In general, home improvements can serve to increase the value of a property, although "some are more profitable than others".
That is according to a spokeswoman for DIY and garden centre retailer B&Q, who maintained that a new kitchen installation, for example, is likely to "pay for itself in added market value".
However, she said that some types of home improvement work could actually decrease a property's value, advising homeowners not to rip out fireplaces amongst other things.
The spokeswoman commented: "Most home improvements will enhance the resale value of your home, but some are more profitable than others.
"Installing a kitchen, bathroom or conservatory is likely to pay for itself in added market value."
She added: "Don't rip out period features such as fireplaces, use textured plaster or woodchip to cover uneven walls, create windowless rooms, put double glazing that doesn't open or economise by living with dated wallpaper or furnishings."
In 2007, 58 per cent of Brits indicated that they had undertaken some form of home improvements over the past year, according to the annual Halifax Home Improvement Survey.
