For anyone owning or renovating an older home in Ireland, few words trigger more anxiety than rising damp. It’s commonly blamed for flaking plaster, musty smells, and crumbling skirting boards. But is rising damp really the silent destroyer it’s made out to be? Or is it a misunderstood symptom of deeper issues — often made …
Read more “Rising Damp: Is It As Big a Problem As We’re Told?”
Hiring a builder or tradesperson for your home renovation should feel exciting — not stressful. Yet many homeowners in Ireland find themselves dealing with broken promises, poor communication, or shoddy workmanship that turns their dream project into a nightmare. Here are the top 5 frustrations homeowners commonly face — and how choosing the right builder …
If you’ve ever looked into building a home in the Irish countryside, you’ve probably heard the term “local housing need.” It’s a key part of many planning decisions – and a common stumbling block for applicants. But what exactly is the “local needs” rule, and why has it attracted criticism from Europe? Let’s break it …
Read more ““Local Needs” and Rural Planning in Ireland – What You Need to Know”
The human side of home renovations is often overlooked, but it’s just as critical as the technical and logistical aspects. Renovating a home, especially one that’s being lived in during the process, can be an emotional rollercoaster for families Home renovations often conjure images of dust, drills, and dramatic before-and-after shots. But behind the scenes, …
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In the 1970s, asbestos was a miracle material. Fire-resistant, durable, and a great insulator, it was used in everything from roofing to insulation to floor tiles. Today, we know the heavy price that came with that convenience: lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious health conditions caused by airborne asbestos fibers. The tragedy of asbestos serves …
Read more “What Will Be the Next Asbestos? Rethinking Today’s “Innovative” Building Materials”
In Ireland’s fast-moving property market, the word “renovated” gets thrown around a lot. New windows, a fresh render, modern floors, and shiny fittings are often enough to sell a home at a premium. But are we really improving our housing stock — or just painting over the cracks?
At Summit Matters, we meet more and more clients looking to step away from rising utility costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and live more independently. Going completely off-grid in Ireland is not only possible—it’s becoming increasingly practical. But it’s not without its challenges. Here’s our breakdown of what going off-grid in Ireland really looks like, …
Read more “Going Off-Grid in Ireland: Possibilities, Limitations & Costs”
There’s a lot of buzz around government support for bringing Ireland’s derelict and vacant properties back into use. Between the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and SEAI energy upgrade incentives, it seems like a golden opportunity for first-time buyers, returnees, and everyday people looking to take on a renovation project. The idea is sound: make it …
Read more “Who’s Really Cashing In on Property Grants? Not the Fixer-Upper Buyer”
Restoring a home is an exciting journey—but when you take on the role of self-build project manager, you’re stepping into big shoes. Managing your own renovation can be highly rewarding, but it also comes with legal and practical responsibilities, especially when it comes to health and safety. At Summit Matters Ltd, we work alongside homeowners …
Read more “Essential Documents for Home Contractors in Ireland”
