Month: August 2026

Categories
External

Security gate

As part of a recent home renovation, our client wanted to replace their existing garden gate with something significantly more secure—while keeping costs sensible.

We sourced a pre-painted steel gate from Screwfix for around £200, which features an integrated lock and decorative fleur-de-lis spikes for added climb prevention. While it’s not a bespoke £1,000 custom gate, it offers really good value and security for anyone working to a budget.

Our team completed the installation in just a couple of hours and disposed of the old gate to a certified disposal facility.



Categories
Roofing

Gable end and dwarf wall repointing

Gable End and Dwarf Wall Repointing

We were recently called out by a customer whose existing gable end pointing had begun to weather and drop out over time. While we frequently recommend and install modern dry verge systems these days for a maintenance-free finish, this customer preferred to maintain the traditional mortar look for their roofline.

The stick isn’t permanent, just to supper whilst it’s drying out.

To ensure a high-quality, long-lasting repair, we carefully raked out all the old, loose mortar to create a solid base before expertly repointing the entire gable end. (Note: If you spot a stick in the photos, don’t worry—it’s definitely not a permanent fixture! It’s simply there to provide temporary support while the fresh mortar dries and sets into place).

While we were on site, we also tackled some essential maintenance on the customer’s dwarf wall. The coping stones had become loose, so we lifted them up, cleared away the old debris, and securely relaid them. The wall is now structurally sound and looking smart once again!

Categories
Renovation Roofing Windows

Garden room roof refurbishment

 

Garden Room Roof Refurbishment

Our customer reached out to us to replace the roof on their garden room. Over the years, several joists had succumbed to rot, which was letting down the rest of an otherwise pristine property.

We began by removing the existing roof, which revealed a higher level of degradation than we initially anticipated. As part of the update, we also fitted a brand-new window from Vale Windows in Mansfield for the potting shed.

For the new structure, we used pressure-treated timber overlaid with UPVC cladding for a clean, modern appearance. The new roofing sheets were supplied by Amari plastics, who provided a fantastic specialist cutting service to ensure a perfect fit.

Safety is always a priority, so we completely removed the existing wiring, which was no longer up to standard. We upgraded the setup by installing two new IP65-rated electrical boxes and a new IP65 light in the potting shed.

To finish off the project, we painted all exposed timber with Scuff-X base. While it’s a premium product, you simply can’t beat it for its exceptional coverage and durability!

Finally, a massive thank you to our wonderful customer for giving our team a thoughtful present at the end of the job. It was a pleasure working on this project!

Categories
Kitchen

Samsung Hob replacement in 48 hours

Our customer had one of their 4 ceramic rings fail on the hob 4 days before a large family gathering. They knew they wanted to change to an induction hob. They selected a Samsung 60cm Series 6 4 Zone Flex Induction Hob  from Appliance City online (however they supply didn’t offer an install service) they asked us if we could fit it. It was delivered and installed within 48 hours. Unfortunately we did it so quickly we forgot to take the picture

Its worth being aware that if you have draws underneath an induction hob there are certain restrictions of what you can put in them. Induction hobs have a fan to cool them and this could get blocked, or metal items in the draw below could heat up. Especially given the high power of this Samsung unit (7,000 watts) We therefore fitted a fireboard from Selco. 

It’s worth being aware that not all pans are compatible with an induction hob so if you are changing, this needs to be remembered. Most electric hob installs are now induction rather than ceramic.

Core Benefits of Induction over Ceramic

 Faster Heating and Boiling: Induction heats the pan directly rather than warming up the glass surface first. A litre of water can boil in roughly half the time on an induction hob compared to a ceramic one.

 Instant Temperature Control: Heat changes happen almost instantly when you adjust the power level, mimicking the quick response of gas. Turning off the power stops heating immediately, preventing milk or pasta water from boiling over.

 Higher Energy Efficiency: Induction transfers roughly 85–90% of its energy directly into the food, compared to about 70% for standard ceramic electric hobs where heat escapes around the sides into the surrounding air.

 Safer Surface: Because the heat is generated inside the cookware rather than on the glass, the cooktop itself stays significantly cooler. While the glass gets warm from residual heat from the pan, it will not cause the severe burn hazard of a red-hot ceramic zone.

 Easier to Clean: Spills and splatters don’t burn or bake onto the surface because the glass doesn’t reach extreme temperatures. Most messes wipe away with a damp cloth as soon as you finish cooking.

 Auto-Off Safety: If you remove a pan or switch on a zone without cookware on it, the hob cannot generate heat and turns off automatically.

Categories
Painting Renovation

Mapperley Flat redecoration

Kitchen

Case Study: Rapid 72-Hour Flat Refresh for a Repeat Client

Kitchen

When managing rental properties, timing is everything. A repeat client recently reached out to us with a tight four-day window before their new tenant moved in. With brand-new carpets booked to be laid on day three, the property needed a complete paint refresh on a strict deadline—and at a sensible, affordable price point.

Here is how we made it happen without a single hitch.

The Challenge: A 4-Day Window

Between outgoing and incoming tenants, schedule overlaps can easily derail a handover. Our client’s regular decorator hadn’t replied to them and with only 4 days to go they needed all walls and ceilings painted throughout the flat, but the space had to be completely clear, clean, and dry within 72 hours so the carpet fitters could work uninterrupted on day four.

The Solution: Fast Execution & Total Peace of Mind

  • Complete Trust: Because the landlord had worked with Swallow Hill Homes before, there was no need to arrange a time-consuming on-site meeting. They simply handed over the keys, confident that the property was in safe hands.

  • 48-Hour Turnaround: Our team got straight to work, applying a fresh coat of paint to every wall and ceiling, transforming the space in just two days.

  • Zero Disruption: We knew our client was busy at work, so we kept them updated with brief text messages and emails at key progress points. They were able to focus on their day job knowing the project was moving forward smoothly.

  • On-Time Handover: We wrapped up on schedule, leaving the property clean, dry, and ready for the carpet fitters to arrive on day three. Dropping the keys off with the customer for their convenience.

The Result

The new tenant moved into a bright, fresh, and modern home right on schedule on day four. The landlord achieved a high-standard finish between tenancies without losing rental income, overspending, or taking time off work to manage contractors.

Planning a property refresh between tenancies? Whether you need a quick turnaround or a complete renovation, working with a team you trust makes all the difference. Contact Swallow Hill Homes today on 07737 988 243 to discuss your next project.

Categories
Uncategorised

Bunny kitchen replacement.

Project Showcase: Stunning Symphony Avebury Kitchen Installation in Bunny, Nottinghamshire

Repeat clients are the ultimate testament to our work, and we were thrilled when a previous customer invited us back to handle their latest project: a brand-new kitchen installation in the quiet village of Bunny, South Nottinghamshire.

For this build, we sourced the contemporary-yet-timeless Avebury kitchen range from the Symphony Group through our trusted local merchant, Huws Grey.

The Design: Symphony Avebury Range

The Avebury is a smooth, five-piece shaker design that bridges the gap between classic craftsmanship and clean, modern styling. Classified under Price Band 2, it offers fantastic quality and aesthetic appeal without breaking the budget.

  • Door Style: Timeless five-piece smooth shaker with a refined matt finish.

  • Colour Palette: Available in versatile, neutral tones including Cobble Grey, Platinum, Sage, and Stone.

  • Smart Storage & Accents: Paired with custom handles, premium work surfaces, and functional storage solutions like pull-out larders and space-saving corner carousels to maximize every inch of the room.

Craftsmanship & Installation

Installing a kitchen requires precision, from leveling base units to plumbing and getting the worktop joins seamlessly flush. Because we already knew the property and the client’s standards, the installation ran smoothly from start to finish, minimizing disruption to their home.

The finished space combines practical, hard-wearing storage with a sleek, elegant aesthetic that completely transforms the heart of the home.

The floor was came from Brooks Bros in Nottingham –  Rustic Oak brushed (M4005)

The splash back wall tiles came from Topps tiles and were Hartley Sand Tiles

Planning a kitchen renovation in Nottinghamshire? Whether you are looking for layout inspiration, trade supply channels, or expert installation, Swallow Hill Homes is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project.