The pros and cons of different types of internal doors

There are of course, many different styles and types of interior doors, and finding the right match for your customer’s project is essential in order to ensure that the end result is both functional and aesthetically appealing! It is important to ensure that internal doors complement the overall appearance of the rooms, and that they also fit in with the theme, tone and style that you are trying to achieve for your customers.

If you are in the design stage of a project with your customer and are about to begin discussing the options available to them in terms of internal doors and entryways, it is worth taking a quick look at the different options available to you, in order to make the best suggestions for your customer’s home.

Here is a quick run down of all of the main types and styles of interior doors, plus the pros and cons of each.

Don’t fall at the first hurdle!

 

Before you even get as far as looking at the options for new doors for your project, it is important to find out if your project and choices are subject to any regulations or guidelines regarding the type of property, and its usage. If the property is a listed building or a heritage home, you might find that you are limited in terms of the alterations that you can make to the doors or internal walls of the property, and will have to work within the confines of those guidelines.

If the home is intended to be used as a buy to let property, there may be additional guidelines in place regarding the placement and materials used for internal doors, for instance if fire-resistant doors are necessary in order to comply with the landlord’s licence.

Veneered doors

Veneered doors or “flush” doors are one of the lower cost interior door options, being constructed of exterior sheets of plywood or hardboard, with either chipboard or a honeycomb layer of cardforming the internal bulk of the door. Reinforcing timber battens secure the exterior edges, and sometimes, extra reinforcement is present around the lock and hinges. 

Pros

• Low cost
• Easy to buy off-the-peg
• Light and easy to handle

Cons

•  Limited space to cut in from the outer frame, as thin battens make up the exterior of the frame
• Lock block on one side of the door only, so limited options on which way you can hang the door

Moulded doors

Moulded doors are constructed with either plastic, low cost wood or manmade materials making up the outer surface, in a lower-cost copy of the traditional heavy panel door styles.

Pros

• A wide range of styles and finishes available
• Considerable cost saving over traditional panel doors

Cons

• Wear and tear in use can be hard to cover and correct if the finish of the door is plastic or veneered

Panel doors

Panel doors are of course the big brother of the moulded door, and one of the traditional styles of door that offers a wide variety of options for customisation. Panel doors consist of a solid wooden construction, and the panels themselves can be made of wood, glass or any other material of your choosing! They are also easy to work with, and can be altered and cut down to suit your project.

Pros

• Panel doors look and feel like expensive, high quality doors
• They are easy to work with, and can be cut and planed to size
• Panel doors work well in properties where complimenting the theme and matching the existing style is important

Cons

• Generally more expensive than most other internal door options
• Matching the appearance of existing aged wood within a home with a brand new door can be challenging

Sliding doors

Sliding doors are one of the two options available to you if you wish to install a dividing door that allows two smaller rooms to be converted into one larger room when needed, and sliding doors are also popular in bedrooms as the frontage to generously sized wardrobes.

Pros

• Allows for an infinite range of options to use the available space of one or more rooms
• Do not encroach into the room when opened
• Many different styles and materials available, to suit all types of project from a kitchen/diner fusion to a bespoke wardrobe build

Cons

• Can be expensive, and may need to be made specifically for the project at hand
• One side of the doorway remains closed off in order to allow the other door to be opened:normally, both sides cannot be open simultaneously

Folding doors

Folding doors are your second option in terms of room dividers, and are an incredibly popular option for placing a movable dividing wall between a lounge and dining room, or a kitchen and a dining room.

A great many styles, materials and finishes are available, from solid panels to glazed doors to allow light into along divided room, even when the folding doors are closed.

Pros

• Offers many options to allow room spaces to be utilised in a variety of different way
• Many styles and finishes available
• Can be opened in sections to suit the homeowner’s needs
• Generally easy to buy off the peg

Cons

• Requires space to allow the doors to fold open
• Limited options for customisation and resizing, depending on door material

Whatever options you present to your customers, it is important that you can answer all of their questions and concerns and provide a knowledgeable insight into their various options, plus be able to identify any limitations or problems that might arise along the way.

Working closely with your customer and doing your research is of course, essential, in order to ensure that the end result of your interior door selection is both fit for purpose, and achieves the finish that your customer is looking for.

Changing doors is the simplest way to transform a home or a room, and the latest trade doors from Magnet Trade provide advanced thermal efficiency, fire protection and security, as well as sheer good looks. We provide a wide range of stylish internal doors beautiful folding doors and specialist fire doors.

Top Tips to Save Money on Your Heating and Hot Water Bills in 2014.

When the team at www.anchorpumps.com approached us with the proposal of energy saving tips to help save money and heating bills, we couldn't resist! The expert team have kindly put together this great info-graphic, highlighting eye opening facts and statistics when it comes to heating and water costs, aswell as extremely common mistakes made in the home that could be costing customers valuable cash on monthly bills.

How do you know you need a walk in bathtub?

Do you suffer with mobility issues or disabilities? These physical problems can make every day tasks, such as getting in and out of the bath, a real chore. However, with specially designed bathroom furniture, you will find that these tasks become more convenient and less of a struggle.

A walk in bathtub is the ideal solution for anyone finding it difficult to climb over the edge of a traditional bath. They are designed to be easy to use and they’re safe enough for you to keep hold of your independence for as long as possible.

What is a walk in bathtub?

Unlike standard baths, these walk in tubs allow for easy entrance and exit making the experience relaxing again. The tub is usually much deeper than a traditional bath and even has a seat for you to sit on.

There are two types of door, ones that open out and ones that open in so you can fit a walk in bath in your bathroom, whether it’s big or small. The doors are fitted with a sealant to ensure the water can’t escape.

Having said that, it’s not just the walk-in feature that is beneficial. Many of these tubs also feature handrails and textured pads, all of which are designed to make bathing a more relaxing experience.

Who are they for?

A walk in bath is suitable for anyone with mobility problems or physical disabilities. They are also very helpful for elderly people that aren’t confident at climbing in and out of a standard bath without aide.

If you live alone and want to keep or regain your independence, you might find that walk in tub can help you do that. Instead of having to worry about lifting yourself over the side, you’ll be able to open the door and walk in.

When to get one

Walk in bath tubs are often associated with the elderly but if you’re confident at getting in and out of the bath without any assistance you may not require one. Only when you start having difficulties climbing over the side, lowering yourself into the tub or getting back out do you need a walk-in bath.

However, if you are starting to struggle, it might be worth investing sooner rather than later, before an accident happens.

What to consider

When you are shopping for a walk in bath, there are a few things to consider that you wouldn’t usually have to think about. As you will have to sit in the bath whilst it fills and drains, it’s worth paying attention to how long it will take. The step in height differs on all models so if you do have mobility issues, make sure you are able to get up the step.

If the step is too high, you might have to have a second step installed or opt for a power bath. Instead of opening a door to access, a chair and leg rest lifts you over the side and lowers you into the bath.

Kitchens Through the Ages Infographic

Kitchens through the Ages – an infographic by the team at Homebase.

Space Saving Radiators

When it comes to space saving radiators, German heaters are among the most efficient models available. German electric radiators fit into tight spaces, and provide very warm radiant heat at a fraction of what it costs to install and operate other types of radiators.

Description

German electric radiators are very thin accordion-style heaters that are placed directly on the wall, and tend to be attached vertically rather than horizontally. They come in a variety of sizes ranging from ones that are 35 cm wide and 62 cm high, to those that are 155 cm wide and 62 cm high. While they can be mounted on the wall, these heaters sometimes come with optional castors or support feet so that they can be used as portable units as well. Their temperature may be controlled via a knob located on the side of the unit, or with a traditional thermostat control that is placed on the wall.

Uses

German heaters can be used anywhere there is a need for heat, but where space is limited. As a result, they are excellent choices for bathrooms, laundry rooms, sun porches and home offices. They can also be used in individual rooms that do not already have a heat source, such as bedrooms that have been added onto a home. Many people also find them very useful in outdoor structures such as garages, workshops, and storage sheds. They can even be used in commercial settings such as office buildings, schools, medical clinics and retail stores.

Energy Savings

One of the biggest benefits aside from saving space is the fact that these heaters are extremely energy efficient. Some units contain a unique intelligent thermostat, which makes it easy to control the temperature based upon your individual usage patterns. In independent tests, German electric heaters have been shown to provide adequate warmth while operating a mere 14 minutes out of every hour. These heaters have been around for quite some time, and homeowners who already have them installed tend to report increased energy savings shortly after doing so.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Another benefit of these heaters is the fact that they are very easy to install. When compared to other types of heating, German radiators can be installed in much less time, and require little or no changes to an infrastructure before doing so. Once they are in place, they are virtually maintenance free, and will never need to be tuned up or have oil added to them. This means that people who choose these heaters can enjoy the benefits of them for years to come without needing to worry about constantly maintaining them.

If you are looking for a cost-effective heating solution for your home or business, German electric radiators from Power Heating are an ideal solution to consider. They are affordable and energy efficient, while taking up very little room inside a structure. Many people have already found them to be a welcome solution during new construction, or when replacement of an older heating system is necessary.

Why has Steel become one of the best construction materials of the 21st Century?

For many years iron was the fundamental base of many infrastructures across the world. However since steel has been discovered, it has now become the go to material for most major constructions. This is why it has become its own separate industry with suppliers such as the Blake Group.

The metal is an alloy and a combination of iron and carbon. This creates a metal which has a greater strength to weight ratio then many other metals. It is a very durable metal and can withstand a variety of weather conditions, meaning it will not rust as much as iron if exposed to the elements. Another benefit of using the alloy in construction is that it can be recycled numerous times. Even if it is used 3 or 4 times it will not lose any of its other qualities. Its flexibility as a material means that it has the ability to be altered once the structure has already been built.

The use of steel in large scale projects can help to speed up the construction process. When used in the inner city it can be effective at reducing disruption with city roads or day to day life. Looking towards the future steel offers an environmentally friendly option for construction due to its recyclable nature. Over half of the steel used in the world is now recycled steel from previous structures, which shows just how efficient a material it is.

How to Create an Indulgent Den for Adults

Some of our best childhood memories are the memories that we have of creating dens. Whether we invited others into our worlds or kept them to ourselves, we understood that a den was our private space – somewhere to relax and to get away from it all. That appealed even when we were young, creating forts and pitching play tents in the garden, but as we grew we found that we had less time to build dens as life, work and day-to-day responsibilities got in the way.

Somehow, as our world became somewhere that we more often needed to escape, we stopped escaping from it. Play tents were stored in the cupboard under the stairs, the sofa stopped becoming a fort and we no longer propped a duvet up in the air so that we could hide underneath it with a battery-powered torch. We lost our childhood escape.

Now, why not create a den again? Why not find some space in your house to let your inner child out? Find a room that isn’t being used for anything important, or use room dividers to create a separate space, and take yourself back to those carefree days when you really knew how to relax.

Seating
Chairs are boring! When you were a kid, what could beat flopping down on a big beanbag or sinking into a pile of large cushions? Soft furnishings are the key to a good adult den. A nice duvet to relax under, coupled with a pile or cushions or pillows, will ensure that you can enter your den and experience instant comfort rather than spending time trying to adjust your position on a chair or sofa. Cover the floor – go crazy!

Entertainment
Your iPad, connected to your office email, doesn’t count. Your den needs to be a place where you can get away from it all. A TV is fine, but don’t take your phone or tablet into the room. Add a small bookshelf, and consider stacking a few board games in the corner. Make your den the place that you play your guitar, listen to music, paint or knit but, whatever you do, don’t let the outside world in.

Decorations
Don’t be afraid to go a little wild with your decorations, either. When was the last time you had posters on your wall? You might make sure that your decorations and furnishings complement each other throughout the rest of your home, but your den can be a place where nothing matches and you can let all sides of your personality out at the same time. If you love cartoon superheroes and cute cuddly kittens, put the two side by side. What could possibly feel better than snuggling down for a nap with those glowing plastic stars lighting a ‘sky’ on the ceiling?

Imagination
Your home should be your sanctuary, but as our commitments encroach on our personal space we’re losing the ability to relax after a long day in the office or an afternoon caring for an elderly relative. People are constantly worrying, and the stress can get too much. Instead of thinking about artistic interior design for one of the more public rooms in your house, stop for a while and create somewhere that you really want to spend time.

What would you have in your den? Have you already created one? What are your favourite memories of your childhood den? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

How to roof your house for the winter

There are a variety of options when it comes to roofing your house. There are a whole host of materials that can be used; but which is the most effective one to be used this winter?

Here is a list of my top three materials for the winter:

1. One of these could be wood shake, this is a material used for people who like to have an aesthetically pleasing roof. The wood changes colour in damp and cold weather leading it to change to what some may perceive an even better look. Making it especially good for the winter as you may come through it with a better looking roof.

2. Concrete roof tiling is another option. This would be extremely useful for those who live in a place with volatile weather conditions. Since they are heavy duty they are able to uphold in storm-like weather conditions whilst also having the ability to be fireproof.

3. Metal roofing has become more popular in recent times for homes in a cold climate. The metal is durable and will last many decades whilst also having the ability to allow snow and ice to slide off. It has become popular in cities such as New York, and can now be found in the majority of roof suppliers such as RT Roofing Supplies.

Shower Heads – A Brief Q&A

You would be well within your rights to view the title of this piece and give a subtle – or maybe not-so-subtle! – roll of the eyes. You’d think that something as prima facie straightforward as a shower head would not require anything approaching intense thought, but with the range of designs and construction methods now, I’m afraid you must devote some more time to choosing your shower head.

To this end, I’ve broken down some of the most frequent queries I receive from people looking for a new shower head.

What material(s) should my shower head be made of then?

The manufacture of your shower head is of more importance than you might first think. Quality of build equates to longevity, which in turn leads to saving you money as you don’t have to replace or repair your unit. Steel heads are fine and – if on a budget – there is nothing wrong with well-made plastic heads, but the very best, I think, are solid brass shower heads. With the right coating, brass items offer unbeatable resistance to corrosion and the type of strength you will need for day-in, day-out use.

What are my design options?

This is a bit of a ‘length of a piece of string’ question now. Before you were fairly well set with very drab, very functional shower heads, arranged in simple round or square shapes. Nowadays these styles have been completely mixed up, with three-headed head units just one of the modern designs available. Also popular are star-shaped designs, which look good even when switched off.

Anything you can recommend to make my heads stand out?

Following on from simple looks above, there are other things that really move away from orthodox shower design. Perhaps most popular are LED shower heads, which dazzle with their varying hues that colour your bathroom when the thermostatic shower itself is activated. Other attractive modifications come with the actual delivery of the water. Waterfall heads, for instance, do away with the classic individual nozzles, commingling to form a spray, and instead produce one long cascade. This looks extremely impressive once the shower is switched on, as the singular smooth body of water is very pleasing to the eye.

One final piece of advice that I couldn’t leave you without is something that applies to all purchases. Essentially, be sure to research your warranty options. A long warranty indicates quality, as the stockist clearly trusts their products to last. Furthermore, should the worst happen, you know you have a back-up, and that you won’t be shelling out any more money. I have seen guarantees in excess of a staggering ten years on the market, so be sure to do your research.

Stairlift Use in the UK: An Insight

As we age, there are many new changes that may occur – both to our health and our attitudes. With an aging population, the UK and the wider global community are being forced to invest more time, energy and resources into developing systems that can help these vulnerable persons live a long and comfortable life.

Stairlifts are a big part of this – but just what are the key findings about stairlift use in the UK?

The UK population

As with many developed countries or nations, the UK has what is known as an ageing population. This is where larger and larger proportions of the population are in their later years – something which puts increasing pressure on those of working age.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics claim there were more than 12,230 people aged over 100 years of age in England in Wales in 2012. This has increased from a mere 2,560 people 30 years ago with the number of people aged over 90 years tripling over a similar time period.

According to a poll by Anchor, 77% of adults think the UK isn’t ready to cope with the changes to its demographic. Although there have been recent changes to retirement ages and pension structures, the truth is that areas such as healthcare and housing are falling short of demand and this is something which needs addressing if elderly citizens are to get the life they deserve.

Stairlifts in the UK

One of the key ways in which individuals are coping with the difficulties of old age is through the fitting of stairlifts in their home. While there are no exact figures on the numbers currently owned or in-use, there are some statistics for us to review.

Some firms have reported as much as 5% increases in sales for the third year in a row as the aging UK population continues to grow. For this portion of our demographic, mobility issues (which can lead to the need for a stairlift) are commonplace.

The unfortunate fact is that many of these people do not always get the care they deserve. Even in 2001, more than three-quarters (78%) of elderly people with mobility problems said they got help or care from those living in their home or from spouses.

For those who live alone, this poses real problems and it’s hardly surprising that a number of elderly people move from their family homes as the approach later life. Unfortunately, care homes don’t always offer the support and financial viability they promise. In fact, a report on The Daily Mail from April 2014 claimed that thousands of care home residents were being told to ‘pay more or move out’.

A viable alternative

Instead of feeling the need to relocate when they get older and are no longer able to cope with common areas of difficulty, such as the stairs, elderly people could simply invest in a stairlift to help them retain their independence and live in the house they’ve grown to call home.

There are a fantastic selection of stairlifts available, including curved stairlifts which are designed to fit curved staircases as opposed to straight ones. With so much choice and a population that is continuing to age, the benefit of choosing these products is clear!

Home Security for the festive period

Crime statists show that criminal activity increases during the Christmas period as homes are full of expensive gifts or left unattended for a few days. During the festive period home owners should take a minute to consider how secure their home and contents are. These security tips highlight the security flaws that criminals look for when scouting for potential targets.

How secure does the property look? 

Thieves will always look for an easy entry and exit route, if they cannot readily see an easy way in, they will bypass your home and choose an easier target. Making your home look secure is therefore vitally important. Doors and windows that appear old and un-cared for will give the impression of a poorly maintained house and a potential target, all external doors should be fitted with high security door locks and all windows should be fitted with a key operated lock.

An untidy garden can also give the impression of an unloved house, thick bushes can be used as hiding places for crooks and any unsecured items in the garden could be used to access the property, always put away or lock up garden items such as ladders, these could be used to gain access to an upstairs window.

If you do go away for Christmas, ensure that any deliveries are cancelled, these can be a dead giveaway that no one is home. Royal Mail offers a post holding service called Keepsafe™ , this facility holds onto mail for a pre-set period of time, so instead of letting your post and parcels build up let Royal Mail keep hold of them.

Good Lighting 

External lights with motion sensors can be used at the front of a property, these will come on when the house is approached. Security lights can also be used to illuminate dark corners that could be potential hiding spots for intruders looking to break into a property. There are now many solar powered lights that can be easily fitted without the need of an electrician. Internal lights can also be used to good effect, giving off the impression that people are at home, light timers can be used to switch a light on when it gets dark.
Cables for Christmas lights should never be fed through an open window, instead install an external power socket.

Home Safes

Small home safes that can be hidden away are now popular security items for many households, important and valuable items can be securely stored in the safe. During the festive period it can be a good idea to store gift receipts in a safe, that way if the worst was to happen, you still have proof of purchase and value. Small key safes are now being used to good effect to protect keys for other parts of the house and vehicle keys. If someone were to gain access to your home, any keys that are left in the ‘key pot’ would allow easy entry to other locked parts of the home. Car keys can also be stored within small key safes, if a thief was to gain access to your home, car keys left unsecured give the criminal easy access to your vehicle as well.

Social Media

Thieves have started to use social media as a method to find out when properties will be vacant, it is therefore essential not to give this information away. Check your social media setting and make sure that only friends and family can see your updates, better still, not advertise that you will be away for a few days. This point is also valid when posting pictures of the brand new bike you received for Christmas, this could be an advert to an offender that you have a new valuable item stored within your property.

Remember, stay safe over Christmas, have a great time with family and friends and look out for others that are vulnerable or alone.

This article has been supplied by the locktrader team, check out their website www.locktrader.co.uk supplying low cost locks and security for the home.

Looking for Eco-Friendly Christmas Lights?

Christmas is fast approaching and more than ever before we are looking to make purchases that are not only great value but can help the environment as well. If you are looking for an original, vibrant and eco-friendly way of brightening the outside of your home this festive season, take a look at our great offerings of some eco-friendly Christmas lights

So how do solar lights work? Solar garden lights work through the photovoltaic (PV) effect. This PV effect is the term used for the process to describe when sunlight generates energy in solar cells and this is also called photovoltaic cells. As the solar lights charge right through the day, it stores the sufficient amount of energy to light an entire garden path or walk way throughout the night, and the cycle is then repeated again when the sun rises.

We have a vast range of beautiful fairy lights that can transform the outside of your home and are powered by solar energy. Not only are these lights long lasting but they also offer great performance and are not necessarily just to be used at Christmas – giving that extra bit of sparkle to your home and garden all year round.

We are experienced in the sector of solar fairy lights and can offer our expertise when purchasing your eco-friendly Christmas lights this year and every year. If you would like our help or any further information, do not hesitate to contact us today via phone or email.

Improving Your Home? Don't Forget Your Car!

The new year is almost upon us and we often make resolutions that include some DIY around the house to improve our homes, but make sure you don’t neglect your car – that needs some TLC too, especially as it is thought that we spend 37,935 hours driving our cars in an entire lifetime!

Here are several other ways that you can improve your car, particularly if you are working with a budget:

• Remove any junk you have in your vehicle. This could be anything from empty food wrappers to books to sports equipment to spare clothes! This can help to not only add a sense of ‘lightness’ to the vehicle but also help how the car performs in terms of mileage, handling and braking distance.

• Use the best oil there is on offer and make sure you change it regularly. This can help make your vehicle run better and your car will be grateful for it.

• Replace any old spark plugs and air filters. This can help to boost the vehicle’s horse power and make the vehicle run better in general.

• Invest in the tires that you use and make sure they are inflated. This can make all the difference for vehicle performance, speed and keeping you safe.

We can provide brake caliper ranges include Haldex, BPW, SAF, and Foden and we supply re-conditioned brake calipers all over the UK for use on all variants of trailers and Lorries.

 If you need any help or information, please do not hesitate to get in contact via phone or email.

How to Keep Your Swimming Pool Clean and Hygienic

When it comes to owning and looking after a swimming pool, we understand and appreciate the importance of keeping the pool clean and hygienic. The correct water chemistry is necessary for keeping a swimming pool clean, safe and sanitised for swimmers, and the maintenance of a swimming pool's chemicals can save those who own a pool not only time but money as well. Various swimming pool chemicals are available from us that offer a great value way of keeping your swimming pool sanitised at all times.

What is it that makes a swimming pool dirty anyway? There are a few key factors that contribute to making a swimming pool unclean. Dirt and bacteria can be picked up from:

• People – when people swim in your pool, body fats, bacteria, nitrogen and ammonia are released as well as any dirt that may have been collected on the body before entering the pool.

• Dirt – dust and dirt can enter the pool from leaves, bird droppings, muddy feet and insects, adding to the not quite clean condition of the water.

• New water – residue is carried in rain water and can get into the pool by washing in from the sides.

• Algae – algae can build up gradually on any body of water that is not moving constantly and comes in thousands of colours and types.

If you need any help or more information please do not hesitate to get in contact via phone or email today.

New technology, winter weather and mobility: key issues affecting our elderly

In today’s world, there are many issues which affect us all on a day-to-day basis. For most of us, they’re easy to cope with but this isn’t always the case for the elderly. As a more vulnerable demographic, these individuals need extra care and consideration at times and here are some of the key issues currently affecting them.

New technology

The rise of the internet and the advent of smartphones and other high-tech devices is well documented but just how does it affect the elderly? There is a split opinion here with some people feeling the elderly are resistant to change while others acknowledge that the systems have infiltrated all age groups; albeit in varying ways.

The key issue here is that a lack of education and financial support means not all elderly individuals can use these services to their full potential. Over in Australia, the state’s peak health group has issued a plea to telecommunication giants including Telstra and Optus to subsidise the costs of internet access for the elderly.

According to their research, people aged 65 years or over who have internet access at home are more likely to avoid social isolation by volunteering, being active in their local community and staying in touch with their family.

Unfortunately, despite the benefits, internet penetration figures for those in the upper age brackets aren’t as high as authorities would like. In Victoria, 43% of those aged over 75 years have internet at home – a figure which jumps to a staggering 98% for those aged between 18 and 24 years.

Whether telecommunications firms will get on board with this new idea or not, and whether it is something which begins to affect other nations including the UK, is yet to be seen but it’s certainly a key issue for those more mature in years.

Winter weather

A recurring issue for elderly individuals is that of winter weather. With numerous stories about energy prices and poor heating, not to mention tales about elderly people becoming confined to their homes due to wintry showers, it’s hardly surprising that this is being made a priority by those in positions of power.

The York Press recently reported on how changes to the city’s gritting network could leave elderly and disabled people trapped in their homes once snowy and icy weather hits. As much as 30 miles of road have been removed from the local council’s “primary” gritting list as part of measures to try and save £60,000 and this will mean they’ll only be gritted during severe weather rather than being treated in sub-zero temperatures.

Mobility and care

Another key issue for the elderly is undoubtedly over their health, mobility and care provisions as they age. Social care for elderly individuals has been a big talking point for the UK Government but local communities are also making it a key focus.

In a poll of Derbyshire taxpayers, care homes were one of the things which the community wanted prioritised as the council attempts to save a staggering £157 million by 2018 through spending cuts. This emphasises how local communities are putting the safety and health of their most vulnerable citizens first.

This could mean looking for home aids to increase access around properties and buildings – for items like stairlifts UK suppliers offer a great selection of options – or having more drastic renovations completed to widen access points to homes, add rails and supports and heighten key areas such as toilets, seats and beds.

CarpetRight Infographic

How the Rest of the World Sleeps - An infographic by the team at Carpetright Beds

LED Floodlights

No matter where we go there is always floodlights nearby whether that is in our own yards, car parks or football stadiums. The reason for this is because the floodlights themselves are powerful lights that can power large areas easily with few lights, whereas if it was a standard outdoor light it would take hundreds to generate the same volume of light. Many choose floodlights in their own homes as a security option to keep their homes safe against intruders as the light acts as a deterrent.

LED floodlights have many advantages; one advantage is that they have an extremely long life span; typically they can last up to 50,000 hours. The great thing about this is that they won’t have to be replaced as often therefore there will be a lower running cost so the extra money can be used on other things!

LED floodlights are an eco-friendly option as they use less electricity than halogen floodlights meaning you will save more money on energy bills and help the environment. The LED floodlights themselves can be altered to hit areas directly, for example if you need the light to focus on a certain section of your yard this can be done easily, whereas if it was a standard halogen light this can’t be done as the light inside them split so that they can cover a whole area evenly.

When choosing a floodlight you want them to be durable and sturdy, with an LED floodlight this is the case as they are made to withstand extreme conditions such as rain, snow and hail.

LED floodlights have been proven to emit better light than standard lighting therefore you don’t need as many to brighten up an area. This is great news as you will save on both energy bills and purchasing costs!

Getting your house ready to sell

So you’ve found the house or flat of your dreams and you’ve already started planning where you’ll put the furniture and what colour you’ll paint the walls. Now, all that stands between you and future domestic bliss is the small matter of selling your own property…

A quick sale is what you need, but the process of selling a property can be fraught with frustration and disappointment if you don’t observe some simple rules when buyers come to view. Follow these tips from LDG estate agents and you should be successful. Specialists in Soho properties, they’ve helped many homeowners make that all important sale.

By the time most of us decide to move, we will have fallen slightly out of love with our current homes. Lack of space, small garden, tired décor, limited parking: it’s easy to come up with a list of what’s wrong, but in order to sell your property you will need to reconnect with the reasons why you bought it in the first place.

Your first step should be to make a list of the things that attracted you to buy (make sure all these good points are reflected in the estate agents’ details). Remember the buzz you felt when you first walked through the door? What were the features that really stood out for you then and how can you maximise their impact for potential buyers this time around?

You’ll be familiar with your property’s worst features – that’s why you’re moving, after all – but you should try to look at them objectively. You may not have the time or resources to completely redecorate but there’s a lot you can do to hide the worst defects.

Has your spare room become a dumping ground? Then buy some cheap storage containers for your surplus stuff and conceal the rest under the bed. Possessions lying on windowsills or piled on top of wardrobes are a dead giveaway that your current property lacks adequate storage space, so clear up, and clean up.

Fix any outstanding DIY job – there’s nothing more off-putting for a buyer than to be confronted by a dripping tap in the bathroom, weeds growing out of the guttering or broken tiles in the kitchen. The message these unfinished jobs convey is that you haven’t taken care to maintain your property.

You may have been planning to replace that old kettle, toaster and bread bin as soon as you move, but the best time to purchase those items is now. Put fresh flowers in the hallway, clean towels in the bathroom and make sure that all the usual sights and smells of daily life (socks on the radiator, dog hairs on the couch) are banished.

Finally, even though you may FEEL desperate to make that sale, try not to show it. Don’t follow viewers around like a lost dog, give them some space to explore on their own (if you’re worried about security, make sure that any valuables are well concealed). Prepare in advance for buyers’ questions and offer them the answers that you would want to hear, especially when it comes to that all-important phrase: “We’ve always been very happy here”.

Your New Bathroom Suite – Essential Items

I’ll level with you straight away, as I’m sure I won’t be alone: I’m not that organised. Being sorted out and scheduled is not something that comes all that naturally to me, and unless I go out of my way to fit some structure to my life I would spend most of my days aimlessly walking around the wrong workplace, more than likely in the wrong clothes.

This is why I tend to make lists for everything. It’s a habit picked up from my sister in law, who is like one of those ruthless military planners who run everything to unrelenting clockwork. 

With this inspiration, I want to help alleviate any stress you might be having putting your new bathroom together. To this end I have chucked together a quick list for you below to refer to as you wander, shell-shocked, around your local store or website. 

Fixtures & Fittings

Let’s start at the finish, with the finishing touches that are fixtures and fittings. Taps, for instance, require careful selection to match both the style you need, while getting the correct connectors, screws and other similar items makes for an installation that is a doddle. 

Ceramics

The main items that will immediately catch the eye are your ceramics. Make time to research ceramics units, as some materials are different to others. Toilets generally are styled as close coupled or back to wall, the latter far more contemporary due to its concealed cistern – this makes for a gloriously minimalist look. If you are given the option, do go for a dual flush toilet, as the conservation of water will help reduce your utility bills. 

Shower

The first thing to get out of the way is whether you are going to go with a thermostatic or standard mixer valve shower. The predominant difference is that a thermostatic shower maintains a constant temperature, whereas a standard mixer needs your input to manually keep the temperature you want. Your budget and system will dictate which you opt for here, so look into the pros and cons of both types before committing yourself. 

Furniture & Storage

The bathroom has the same needs as any other room, and  this includes storage.  Solutions include vanity units, mirror cupboards or freestanding or wall-mounted units. MDF boards and/or stainless steel are the key materials to look out for here as both are durable and strong. A number of different finishes are available too, so there is no need to worry as there will be something to match your room’s theme.  

Heating

Electric radiators are items of serious utility to install in your bathroom. This is because –whether electric or dual fuel through the addition of an element – you can switch on these radiators in isolation. Even if you want to stick with tried and tested central heating power, all shapes and sizes are catered for, from curved models to designer vertical units.

Portable Heating: Fan vs. Oil

As the cold winter nights start rolling in, now is the best time to get your home ready for the arrival of Jack Frost!

Central heating is often the best solution for heating your home throughout the winter months, but if your home is not fitted with a permanent central heating source or you have certain rooms in the home that are difficult to heat, it may be worth investing in a portable heater to keep your family warm this winter.

With so many different types of portable heaters on the market, it can be difficult to decide which will not only heat your home the most efficiently, but also which will make the smallest increase to your heating and electricity bills. With heating the home accounting for more than 50% of the average household energy usage, choosing the best portable heating solution for your home is essential.

We’re taking a look at the pros and cons of fan heaters VS oil heaters, the two most common portable heaters available on the market. Ranging in price, both heaters are ideal for warming up the home quickly, but how do they compare?

Oil Filled Heaters

Pros

• Oil-filled heaters are usually the cheapest to run out of all ranges of portable heaters, as they stay warm for a long time, even once switched off.

• They generally have a larger surface area, so they are ideal for heating larger rooms in the home.

• Oil-filled radiators are reliable heat sources, quiet in the home and most importantly are long lasting.

Cons

• Oil radiators reach extremely high temperatures, therefore they can be dangerous if you have children in your home, and could cause great harm.

• Some oil-filled heaters can take a very long time to heat up after switching them on, as most are fairly heavy and cumbersome.

• Many models don’t always achieve the power and heat claimed by manufacturers; therefore you might not get the heating power you expect for your home.

Average Cost per Hour

• Oil-filled radiator = 12.2p per hour (Price varies by wattage and electricity prices)

Fan Heaters

Pros

• Fan heaters are relatively quick to heat up and cool down, which makes them perfect for smaller rooms in the home.

• Fan heaters have the added advantage that they blow the heat around the room, which means heat circulation is aided and the air in the room can heat up quickly.

• Fan heaters are light and compact, making it easy to move them from room to room if necessary.

• Many fan heaters have a thermostat and timer, which allows you to adjust the temperature and length of time the heater, is circulating hot air in your home.

• Fan heaters are the best choice for home owners with children as hot air can move freely in and out of the heater – therefor the heater itself does not get too hot.

Cons

• Given that portable electric heating devices use electricity, they are generally not as cost effective as central heating systems running on gas or oil.

• Fan heaters are guaranteed to make noise as the hot air in blown out – the noise level will vary with different fan heaters.

Average Cost per Hour

• Fan heater = 24.2p per hour (Price varies by wattage and electricity prices)7

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