Building Services
Turnkey house-build
A veteran of many standalone house projects, ranging in design from the contemporary to the traditional, I am experienced at building homes to the highest standard. So, if you require a turnkey project and are going down the route of direct labour, I will work with you and your architect/engineer.
Extensions
Often the most economical option for creating extra space, building an extension also means you don't have the upset and hassle of moving to a new location. Remember a room such as a conservatory, an extra bedroom or a revamped kitchen:
- Is eligible for the Home Renovation Initiative, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants
- May not require planning permission — See Planning
- Will increase the value of your home should you choose to sell.
Renovations
Renovate means to restore to a good condition. For those who live in older properties, that means modernising and upgrading to meet today's building standards, to have a well-insulated building and to have comfort. This may involve new roofing materials, higher standards of insulation and new windows and doors. Windows and doors can be repaired or replaced to match existing styles.
Alterations
Perhaps you would like to have your kitchen enlarged. You might require wheelchair accessible rooms or ramps put in place to get access to a bathroom or shower.
Why not have a porch built? A porch is always a good idea for a home. It creates an extra space between the outside and you — a 'double' front door will keep you warmer and more secure. A porch can also double as a sunroom on those sunny but cold days. It can also be a useful place to leave wet gear on those wet days. It is eligible for the Home Renovation Initiative, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants.
Restorations
Return a building to its original condition. For those with an older property that needs restoration work, Denis Buckley has the skills to do it. Where it is a family inheritance, a two-storey house, a cottage or a listed building, Denis has the experience to upgrade your property without compromising the building's traditional style.
Roof work — Replace damaged or loose slates or flashing to complete reroofing work.
Chimneys — The chimney is the heart of your home, but many poorly constructed ones were put up in the boom years. Also, many exposed chimneys fall into disrepair and become dangerous, allowing water to enter. Your chimney may need to be replaced or relined. It is eligible for the Home Renovation Initiative, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants.
Plastering — External plastering on an old house with mass stone walls needs a special plaster, called a lime render. This traditional-style plaster allows the building to 'breath', controlling the humidity and elastic enough to allow for the seasonal movements of the building. Modern plasters are designed for use on blockwork and are not suitable for stonework. They are not vapour permeable, resulting in condensation and dampness. Drylining inside is not an effective solution as all it is doing is covering up the problem, and it may lead to a damp, humid, unhealthy environment.
Internal work — When restoring an old building, the internal work is as important as the external work. Traditionally, a big concern is heat loss through 'cold' fixtures. High levels of insulation can be achieved with the use of hemp or cork insulation followed by a lime putty plaster.
Entrances/gate piers and patios
A properly planned and finished entrance is important, particularly if you are manoeuvring cars or other vehicles in and out continuously. Don't compromise on width and erect a proper gate mounted on piers that will last and look attractive.
Meanwhile, a patio will enhance your garden space by adding an extra feature to it. It makes a good weather-proof surface if you have to step out on a wet day. On a hot day, it is essential for balancing the barbecue on. Some in-built lights will create a lovely effect when darkness falls. It is eligible for the Home Renovation Initiative, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants.
Standalone (auxiliary) units
Whether it is a shed or a workshop, a block-built standalone space will stand the test of time and prove its worth many times over, keeping your equipment safe and sound. It is eligible for the Home Renovation Initiative, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants.
Roofs — slating or tiling
Denis has years of experience of working with different roof materials, such as traditional slate, conventional slates or tiles. A repair job now will save worse damage down the line, but if you need a new roof, Denis will give you a great price. It is eligible for a Home Innovation Grant, giving you tax relief on a spend of up to €30,000 on the project — See Building Grants.
Fire or storm damage
If you have suffered fire or storm damage, we can assist you. You may need building works carried out quickly. If you are eligible for an insurance claim, well-planned, well-built renovation works will add to your home and protect it against future damage.
Boundary walls
High walls make good neighbours, they say, and whether true or not, you should have good boundary walls for all sorts of reasons — maintaining your privacy, keeping young children safe, keeping pets in. Block-built walls can be done the wrong way as well as the right way. Denis is an experienced builder who stands on his reputation for quality and value. Give him a call for a quote. Check if the Home Renovation Initiative applies.
