number of quotes you can start to calculate how |
| happen when a building is needed to work in or | | | | much you should need to set aside for the |
| live in. If work doesn't start immediately some | | | | project. Don't be afraid to say no at any stage if |
| structures may have to be condemned and even | | | | finance does become a problem. If you've |
| demolished. In most cases buildings can be saved. | | | | contacted genuine builders they'll be patient and |
| So how exactly do you save a building? First, you | | | | wait until you're ready. The worst thing you can |
| need to hire the right professionals with good | | | | do is start a project and run out of money |
| experience in restoring similar buildings. Research | | | | before it's completed. |
| reviews for each builder and ask around for | | | | It's important to understand when setting your |
| recommendations. It shouldn't take long to then | | | | budget; don't let your budget dictate your choice |
| get a good number of quotes for the project. | | | | of builder. It's important to consider reputation, |
| In some cases you may need specialist building | | | | experience, professionalism and warranty |
| contractors for certain parts of the project. For | | | | coverage. Going for the cheapest option may |
| example; listed building restoration work requires | | | | cause you more problems and hassle in the long |
| specialist guidelines that are enforceable by law. If | | | | term. By choosing a good quality professional you'll |
| you hire contractors that aren't experienced with | | | | get the job done more efficiently and it will last |
| listed structures you could even end up facing a | | | | for many decades. |
| fine or prosecution. | | | | If working on larger, historical buildings; consider |
| Another example might be the use of pattern | | | | the community and economy before commencing |
| imprinted into concrete. This type of work | | | | any work. Often, restoring a historical building will |
| involves using stamped moulds to create the | | | | help to support a community's roots and heritage. |
| effects then adding colours to the concrete to | | | | The building may provide education for |
| create effects such as cobbles, granite and slate. | | | | generations to come. However, try not to alter |
| When the patterns and colours are combined this | | | | the structure or appearance of the buildings to |
| will create a unique and individual look. However, a | | | | maintain the heritage. |
| very skilled hand would be required to achieve a | | | | |