Home Improvement Loan Guide

Whether you’re replacing an old kitchen, adding an extension, improving your home’s energy efficiency or simply giving your house a fresh look, a home improvement loan can help spread the cost into affordable monthly repayments.

Unlike remortgaging your home, a home improvement loan is typically quicker to arrange and allows you to borrow exactly what you need for your project. Once approved, you’ll receive the funds upfront so you can pay tradespeople, purchase materials or complete your renovations without waiting years to save the money.

At Croí Laighean Credit Union, you can borrow from €500 up to €100,000, with repayment terms of up to 10 years, making it suitable for everything from a small bathroom makeover to a major home extension.

Our home improvement loans can be used for almost any project that adds value, improves comfort or makes your home more energy efficient.

Why choose a Home Improvement Loan?

 
– Borrow from €500 to €100,000
– Flexible repayment terms up to 10 years
– No hidden fees or arrangement charges
– Repay early with no penalty
– Fast local lending decisions
– Manage your loan through our online banking and mobile app

Whether you’re planning improvements now or simply gathering ideas, our lending team is here to help you choose a repayment that comfortably fits your budget.

What Can You Use a Home Improvement Loan For?

Every home is different, and so is every renovation project. Whether you’re making essential repairs, creating more living space, or increasing your home’s value, our Home Improvement Loan can help finance almost any improvement.

Kitchen Renovations

Typical cost: €10,000–€35,000

The kitchen is often called the heart of the home. A new kitchen can improve everyday living while adding significant value to your property. Loans can be used for cabinets, appliances, worktops, flooring, lighting, and installation.

Bathroom Renovations

Typical cost: €8,000–€20,000

Whether you’re replacing an outdated bathroom or creating a modern ensuite, funding can cover sanitary ware, tiling, plumbing, heating, showers and finishes.

Home Extensions

Typical cost: €40,000–€120,000+

Need more room for a growing family? A home extension can create additional living space without the cost and disruption of moving house. Many members borrow towards extensions, sunrooms, utility rooms or larger kitchen-dining areas.

Attic Conversions

Typical cost: €25,000–€55,000

Transform unused roof space into an extra bedroom, office, playroom or home gym. An attic conversion is often one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your home’s usable space.

Solar Panels & Battery Storage

Typical cost: €6,000–€10,000

Installing solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills while lowering your carbon footprint. Combined with available SEAI grants, solar is becoming one of Ireland’s most popular home improvements. If you’re considering going solar, read our blog post to find out more and apply for our Green Loan with a low rate of just 6%

Heat Pumps & Energy Upgrades

Typical cost: €10,000–€18,000

Improve your BER rating and reduce heating costs by installing an air-to-water heat pump, upgrading insulation or replacing old heating systems. Our Green Loan may also be suitable for eligible energy upgrades.

Windows & Doors

Typical cost: €5,000–€20,000

Replacing older windows and doors improves comfort, security and energy efficiency while helping reduce heating bills.

Roofing & Structural Repairs

Typical cost: €5,000–€30,000

Whether you’re replacing a roof, repairing storm damage or carrying out essential structural work, a home improvement loan can help spread the cost.

Landscaping & Outdoor Living

Typical cost: €2,000–€25,000

They say a good garden is like an extra room in a house… from patios and decking to driveways, fencing and garden rooms, improving your outdoor space can make your home more enjoyable while increasing its value.

Home Office or Garden Room

Typical cost: €15,000–€40,000

Remote working has changed how many of us use our homes. A dedicated office or garden room can create a productive workspace while adding flexibility for years to come.

Figures are indicative only and will vary depending on the size of the project, materials used, labour costs and location. Green Loan eligibility is subject to lending criteria and qualifying energy-efficiency works.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a home improvement loan differ from a mortgage?

Home improvement loans are specifically intended for renovation and remodeling projects, while mortgages are used to purchase or refinance a home.

How much can I borrow with a home improvement loan?

You can borrow up to €100,000 with a Croí Laighean Credit Union Home Improvement Loan.

How long must I be a member, or do I need to have a certain amount saved?

You can join today and borrow today. Our decisions are based on your repayment ability, and we don’t use a computer algorithm.

What can I use a home improvement loan for?

You can use a home improvement loan for a wide range of projects, including buying a new kitchen, renovating your bathroom, roof repairs, landscaping, creating an outdoor space, adding an extension, or converting the attic – it’s up to you!

What are the interest rates for home improvement loans?

Our interest rates start at 7.5% for loans over €25,000 and over 5 years. We also offer 5-year, 7-year, and 10-year fixed-term loans with rates starting from 6%.

How long do I have to repay a home improvement loan?

We offer repayment terms of up to 10 years, but it depends on the amount you borrow.

How can I apply for a loan?

You can work out a repayment amount that suits your budget and apply online, in a branch, or on the phone.

Can I use a home improvement loan for DIY projects, or do I need to hire a contractor?

It’s entirely up to you whether you choose a professional contractor or decide to do the work yourself.

How long does it typically take to get approval?

We try to deal with all loans as soon as possible and often, you may get approval within 24 hours.

Can I use a home improvement loan for energy-efficient upgrades or home repairs?

Yes, you can use a home improvement loan for energy-efficient improvements. However, if you’re thinking of upgrading your home’s energy rating, we have a special Green Loan rate of 6% (6.17% APR) to help finance retrofits. This is ideal for projects such as installing solar panels, upgrading insulation, or replacing windows and doors.

Why should I choose Croí Laighean Credit Union?

As a member-focused Credit Union, we offer the best loan rates and services. In today’s financial landscape, making informed borrowing decisions is more important than ever and we’re always here to help and guide you to the best product. Read our handy loan comparison guide to find out more.

Repayment Example

A Credit Union Home Improvement Loan of €25,000 over 5 years would have a monthly repayment of €501 at a fixed rate of 7.5% (APR 7.76%). The total cost of credit would be €5,057, and the total amount repayable would be €30,057.

A Credit Union Home Improvement Loan of €7,500 over 3 years would have a monthly repayment of €242 at a variable rate of 9.99% (APR 10.46%). The total cost of credit would be €1,211, and the total amount repayable would be €8,711.

It is important to note that these are just examples, and the actual cost of your loan may vary depending on your individual circumstances. Croí Laighean Credit Union, or any of its staff, cannot be held responsible for any omissions, errors, or other mistakes on the site. This calculator is for illustrative purposes only, to give you, the borrower, an overview of the potential cost of borrowing.

Rates are correct as of 01/07/2026 and are subject to change. Croí Laighean Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

If you are considering a Credit Union Home Improvement Loan, our loan officers are happy to discuss your specific needs.