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5 Reasons To Hire a Forklift For Your Home Project

Whether you’re revamping your downstairs bathroom, or constructing an outbuilding from scratch – hiring a forklift can boost the efficiency of your project. From saving you money and time, to doing the heavy lifting when manual labourers are struggling, there are a few key reasons why you should consider hiring a forklift for your home endeavour.   

Fixed monthly costs

Bigger projects may need lots of heavy lifting, and the most cost-efficient way to approach a project is through hiring a forklift, rather than employing lots of manual labourers. When you hire a forklift, you pay only fixed monthly costs and will not be surprised with any sudden repair or maintenance bills – your forklift hire company will cover any problems the moment they arise without you needing to fork out. This payment plan allows for greater flexibility and cost-efficiency in the long run, particularly in regards to short-term hire.

Time-efficiency

Forklifts can not only save you money, but also time. The ease of movement and lifting that these machines bring to your project can save a lot of time and effort, and also potentially prevent injury from workers overstretching themselves. Consequently, hiring a forklift can also enhance the time-efficiency of your project.

Regular maintenance and servicing

Hiring from a forklift specialist means that you can rest assured that your hired machine will have undergone regular maintenance and servicing to ensure optimal performance and quality before you receive it. What’s more, if your forklift experiences issues mid-project, a professional can attend to the problem and offer a resolution – this comes from the specialists’ in-depth knowledge of all the makes and models they supply.

Flexibility

Different aspects of your project may require different machine capabilities – the good news is that machines can be easily swapped or upgraded when using a professional company, such as East Midlands Forklifts. This gives you total flexibility and reassurance in the knowledge that you can access the right forklift at the right time. Very often, different lease periods can also be agreed to adapt to your project’s schedule.

Can handle large projects  

Forklifts are designed to tackle big projects and heavy weights and are most often seen on large construction sites or in warehouses. However, they can also prove useful on home construction projects too, such as home renovations, landscaping projects, construction of outbuildings, or extensions. No matter how ambitious your project, forklifts can handle it. Simply get in touch with a specialist who can advise on exactly the right make and model for your needs.

East Midlands Forklifts are a leading authority on forklifts in their area, specialising in the supply, repair and maintenance of a wide range of trusted makes and models.

The post 5 Reasons To Hire a Forklift For Your Home Project appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

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What is the Best Type of Roof for Solar Panels?

Solar panels are a great way of making our homes more eco-friendly and sustainable. They can generate clean energy to cut down on bills and reduce our overall carbon footprint, but do you need a particular type of roof to install solar panels?

In this article, we’re looking at what factors might make some roofs more suitable than others for effective solar panel installation.

Key factors

There are some notable key factors which will influence your suitability for solar panels. These include:

Ownership of the roof

The direction your roof faces

Age of the roof

Material of the roof

Roof size

More factors will likely come into play, but for the most part, these are the most decisive and easiest to consider. Let’s look at how these might affect your decision.

Ownership

If you’re in a rental property, you’ll need to obtain the owner’s permission before making significant structural changes — such as the addition of solar panels. If you’re the sole owner of the roof, then you’re okay to proceed.

Roof orientation

In the UK, a south-facing roof is a prime candidate for solar panels, as it will maximise the amount of solar energy you can generate. If your roof is north facing, then solar panels won’t be worth installing — although ground-mounted options could provide an alternative.

If your roof is east or west facing, then you’ll still be able to benefit from the power of solar panels. In fact, east/west-facing solar panels provide a better distribution of energy overall. This is because, when most people install south-facing panels, demand peaks at around midday and the grid can find it difficult to cope. By opting for east/west-facing panels, you can still generate an impressive amount of energy while also reducing demand on the grid.

Age of the roof

When planning your panel installation, you need to think about the age and lifespan of your roof. Ideally, you’ll want to install your panels on a roof that’s in good condition and has more than a couple of decades’ life left to give. It might be that you’ll need to make sweeping repairs or even a full replacement if you have an older, traditional roofing system — such as slate or asphalt.

If you have a metal roof, then you’re already in a strong position. With their long-lasting lifespan and durability, a metal roof will likely outlast your solar panels.

This is a key element to think about if you’re planning to build a new roof alongside your solar array; you’ll want to install a roofing system that will outlive your panels. Metal roofing is an ideal choice for this type of installation.

Size of the roof

The bigger your roof, the more panels you can install and the more energy you can produce. In domestic terms, the roof space of a small terraced house is definitely on the small side, and likely won’t be worth having panels installed. A three-bed semi-detached house, however, is a much healthier proposition.

When you think of size, you also need to factor in the ease of installation. Standing seam metal roofs offer a clean and easy installation surface for solar panels, without needing to drill any holes. This allows you to maximise space and create an unimpeded installation that draws as much energy as your roof size allows.

Finally, you’ll also need to take into account any obstacles on the roof — chimneys, vents etc. — as well as ensuring you have enough internal space for the string inverter.

Material of the roof

While solar panels can be installed on a range of roofing materials, an ideal choice would be a standing seam metal roof. As mentioned above, age and condition of the roof is important and this is intrinsically linked with the material. A metal roof is a sturdy and efficient platform for solar panels, and one that will last for many years to come without needing to be repaired or replaced.

Standing seam roofs also make it easy to install solar panels without any kind of restructuring or additional work, and some solar panel installers have dedicated metal roofing rails to accommodate simple installation on these kinds of roofs. If you have a metal roof — or are thinking of installing one — it’s the ideal companion for solar panels.

The post What is the Best Type of Roof for Solar Panels? appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

What is the Best Type of Roof for Solar Panels? published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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How to Add Value to Your Home

With the housing market looking extremely unpredictable thanks to Brexit, it’s unlikely that many buyers or sellers are going to put much stock in spikes and dips until the dust settles. That said, if you want to squeeze as much value out of your home when the time comes, then these tips are for you.

Kerb appeal

When people talk about adding value to domestic properties, the term ‘kerb appeal’ gets thrown around a lot. What is kerb appeal, you ask? Well, put simply, kerb appeal is how attractive your home looks from the street. Everyone knows just how important first impressions are and boosting your home’s kerb appeal is all about capitalising on them.

There are numerous ways in which you can boost your home’s kerb appeal, here are some popular ones:

A new front door is an excellent way to smarten up the front of your home, particularly if you go for a nice composite one. And, if that seems like a daunting task, even installing a nice new brushed aluminium door handle will improve the first impression your home gives.

Freshening up the front of your home with a lick of paint is a surefire way to make your house look more appealing to passersby. You don’t necessarily need to worry about the other sides – unless the contrast is glaringly obvious, that is.

Clean up any clutter on the drive. This is a very quick win for anyone looking to boost their home’s kerb appeal. Whether you need to tidy up some renegade toys or your drive needs a quick sweep – this one’s a no-brainer!

New windows

If you’re looking to improve the look of your home as well as its thermal efficiency, then some new windows are a great choice. You’ll save money on your heating bills, which buyers will definitely appreciate, and the clean, new look is bound to catch their eye.

A home office

Given that working from home is becoming the norm in many professions, for some, the idea of a home office isn’t just enticing – it’s essential. Whether you can simply rework a currently defunct room, or you have to do something a little more DIY-intensive, a home office could be a great way to tempt prospective buyers to consider your home.

Get round to those repairs you’ve been putting off!

A stitch in time saves nine – and it could also net you some extra cash. Whether the damage is structural or purely cosmetic, it’s definitely worth getting round to fixing some of the issues you’ve been turning a blind eye to before your home goes on the market. If someone who’s viewing your home notices that the house needs a great deal of work done to it post purchase, they will be much less likely to put in an acceptable offer, or worse, put in an offer at all.

Hitchcock & King have over 40 years of experience providing customers with an excellent variety of top quality building supplies, including roofing materials. With eight branches spread across the London region, we’re ideally placed to serve customers throughout the capital. For added convenience, we can also offer prompt same and next day delivery of our building supplies directly to your site. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts today for advice and enquiries.

The post How to Add Value to Your Home appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

How to Add Value to Your Home published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Do Patio Doors Need Blinds?

Patio doors are brilliant investments, often providing a seamless passage from the back of the home to the garden area. After all, gardening is becoming more popular as a pastime, and patio doors make that therapeutic, quick relief even more appealing and accessible.

Patio doors are also great for letting light into a room, as well as providing wide open views from atop a balcony. Essentially, they’re a big window that can open as a door, and that will always be trendy and add a flare of originality to the home.

With all that said, it’s worth asking what might seem like a bizarre question; do patio doors need blinds?

Blocking the Outside

You could have the very best view in all the land, but every homeowner needs their privacy from time to time. Additionally, what’s a nice view on a sunny day can be spoilt entirely by rain, mist or fog, so it’s obviously not always desirable. The point is, depending on the day and time, people can change their minds about what they want from their patio doors.

This is where blinds are useful, exposing and blocking off the view at will. They’re also not as clunkier or heavy handed as thick, obtrusive curtains, and are more subtly inserted into that space where the outside and inside bleed into one another more fluidly. Consequently, roller blinds from Direct Blinds works best here, with no gaps for anyone to peep through while remaining thin and nimble.

Controlling Lighting

Once again, depending on the weather, different amounts of light will be unleashed upon the house. While some might yank regular curtains across the scene if it’s all too bright, this scenario isn’t entirely ideal. After all, such people would only have two stark choices through using standard curtains; no natural light at all or letting in all the natural light.

Obviously, with blinds there’s more room for customising just how much light comes in through the patio door. You can twist the louvres to accurately control just how much light comes in, enabling you to find that perfect spot. The fabric is also easily moved across the rail if you do decide to commit to just letting it all inside. No matter what you decide to do, the important thing is that you can decide thanks to the blinds!

Duette Blinds

Sleek, stylish, and extremely modern; the Duette blinds achieve everything the vertical blinds can but with a different kind of flare. Dubbed as honeycomb blinds, these slick additions are fitted horizontally but can also be scaled up and down the patio door in their entirety.

The stacks are light and extremely responsive too, meaning there’s no heavy yanking on chains and louvres to get them working. This is because they can be controlled and configured with a paired smartphone app, which is another flare of luxury that can be added to your patio area. In the end, Duette blinds would be an extremely stylish addition to the patio area.

The post Do Patio Doors Need Blinds? appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

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Ways to Make Your House More Valuable

If you’ve come to the decision to sell your home, then no doubt you want to make it as valuable as possible. Obviously, the more you get from your house, the better, and there’s always little projects you can undertake to get your home into the best shape possible. It’s time to get creative!

However, houses have been selling extremely slowly recently, partly due to the rising costs and younger generations being priced out of the market. Still, this shouldn’t deter you from making your home as valuable as possible. In the end, the right buyer is out there, even if they’re somewhat harder to find today.

Therefore, here a few tips and tricks to help you make your house more valuable.

Consult the Experts

Some estate agencies are bonified experts in selling property. They know everything that potential buyers want and expect, and really shape the housing market with their vast quantities of knowledge. Absolutely nothing escapes their notice, which puts them in a prime position for some quality consultation.

If you’re looking to add value to your home, there’s no one better to advise you than agencies like Andrews, who work tirelessly to minimise your moving stress. They have digital valuation tools to help you value your property, stay on track with any adjustments, and provide information and advice from conveyancing services to surveys. In the end, your valuation projects will hit the ground running if you start here.

Room Conversions

While many people are quite happy to add rooms like extensions and conservatories to the mix, this can be highly expensive. In the latter case, the winter months see conservatories very rarely used, making the investment questionable in the first instance. In the end, if you’re now selling your home and are considering adding a room for some added value, hold that train of thought.

Instead, convert an existing room. It’s a far cheaper process, a more creative project for the potential buyer to view, and leaves room for the new owners to choose whether they’d like to extend the property.

If you can turn a garage into a living room, or merge your kitchen and dining room together, this will give the property a more unique, and thus more appealing, identity.

Use What You Already Have

Many homeowners make the mistake of burying the natural order of things in their property. Still, the following point is an important one to remember; adding value to a home isn’t always about adding things on, but also about using what you have too.

Some homely adjustments can feel tacked on as an afterthought, a desperate bid to add a bit of ‘umph’ to the property while instead making it cluttered.

However, the best homes very often speak for themselves, at least at a foundational level. For example, if you’ve got a view of any kind at the front or back of the property, make sure it’s always on show as they can add thousands to property value. Also, plan all your rooms economically, relative to the space you have. Only then will things look organised, appealing, and more valuable, instead of congested and overstuffed.

The post Ways to Make Your House More Valuable appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Ways to Make Your House More Valuable published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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The Benefits of Garage Door Servicing & Maintenance

As a cornerstone of security, convenience and beauty of your home, garage doors need a little TLC to keep them performing well and looking great. Regular maintenance and servicing are the key to restoring the quality of your garage door and avoiding any problems down the line.

  Is garage door servicing worth it?

The sure answer is, yes! Looking after a valuable element of your property will always be advantageous for its longevity, quality and performance. The benefits of garage and maintenance include:

Cost-Effective: Ensuring that simple and regular maintenance tasks are carried out on your door a few times a year is much cheaper than needing to replace an entire garage door, should faults be neglected. A bi-annual servicing by a professional is recommended, along with regular visual checks performed by you, the owner, on a regular basis.  

Enhances the Safety of Your Family and Vehicle: Garage doors are heavy machines with lots of mechanical components keeping them operational. Should a door malfunction at the wrong moment, it has the potential to injure nearby people and animals, as well as your vehicle. Regular maintenance and checks can reduce the likelihood of malfunctions occurring.

Protects the Security of Your Property: The main function of garage doors is to act as a strong, reliable barrier between the contents of your garage and potential thieves. That’s why you should try not to allow weak spots and potential entry points to go unnoticed, and make sure you catch problems early to avoid break-in risks.

Avoids DIY and Amateur Mistakes: There is no harm in performing occasional visual checks of your garage door to try and spot issues, but correction of real issues should always be undertaken by a professional – even the most technically-adept DIY enthusiast may worsen the problem, or risk injury to themselves, in an attempt to fix the door.

  Warning signs that your garage door may need servicing

Is your garage door making a bizarre sound? Perhaps it is a little stiffer, looser or slower than normal? While these signs could see minor, they should never be ignored as they may be signs of garage door deterioration or damage, which could eventually transform into an unsafe situation. Surefire signs that you may need the assistance of a garage door specialist include:

Unusual noises

Door closes too quickly or too slowly

Door will not close completely

Door will not stay open

The outside has cracks or gaps in door

Contact a reliable local company like our friends at Doormatic Garage Doors who can inform you of what’s involved in a garage door service, and how they can help diagnose, maintain and repair your garage door.

The post The Benefits of Garage Door Servicing & Maintenance appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

The Benefits of Garage Door Servicing & Maintenance published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Weird and Wonderful Ways of Using Concrete

Despite millions of tonnes of it being used in construction projects around the world, it would be fair to say that concrete is not necessarily the most interesting subject. The word does not typically conjure beautiful imagery, but in the right hands, concrete can be turned into some fascinating creations. In this piece, we’re going to look at some of the most unique and impressive ways concrete has been used.

National Museum of Brazil

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, a modernist architect, this building was created to resemble a planet. Only half of it is visible above ground, but the water surrounding the structure reflects the dome, creating the illusion of a spherical building.

Photo: Senado Federal on WikimediaCommons

Chandigarh, India

A structure it may be, but this is far from an innovative building or sculpture – this is an entire ‘utopian city’. Designed in 1947 in post-independence India as a collaborative effort between Pierre Jeanneret and Le Corbusier, one of the standout features is the Palais de l’Assemblée; it utilises straight, linear concrete forms for the most part, but with curved features at the entrance. As it is built upon a reflective pool, the striking effect is doubled.

Photo: Eduardo Guiot on Wikimediacommons

CyberHub Social – Guguram, India

Concrete has been used very innovatively at this cafe, with concrete sewer pipes used as outdoor seating areas. The enormous (and clean) pipes have been fitted with bench seating and suspended tables, and decorated with colourful graffiti, making for a truly unique and interesting space for having a drink with friends.

The Pierre – Washington, USA

A modern house designed and built by Olson Kundig in 2010, this project is interesting not just because of how good it looks, with the glass frontage and large concrete slabs framing the home, but that it is built into a rock deposit on a hillside. The owner of the home wanted to preserve as much of the deposit as possible, but certain areas of the rock had to be cut away for the home to be built. However, all rock that was cut away was crushed, turned into concrete, and used in the construction of the house itself.

Photo: Olson Kundig Architects

The images above are just four of the most unique and stunning concrete structures in the world, but there are plenty more, borne of the brilliance of architects, designers and construction companies. Concrete isn’t just limited to foundations, flooring and footings – it can be used in wonderful ways, as seen here.

Total Concrete are leading providers of concrete services for customers throughout the Surrey region. We proudly serve the domestic and commercial sectors with the highest quality service and concrete – get in touch with us today and we will be more than happy to help you with anything you need.

The post Weird and Wonderful Ways of Using Concrete appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Weird and Wonderful Ways of Using Concrete published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Converting the Home into an Office

In November 2016, there was a boom in residential property being converted into commercial property, spurring on a rise in housing stocks and sparking a new trend. Consequently, up and coming businesses can now be found sandwiched between homes on any typical street. The change is easier said than done, but perfectly possible to do!

Consequently, we share a few tips on how to expertly convert the home space into the workplace!

Create Space

The first thing you’ll notice as you step into the newly converted office is a limited amount of space. There are no floors that can accommodate dozens of desks, nor elevators on standby to remind you of the breadth of the building. Consequently, you need to get creative with how you use the space and qualify the property as a bonified commercial building. There should be no remnants left around that giveaway each room’s prior identity, except for maybe toilets and kitchens.

Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and even airing cupboards all need to be repurposed. Strip any inappropriate wallpaper, uproot any unprofessional floorboards and knock certain walls out to create one big room instead of being stuck with two little rooms. Additionally, you could convert the airing cupboard to a storage closet, and instead invest in a smaller wall hung boiler from JLA, a conveniently compact piece of heating equipment that is designed for commercial use. Don’t settle for the bare minimum; the more your building resembles an authentic work space, the more inclined you’ll be to work.

Efficient Lighting

Obviously, you can’t work if you can’t see. Still, the concerns with lighting go beyond this basic premise. Too much bright, concentrated light can cause strain on your eyes, particularly if you’re just relying on a bright monitor in the middle of an otherwise dark room. All light sources need to be evenly distributed not just for visibility, but for your health too. Also, a professional look can come from lighting too.

Make sure you’re opening curtains and letting in the natural light during the day and try and arrange the room so the sun shines through the window and on to you and your colleagues. This will help your skin and health if you’re spending most of the working day indoors. Additionally, consider swapping more domestic-looking light shades on the ceiling for something a bit more professional; LED ceiling lights, spotlights, etc.

Premium Wi-Fi

Whether this is your only business building, the first of many, or the latest in a long line of conversions, you need good Wi-Fi. Occasionally, you may be required to undertake important Skype meetings with clients or colleagues working remotely. You might also need to reply to business emails, undertake research if you’re a content creator, use communication software such as Slack or simply listen to your favourite playlist on Spotify as you work.

Consequently, strong and reliable Wi-Fi is needed here. Some broadband offers are better than others, offering better signal and overall a more reliable service. You don’t want to be rushing around in a panic trying to fix things when your connectivity randomly wanes in the middle of an important correspondence, so try to invest in the best internet you can. After all, reliable Wi-Fi makes you a reliable worker!

The post Converting the Home into an Office appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

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Tips for Remodelling Your Kitchen

  Are you thinking of remodelling the kitchen? Often considered the hub of the home, the kitchen is where a lot of memories are made, and good times are shared. So, it makes sense it’s the number one room homeowners are keen to upgrade.

When done right, kitchen renovations can not only help to make the space more attractive, but they can increase the value of the home too. However, there’s a lot that can wrong, especially if you’re thinking of doing a large remodelling job. So, to help ensure you do it right, here you’ll discover some great tips for remodelling your kitchen.

Avoid moving the structure of the kitchen

As tempting as it may be, it’s better to leave the actual structure of the kitchen as it is. This means, leaving cabinets, the sink and the cooker, exactly where they are. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t change them at all.

For example, instead of moving cabinets, you could simply refurbish them. Adding gas struts from a company such as SGS, will help you to give your cupboards and cabinets a remodel without breaking the bank.

Know your budget

Before you start remodelling, it’s a good idea to know your budget. Without having a good idea of how much you can afford to spend, you’re going to likely end up going over it.

The kitchen can be one of the most expensive rooms to remodel, so working out your budget and then using that to compare prices from different suppliers will help ensure you don’t spend more than you need to. You can also check out auction sites and local charity shops to pick up new kitchen items for a cheap, affordable cost.

Focus on the lighting

If you really want to make a difference to the room, you’re going to want to focus on the lighting. The right type of lighting can make a kitchen look spectacular, so if your current lighting isn’t doing its job, it’s time to upgrade. Consider installing dimmer lighting, adding a chandelier, or simply layering the light in the room.

These are some of the most important things to consider when remodelling a kitchen. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make big changes. Adding the right lighting and refurbishing existing cabinets will make a significant change at an affordable cost.

The post Tips for Remodelling Your Kitchen appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

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Essentials for Renovating Your Home for the First Time

Renovating a home for the first time can be a daunting yet rewarding task. Buying a property which could do with some renovations can help get you onto the property ladder, enabling you to buy at a low, affordable cost. However, unless you’re careful the cheap renovation project you thought you’d gotten into, could soon break the bank!

If you’re looking at renovating your first property, below you’ll discover some essential tips you’ll want to follow.

Budgeting for the renovation

Budgeting is one of the key things people underestimate when they start a renovation project. Home renovations always go over the expected budget, so it helps to make savings wherever you can.

To cut your renovation budget down, pick up things you need from car boot sales or charity shops and learn how to do certain tasks yourself. DIY could save you a small fortune. You’ll just need to make sure you have the right tools from a store such as Milwaukee, if you want to carry out a good quality job.

Research and planning

Ideally, before you start the renovations, you’ll have researched and planned well in advance. That way, by the time you actually come around to renovating, you’ll be an expert in it. You’ll want to research the legalities, house prices in the area, resale values, local taxes and contractor prices.

The more you research, the more prepared and knowledgeable you’ll be. This will go a long way at helping you to make sure the renovations are done correctly and at the right price.

Do it right, or don’t do it at all

It’s easy to think that any renovations will make the property more valuable. Experts claim that the right renovations can add anything from 5% to 30% value onto a property. However, if the renovations aren’t done correctly, it can actually have the opposite effect.

So, as tempting as it may be to try and cut corners and get away with the cheapest renovation possible, you need to make sure you do it properly. Otherwise you’re unlikely to make any profit and there’s a good chance you might lose money if the job isn’t done right.

These are some of the most important aspects to consider when renovating your first home. It will be stressful, but providing you do plenty of research beforehand, you should be able to avoid any major issues.

The post Essentials for Renovating Your Home for the First Time appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

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Top 5 Garage Conversion Ideas

When it comes to home improvements, loft conversions and house extensions are two of the most popular options. Even basement conversions are a la mode, especially in cities such as London where space is scarce and building up or down is, realistically, the only option.

But what about garage conversions?

Let’s be honest, who uses a garage for its intended purpose? Most people use their garages for storage and leave their cars outside.

With this in mind, why not convert your garage into another room and increase your living space?

Planning restrictions are usually a lot less stringent where garage conversions are concerned, and the work required is typically much less disruptive than other types of extension or conversion.

Not only that, but the core benefit of opting for a garage conversion is that the structure already exists: only internal renovation work is required! We share 5 of the best garage conversion ideas for your home.

Living Room

Converting your garage into a second living room is a great option for those with large families.

Let’s face: it family households can be hectic. It therefore makes sense to create a second living space offering an escape from the din of the television.

For those with older children, a separate space for them to hang-out in can provide respite for weary parents in need of some well-deserved quiet time.

Top tip – Opt for light colours to promote a relaxing, stress-free environment. Also, the addition of a bay window will help maximise light intake.

Alternatively, if your main incentive for converting your garage is to create a space for your children, consider buying a sofa bed – ideal for sleep overs, doubling up as a guest room if you have friends staying over.

Dining Room

For those of you that value family time or enjoy entertaining friends, a dining room is the ultimate environment for board games or intimate, meal-time conversation.

If the space is big enough, consider adding a sofa or two, allowing you to take the table-side conversation to a more comfortable seating area.

When the fun and games are over, a dining room doubles up as an ideal space for your children to do their homework, or for adults to finish work brought home from the office.

Top tip – If your garage is small and backs onto your kitchen, consider removing the adjoining wall to creating a more inviting, open space.

knocking out the wall between the two areas to create a larger kitchen-diner is also a popular option.

Home Office

Home office, work-shop, art studio or music room, the same principle applies – somewhere quiet to get down to work or pursue your passion projects.

If you’re a freelancer, the great thing about converting a garage into a home office is that you can easily tap into your home’s internet connection with a Wi-Fi extender.

If you intend to use your garage as a work-shop, you can save costs and improve ventilation by keeping the garage door intact. This is particularly useful during the summer months when the temperature soars.

Top tip –

If you work from home and have a detached garage, the space can be converted into bona-fide work premises, ideal for meetings with clients away from the privacy of your home –just add a sign!

If your garage is detached and at the rear of your premises, consider adding bi-folding or patio style doors to make the most of the sunshine during the summer months.

Kids Playroom

What better way to spark imagination and creativity in your children than building their very own playroom!

It’s a place where they can leave their toys and games out all day and have fun with friends. And let’s face it, with all their toys and games are confined to one area, there’ll be less cleaning up and stepping on toys!

Top tip – Enhance the fun feel of the room by laying down artificial grass flooring instead of carpet. You could even paint the walls with wipe-clean paint to bring out your children’s artistic side. If you’re feeling bold, you could even add a safe and easy-to-access mezzanine for story or nap time.

Guest House

Nothing says ‘mi casa es su casa’ better than a home with a guest room for friends and family (even if it is in the garage).

Dependant on the size of your garage (and your budget) you could even install an en-suite bathroom, as there is nothing worse than a locked bathroom right when you need it the most…

Provide an extra layer of comfort for your guests by completing the room with a fold-away sofa bed and television – great for relaxing after a long day out.

Top tip –

More and more people are opening up their homes to travellers through websites such as Airbnb, Tripping.com and HomeAway.

Aside from accommodating friends and family, sign up to one of these sites and make some cash on the side!

Minimize disruption and maintain your privacy with a purpose-built side-door, allowing guests to come and go as they please.

Things to consider

Prior to making any sort of alteration to your home, it’s always a good idea to check if you require planning permission.

This type of conversion generally falls under permitted development and therefore planning permission is not required, provided you only alter the interior of your garage and not the structure itself.

That said, changes made to detached garages may require planning permission, as they are treated as separate buildings.

Also, building an extra storey on top of an existing garage will likely require planning permission, so be sure to check with the local planning authority before committing to costly extension work.

This article was produced by HLN Engineering Ltd. HLN Engineering Ltd offer bespoke house extension and building extension designs, servicing London, Cardiff and the rest of the UK.

The post Top 5 Garage Conversion Ideas appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Top 5 Garage Conversion Ideas published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Smarten Up Your Home With the Latest in Smart Home Tech

At H2 Property Services, we’re always looking to the future of home services, including the newest trends in smart home automation. With the touch of a button, the opening of an app, or the sound of your voice, your home can work for you like never before. So, let’s take a look at what’s hot in the world of smart homes.

Smart appliances

There are many devices flooding the market that will get you into the home automation game. From smart appliances such as kettles and coffeemakers, to video doorbells, to smart buttons that connect all these devices.

If you want a simple way to begin home automation and get a taste before investing in larger smart home technologies, start with a smart power switch.

The power switch looks like a normal plug adaptor and works in the same way. Except, whatever appliance the plug is powering can now be voice activated. So, while you get ready for the day ahead, you can ask the kettle to turn on in the kitchen and the kettle will be boiled in time for coffee by the time you make it downstairs – a perfect start to the day! Smart thermostats are hotting up

Innovations in home central heating means that smart thermostats are becoming more affordable than ever before as the technology matures.

What you can expect from central heating automation is full remote-control from anywhere in the world via WiFi; artificial intelligence that learns your daily routine and adjusts the temperature to suit; and real-time energy consumption stats that puts you in control of your bills.

Save money, the environment and enjoy a smart, perfectly temperate home with modern heating technologies. You’ll never know how you did without one. Smart bathing

It was once the stuff of fiction to have a fully automated home, but what if we told you that it’s possible to fill your bath using your smartphone? That’s exactly what companies like Unique Automation are offering. Using an app, you could be filling your bath while on the way home so that it’s ready the moment you walk in.

Not only can you fill it, but you can control its temperature, depth of water, fragrance, and even what it will be showing on the optional, 24 inch, waterproof, retractable television, built into the head of the bath. H2 Property Services is a friendly, local plumbing, electrical and gas specialist serving all the major London boroughs. Our team is comprised of local engineers who know their patch well and are a common sight in Battersea & Clapham, Chiswick & Acton, Richmond & Twickenham, Notting Hill & Paddington, among others. If you find yourself without hot water, an overflowing toilet or gas problems, do not hesitate to call. We offer a comprehensive service including emergency call outs. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

The post Smarten Up Your Home With the Latest in Smart Home Tech appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Smarten Up Your Home With the Latest in Smart Home Tech published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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The Best Flooring for Conservatories

Now that the weather is warming up, you will probably be spending a lot more time in your conservatory. If the flooring is looking a little dated and you are thinking about updating it, you might be wondering what the best options are. Here are some brief pros and cons of some of the most popular types of conservatory flooring.

Carpet

Carpet is great for adding warmth and a cosy atmosphere to your conservatory, with neutral tones in particular looking great in this room; however, carpets can be tricky to keep clean. If you tend to have people – and pets – entering the conservatory directly from the garden, carpet might not be for you. The upkeep might prove too much, and you might soon experience stains or wear and tear that ruin the look of your new carpet. For conservatories without an external door, carpet can be an attractive option.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate is popular in conservatories, as it adds an attractive finish and the wood effect looks great against the green of the outdoors. Check your chosen laminate is suitable for installation in a conservatory before you buy it. Laminate is easy to keep clean and many brands can withstand heavy foot traffic from people passing through from outside. Laminate is far warmer to walk on than tiles but be sure to add a heavy-duty doormat to the entrance to your conservatory to collect any sharp pieces of gravel or debris that could scratch your floor.

Tiles

Tiles are another popular choice but can be far more expensive than other options. They will also be very cold in the winter, which is something to bear in mind if you like to use your conservatory all year round. They are perfect if you want a classic or Mediterranean look in your room, however, and are certainly a timeless and elegant option.

Vinyl Flooring

Modern vinyls are attractive and hardwearing, making them a great choice for conservatories. You can even opt for highly convincing wood- or tile-effect vinyl at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. Vinyl is warm and comfortable underfoot; however, you should check with the retailer that your chosen vinyl won’t fade in the sunlight, particularly if your conservatory tends to be very sunny. Another big advantage of vinyl is that you can mop it as frequently as you need to, meaning it is a great choice in a busy family home or if you have pets that tend to traipse dirt in from outdoors.

The post The Best Flooring for Conservatories appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

The Best Flooring for Conservatories published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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5 Low-Cost Ways To Improve The Kerb Appeal Of Your Home

Selling your home might seem like a doddle if you’ve taken care of the inside, decorating, renovating and keeping up with the latest styles, but what about the outside of your home? Does it have that magical kerb which gets people excited before they even get inside to view it? Does it draw the attention of people passing by who may also spot the ‘for sale’ sign?

Making some basic improvements to the outside of your property could be the difference between getting the price you want for your home and having to accept a lower offer. In this post, we’re going to suggest some simple, low-cost ways to improve the kerb appeal of your home.

1.Paint your front door

One of the first things people are drawn to is your front door. It’s the main entrance to your home and it deserves a little TLC. By painting your door you make your home stand out, showing that you’ve taken care of your door will give people a positive first impression, without them worrying what else you haven’t taken care of if it is scuffed, flaking or damaged.

You can choose a new colour at this point, but stick to a fairly neutral colour unless you are certain that it works with your property style and garden. If you like the colour you already have, simply repaint it to keep it fresh.

2.Weed your garden

Maybe the weeds in your front garden don’t bother you, but it’s another one of those tasks which, when taken care of, allows potential buyers and people passing by see that you’re the kind of person who has taken care of their home. The more often you keep on top of the weeding, the fewer lengthy sessions you’ll have to spend doing it.

While you’re at this task, it’s worth sweeping you pathway, clearing any weeds you’ve pulled up as well as any litter or foliage which has fallen there. This makes a clear path for visitors and does wonders for the overall impression your front garden gives off.

3. Get a house number

If you’ve already got a nice, well presented house number on your door or wall, then you’re ahead of the game. But if your number is hanging awkwardly after years of weathering or it’s simply written on in paint or chalk, then it might be worth spending a few pounds on a new one.

Get something which is in keeping with the style of your property and your home will not only stand out that little bit more, but it will be easier for viewers to locate or enquire about if they’ve spotted it by chance.

4. Update your welcome mat

It’s understandable that over time the welcome mat at your door will become a little disheveled and rough around the edges, so throw the old one out and sharpen up your doorstep with a new welcome mat. A trim, bright looking mat will help tie all your other work together, giving potential buyers a clean impression of your home before stepping in – it also signals that your carpets inside are less likely to be tracked with mud.

5. Pressure wash your paving

If your drive or pathway is made up of slabs, bricks or tiles, they’ll no doubt have gotten a little murkier over the years due to pollution and general weathering. Whether they’ve gone green, grey or black, get the pressure washer out – or borrow one from a neighbour – and give them a good blast. You’ll soon notice the difference and so will your potential buyers.

Once you’re property has sold and you’re ready to move, look no further than Clockwork Removals. Helping people move throughout the UK, their experienced team can also carry out international moves, taking care of all the little details to make the whole process as stress-free as possible.

The post 5 Low-Cost Ways To Improve The Kerb Appeal Of Your Home appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

5 Low-Cost Ways To Improve The Kerb Appeal Of Your Home published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Benefits Of Choosing Ready Mix Concrete For Your Next DIY Project

Ready mix concrete is arguably the most versatile and popular form of concrete available. Mixed in a batching plant then transported to the worksite in a mixer, it comes ready to pour as soon as it reaches your premises. But what’s so impressive about ready mix concrete, and what benefits does it hold over others?

Precision mixed

Because the concrete is mixed at the concrete batching plant, your concrete will be precisely mixed no matter the volume or ratio. Mixes are handled through computer batching systems to ensure that your mix is measured as accurately as possible – following your required specifications to the letter.

Greater control

The enclosed, controlled mixing environment of a batching plant means your ready mix concrete will be quality controlled to the strictest possible standards. That means far fewer chances for defects or unwanted materials, and a greater quality of concrete once the mix is complete.

Ready to use

Alternatives such as volumetric and on-site mixed concrete certainly have their place, but ready mix is preferred for jobs in need of fast turnaround – and for worksites that might not have much space.

Mixing the concrete once it gets to your site means dedicating more time and space to construction machinery, and if you’re on a tight schedule, the convenience of ready mix concrete is invaluable; the mix will be ready to pour as soon as it reaches you, so there’s no worry about determining ratios and volume in the middle of the job. Ready mix lets you plan ahead and avoid delays, what could be more useful?

More economical

In terms of labour and manufacturing costs, ready mix concrete is by far the most economical concrete relative to its quality. Choosing ready mix means no need to store materials on site, no extra labour required to transport or mix concrete after it’s been delivered, and there’s no wastage either – so you’re only ever paying for the concrete you use.

Better for the environment

Due to the manufacturing process, ready mix concrete is the most energy-efficient concrete available – so if you’re concerned about being environmentally friendly, then this will be a benefit to you. Producing ready mix concrete inside a batching plant is far less energy and resource intensive.

Wastage is also minimised thanks to the precise mixing methods employed. This, and the lack of dust pollution that comes with bagged concrete, makes ready mix more efficient for workers, customers and manufacturers.

Versatile mixing capabilities

Because ready mix is so fast and efficient, you might think you’d have to compromise on the strength, type or quality of your mix. Well, think again! When you’re ordering ready mix concrete, you can specify what mix you need and for what application.

If you have an idea of ratio, or how strong you need your concrete, just relay it to your supplier and they’ll cook up a batch that meets your requirements. If you need some guidance, just discuss your project with the supplier and they’ll be able to help you find the perfect mix for your needs.

You can also request additives for the mix if you need extra characteristics put into your concrete. Added strength, porosity, workability – there are a range of additives you can select for your ready mix concrete, meaning whatever the application or quantity, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Ready mix and The Concrete Network

If you need fast, cost-effective delivery of quality ready mix concrete, get in touch with The Concrete Network today. As the UK’s largest network of independent concrete suppliers, we can source local ready mix concrete and arrange for prompt delivery to your premises at a time to suit you. Whatever mix, whatever quantity, wherever you are in the UK, The Concrete Network is always happy to help.

The post Benefits Of Choosing Ready Mix Concrete For Your Next DIY Project appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Benefits Of Choosing Ready Mix Concrete For Your Next DIY Project published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Conservatory Sails Vs Conservatory Blinds – Which Are Best? [Infographic]

Here, InShade compares two of the most popular shading options for conservatories, running through everything from heat control to the ongoing maintenance commitments of the product, giving you all the information you need when it comes to making your decision.

InShade are national suppliers of bespoke conservatory sails, providing homes across the country with a stylish solution to heat gain and glare within their conservatory. For more information on the product or to request a free design consultation, contact one of the team today from the website. 

The post Conservatory Sails Vs Conservatory Blinds – Which Are Best? [Infographic] appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

Conservatory Sails Vs Conservatory Blinds – Which Are Best? [Infographic] published first on www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk

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Holloway Simple Storage

Watch on YouTube here: Holloway Simple Storage

Holloway Simple Storage