If you are one of the many UK householders looking to embark on renovation work in 2018, why not add softer water to your wish list? Especially if you are looking to update your kitchen or bathroom.

According to new research from VELUX reported in the Wiltshire Times, 25 per cent of householders in the London area are planning to carry out work on their property in the next year.

Out of those homeowners looking to embark on some major home improvement, 51 per cent are intending to give their house a lick of paint, while 30 per cent are investing in a new kitchen and 24 per cent are ripping out and starting again with the bathroom. Furthermore, 19 per cent are having an extension built.

“Whatever the project, it’s absolutely crucial to bring in a good professional as early as possible,” advised VELUX project manager Grant Sneddon.

If you are looking to put in a new kitchen or bathroom in 2018, a block salt softener is a good finishing touch to explore. Hard water areas cause a build-up of calcium and magnesium in your appliances and plumbing, causing limescale and potentially shortening your appliances’ operational lifespans.

If this sounds like something you need in your home, remember to add it to the costings early, as VELUX’ research also found too few home improvers properly look at their costs and how to finance their work before they get stuck in.

Indeed, one-third (33 per cent) of householders have not costed their renovation work for 2018 while 76 per cent admit to not knowing how they will pay for it all.