
Jack Woodfield
Jack has worked in journalism for over a decade and was the former News Editor of Homebuilding & Renovating between 2019 until 2023. In his time as News Editor he broke the most relevant and beneficial stories for self builders, extenders and renovators, including the latest news on the construction materials shortage, planning permission and green initiatives. In 2021 he appeared on BBC's The World at One to discuss the government's planning reforms.
He enjoys testing new tools and gadgets, and having bought his first home in 2013, he has renovated every room and recently finished a garden renovation.
Latest articles by Jack Woodfield

Work out how much topsoil you need for your project with this simple calculation
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Calculating how much topsoil you need can be a tricky process — here’s how to ensure you buy the right amount for your garden

The best bathroom extractor fans to combat condensation and damp
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The best bathroom extractor fans must efficiently and quietly circulate fresh air into a space while also removing moisture-laden air to stop mould forming. They also want to look the part too. We've gathered the top buys to make choosing easy

An expert guide to the 7 best cordless strimmers — from budget options to the best overall model
By Jack Woodfield, Teresa Conway last updated
We've scoured the market for the best cordless strimmers to help you choose the perfect tool to keep your lawn and garden looking neat and tidy with minimal effort

Choose one of these 9 best cordless drills to help you power through your next DIY project
By Sarah Handley, Garry Martin, Jack Woodfield last updated
The best cordless drills will help you tackle your next DIY project with ease. Choose from our selection of budget, mid- and top of the range cordless drills

Looking for the best bathroom sealants to stop leaks and prevent mould? Here are six of our favourites for 2025
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Finding the best bathroom sealants for your needs is crucial for sealing gaps and preventing water leaks that can cause unseen water damage. Here you’ll find a selection of highly rated sealants that match your sanitary ware

Treat your lawn to a fresh trim using one of the 6 best petrol lawnmowers
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Whether you're looking for a sharp cut or pristine stripes here's 6 of the best petrol lawnmowers to suit gardens and budgets of all shapes and sizes

Our guide to the 6 best video doorbells to improve security and make sure you never miss a delivery again
By Sarah Harley last updated
Looking for the best video doorbells? We share six of our favourite options, whether you're looking for a budget friendly bell, an integrated system or a subscription free model

Boiler Upgrade Scheme to be expanded with new heating options for homeowners
By Joseph Mullane last updated
Boiler Upgrade Scheme to be expanded with new heating options for homeowners

Energy price cap rises to £1,849 — what it means for your bills
By Joseph Mullane last updated
Ofgem's energy price cap dictates the level at which energy prices are set. So what does this mean for our energy bills?

Building material prices and availability see positive trends, so could now be a good time to build your new home?
By Joseph Mullane last updated
We break down the key figures for building materials prices and why now could be a good time to build your new home

Gas boiler ban scrapped as government says they 'will not force anyone to rip out a working boiler'
By Joseph Mullane last updated
The government has said focus will shift towards making gas boiler alternatives are more attractive for homeowners

Will 2025 bring mortgage rate rises or relief for potential and existing homeowners?
By Joseph Mullane last updated
A new year could bring new hope for those looking to secure a mortgage for a house

These planning reforms are coming in 2025
By Joseph Mullane last updated
The government has proposed a raft of new planning reforms — here's what self builders and renovators need to know

National Planning Policy Framework: What's in the updated planning policy?
By Joseph Mullane last updated
The National Planning Policy Framework helps councils to make planning decisions, and it’s just undergone a major shake-up

When will hydrogen heating be coming to the UK?
By Joseph Mullane last updated
Hydrogen heating could be coming to the UK in 2026 based on the government's heating strategy

Energy saving tips: 13 ways to save money this winter
By Joseph Mullane last updated
These energy saving tips will help you assess all your options for lowering your heating bills amid soaring price rises

The best stove fans to maximise the benefits of your log burner
By Natasha Brinsmead, Jack Woodfield last updated
Our round up of the best stove fans will ensure you are getting the most from your stove, whatever its style or size

Find out where heat loss in a house happens and what you can do to fix it
By Jack Woodfield, Sarah Harley last updated
Heat loss in a house is something we'd all rather avoid. We asked the experts where it happens most and what we can do to resolve the problem

Future Homes Standard: Our complete guide to the new targets
By Tim Pullen, Joseph Mullane last updated
The Future Homes Standard will ensure that new homes built from 2025 produce 75-80% less carbon emissions

7 housing market predictions and homebuilding trends for 2024
By Joseph Mullane last updated
From house prices to building materials, we glean expert insight as we make these housing market predictions for the year ahead

What is nutrient neutrality and how might it affect your build?
By Joseph Mullane last updated
Nutrient neutrality laws that were introduced to protect ecosystems around housing projects could have a significant impact on your self build

‘Monster Mansion’ planning battle ends as owner finally starts demolishing home
By Joseph Mullane last updated
A Walsall homeowner had planning permission to build an extension — instead, he tore down his house and built a four-bedroom property

Levelling up: How will the government's new bill affect your homebuilding project?
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The levelling up bill has introduced a number of changes that will influence homebuilders and we guide you through the main takeaways from the government's plans to 'revitalise' Britain
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