How to Clean and Maintain Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a common choice for many homes. It’s not really surprising considering that hardwood offers a number of advantages. For one, it looks elegant and timeless. It is also said to be a great long-term investment. Many believe that homes with hardwood floors tend to increase in value over time. The aging of the wooden floor does not depreciate the value of a property. Instead, it can help raise its value. This increase in value, however, cannot happen if you fail to properly maintain your hardwood floors. Go over the following cleaning and maintenance tips to make sure that your hardwood floors last longer and are able to contribute to the value of your property. Ensure Proper Cleaning If you are not well-versed in the proper cleaning and maintenance of your wooden floors, it would be better to ask pros to do it. A simple search using the keyword phrase “hardwood floor cleaners near me” should lead you to competent and experienced cleaners to do the job. ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/floors-tile-hardwood/10359-How-to-Clean-and-Maintain-Hardwood-Floors.html

How to Paint Laminate Countertops - Today's Homeowner

Sometimes, plastic laminate countertops, also called Formica countertops, need an update — and that doesn't require replacing them all together. You can simply paint over them.

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

How to do a Thorough Deep Clean Before Moving In

No matter how clean your new home may look, you will still want to carry out a deep clean before you set up all of your furniture. Knowing that everything is pristine helps you to feel more settled as you start out on the next chapter of your life.    It's a good idea to arrange to clean before your furniture arrives if possible. If you are not able to do this, ask the removals company to place the furniture in one space which you can clean last. You can then move the furniture into position as each area of your new home is cleaned.    Always clean from top to bottom When you start out on the cleaning process, it's important that you begin at the top of the room and work your way downwards. This is because grime, dust and cobwebs from around the top of the walls and the ceiling will naturally fall downwards as you wipe. The last thing you want is for all of the dirt to drop down onto a floor that you have just cleaned.    Start with the ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/cleaning-maintenance/10358-How-to-do-a-Thorough-Deep-Clean-Before-Moving-In.html

How to Build a Concrete Block Wall - Today's Homeowner

Concrete block walls have many uses ranging from residential to commercial. Here's how to build one.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-build-a-concrete-block-wall-2/

#ProjectSpotlight: Golden oak windows and doors

Matching a home’s exterior with its interior is easier said than done, and this is especially true if your home is a hodge podge of styles, colours and materials. The Clement family home is a mixture of a brick and dusty cobble exterior, with a country cottage interior equipped with light oak accents. To tie their home together, they opted to highlight the wooden accents, choosing golden oak windows and doors from Anglian.

The new windows, front and back doors not only work to create a little continuity throughout the house, but across each other as well. Each of the windows are made from energy-efficient uPVC with a golden oak finish, while the front door comes from our composite range.

Altogether, the golden oak features create a gorgeous country cottage look whose different style elements flow together seamlessly. Because that’s the beauty of a whole house improvement like the Clement household; every detail is taken care of and made to match. And it couldn’t look lovelier.

Here’s what Mrs. Clement had to say about her new golden oak windows and doors from Anglian:

“We were very satisfied with the way in which the work was carried out. The whole process was done efficiently and with respect for our property. They completed the job with minimal disruption and left our house tidy. 

“Since then we have been happy with both the appearance and effectiveness of the product. Visitors have been complementary about the look of the windows and doors, and we have been more than happy to tell them about your company and our experience.”

Want to see how golden oak windows and doors might look like on a home similar in style to yours? Pick from a whole range of our windows and doors with our Visualiser tool to find your favourites.

The post #ProjectSpotlight: Golden oak windows and doors appeared first on Good to be Home.

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

This websites is STEALING content from 411homerepair.com

For the website owners that find it acceptable to fill your website with stolen content, please be advised that you have been caught taking content from 411homerepair.com and presenting it as your own original work. If you are a patron of this website's business that is not 411homerepair.com, I highly suggest you not trust this business since clearly, they lack ethics.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/safety-security/10357-This-websites-is-STEALING-content-from-411homerepair-com.html

What to Do When You are Locked Out of Your Car

Some of you have probably been in that awkward moment when you are locked out of your own car. What’s worse is that most often, your phone is in there. That means that you cannot access the thousands of Youtube videos on how to get yourself out of this situation or even call for help at least. Well, this should not always be the case when you have the knowledge with you.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/safety-security/10356-What-to-Do-When-You-are-Locked-Out-of-Your-Car.html

This Device Shows What’s Behind Your Walls - Today's Homeowner

Ryobi’s Phone Works Inspection Scope features a waterproof, LED-lit camera that you can stick inside a wall or pipe.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/this-device-shows-whats-behind-your-walls/

Braided Picture Wire Too Expensive? Make Your Own! - Today's Homeowner

You can make picture wire with everyday household items including a power drill, galvanized wire and a nail.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/braided-picture-wire-too-expensive-make-your-own/

How a Leather Sofa Redefines your Home?

Leather sofa is one of the most demanded products when you think of leather upholstery. It is undoubtedly one of the most expensive interiors that you might want to buy. However, there are some things that might tempt you towards leather upholstery. You need to justify if the temptation is leading you to buy a good product or not. If you go through Wellington’s Fine Leather Furniture, you will have most of your questions answered. We are just here to tell you why the products are worth spending and what makes leather so redefining. Leather sofa redefining your home Following points will help you consider how a leather sofa can redefine your home décor: Beautifying your hall If you have a big hall with enough space to fit in a sofa, it might be one of the first considerations you make anyway. Everyone wants to beautify their hall because that’s where all the recreation keeps happening. You play loud music, watch television, sip your morning coffee while reading the ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/bedroom-furnishings/10355-How-a-Leather-Sofa-Redefines-your-Home.html

Clever Outdoor Furniture Design Ideas for Your Pool, Porch or Patio - Today's Homeowner

Relax and get comfy with these outdoor furniture design ideas.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/clever-outdoor-furniture-design-ideas-for-your-pool-porch-or-patio/

Valuable Tips to Prevent Frozen Propane Tanks

Millions of Americans make use of propane in both personal and industrial applications. When the temperature plummets to negative degrees, a propane tank becomes incredibly vulnerable to freezing.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/safety-security/10354-Valuable-Tips-to-Prevent-Frozen-Propane-Tanks.html

Why Does Your Home Need A Dehumidifier?

Taking humidity lightly may not be wise. Dehumidifiers can be essential with regards to the climate in which you reside in or according to seasonal changes in the weather. It is sold as a household appliance used to reduce the level of humidity for health and comfort reasons or to prevent the spread of stale odor and something called “mildew”.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/hvac-air-conditioning/10353-Why-Does-Your-Home-Need-A-Dehumidifier.html

5 Signs That You Need a Professional to Fix Your Cooling Failure

The last thing you need in your home at the height of summer is a failed air conditioning (AC) system. You normally want to fight back the high temperatures by turning on the air conditioner. But sometimes the system just won’t work, and it can be frustrating. Oftentimes you’ll know that your AC needs repair because it simply stops functioning. However, it’s not always that obvious. Here are five less obvious signs that you need to have a professional inspect your air condition

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/hvac-air-conditioning/10352-5-Signs-That-You-Need-a-Professional-to-Fix-Your-Cooling-Failure.html

5 Signs That You Need a Professional to Fix Your Cooling Failure

The last thing you need in your home at the height of summer is a failed air conditioning (AC) system. You normally want to fight back the high temperatures by turning on the air conditioner. But sometimes the system just won’t work, and it can be frustrating. Oftentimes you’ll know that your AC needs repair because it simply stops functioning. However, it’s not always that obvious. Here are five less obvious signs that you need to have a professional inspect your air conditioner. Your air conditioning system blowing warm air Normally you expect your air conditioner to generate cold air when you turn it on. Unfortunately, sometimes what you get is the opposite. In any case, AC blowing hot or warm air would be a sign that something is off with the system and that you need the help of credentialed professionals like air conditioners Oshawa to get it fixed. AC blowing hot air can be as a result of the outside unit running being low on refrigerant or a problem with the ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/appliance-repair/10352-5-Signs-That-You-Need-a-Professional-to-Fix-Your-Cooling-Failure.html

4 Reasons To Allow Plumbing Changes to Cure Before Running Water

Many homeowners engage in DIY when fixing water pipes, especially when the damage is not extensive. It isn’t entirely out of order to go that route. In any case, DIY is always a fantastic opportunity to test out your skills while simultaneously saving on expenses. If you can fix your piping on your own, for instance, you could save hundreds of dollars in plumber fees. So, assuming that you’re working on a few pipes on your own, or even if you’re a young plumber Toronto working on your first job, we have one major advice for you – always let the plumbing job cure before running water through the pipes. Never turn on the tap immediately after working on the pipes. There are four main reasons for this; Liner failure A common issue when you run water through your pipes before the piping glue cures is liner failure. Liners are popularly used as an alternative to re-piping in multifamily homes. The process of lining involves coating the pipes from inside to create a ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/plumbing-basements/10351-4-Reasons-To-Allow-Plumbing-Changes-to-Cure-Before-Running-Water.html

How to Paint Over Ceramic Tile in a Bathroom - Today's Homeowner

Marilyn asks, “Can I paint over the ceramic tile in my bathroom?”

While you can paint ceramic tile, preparation is key to making it stick. Read on to find out more.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-paint-over-ceramic-tile-in-a-bathroom/

Our favourite knights in history

Knights have a special place in history and folklore not just because they’re romantic (even though their stories of courage definitely are) but because we can’t help but love a little bit of adventure. We should know – we chose a knight as our logo!

This year in honour of St. George’s Day, we’ve rounded up a list of our very favourites of the best knights in history. It’s filled with gallant, brave figures of the past and present that have helped protect England, or brought a little bit of fun.

[INFOGRAPHIC]

History of the Anglian Knight

The Anglian Knight has been a hallmark for Anglian Home Improvements since the very beginning, when the company was founded by George Williams in 1966. He’s a symbol of pride, protection, reliability and leadership, and is loosely based on the statue of Richard the Lionheart in London.

Williams’ ultimate goal for Anglian was to build a product that protects peoples’ homes from the elements. And as knights are historically depicted as heroes and protectors, matching the two up was an easy choice. From there, Williams started to tie in the names of Anglian products with knight imagery, with White Knight for the colour of our uPVC windows and Royal Knight representing dark woodgrain.

Though his appearance has changed over the years, the Anglian Knight has stuck by the company through thick and thin. We certainly think he’s one of the best knights in history, but we might be a little biased. At any rate, we have a feeling he’ll continue to represent Anglian’s quest to bring the best in windows, doors and conservatories for years to come.

Why do we celebrate St. George’s Day?

St. George’s Day honours England’s patron saint, St. George who, according to legend, was a Roman soldier that was killed for refusing to renounce his Christian faith. Because he and his story were so popular during the times of the Hundred Years’ War and the Crusades, St. George became England’s patron saint in the Tudor period.

There are even some stories that claim St. George slayed a dragon – he did so in order to protect a princess that was offered up to the dragon as a sacrifice, but saved her and freed the townspeople from the beast’s control.

Nowadays, we celebrate St. George’s Day on the day of his death, the 23rd April. It used to be a public holiday but is now just a day of observance. Around England, it’s traditionally observed with parades, and some towns and cities will fly flags with St. George’s cross – also known as the English flag!

 

Who’s your favourite knight in history? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter!

The post Our favourite knights in history appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/fun/our-favourite-knights-in-history/

#ProjectSpotlight: Elite sliding sash windows

Adding new windows and doors to your home is all about improving its look and feel – that’s kind of the point. But what happens when you’ve got a period home whose look is already pretty stunning, but could use a little fine-tuning around the edges? How do you upgrade without losing that original charm?

The Seaman family owns an Edwardian farmhouse, and when it came time to upgrade their sash windows, they faced this exact dilemma. That’s why they chose Anglian’s Elite sliding sash windows – not only are they some of the best windows for period homes as they help maintain the home’s character, but they keep it energy efficient with sleek uPVC, too. Plus, the Elite design makes them easy to clean and maintain, so they’ll stay looking new for years to come.

Here’s what Mrs. Seaman had to say about her new Elite sliding sash windows:

The original sash windows and front door of our Edwardian farmhouse were in a very poor state of repair and needed urgent replacement. This seemed a daunting task and we were obviously concerned not to lose the character of the property in the process.

We need not have worried. The removal and replacement of the 11 windows took just two days with minimum disruption and everything covered and protected.

The windows and door provide the security and heat retention of modern double-glazed units, with the appearance of the originals in virtually every detail including the three “lights” over the door. We are most satisfied.

Have you upgraded your period home with newer products and managed to keep the charm? Let us know how you did it in the comments below!

The post #ProjectSpotlight: Elite sliding sash windows appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/projectspotlight/projectspotlight-elite-sliding-sash-windows/

Pros and Cons of a Home Move

Moving to a new place is a big decision that involves taking into consideration the many pros and cons of relocating. The move will come at a cost, but then again it also presents new opportunities and a new beginning. And when all is weighed, most of the factors give more reason for moving instead of working against it; but it's all a matter of personal perception.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/real-estate-finance/10341-Pros-and-Cons-of-a-Home-Move.html

Are Annual Maintenance Contracts For Your HVAC Unit Necessary?

Are Annual Maintenance Contracts For Your HVAC Unit Necessary? A HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning) system or unit is very important as it takes care of all the heating, ventilation and air conditioning requirements of a building. If the air conditioning malfunctions during summer or if the heating is not up to the mark during peak winter, it can cause a lot of problems for the people living or working in the building. To ensure that the HVAC system is working optimally, it is nece

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/hvac-air-conditioning/10350-Are-Annual-Maintenance-Contracts-For-Your-HVAC-Unit-Necessary.html

How to Repair Laminate Flooring - Today's Homeowner

Planks in laminate floors can break or pull apart, and when they do, you don’t have to replace the entire floor. If you have an adequate number of extra pieces, there’s a simple, affordable solution. Follow these steps: 1. Remove thresholds and shoe molding and then remove damaged pieces of flooring without disturbing the good […]

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-repair-laminate-flooring/

5 Warning Signs That You Need To Replace Your Windows

Windows can make or break your home decor. You might think there are not much of massive role windows play in the overall look of your home but think again. There’s a lot that can be affected by the type of windows you have in your home.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/windows-siding/10348-5-Warning-Signs-That-You-Need-To-Replace-Your-Windows.html

6 Reasons To Outsource Cleaning Services

Running an in-house cleaning service might look like a rewarding business in the long run, but contrary to popular belief, there is a lot more you may be able to discover if you were to outsource your cleaning services. The level of professionalism in outsourcing cleaning services will turn the tables in your favour.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/cleaning-maintenance/10347-6-Reasons-To-Outsource-Cleaning-Services.html

How to Start Your Real Estate Fix and Flip Business

If you’re looking for new career opportunities centered on real estate in 2018, consider home flipping. While real estate investing has long been a popular option for entrepreneurs from all walks of life, these days, fix-and-flip properties are king.

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/real-estate-finance/10346-How-to-Start-Your-Real-Estate-Fix-and-Flip-Business.html

How to Clean Baseboards with Fabric Softener - Today's Homeowner

Use a solution of liquid fabric softener and water to clean baseboards. Watch the video to learn more.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-clean-baseboards-with-fabric-softener/

How to Glaze Bathroom Cabinets - Today's Homeowner

Does your bathroom look outdated? Do you just want a new look? Glazing your cabinets is an option!

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-glaze-bathroom-cabinets/

Buying Secondhand Sea & Cargo Conex Containers Reporposed

A vast majority of people call them freight containers, sea cans, storage containers or bunker boxes but we call them conex boxes. Did you know that a used conex box is still very useful? For starters, a vast majority of people have started to convert them into tiny eco-friendly homes. Why? They are cost effective because you only require a capital of $25,000 to $35,000 to construct a two bed room self sustaining home. Secondly, they are weatherproof. They are constructed out of 16 gauge steel which is corrosion resistant, wind resistant and water resistant. Lastly, they help to create an eco-friendly set up which can be upgraded quite easily finally increasing the size of your home. Today, a conex box has been identified as the ideal storage box for businesses. Let’s face it. Running a business is not easy. Whether it’s an office, retail store, hotel or restaurant, the amount of documents as well as office stuff can increase quickly. This is true especially if you keep ...

from 411HomeRepair.com https://www.411homerepair.com/diy/construction-materials/10343-Buying-Secondhand-Sea-and-Cargo-Conex-Containers-Reporposed.html

What’s Your Home Improvement Personality? - Today's Homeowner

A new survey’s results suggest do-it-yourselfers likely have one of five “home improvement personalities.” The Home Projects Council, a consortium of home improvement experts, surveyed 1,136 people and learned that DIYers likely identify with one of these groups: The Sensible Improver: A nurturing homeowner who embraces home improvement projects that create a warm and welcome […]

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/whats-your-home-improvement-personality/

Top 10 tips for buying a conservatory

You’ve decided you want a conservatory. You’re even ready to start planning – now what? To help you get started on your journey, we’ve rounded up our top 10 tips for buying a conservatory, featuring helpful information on things to consider when gearing up for your next big home improvement project.

1. Consider how you’ll use your conservatory

How we decorate and arrange a room tends to either encourage or discourage certain activities – the same goes for conservatories. How you plan to use your conservatory will dictate what materials you use, as well as the roof – lounges will likely require different configurations to dining rooms, playrooms and so on.

2. Have an idea of what the interior will look like

Once you’ve nailed down the use of your conservatory, consider what furniture you’ll place inside. For instance, furniture with finnicky fabrics or ones you want to ensure won’t fade from the sun will need special roof panels installed in your conservatory roof to manage the sunlight.

3. Have someone value your home ahead of time

One of the biggest bonuses of adding a conservatory to your home is that it can add value to your property as well as extra living space. Bring in a few estate agents to value your home ahead of time and discuss how much a conservatory will add – you might even decide an orangery or extension is the better way to go.

4. Figure out if you’ll need planning permission

Unless your home is listed or in a preservation area, you oftentimes won’t require planning permission to add a conservatory that’s up to a certain size. It’s a good idea regardless to ensure you won’t need planning permission for your conservatory of choice – as it’ll add on cost if you do – or that the company you choose to install your conservatory can take care of this for you.

5. Know what you want and expect from your conservatory installers

Are you looking for a hands-off process, in which you sign off the design and sit back? Or do you want to be more involved, consulting architects to create the exact conservatory of your dreams? Knowing the answer to these questions will help guide you towards the right company to install your conservatory, as each will offer different services. Regardless, you should ensure each company has the proper accreditations and guarantees to give you peace of mind.

6. Make sure the design fits with your home first

Though conservatories add value to your home, this can be less so if the conservatory doesn’t match. It’s important to try different conservatories on your property so you can be exactly sure how it’ll look on your home. Tools like our Conservatory Designer App will allow you to design your conservatory of choice, then upload it onto a picture of your home so you can have a clear image of the final product.

7. Think about conservatory maintenance

How much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your conservatory once it’s built will also factor into what material you choose. uPVC conservatories require little maintenance to stay looking clean and new over the years, while wooden conservatories take more care but offer a classic appearance.

8. Consider your area’s climate

Your area’s climate will impact just about every facet of your conservatory’s design – colder climates will require more insulation and can potentially factor into whether or not you opt for brickwork or a solid roof design, as they’re more thermal efficient, while sunnier climates will call for roof panels that can manage the sun’s rays. These weather-types fluctuate throughout the year, so this goes back to how you’re going to use your conservatory – if you want to use it all year round, you’ll want to make sure that your conservatory’s design allows for this in your area.

9. Carefully consider how your conservatory will connect to the rest of your house

Whether or not your conservatory connects seamlessly to your existing property will be decided by the doors you choose to link the two. The design of bi-fold doors will allow your conservatory and its joining room to blend into one, while French doors ensure the rooms have the possibility to be separate when necessary.

10. Don’t just go for the cheapest option!

There are no two ways about it – conservatories are a big purchase worth serious consideration. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you choose the exact right conservatory design and installer for you. Once you’ve done your research, choose a company that can give you not only the service you desire, but the product you want, and one that’s built with great, long-lasting quality.

Once you’ve taken these tips into consideration, you’re ready to start the fun part – designing your conservatory! Check out our conservatories, orangeries and extensions board on Pinterest for ideas on how to use your brand new living space.

The post Top 10 tips for buying a conservatory appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/guides/top-10-tips-for-buying-a-conservatory/

#StyledByMe winner Chloe Spillett’s visit to the Ideal Home Show

Spring is without doubt my favourite time of year. It marks the end of short, grey days (supposedly) and the welcomed introduction of new life and fresh starts. For our family it’s a much more sociable time of year. Rather than hiding under blankets hunched over a warm brew, the curtains are pulled back, the light starts to flood in and we start to feel a sense of get up and go!

There’s plenty of scientific evidence to suggest that additional exposure to natural light boosts our sense of wellbeing and also leaves us feeling more energized and productive…spring clean?…go figure! It’s no wonder we all reach for our paintbrushes at this time of year and start thinking about home improvements.

Aside from cheerful daffodils, bleating lambs and charming blossoms there’s another reason to be grateful for this glorious time of year…the launch of one of my “must see” annual events: the Ideal Home Show.

I had high expectations of the show this year, having seen the lineup of talented designers and architects who’d jumped on board to showcase their talents. With more than a decade’s worth of visits under my belt, the Ideal Home Show has yet to disappoint. If you’ve got any home improvement projects on the horizon, then you’re guaranteed to find an array of design tips and ideas to take away with you.

As a self-confessed colour-addict I was eager to see lots of vibrancy and bold design solutions.

I’m forever persuading friends and family alike to make bold colour choices in their homes. It’s no surprise then that almost all of my highlights from the show involve colour.

Good Homes Magazine was exhibiting some absolutely dreamy room-sets, but the one that particularly caught my eye was the botanical bedroom, which featured a top drawer idea. Cue the ombre radiator! I’ve been so inspired by this room that I’m currently taking a break from painting my wardrobes using the same ombre technique!

My next colour fix came from the Anglian Home Improvements stand, which featured stunning composite doors in innovative designs. First impressions are everything, and these gorgeous doors make one heck of a statement. I’ve never been a big fan of composite products, but I have to say the market is moving in a new direction, and if any company have me converted it’s got to be Anglian Home Improvements. The only thing I can take issue with is which one to choose!

The doors weren’t the only impressive product showcased by Anglian, either. If you have a love-hate relationship with your dated conservatory they might just have the perfect solution.

The conservatory was the design breakthrough in the 90’s, offering an additional light-filled space that could be used as a dining room or a quiet place to sit and enjoy the garden. Fast-forward 20-30 years and some people would argue that conservatory designs are dated and many have become a dumping ground for the overspill of children’s toys and clutter.

It might seem a mere fantasy to rip it all out and build a luxurious extension in its place, but perhaps like me you weren’t aware you can have your existing conservatory roof updated with a contemporary solid roof offering better insulation as well as improved aesthetics. If you’re worried about the loss of light, they can also install sky light windows! From an onlooker’s perspective, you wouldn’t recognize the original build. It’s a winning product for sure!

In addition to these forward-thinking design proposals, the Ideal Home Show promises a fully kitted-out show home which, in my personal opinion, is the main event. Imagine my delight when I discovered that the vivaciously-bold and daring design genius Sophie Robinson had been signed up to style this year’s pre-fab build!

If I could sum up this year’s show home in just one word it’d be one of my favourite words of all: colour (of course).

Oh, my beating heart! What wondrous delights there were to be discovered behind the front door? The children’s rooms were particularly impressive; the obvious choice in a nursery is to use calming and muted colours but Sophie has challenged this perception head on and I’m loving it. Anyone who’s ever taken an infant to a baby sensory session will appreciate the effect it has on sending them into a deep sleep for the afternoon! This nursery provides the perfect environment for an infant; the stunning wallpaper by Lucy Tiffney provides a sensory sensation and the mood lighting is perfect for inducing sleep. It’s really rather genius.

In the older child’s bedroom, the stunning mural is a real talking point and just check out that statement carpet! Sophie’s use of feature flooring is continued throughout, and I particularly loved her unique and yet oh-so-simple strategy to bring colour into a bathroom. When I clapped eyes on this space I had a real, “now why didn’t I think of that?” moment.

It was so refreshing to see such a bold and vibrant palette throughout. Sophie delivered her usual pattern clashing strategies and maintained her 100% track record in delivering the wow factor.

And it got me thinking…why are so many homeowners afraid to use colour in their own homes?  As I moved from one inspiring space to the next, I could hear my sentiments echoed in the responses of every other onlooker. There was a wave of ooooooh’s and ahhhhhhh’s!

Statistics reveal that nearly 85% of consumers cite colour as the primary reason for their purchase. Bold and vivid colour has been reported to improve energy levels, productivity and mood.

So if it’s good enough for our phone cases, clothing and cars, it’s a great choice for our homes! Colour is a powerful reflection of personality but I truly believe it works both ways. Happy, vibrant home = happy, vibrant inhabitants!

 

Chloe Spillett was the winner of Anglian’s #StyledByMe competition in 2017. To check out her home design blog, click here.

The post #StyledByMe winner Chloe Spillett’s visit to the Ideal Home Show appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/fun/styledbyme-winner-chloe-spilletts-visit-to-the-ideal-home-show/

#ProjectSpotlight: From standard conservatory to veranda

A conservatory is a gorgeous feature on any home, but what happens when this extra living space just isn’t meeting the mark anymore? Instead of accepting the small conservatory they inherited with their new home, the Cutter family decided to improve it with an epic expansion in the form of a modern conservatory veranda. And after using Anglian in the past, they knew exactly who to go to for their upgrade.

The Cutters’ conservatory veranda takes the concept of bringing the outdoors in to a whole new level. They kitted out both the interior and exterior of their conservatory veranda with lounge furniture so they can effortlessly transition between winter and summer. When it comes to adding extra living space to their home, the Cutters went for gold and have a beautiful addition to show for it.

Here’s what Mr and Mrs Cutter had to say about their conservatory veranda:

We have been living in our property for seven years and contacted Anglian Home Improvements about replacing the very small existing conservatory which was attached to the house when we moved in. We had an Anglian conservatory in a previous house which we were delighted with, so they were the first company we contacted about a replacement.

What we wanted was some additional living space away from the TV and a quiet area where we could enjoy the garden all year round. The conservatory veranda gives us all the space we need and more.

We plan to use the space all year round, and because of its clever design it will be perfect for the summer (and summer showers). My wife even has a spot picked out for the Christmas tree for later in the year!

The build in total took about two and a half weeks and we were really impressed with the attention to detail. As repeat customers we would recommend Anglian Home Improvements because we don’t feel they can be bettered for conservatories.

We are delighted with our new conservatory veranda and look forward to summer days enjoying the garden.

Want to see how a bigger conservatory would look on your home? Check out our conservatory app and try one on for size.

The post #ProjectSpotlight: From standard conservatory to veranda appeared first on Good to be Home.

from Good to be Home https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/goodtobehome/projectspotlight/projectspotlight-from-standard-conservatory-to-veranda/

The Top 25 Termite-Infested Cities - Today's Homeowner

Terminix has released its ranking of the United States’ top 25 termite-infested cities.

from Danny Lipford - Home Improvement - DIY - Videos https://www.todayshomeowner.com/the-top-25-termite-infested-cities/