How to Clean and Look After Your uPVC Windows

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/windows-siding/10307-How-to-Clean-and-Look-After-Your-uPVC-Windows.html

5 Benefits of Having a Fire Sprinkler System Installed

Many building regulations require that buildings over 55 feet be fitted with fire sprinkler systems. This is due to the fact that sprinkler systems can sometimes mean the difference between life and death as well as how much damage a fire causes to a building. They are an extremely popular form of fire protection in both commercial and residential buildings.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/safety-security/10304-5-Benefits-of-Having-a-Fire-Sprinkler-System-Installed.html

Are You Thinking of Building or Repairing a Wood Deck?

Building a deck is a daunting task and only a professional deck builder would be able to construct a top quality one. Only a person experienced in using power tools and high knowledge of carpentry would be the perfect tradesman to complete the task in a professional manner.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/garden-landscaping/10306-Are-You-Thinking-of-Building-or-Repairing-a-Wood-Deck.html

Rigid’s Wet Dry Vac offers power, versatility - Today's Homeowner

Wet/dry vacuums can clean up all kinds of messes, but most of them also have some shortcomings. That's not the case with Rigid's 4-gallon model.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/rigids-wet-dry-vac-offers-power-versatility/

Eliminate trash odors with these 2 items - Today's Homeowner

Having a trash can in the kitchen can be convenient, but it also can be smelly! Use these tips to enjoy the convenience without the odors.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/eliminate-trash-odors-with-these-2-items/

How to Buy and Resell Condos for Profit

Flipping condos can be a rewarding venture if you learn how to do it right. It basically involves buying condominiums at a discounted price and reselling them at a higher price. If you play your cards right, you can resell a condo at a price higher than the prevailing market price. However, there is the possibility that you could make a loss if you overlook some issues when buying and renovating condos. Here are some tips to help you make your flipping business profitable. 1. Estimate the Cost of Renovations When choosing a condo to buy and resell, conduct a thorough inspection and estimate the cost of renovations required. Inspect the kitchen, bathrooms, and the plumbing in the condominium. These areas account for the most expensive renovations and repairs in any property. In addition, potential buyers will head straight to the kitchen and bathrooms when inspecting the condo on sale. You cannot compromise on the quality of materials used in these areas. Check the latest trends in ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/real-estate-finance/10305-How-to-Buy-and-Resell-Condos-for-Profit.html

Should I get hardwood or softwood timber windows?

There’s a lot of versatility in the world of windows – and that’s a good thing, too, as every house is unique and has its own requirements.

Take timber windows, for example. At Anglian, we don’t use the “one size fits all” model for our timber windows, doors and conservatories. Our timber products come in hardwood and softwood, and from there, the options only go on. Timber species, colour, wood finish and decorative elements are all on the table, ensuring the product you get is the exact product you want.

We know what you’re thinking. To start, what’s the difference between hardwood and softwood timber? We’ll give you a hint: it has nothing to do with weight (fun fact: balsa is a hardwood. But don’t worry – we don’t use it!).

To demystify all your wooden window questions, we’ll break down the basics between hardwood and softwood timber.

What’s the difference between hardwood and softwood timber?

Whether timber is hardwood or softwood all comes down to where the timber is sourced. Each timber species is unique, and features a different texture, grain and density – all of which have their own list of benefits.

That’s why Anglian offers windows from a range of timber species, each of which work better for different homes. The timber species you should choose will depend largely on your aesthetics and what you’re looking for from your windows.

Hardwood timber

• Derived from broad leave trees, which are either evergreen or deciduous
• Naturally more durable to withstand weather
• Available in painted or stained finish
• Responsibly-sourced from Sapele (West Africa), Meranti (East Malaysia) and Agba (West Africa) trees
• Generally does not require additional preservative treatments

Softwood timber

• Derived from cone bearing trees
• Treated with a double vacuum preserve system to protect against weather
• Available in painted finish only
• Responsibly-sourced from European Pine and Siberian Larch (area stretching between Siberia to Mongolia and northern China) trees
• Easier to work with and generally features a fine, uniform texture

Why choose timber windows?

Timber windows are particularly popular for period homes, as they comply in conservation areas and have a classic, more traditional look. Whether they’re sourced from a hardwood or softwood species, they’re also precisely-joined and especially long-lasting, as all of Anglian’s timber windows are finished with our three-coat system to prevent against flakes and cracks.

Need more convincing? Here are our top six reasons to choose timber windows:

1. All Anglian wooden windows are sustainably-sourced from Forest Stewardship Council timber.
2. Our wooden windows are available in casement and sash styles, and can be customised in six painted and two stained finishes.
3. Anglian’s timber windows come double glazed as standard, which means they’ll help reduce your heating bills by sealing in more heat.
4. They’re fitted with advanced safety and security features to give you peace of mind.
5. The timber is weather-sealed, which means it won’t rot, warp or shrink.
6. All of our windows come with a 10-year guarantee, so you’re getting the best for years to come.

In short, you can’t really go wrong with timber windows. Hardwood or softwood, they’re versatile, durable and pretty good-looking, too.

Still haven’t made up your mind between hardwood and softwood timber? Schedule an appointment with one of our design experts or visit your nearest Anglian showroom to see samples of our wooden windows today.

The post Should I get hardwood or softwood timber windows? appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/eco-living/should-i-get-hardwood-or-softwood-timber-windows/

How to Choose the Best Step Ladder for Your Kitchen

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/tools-woodworking/10303-How-to-Choose-the-Best-Step-Ladder-for-Your-Kitchen.html

How To Paint Over Wallpaper - Today's Homeowner

To successfully paint over wallpaper, you need to first confirm that the wallpaper is smooth and well attached to the wall. Begin by filling any holes or dents in the surface with drywall joint compound. First, use the drywall knife to scrape off any tags of paper around the hole. Then use the handle to […]

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-paint-over-wallpaper/

Chapter 9: Working with Dad - Today's Homeowner

"Today's Homeowner" co-host Chelsea Lipford Wolf reflects on what it's like to live and work with her dad. From Danny's construction work to his TV show, Chelsea was there for it all. She also shares the sentimental story behind the name of Danny's 3 Echoes Productions.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/chapter-9-working-with-dad/

All you need to know about bi-fold doors

Love your home and garden but want to get a better sense of flow and seamless connection between the two? We’ve got the perfect solution for you – welcome to the world of bi-fold doors!

Nowadays, a renovation isn’t complete without a set of bi-fold doors. They’ve undoubtedly become essential for families looking for the “wow factor”, and for those that want to open up their home to the great outdoors. With them, you can make the most of the warmer days ahead or soak up extra daylight and unbroken views on cooler ones.

With so many energy-efficient bi-fold doors on the market, it can be difficult knowing where to start. From composition and colour, to glass and size, what do you need to know to make sure you get the perfect bi-fold doors for your home?

High-performance security

The number one question most people ask when they’re looking to invest in bi-folds is: are they going to be secure?

In short, yes! We know how important security is for homeowners, so at Anglian we only have the highest level of security to keep out unwanted visitors. Our doors are “Secured by Design” with a two-point locking system that keep them securely locked so you can rest assured your home has great protection, whether you’re there or not.

Glass

Bi-fold doors are all about the glass, right? But did you know that you can personalise your own glass?

Choosing a different style of glass can give your bi-folds – and, in turn, your home – a completely original look. If you want to give your bi-fold doors a tailored look that is personalised to your home, choose from the hundreds of decorative glass designs that are on offer.

Configuration

This is the all-important question: how many glass panels do you want? With anything from two to seven panels available, you’ll want to make sure you get this one right, as too many panels can make your doors seem cluttered. It’s always a good idea to seek advice on which option would best suit your doorway.

Then it’s onto whether you want your bi-fold doors to open from the right or left, inwards or outwards. Some designs even give you the option to have a “primary” door that can be opened on its own, almost like a French door hybrid – the possibilities are endless!

Let’s get colourful

Now that you’ve chosen configuration and type of glass, colour is where you can get creative. If you’re one of those people that are a tad indecisive, we have a perfect solution for you – dual colour. This option will allow you to choose one colour for the interior of your bi-fold doors, and another for the exterior. With 200 colours available, it makes personalising your home that little bit easier!

Energy efficiency

As well as looking completely stunning, bi-fold doors are incredibly energy efficient. Double glazing comes standard, but your doors can even be upgraded to triple glazing for extra thermal insulation.

Don’t cut corners when it comes to purchasing bi-fold doors – invest! Remember that a high-quality product won’t compromise the energy efficiency of your home, and you’ll have the added peace of mind knowing that your home is secure.

Still unsure about whether to go for bi-fold doors for your back garden? Take a look at the difference between patio doors and bi-folds to see which will suit your home best.

The post All you need to know about bi-fold doors appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/home-news/all-you-need-know-bi-fold-doors/

DIY Clothes Drying Rack - Today's Homeowner

A small laundry room doesn't mean you can't have space for a drying rack. A wall-mounted rack that folds out to dry your clothes is perfect. This video shows you how.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/diy-clothes-drying-rack/

6 Steps to Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen is the center of any household. It is always bustling with activity at any time of the day. A complete functional kitchen is very important for people whether they are professional chefs or simply like to cook. But functions is not the only thing a kitchen needs, it also needs exquisite interior décor to impress anyone who sets foot in that kitchen.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/kitchen-bath/10302-6-Steps-to-Kitchen-Renovation.html

#ProjectSpotlight: Whole house transformation

When Mr Patolia arranged for home improvements to be made to his London home, he went all in. His property needed new French doors, a bay window and back door, plus windows throughout the house – all in triple glazing, no less. With that in mind, he knew he wanted a reputable home improvement company that he could trust.

That’s why he came to Anglian.

Maintaining his home’s existing style was very important to Mr Patolia, as was keeping his home warm and reducing noise. That’s why he opted for sleek white uPVC across the board and triple-glazed windows for extra protection. We’re pretty confident that all this will help keep his home nice and quiet – not to mention well-insulated – for many years to come.

Here’s what Mr Patolia had to say about working with Anglian before installation:

Q: Why did your windows and doors need replacing?

A: The windows and doors were quite old, single glazed and not energy efficient, so I needed better ones.

Q: What made you contact Anglian in the first place?

A: I was looking for a reputable company to install windows and doors, and Anglian is one of those reputed and trusted British companies.

Q: Did you speak to any other companies, and if so, what made you decide to choose Anglian?

A: I have spoken with a couple of local companies, Everest and Anglian. I found Anglian more comfortable to deal with. The sales representative was really good, and that made me more comfortable with choosing Anglian.

Q: Can you tell us if or how the visit from the sales representative helped you in your decision?

A: The sales representative was really effective. He came with the necessary samples, booklets and a physical sample of a window. He gave a really good presentation of windows, what Anglian can offer, why Anglian is different than their competitors, advantages of different types of windows and so on. He was quite professional and also visited twice, and made me comfortable in all respects, including price, installation and after sales services before I made my decision.

Q: What factors determined your final choice of style, colour and material?

A: Major factors were safety, keeping the house warm during winter, reducing noise and durability of windows. I wanted to keep the style and colour of windows the same as my previous windows, as I wanted to keep the look from the outside the same as others in the neighbourhood.

And here’s what he had to say after:

Q: What’s your opinion of the Anglian service and installation you’ve received? Did you have any particular concerns or requirements?

A: Anglian’s service was really good, from the sales representative’s first visit until final installation and after sales service. No concerns.

Q: What’s the BEST thing about your new installation, and what main differences have you noticed since having your installation?

A: The windows are quite effective in containing heat and reducing sound. The windows and doors are quite safe, and also cleaning and maintaining is quite easy.

Thinking of revamping your whole house like Mr Patolia did, but aren’t sure where to start? We can point you in the right direction – have a play with our Visualiser tool to see how Anglian windows and doors can help give your home a whole new look.

The post #ProjectSpotlight: Whole house transformation appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/projectspotlight/projectspotlight-upvc-windows-and-doors/

Insulation Solution for a Safer Home - Today's Homeowner

Insulation is important to the energy efficiency of your home. But have you ever thought that insulation can also protect your home in the event of a fire? Check out this insulation we love to use!

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/insulation-solution-for-a-safer-home/

What to Do After Being Locked Out of Your House?

What if we come home after a hard day at work and find ourselves keyless at the main door. The first reaction of anyone in this situation would be to panic. However, instead of panicking and wasting time thinking about useless stuff, there are a few things you should try and these are here:

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/safety-security/10301-What-to-Do-After-Being-Locked-Out-of-Your-House.html

Creative Shower Ideas for your Bathroom

Showers are so important in our lives. Not only they are necessary for everyday cleaning but having a comfortable shower space soothes our mental condition too. Probably all of us look forward to a refreshing shower after a hard day at work. Showers are great for releasing tension and stress.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/kitchen-bath/10299-Creative-Shower-Ideas-for-your-Bathroom.html

Things You Can Do to Maintain Your House

The best way to maintain your house is by doing the house renovation. A renovation is changing the entire settings of the house.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/cleaning-maintenance/10300-Things-You-Can-Do-to-Maintain-Your-House.html

All That You Wanted to Know About Chiller Systems

One of the biggest causes for concern in an organization that uses industrial machinery is the machines malfunctioning. Overheating is one of the reasons why industrial machinery malfunctions. Industrial machinery are equipped with chiller systems so that they do not overheat and function at the ideal temperatures.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/construction-materials/10298-All-That-You-Wanted-to-Know-About-Chiller-Systems.html

Creative ideas that’ll transform your home in 2018

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/improvements-remodeling-building/10297-Creative-ideas-that-ll-transform-your-home-in-2018.html

USB Port with Built-In Nightlight - Today's Homeowner

This plug has a built-in nightlight AND 2 USB charging ports. All the details are in this video.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/usb-port-with-built-in-nightlight/

Why We Use Stone Wool Insulation - Today's Homeowner

Stone wool insulation, like that from Rockwool, is fire-resistant, mold- and mildew-resistant, and absorbs sounds from adjacent rooms. See why else we like this stuff!

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/why-we-use-stone-wool-insulation/

Easy Tip for Leather Conditioner - Today's Homeowner

Leather conditioning oil doesn't always soak into leather boots, furniture, etc. very well. But this tip is a quick way to ensure that it will!

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/easy-tip-for-leather-conditioner/

What is Lagom?

We all fell in love with the cosy warmth of Hygge, but another Scandinavian trend has emerged that focuses not only on interior design but how we live as well. We’re talking about Lagom – pronounced “la” like “bar” and “gom” like “Tom”), Sweden’s response to Denmark’s interiors craze. Which brings us to our next question – what is Lagom, exactly?

Lagom isn’t just something you adopt on a whim – it’s a way of life. Like Hygge, Lagom embraces minimalism but with a special emphasis on sustainable living. That can include recycling, using energy-efficient appliances and generally adopting a “less is more” attitude.

Embracing the Lagom lifestyle is an adjustment, sure, but ultimately one that’ll help keep our planet – and us! – healthier for longer. Here are a few ways you can bring the Lagom lifestyle into your home:

Live sustainably

Living sustainably simply means to live in a way that can help the earth keep doing what it does best. Reducing waste, not using natural resources and recycling are some of the biggest ways we can do this. Some easy ways to start living sustainably in your everyday are:

• Switching to LED lightbulbs
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Start a small fruit and veg patch in your garden or windowsill
• Skip the dryer and hang wet clothes
• Turn off appliances you aren’t using

Be more energy efficient

One of the biggest aspects of Lagom-living is only using what you need. That means only turning on the heat when you’re at home, turning off lights when you leave a room and using a bowl in the sink for washing up to avoid wasting water with a running tap.

A great place to start is with your home itself – energy-efficient front and back doors will help reduce draughts, as will double- and triple-glazed windows. With these, you’ll be using less energy as extra insulation will help trap the heat.

Recycle more, and use recycled materials

In short, you should always recycle as much as you can, whenever possible. Knowing what you can recycle is a good place to start, as well as how you should prepare it for the recycling centre. From there, it’s just a matter of popping it into the right bin.

Another easy shift to implement is using reusable products – these can be canvas tote bags for your weekly shop, reusable coffee cups to hand to your barista every morning or investing in a reusable water bottle.

Embrace “less is more”

Lagom embraces Hygge’s minimalism approach, in that it encourages us to go small in terms of decorations and what we buy. Avoiding cluttered surfaces in our homes not only helps for tidying, but creating manageable spaces.

The “less is more” mantra should extend to all parts of our lives – smaller, more intimate gatherings, and a more compact wardrobe of sturdy staple pieces will help us to focus on what’s important and not get lost in the excess.

Invest in quality furniture

We know this one isn’t always easy, but wherever you can, you should try to invest in solid, quality furniture pieces that can age with your home design style. Neutral colours and classic shapes will slip in with any interiors trends you decide to embrace – and remember, wood can almost always be painted, so upcycling is a viable, creative option.

If you aren’t in a place to make furniture investments, bamboo is a top environmentally-friendly material that’s generally on the cheaper side. It’s renewable and grows without help from chemicals.

 

Looking to adopt the Lagom lifestyle? Start by taking advantage of our scrappage scheme. It’s a money-saving way to recycle your old windows, doors and conservatory while you upgrade to more energy-efficient models. Consider it a Lagom win-win.

Header image by Logan Nolin on Unsplash.

The post What is Lagom? appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/guides/what-is-lagom/

Enter Win Danny & His Crew for a Day 2018 Contest! - Today's Homeowner

Enter our 2018 Win Danny & His Crew for a Day contest for your chance to have home improvement expert Danny Lipford and his crew tackle the to-do list around your home! Read on to find out more.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/enter-win-danny-his-crew-for-a-day-2018-contest/