Enhancing Natural Ventilation

Making use of natural ventilation is one of the easiest ways you can cool down your home with a natural airflow. Opening windows strategically to create cross-ventilation allows fresh air to circulate and brings down the temperature of your living spaces without using any technology. By doing so, you can reduce your reliance on energy-consuming air conditioning systems and enjoy savings on your utility bills.

Extra tip:

During the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning and late evening, open windows on opposite sides of your home. This creates a refreshing breeze, allowing hot air to escape while drawing in cooler air from outside. Enhance natural ventilation by utilising window
fans or installing window vents, which facilitate air movement and help keep your home naturally cool.

Embrace Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

Investing in energy-efficient window treatments can significantly contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. By installing blinds, shades, or curtains with reflective or light-coloured fabrics, you can deflect sunlight and prevent excessive heat gain. These act as a barrier against the sun’s rays, reducing the need for additional cooling methods. If you want an alternative method to reflective fabrics, consider using thermal curtains or shades. These specialised window treatments have insulating properties that keep cool air inside during the summer while preventing heat transfer from outside.

Extra tip:

Explore the option of window films that block harmful UV rays while allowing natural light to filter through, creating a comfortable ambience without relying heavily on artificial lighting.

Efficient Use of Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is undoubtedly a blessing during hot summer days, but it can quickly become a major contributor to high energy consumption. Proper insulation and sealing off air leaks in your home is one of the most effective ways to prevent cooled air from escaping and warm air from infiltrating. Take advantage of insulation materials such as foam, weatherstripping, and caulking to create a barrier against external heat.

Extra tip:

Using programmable thermostats to ensure your cooling system operates efficiently. You can make use of energy-saving modes. You can also regularly maintain your air conditioning system by cleaning or replacing filters, as this ensures its efficient operation and prevents energy waste.

The Power of Shade

Creating shade around your home seems like an obvious way to block direct sunlight and reduce heat gain. But, by strategically planting trees around your property, you can provide a natural shade source which offers protection from the summer heat. Opt for deciduous
trees, as they shed their leaves in the winter, allowing sunlight to warm your home during the colder months while providing shade during the summer. Installing awnings or pergolas over windows and outdoor living spaces can also significantly reduce the amount of sunlight penetrating your home, decreasing the need for excessive cooling.

Extra tip:

Choosing light-coloured materials for shading structures can further enhance their effectiveness in reflecting sunlight. Reflective roof coatings and heat-rejecting window films can also be applied to reduce heat absorption by your home's exterior surfaces.

Substance storage

When considering ways to safeguard the environment and minimise potential hazards you may have around your home, the topic of heating oil storage is often forgotten. The proper storage and handling of fuel are crucial to prevent leaks or spills that can lead to
environmental contamination. Homeowners can take advantage of specialised systems designed to enhance safety and efficiency.

These offer an extra layer of protection, acting as a shield against potential leaks or spills that could harm the environment. Modern storage systems often come equipped with advanced monitoring features. These features enable homeowners to keep track of their
fuel levels, ensuring efficient consumption and avoiding unexpected shortages.

Extra Tip:

Oil tanks often come equipped with monitoring systems that allow homeowners to keep track of oil levels, ensuring efficient consumption and preventing unexpected fuel shortages. This not only promotes energy-smart living but also helps homeowners save money by improving fuel usage.

Beating the heat doesn’t have to require you to panic budget – adopting energy-smart living practices is a long-term solution that will allow you to thrive in the heat for years to come. By adapting your natural ventilation, using energy-efficient window treatments, and
considering specialised storage solutions, you can create comfortable living spaces while reducing energy consumption and minimising environmental impact. Embracing these strategies empowers us to lead a sustainable and cost-effective lifestyle.

The post Energy-Smart Living: How to Beat the Summer Heat and Save Money appeared first on Get A Tradesman.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the home improvements that add the most value. We’ll also discuss how much you can expect to recoup on your investment.

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels

The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most important rooms in your home. They’re also two of the most expensive rooms to remodel. But if you’re willing to invest in a remodel, you can expect to see a significant return on your investment.

A kitchen remodel can add an average of 10% to the value of your home. And a bathroom remodel can add an average of 5% to the value of your home.

Of course, the amount of value you’ll add will depend on the scope of the remodel. A small remodel that simply updates the countertops and appliances will add less value than a major remodel that includes new cabinets, flooring, and appliances.

But even a small remodel can make a big difference. If your kitchen or bathroom is outdated or in poor condition, it’s likely to turn off potential buyers. A remodel can make your home more attractive and appealing, and it can help you sell it for more money.

New Windows and Doors

New windows and doors can improve the energy efficiency of your home, which can save you money on your heating and cooling bills. They can also make your home more attractive and inviting.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, new windows can save you an average of $1,265 per year on your heating and cooling bills. And new doors can save you an average of $275 per year.

In addition to the energy savings, new windows and doors can also add value to your home. The National Association of Realtors estimates that new windows can add an average of 3% to the value of your home, and new doors can add an average of 2% to the value of your home.

Landscaping

A well-maintained landscape can make your home look more inviting and attractive. It can also add value to your home.

According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, a well-maintained landscape can add an average of 7% to the value of your home.

When landscaping your home, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, make sure the plants you choose are appropriate for your climate. Second, keep the landscaping neat and tidy. And third, add some personal touches to make your home stand out from the rest.

Conservatory

Extension

The value a new extension can add to a home can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and style of the extension, the materials used, the location of the home, and the current market conditions. In general, however, a well-designed and built extension can add between 5% and 15% to the value of a home.

Swimming Pool

The value a swimming pool adds to a house can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and style of the pool, the materials used, the location of the home, and the current market conditions. In general, however, a well-designed and built swimming pool can add between 5% and 15% to the value of a home.

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is the first impression potential buyers will have of your home. So it’s important to make sure it’s a good one.

There are a few things you can do to improve your home’s curb appeal. First, make sure the exterior of your home is clean and well-maintained. Second, plant some flowers or shrubs in the front yard. And third, add some decorative touches, such as a mailbox or a welcome sign.

By following these tips, you can add value to your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Other Home Improvements That Add Value

In addition to the home improvements we’ve mentioned, there are a few other things you can do to add value to your home. These include:

• Adding insulation. Insulation can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills, and it can also add value to your home. The National Association of Realtors estimates that adding insulation can add an average of 1% to the value of your home.
• Updating the electrical system. An outdated electrical system can be a safety hazard. Updating the electrical system can make your home safer and more attractive to potential buyers. The National Association of Realtors estimates that updating the electrical system can add an average of 2% to the value of your home.
• Adding a deck or patio. A deck or patio can provide an additional living space for your family and friends. It can also add value to your home. The National Association of Realtors estimates that adding a deck or patio can add an average of 5% to the value of your home.

When choosing home improvements, it’s important to consider your budget and the needs of your family. But if you’re willing to invest in some home improvements, you can expect to see a significant return on your investment.

The post Which home improvements add the most value? appeared first on Get A Tradesman.

With property experts sharing that house prices are falling, as well as the new buyer demand[1], it’s crucial for those looking to sell their home in 2023 to exceed buyer expectations and beat fierce competition.

So, to understand just what UK homebuyers look for in a property, Tapi conducted a survey of 1,500 British people to reveal the top interior features that would turn them off viewing a property, putting an offer in and reducing their offer amount.

Top five interior assets that would decrease prospective buyers’ money offer

Lastly, Brits were polled on which interior factors would make them lower their offer on a property they viewed. The top five were:

• Unmodernised kitchen (49%)
• Visible signs of mould (47%)
• Unmodernised bathroom (43%)
• Water stains left from previous leaks (43%)
• Unkept, dirty or worn carpets (30%)

Top five interiors assets that would stop prospective buyers viewing a property.

The survey asked Brits what features would stop them from going to view a property if they spotted them in the listing photos. The top five were:

• Visible signs of mould (53%)
• Water stains left from previous leaks (46%)
• Rooms look small (37%)
• Lacks natural lighting (35%)
• Unkept, dirty or worn carpets (32%)

Top five interior assets that would prevent prospective buyers making an offer.

Then, the survey went on to ask Brits what interior factors would prevent them from putting an offer in on a property after they had viewed it. The top five features were:

• Visible signs of mould (52%)
• Water stains left from previous leaks (46%)
• Lacks natural lighting (35%)
• Rooms look small (35%)
• Unmodernised kitchen (30%)

Six expert tips on how to get your home market-ready

With the survey revealing the interior features that can negatively impact the home buying and selling process, Tapi teamed up with property expert Jonathan Rolande, and James Roberts from Sanctuary Bathrooms, to share their top tips on ensuring your home has the best possible chance on the market.

1. Remove personal touches ahead of photo day

Making sure your home looks its best on photo day has never been so important when trying to stand out amongst the crowd on property listing sites.

Property expert Jonathan Rolande advises home sellers to remove anything that might reveal the date, such as Christmas decorations or Easter cards.

He also advises to take down any personal photographs and valuable items as they’ll be online for all to see.

For those with pets, Jonathan says: “Remove anything like baskets and bowls – some people won’t want to buy a house that’s been home to a pet!”

2. Create an inviting space for guests ahead of viewings

Before any viewings, Jonathan recommends the property is clean, clutter free and ‘dressed’ well. For example, avoiding cooking anything with a strong smell for at least 24 hours ahead of viewings. Having well-made beds and plumped-up sofa cushions can make all the difference.

He adds: “Make sure the house number is clear and always leave outside lights on in the evening. Ensure you have turned on lamps even in rooms you’re in, as overhead lights aren’t as welcoming.”

3. Tackle mould and water stains before you try and sell

For those who have tackled mould or water stains in the past, Jonathan advises you check the source of the issue before putting your home on the market. Once it’s been addressed, he recommends wiping mould away with a mild bleach solution and waiting for it to dry. If it doesn’t re-appear, it’s safe to paint.

He also suggests using a stain blocking paint first to ensure any stains don’t bleed through.

4. Give your bathroom a ‘hotel’ feel

In the bathroom, think ‘hotel’. Jonathan says: “A nice bathroom doesn’t have to be brand new, but it should be very clean, and you should hide anything like toothpaste, brushes, shampoos, and cosmetics.

“Consider buying new fluffy towels, a battery candle or a diffuser to give a spa-like calming feel.”

James Roberts, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms, reveals how you can jazz up your existing bathroom with new fittings and fixtures.

“If you do have a little cash to spare, something that can really revive a bathroom and provide a new lease of life is refreshing some of the décor. From a simple lick of paint to changing accessories and fixtures such as taps, shower fittings, toilet brushes and roll holders, and even a new bath panel can help to bring a whole new look or simply create a more cohesive theme.

“For example, switching from colours can help change the dynamic and style of a room, with something like an elegant brass theme is a popular choice to replace chrome.”

5.  Modernise your kitchen quickly

For the ultimate kitchen refresh which doesn’t require a brand-new refit, Jonathan advises home sellers to refresh their kitchen by painting kitchen tiles and cupboards and replacing handles on older units ahead of putting the property on the market.

6. Deep clean your carpets and floors

Before any pictures of in-person property viewings, doing a deep clean of your carpet and smooth floors is highly recommended by Brand and Communications Director at Tapi, Johanna Constantinou.

Johanna says: “One of the quickest and most dramatic ways to make your home more buyer-friendly is to improve the appearance of your floors. As revealed in the study, they can be detrimental to the sale of your house, so it’s good to give them a well-needed refresh before any photos are taken and before anyone comes to view it.

“If your carpets need a bit of fluffing up, you can help breathe some life back into them with a bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar solution. It also takes away any lingering smells!

“Start by spreading bicarbonate of soda over your carpet and work it into the fibres with a stiff brush, before letting it sit overnight. Then, vacuum the baking soda up in the morning, then fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and cold water.

“Simply spray the solution onto the carpet and work with a stiff brush, and your carpet will be as good as new.”

Further home buying turn offs from the study can be found here.

The post Survey finds home assets that deter prospective buyers from buying a property appeared first on Get A Tradesman.

A double glazing frame may be constructed using four different materials in general. These are: uPVC, wood, aluminium, and steel, in descending order of average cost.

uPVC – Unlike wood or metal, uPVC is an energy-efficient, weatherproof structure that requires very little maintenance and won’t rust or decay. The one possible disadvantage, which also happens to be the reason it’s usually the least expensive choice, is design- related, but if that’s a problem, you can always purchase an aluminium shell or a window with a wood impression to help.

Steel – Steel is the costliest of the four materials, so it’s only worthwhile if you’re very taken with the way it looks. Although it's not as excellent at transferring heat as aluminium, which is a benefit, it’s still more conductive than wood and uPVC.

Wood – Hardwood frames perform far better in terms of energy efficiency than uPVC frames since they don’t transfer heat, are more environmentally friendly to manufacture, and can be recycled. To keep them clean and to prevent them from breaking, they need far more upkeep than uPVC frames.

aluminium – Although you don’t want your window unit to transfer heat, aluminium is an excellent heat conductor, which is negative since aluminium frameworks lose greater warmth during the colder months and retain greater warmth during the summer than uPVC or wood.

Here are our top reasons to invest in double glazing:

1. Noise Reduction

Double glazing windows are a great way to soundproof any room. Not only do they provide insulation from the outside elements, but they also help keep noise from entering your home. Installing new windows is one of the most effective ways to reduce incoming noise and create a peaceful living space.

The double-glazing process creates two panes of glass with an airtight seal in between them. This creates an extra layer for sound waves to pass through which results in less external noise being able to penetrate the window. With thicker glass it helps further by blocking out even more unwanted sounds from entering your home. The same principle holds true if you’re looking to stop noise from leaving your house as well.

Installing these windows is a wise investment for any homeowner who’s looking to soundproof their space and create a more peaceful environment inside the house. In addition to providing insulation from the outside elements, having double-paned windows will also help keep unwanted noise out. If you’re looking for an effective way to reduce noise inside your home without compromising on style or comfort this is a great option.

2) Saving on energy bills

Energy bills can be expensive, especially when it comes to heating and cooling your home. If you’re looking for ways to save money, then you might want to consider getting double glazed windows installed in your property. Double glazing is an excellent way to improve the thermal efficiency of a property. It does this by reducing air leakage and providing insulation from the outside environment. This means that homeowners can save money on their energy bills, as well as helping to protect their home from external weather conditions. In addition to this, double glazing provides better insulation than single pane windows by
trapping pockets of air between the two glass panes. This makes it more difficult for hot or cold air to pass through, further improving the energy efficiency of your home and helping you save money on your bill’s.

3) Security

One of the main advantages to installing double panes is that it offers superior levels of security in comparison to single-glazed windows. The two panes are harder to break into than just one, making it much harder for intruders to gain entry into your home. Double glazed windows come with multiple locking systems as well so you can be sure that your family is always safe and secure. If intruders break into your home, they may try to use tools such as crowbars or hammers in order to smash through the glass. Double glazing is much harder for them to break through than single pane and will help to protect both you and your family from harm.

4) Stops moisture and dampness

If you notice a small amount of condensation located within your window, it implies that the air inside the home is warmer than the window. The colder temperature of the window causes moisture droplets to collect, which can lead to dampness that might possibly be harmful to both your health and the window frames. Due to the two panes, dual windows lessen the chance of condensation. This will lessen the chance of dampness and the resulting damages by keeping the panel inside the house at the same temperature as the air inside. As a result, it will be simpler to maintain and less prone to sustain serious, irreparable damage.

5) Brings Value

Whatever renovations you make to your house will raise the value of the property.  Homeowners seek out residences that will require little to no maintenance after they move in. Due to this, dual windows reassure prospective customers that they can provide the advantages of higher insulation, decrease noise, and even enhance security.

This Is Money reports that the average price of a property has increased by 9.4% since last year. This implies that you will need to make your house buyer-friendly because buyers are now seeking for homes that will provide them with everything they need right away. Your home’s value is raised with double glazing by about 10%. This implies that if you bought your house more than a year ago, fixing the windows on it may result in a return on investment of about 19.4%.

6) Reducing carbon footprint

The advantages of installing double glazing where a single paned window had existed have long been understood. Because to its insulating qualities, they aid in reducing draughts and heat loss from a home, resulting in less energy being used by a heating system. As a result, the temperature on the thermostat may frequently be decreased as well as the period of time the heating is on. We could save almost £200 million if double glazing were installed in every period property in the nation. Furthermore, installing double glazing would cut carbon emissions by almost 700 kg per home. If this reduction occurred throughout the nation, the carbon footprint would be significantly reduced, making the 2050 goal more than attainable.

The post Double Glazing: A Smart Investment for Your Home appeared first on Get A Tradesman.

King Edward VI approached Resonate before the pandemic to discuss how they could create an inspiring, fun, modern and flexible space that would encourage social and academic interaction in a positive way. Resonate along with a number of interior design studios were asked to submit designs which were then judged by the school and the Governors, with the final decision being handed over to the students. 95% of students selected Resonate’s design as the winner with its approach to sustainability being a leading factor.

From the outset, the school was very clear in their aim to create a modern multi-functional, student desirable space and adaptable Sixth Form area that would be closer to a higher education / collaborative working space than a school. It had to feel dramatically different from the rest of the school, and somewhere that pupils would aspire to be a part of one day.

Working with the stakeholder groups, which included both students and teachers Resonate developed the concept around the Tree of Learning (English Oak) into a space that would fully maximise natural daylight, provide a variety of study spaces from quiet to collaborative and of course the all-important barista coffee bar and sofa’s – a prerequisite from the students!

The existing structural columns which were a complete eyesore were clad in a natural oak finish that rises gently over the double height space. The existing roof light floods the space with light bouncing off the neutral colour palette which features pops of green – a nod to nature.

Creating a barista bar in the heart of the space maximises the usage and the social interactions, but also allows the students to be more mature in their choices. The front of the bar is carefully crafted out of books that the school no longer had a need for and behind there is a self-serve tea-point for all to use.

As the aim was to create flexible and collaborative spaces that could be changed to suit, the furniture selection was naturally a mix of old and new. Re-purposed study booths create a quiet study zone, away from the main space to enhance focus. A bespoke living wall with built-in AV creates an intimate collaboration/learning environment, gently framed by carefully placed acoustic panels. The space also features a Group Study area that links to the social area. With the high use of IT and mobile equipment, the space incorporates a main laptop charging station within lockers, as well as a multitude of charging points throughout, so the students are always on full charge!

Recork flooring by Quadrant covers the floors, selected for both its sustainable and acoustic qualities and to soften the high traffic space.  Acoustic panels hang from walls and ceilings throughout to create a sense of privacy, and the quiet rooms feature wall hung fabric panels to soften the space and aid focused study.

High level decorative pendants, brass halo lighting and task lighting complete the space giving a sense of warmth and creating the heart space for the students. The ceiling is shrouded in black felt to soften the acoustics and enhance lighting and a timber baffled ceiling helps shape the space into the different zones.

Neal Baker, Director of Operations, King Edward VI School“ We were delighted to have worked with Resonate on this exciting, transformational project. We selected Resonate because of their inspirational design and when put to our pupils, over 95% of them voted overwhelmingly for Resonate.

The Concourse has been in use for a full term now and it is an utterly transformed space, it definitely has the wow factor. The collaborative work areas are extremely popular and students are enjoying the variety of different spaces within the Concourse to both work and socialise. The central food bar is stylish and now a popular lunchtime choice rather than the dining hall! It has been a delight to see the students embrace their new space within the school”.

Resonate CEO Pernille Stafford said “It has been a real joy working with the students and teaching staff to create an academic space with a difference, one that
would prepare the students for the working environment, as well as inspiring them in their academic studies. To see the place transform has been wonderful and the feedback from both students and teachers has been incredible”.

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Gas Safety During Home Improvements

The study by National Fire Protection Association shows that 784 people have lost their lives due to gas exposure in 2009. This reflects a higher tendency of gas accidents while improving your home. That said, by following the safety tips below, you can avert gas hazards during home improvement.

•  Hire A Gas Safety Engineer

After witnessing a large number of gas accidents both in the workplace and in homes, the government of the UK passed a law. It obliges homeowners to submit a gas safety certificate every year to ensure their property is safe from any gas hazard.

Likewise, commercial gas safety certificate is mandatory for a workplace. A registered gas safe engineer inspects your property and issues a certificate which costs around £35 to £150 depending on the size of the property and the number of gas appliances installed.

When the gas safety engineer visits your home or workplace, do ask him to show the gas safe ID card to ensure they are Gas Safe Register engineer. Gas certification will not only ensure your safety but will also boost your property value if you are thinking about selling or renting your property.

• Don’t Think Of DIY When Dealing With Gas Appliances

Never think about fitting, fixing, or moving gas appliances during home improvements, such as boilers or cookers. A minor gas leak can lead to explosion, fire, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

DIY tutorial on the internet will arouse you to pull your socks up and start messing up with your gas appliances but we recommend not to go for this absurd idea. Saving a few dollars by doing experimentation on gas work will cost you many lives.

Do not try to repair or remove faulty gas appliances by yourself. Where necessary, make a call to a gas safe engineer for help. Moreover, make sure you do not hit the pipes accidentally while undergoing any construction work.

• Install A Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Carbon monoxide is a slow poison that will take your life before you even notice it. You cannot smell or see this gas, making it the deadliest gas.

Every home must have a carbon monoxide gas installed. If your home doesn’t have any, write it at the top of your home improvement plan. This is a must-have to protect you!

• Ensure Proper Ventilation

Accidents can happen anywhere, even in the safest places. But the matter of concern is your preparedness in case an emergency occurs.

You should be vigilant enough to know that a well-ventilated dwelling can avert the impacts of gas accidents. Ventilation channels, such as windows help fumes and smoke to excel easily if a fire outbreaks.

If your home has a few windows and exhausts, then add some windows in your home improvement task, especially in the kitchen where most of the gas appliances are installed.

• Do Not Neglect The Signs Of Danger

Sometimes, we are so much into the renovation task that we neglect the minor symptoms that are indicating a catastrophe.

You and your family must be aware of the signs of danger and react as immediately as possible. For instance, flames are orange or green, condensation in the room, soot in gas appliances, or rotten egg smell; all these signs indicate your gas appliances are having some issues that need to be resolved readily.

Sometimes, you get a headache or suffocation if any gas is leaking around you. So keep all these signs in mind while improving your home to stay safe and secure.

• Address The Leak Readily And Properly

It is natural to get panic if you find out that the gas is leaking around you but the important thing is how readily you overcome it.

Do not turn on any ignition source, turn off the gas supply at the cylinder or meter, and open all the doors, windows, and other ventilation channels so that gas can find a way out of your home.  If you feel like the gas is too intense and the smell is persistent, just evacuate the area before the gas could choke or faint you. Call a gas fitter to repair the leaks and ensure the proper working of the gas appliances.

• Do Read User Manuals

The last thing you would want to read is the user manual that comes alongside gas appliances. Do you think you are smart enough to operate the appliance without wasting time reading boring instructions? You are at a loss if you think you are!

Manufacturers write it down for the sake of your safety; it may cost you a few minutes but it is worth it for your life. by reading those instructions, you will get to know the proper usage of appliances that will surely extend their lifespan.

Other Home Improvement Considerations

Some home improvement tasks have a great impact on your gas appliances even if they are not being touched directly, for instance;

• Scaffolding: This work can potentially damage your flue or chimney terminal outlet.
• Roof work: Make sure chimneys and flues are not blocked, removed, or damaged. If new openings or windows are being installed, make sure to maintain a suitable distance from flues and chimneys as recommended by manufacturers.
• External cladding: Make sure vents, flues, or chimneys are not obstructed or damaged.
• New conservatory: Make sure flues are not enclosed and any new window addition is undergone by maintaining a safe distance from flues and chimneys. Only a safe gas engineer should be allowed to move the flues.

To Sum Up

Your home should provide you with the requisite peace of mind and a sense of safety. Unluckily, there are many ways your home can get into an accident. Most frequent gas hazards are reported in homes. So we have mentioned some useful tips that you must keep in mind while undergoing any home improvement task. Remember, whenever you go for gas works, always hire a gas-safe engineer who holds the relevant qualification for working on your appliances.

Read Also

• Home Improvements

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At the moment, people are looking at ways to reduce their financial outgoings. Costs are soaring across all sectors and the economy is not especially stable, so we’re all seeking ways to make every penny count.

Financial tips and life hacks relating to cutting costs are now an essential part of how we budget. The general trend emerging from all this advice is clear; buy once, buy smart; and a Stiltz Homelift certainly embodies this philosophy.

Here are 10 reasons why buying a Stiltz Homelift stands up to a rigorous cost-benefit analysis:

1.  No costly building work

Rising prices have hit the building sector hard with increases in cost reflected back to the consumer. A homelift negates the need for an expensive ground floor conversion or extension which in turn saves on money, time and upheaval.

2. Future proofing for changing needs

A Stilt Homelift is a one-off purchase and will see you through any changes in mobility, allowing you to accommodate a wheelchair if necessary. A stairlift can never be as flexible and responsive.

3. No relocation costs or extra life challenges

We all have those special people around us who can help make life easier. Whether friends, neighbours or family our support network is something to cherish. So, not only will you avoid all the costs and upset of moving, you can stay close to the people who matter to you.

4. No care costs

Avoid moving into residential care or having to engage an in-home care company before you really need to. Both can be prohibitive but are also a dwindling resource due to the shortage of quality staff.

5. Protection against the cost of falls

With a homelift, a slip or fall on the stairs, and the injuries associated with this, are no longer an issue. These can include not only the injury itself and extended recovery time but also potential loss of earnings either for the injured person or other family members who will need to provide care or assistance.

6. Reducing support from relatives

We know loved ones want to help, but helping yourself will, in turn, assist relatives and friends if you rely on visits for support. Their petrol and travel costs need to be factored in and those expenses are on the up too.

7. Cheap to run

Unlike energy-guzzling hydraulic lifts from other manufacturers, a Stiltz Homelift runs on 240v domestic mains electricity making it exceptionally economical. Another clever way to keep those costs from rising

8. Adding property ‘value’

By making a property more desirable to a wider customer base such as those looking for future-proofed or accessible homes, installing a Stiltz Homelift can accelerate a sale or increase perceived value to buyers.

9. No extra assistive equipment

If you install a stairlift, you will need to invest in two sets of wheelchairs or walkers; one for upstairs and one for downstairs to remain mobile. Not to mention the extra clutter these items will create in your home. Whereas with a Stiltz you simply get in and go with just the one assistance aid.

10. Lower costs through reliability

A Stiltz is engineered to be dependable so expensive service call outs and costly parts are likely to be minimal. A comprehensive warranty means peace of mind comes as standard.

So, there you have it. 10 great reasons why you should invest now to save with a Stiltz Homelift.

Article Provided By Stiltz

The post The top 10 ways a homelift can save you money appeared first on Get A Tradesman.

One never really puts much thought into stairs until one faces the prospects of needing them. How many times have we had guests in the garden after rain and one of them has slipped down the stairs?  One thing is certain, nicely designed stairs leading into a garden can really transform the look and feel of the space, but they need to be safe.

The first steps (no pun intended) to choosing your design, as any good garden designer in London will tell you, is to focus on the landscape they are being placed in. 

The two key elements for your consideration when designing stairs:

 

1. The technicalities involved in building 
2. The appearance of; and materials used in your design

The technicalities are simply related to how functional and practical your stairs will be for use. Your tread, the nice flat surfaces you step on, will need to be at least 0.30m or 12 inches. The risers, the separators between each step, should be a maximum of 0.15m or 6 inches. It is important to note that outdoor staircases are a completely different dimension to indoor designs. So how does one work out how many risers are needed if stairs are being cut into the ground? Just divide the vertical height of the flight by the height of your riser. Once this is done you need to divide the horizontal length of the flight into a suitable number of treads. 

 

The appearance of your design does not only need to complement its surroundings, you really do need to recognise the potential safety aspects associated with your chosen materials. So be sure to do your homework and speak to a qualified garden designer in London or one nearest to you. 

 

Now, let’s take a look at styles of stairs for your consideration: 

 

• Straight, L-Shaped, U-Shaped
  
  Traditional styles you are likely familiar with.

   

• Ladder Style
  
  These can often appear to be almost floating stairs when designed without risers. These are often used to connect small spaces.

   

• Winder Style
  
  Although similar to the L-shape, these stairs do not have landings and the tread doesn’t widen.

   

• Spiral Style
  
  Designed for small spaces, stairs spiralling down to the ground really do have visual appeal and can be very elegant in a garden.

There are also a few contemporary design styles to familiarise yourself with. These are just some of my personal favourites:

• Stone-Age
  
  A natural look of wide solid stone and green plants giving your garden an aged look.
  
  
• Harry Potter Stairs
  
  This practical design is filled with storage spaces to keep your garden organised!
  
  
• Planters Haven
  
  Why not create holes for planters so your stairs can come to life with the rest of the garden?
  
  
• Stars and Stairs
  
  Let LED lights be the pathway to your garden. This is a very popular trend in design right now. Get creative and research the use of LED lighting on stairs.

Your garden stairs are likely to be a place where many pictures are taken.  When you are designing your stairs keep in mind the types of occasions you may like to have in your garden. Birthdays, a small garden wedding perhaps or even a simple event such as a baby shower. 

Now you have started to imagine different designs in your garden, it is time to turn your dreams into reality. Construction has never been more affordable. Take advantage of this quiet time and create the garden you have always wanted. Get a tradesman today.

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