KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES: At-home alterations and upgrades are set to increase over the coming months, according to Trades Supermarket, a shopping comparison website for tradespeople and DIYers.

It predicts that a stalled property market will see a sales uplift in the spring as householders upgrade, repair and makeover elements of their houses and gardens, instead of moving home.

"Bigger construction projects are now set to be planned as the weather becomes warmer and the evenings lighter, including the fitting of new kitchens, bathrooms and underfloor heating," the company said in a statement.

The site, www.tradessupermarket.com, lists the products of the UK's larger retailers including B&Q, Screwfix and Wickes, smaller independent merchants and niche operators.