Planning a home renovation—whether it’s a single-room upgrade or a full property refurbishment—requires more than just inspiration. Success depends on proper planning, the right materials, and reliable tools. Using a trusted builders’ merchant like Travis Perkins ensures you have access to quality products, expert advice, and dependable availability throughout your renovation journey.
This detailed checklist covers everything you need, from structural materials to finishing touches, helping you avoid delays, overspending, and common renovation mistakes.
1. Pre-Renovation Planning: What to Do Before Buying Materials
Before purchasing anything, clear planning is essential to keep your project on time and within budget.
Key planning steps:
- Define the scope of work (cosmetic upgrade, structural work, extension, or full renovation)
- Set a realistic budget with a 10–15% contingency
- Check UK building regulations and planning permissions
- Schedule trades (builders, plumbers, electricians, plasterers)
- Arrange skip hire and waste disposal
- Measure all spaces accurately to avoid material shortages
Solid planning prevents last-minute purchases and costly errors.
2. Core Building & Structural Materials Checklist
These materials form the backbone of any renovation project.
Structural essentials:
- Bricks, blocks, and lintels
- Cement, sand, ballast, and aggregates
- Treated timber (CLS, joists, battens)
- Plasterboard (standard, moisture-resistant, fire-rated)
- Insulation (loft rolls, PIR boards, acoustic insulation)
- Damp-proof membranes and vapour barriers
These materials are crucial for walls, flooring, roofing, extensions, and energy efficiency upgrades.
3. Plumbing & Electrical Materials
If your renovation includes kitchens, bathrooms, or rewiring, these supplies should be ordered early.
Plumbing essentials:
- Copper or plastic pipes and fittings
- Valves, traps, and connectors
- Radiators and heating components
- Sealants and pipe insulation
Electrical essentials:
- Electrical cables and conduit
- Back boxes, sockets, and switches
- Consumer unit components
- Junction boxes and fixings
Early procurement avoids work stoppages once trades are on-site.
4. Essential Tools for DIY & Professional Renovations
Even if you’re hiring professionals, having the right tools on hand keeps projects running smoothly.
Hand tools:
- Hammer, screwdrivers, chisels
- Tape measure, spirit level, square
- Utility knife and hand saw
Power tools:
- Cordless drill and impact driver
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Angle grinder
- Orbital or belt sander
Safety equipment:
- Gloves, goggles, and dust masks
- Ear protection
- Steel-toe safety boots
Quality tools improve accuracy, safety, and speed.
5. Flooring, Walls & Interior Finishing Materials
Finishing materials bring your renovation together visually and functionally.
Flooring materials:
- Subfloor panels and levelling compounds
- Underlay
- Adhesives and fixings
Walls & ceilings:
- Paints, primers, and sealers
- Wall fillers and caulks
- Tiles, tile adhesive, and grout
- Skirting boards, architraves, and trims
Buying these together helps maintain consistency in colour and finish.
6. Kitchen, Bathroom & Storage Essentials
These areas require careful material selection due to heavy daily use.
Key materials:
- Moisture-resistant boards
- Waterproof adhesives and sealants
- Fixings suitable for wet environments
- Storage solutions and shelving systems
Choosing durable materials here reduces long-term maintenance.
7. Outdoor & Landscaping Materials
External improvements increase property value and curb appeal.
Outdoor essentials:
- Paving slabs, gravel, and aggregates
- Decking boards and fixings
- Fence panels, posts, and concrete
- Drainage solutions
Outdoor projects should also consider weather resistance and durability.
8. Why Sourcing from One Trusted Supplier Matters
Buying everything from a single merchant like Travis Perkins offers clear advantages:
- Consistent quality across materials
- Easier logistics and delivery coordination
- Access to expert advice
- Reduced risk of incompatible products
This is why both homeowners and professionals rely on established builders’ merchants.
9. Final Renovation Checklist Before Work Begins
Before starting:
- Confirm all materials are delivered and stored safely
- Ensure tools and safety gear are ready
- Reconfirm trade schedules
- Arrange site access and waste removal
A final check prevents downtime and unnecessary delays.
Conclusion
A successful renovation isn’t just about design—it’s about preparation and sourcing the right materials. By following this complete home renovation checklist, you can plan efficiently, control costs, and achieve professional-quality results. Whether you’re upgrading one room or transforming an entire home, choosing reliable materials and tools from a trusted supplier makes all the difference.