Patch That Pipe: What To Do As You Wait For The Plumber

Introduction

What happens when you have a faulty pipe in your property, and you don`t have any experience with repairing such types of damage? Well, it is important that you make perceptive choices, to ensure that you don't rack up a large water bill due to the excessive wastage and in terms of pipe repair costs.

Although, pipe repair might seem like a simple procedure, it requires the competence of professional company to achieve the best results.

This is especially true if you have a large piece of property which has several water flow supply lines and piping systems. It can be difficult to repair the damaged sections of such a system, but you can easily patch up any damaged sections as you wait for the plumber to arrive.

This is perhaps one of the best solutions for you to start with for your unique needs. It will help you save extra cash on wasted water. The following are some of the tips for patching a pipe, as you wait for the plumber to arrive on the scene.

Tips

Block the seepage or damaged area

If the damaged area is simple to access, you want to ensure that you block that damaged area to avoid any wastage of water. You can use various items including cloths, adhesives and more.

By blocking any damaged sections of the pipe, you increase the likelihood that your pipe won't suffer from any added damage or compromised performance.

Turn of the water supply

More so, another important factor for you to consider is that you should turn off the water supply. By turning off the water supply, you reduce any what that is wasted. A good recommendation is to directly turn off the water and main supply as you wait for the plumber to arrive at your property.

Other Tips

Broadly speaking, when it comes to ensuring that your pipe suffers no added damaged or compromised performance, ensure that you make savvy choices for the best results. In fact, ensure that you develop you DIY pipe repair skills since they might come in handy when completing any future projects.

More so, ensure that you also acquire a comprehensive repair tool set, which will help you during the repair procedures, as you wait for the plumber to arrive at your destination.

Benefits of a plumber service

Professional services and experienced staff

Satisfaction guarantee

Long lasting results

Affordable services packages

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/09/patch-that-pipe.html

How Frequent Should You Clean Your Air Ducts

How frequent should you clean your air ducts? The short answer is from three to five years, depending on the amount of dust in your home, dander and hair from pets or an event that would trigger air duct cleaning requirements. The best way to confirm whether you need your air ducts cleaned is to check around your air vents and also the filter area.

If your air vents show signs of dust or even mold it is time to have your all of your ducts cleaned. Check around your cold air return vents for signs of dust buildup as well as around the hot air vents. Remove one of the grilles and using a flashlight observe whether there is a buildup of dust in the duct.

Most furnace and HVAC manufacturers recommend that you change the filters in your system once a year or even more often if you live in dusty conditions or if there is lots of pet hair etc. When you change the filter, examine the filter to determine whether there is a buildup of dust etc.. Check the motor compartment also. If there is dust or pet hair accumulating, you may need your ducts cleaned as well.

Other Triggers for air duct cleaning

New Home Construction – during construction of new homes a great deal of drywall dust and even garbage can settle into the vents. You may have cigarette butts, soft drink cans etc. in the ducts. Needless to say it is a good idea to have all of the vents cleaned before you turn on your furnace or HVAC for the first time.

Major Renovations – if you have just completed renovations in your home, chances are that some dust will have collected in the ducts via the cold air return. If the renovation work is underway during a time when the furnace fan is running, not only will there be dust in the system, you may find that a fine dust has percolated throughout your home. You may need a thorough cleaning of the floors as well as the ducts in a situation like this.

Damp Conditions – In some cases, mold spores can develop in damp basements and find their way into the cooling or heating system. If this is the case consumers should hire a duct cleaning company who specializes in removing mold from the ducts.

Residents with Allergies – During the spring and summer, windows are open, our pets are in and out and our family comes and go. We all track dust and pollen into the home. On windy days a great deal of pollen can be blown into the house if you have your windows open. Although there are no studies to support duct cleaning will help consumers who suffer from allergies, many will have their ducts cleaned at the end of the prime pollen season.

Typically, a clean home will not need duct cleaning as often, unless there are circumstances as mentioned above. Evaluate your home, lifestyle and decide the best course of action with respect to duct cleaning for your family.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/09/clean-your-air-duct.html

Don’t get caught out when renovating your home

Renovating your home can be incredibly exciting (as well as a little daunting) as you delve into the seemingly never-ending world of paint charts and flooring samples. Your mind will be full of colour combinations and textures, while Pinterest is likely to become your most visited site while looking for design inspiration.

However, it is important to keep your head when preparing to update your home and remember that there are a few really important factors that you need to consider. The points below give a little more information on some of the key things you need to ask yourself before the works get underway.

Are you able to complete the work yourself?

Once you have decided exactly what it is that you would like to change about your home, one of the first things to consider is whether or not the proposed renovations are within your DIY scope.

If you are confident you have the necessary time and expertise to complete the work to a decent standard, then doing it yourself is certainly a great way to shave a decent chunk off your costs. However, if you’re in any doubt then getting in the professionals can often be the safest course of action.

Do you need permission?

This point is a particularly important one to get right. If you are making substantial exterior alterations to your property (for example adding an extension) then you are likely to need to seek approval from your local planning authority.

This can be a lengthy process that can take months, so make sure you put in the initial application in good time. This will ensure you don’t end up falling behind schedule before your works have even begun!

If the work you are doing is merely cosmetic, or will only be affecting the inside of your house, then you are unlikely to need planning permission. The only exception to this is listed buildings, for which you need listed building consent to make any alterations at all, no matter how small.

Have you prepared an accurate budget?

One of the major areas where people fall down when it comes to renovations is the planning of a budget. There is one firm fact that you can almost guarantee with renovations - whatever you plan to spend, the final project will end up costing more! Therefore, try to be realistic when budgeting so that you can have the best possible idea of what you will be spending – and always allow a little extra to be left over for those unexpected costs that you just couldn’t foresee.

Will your home insurance cover you?

Another important factor that many people don’t even think of when updating their home, is the effect that it can have on their insurance. Even the most minor works will count as renovations to your insurer (included repainting) so as soon as you have confirmed your works you will need to give your insurer a ring and let them know.

When you advise your insurer of your renovations, it may be the case that they are unable to continue their cover, due to the increased risk of damage to your property. Luckily, specialist companies such as CoverBuilder can provide cover for any scale of renovation, from a new bathroom to a double storey extension.

If you can tick all of these issues off the list, then you know you are ready to embark on your exciting new project. Remember, in addition to all of the above, plenty of before and after photos are a must-have with any renovation project!

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/09/renovating-your-home.html

Why Noisy Neighbours Are Not The Only Reason You Should Soundproof Your Windows

Don't you just love the sound of squealing brakes, screaming babies and blaring music first thing in the morning? No? Not very idyllic, is it?

Unfortunately, with more people, high roads on our doorstep and an increase in the number of cars on the road, unwanted noises are making a greater appearance in our lives and homes. The issue of noise is no longer limited to inner-city areas – the rise in the development of suburban and residential regions means the 'quiet life' has become all but a dream for many of us. So what can we do to get some peace and quiet?

One solution comes in the form of noise reducing windows. The process is not as technical as it sounds – it simply involves upgrading your windows to keep 90-95% of unwanted nuisance sounds at bay. Oh, and don't forget, they add an extra layer of security to your home and can even increase the value of your property!

The day to day sounds we encounter are not actually classed as noise, in fact for a sound to be considered noise it must be "loud, irritating and unwanted". As you can imagine, the constant bombardment of noise can not only become very, very annoying but can truly begin to affect the quality of life.

Aircraft Noise

Aircraft can create some of the most disruptive and disturbing noises which is expected from engines that produce 100,000+ horse power! The noise produced from aircraft is a real concern, not only for comfort but also for health, as frequent exposure can begin to have a physical impact on the body. A study published by the British Medical Journal revealed that people who lived by airports were at a higher risk of developing health issues such as stroke and heart disease.

Many airports have reacted accordingly and now offer soundproofing grants for homes affected by aircraft noise pollution. So, if you happen to live nearby an airport and currently do not have sound proofing, be sure to contact the airport to see how your situation can be improved.

Road Traffic & Rail Noise

 

During the day, noise from vehicles and trains is not particularly bothersome. After all, these sounds are part and parcel of living in modern cities and towns. Living near a busy road or train station can be advantageous for many people, simply due to ease of travel. However, these types of noises become inconvenient during the night and evening, when the desired sound levels for comfort drops.

Although unassuming, noise from cars and trains can contribute to disturbing and disrupting sleep, which can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Many people have taken to sound reducing windows, to eliminate virtually all noise created from these sources during the night, helping them sleep soundly whilst continuing to reap the benefits of living in areas with great travel links.

Noise from Neighbours

Noise from next door is at an all-time high for many of us! This is especially true in cities and towns as we live in increasingly close quarters. When anti-social noise is mentioned, we often picture screaming kids, over-exuberant musicians or yappy dogs, however, poor soundproofing in your home can mean even low-level sounds seep through. Sound reducing windows will contribute to reducing irksome sounds from neighbours and busy residential roads.

Which sound reducing option is best for you?

Suppliers are able to reduce the level of noise by adding layering to the materials your windows are made of, improving their ability to absorb and reflect sound. Your supplier will evaluate your home and consult you on which option is aesthetically and functionally best for you. Soundproofing can be applied to many types of windows, including PVCu and wooden framed windows and rarely requires planning permission, so there's little reason to worry whether your home is suitable.

Triple Glazing

Not heard of triple glazing before? You wouldn't be the first. Triple glazing is the less popular alternative to double glazing and involves adding an extra pane of glass to your windows. Although there are many benefits to adding triple glazing to your home, such as improved heat insulation, if noise is your grievance, it may not be the best option for you. Adding an extra pane of glass does have some noise limiting qualities, however, the type of glass used is typically of the same density and thickness - which does little for sound reduction. That makes triple glazing a solution best suitable for low-level, anti-social noise.

Double Glazing 

 

Double glazing can work wonders for soundproofing your property – with its effects being most remarkable in houses with single pane or old windows. Typically installed on the outside of your home, units are specifically designed to combat noise, with the added benefit of improving energy efficiency and home security.

Double glazing's soundproofing power comes from the space between the two panes of glass and the thickness of each sheet. These factors combined help to effectively dissipate and disperse sounds of certain frequencies, making it great for eliminating road and rail noise.

For extra sound reducing qualities, ask about laminated panes.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is an option you should consider if you are having issues with unwanted noise. Of the three options, secondary glazing is the most effective method for sound reduction, which could explain why it has been growing in popularity amongst home owners. Typically, units are installed internally within your existing window frame, which not only makes secondary glazing suitable for properties with traditional or listed features but also causes the gap between the two panes of glass to be far wider than double glazed windows. Secondary glazed windows are designed to keep 90% of unwanted external noise out of your home, making it an effective solution for homes affected by aircraft noise pollution.

To find solutions that best suit your needs, contact Bennbrook Windows, as one of the largest UK regional suppliers of windows, doors & conservatories, you can count on us for top quality products, speedy installation and excellent after care for long lasting and effective results. Call for a quote on 01992 574 555.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/09/Soundproof-Your-Windows.html

Wind vs. Solar for Residential Homes

Homeowners seeking a more sustainable energy source are often faced with two viable options: wind and solar. Both have their benefits and disadvantages, though much of the decision comes down to where you live. Local government regulations, wind patterns, land elevation and more all play a role in deciding whether to go in on wind or solar energy.

Wind Energy

Wind turbines are often considered the best option for large-scale applications. They can be installed mostly anywhere, even far out at sea. Installation is prompt and modern turbines can be silent in operation, though smaller turbines can create noise. Still, although installation is technically possible anywhere, some locations do not have enough wind power to truly benefit.

Small turbines must be situated in areas with above-average wind patterns and require a smooth airflow. For residential homeowners seeking a realistic option, investing in wind energy can be a risky proposition if your area does not provide this. If you’re living near trees or a busy road, a wind turbine is not likely to be a good choice, especially considering that wind turbines need to be mounted very high.

If you live near the coast or in an open exposed area, however, wind energy could be your best option. You will need land, as roof-mounted turbine can cause turbulence and inefficient energy. Regardless, a site survey is essential to avoid investing in wind energy that will barely be used. This will measure wind speeds at various locations throughout the area and ensure optimal performance. There are a number of solar and wind power prediction systems available for this purpose.

Wind power can be a very efficient, clean form of energy, but only if you live near a coast or wide open spaces.

Solar Energy

Solar power is a frequent choice among suburban areas and cities, which lack the proper space and wind specifications to take full advantage of wind energy. Like large-scale wind power, solar power is silent in operation and even less conspicuous, with the ability to be roof-mounted without losing efficiency — as long as there’s nothing blocking the sun. If you live in an area with wind speeds less than 5 meters per second, you will undoubtedly find better value with solar power as opposed to wind power.

It’s also worth considering that installing wind turbines often requires local government approval, as they can disturb neighbors with appearance and noise. Solar power does not require nearly as much approval. Quick installation with minimal cable usage and maintenance make solar power a more hassle-free local addition.

Additionally, solar radiance is more predictable than wind patterns, so there’s a more steady energy output with solar energy. It’s another reason why residential areas in suburbs and cities will likely opt for solar energy in most cases.

The choice often comes down to where you live, specifically the area’s wind patterns and sunlight exposure. Once you decide on the best system for you, you can invest in energy you know is good for the environment and your wallet.

The post Wind vs. Solar for Residential Homes appeared first on Homey Improvements.

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5 Simple Garden Improvements that Will Increase Your Home’s Value

What’s next for your garden? If you have trouble answering this question, consider making improvements that add to the value of your property. You can start with some of these projects:

Make Improvements on Your Grass

You are likely to turn off potential buyers when your grass in the front yard is threadbare or patchy. Spend some time sprucing up your lawn before you consider selling your home. If the existing turf is beyond repair, a smart idea is to invest in new grass. The increased value to your property cancels out the cost of this landscaping expense.

Start Mulching and Weeding

One effective way to convince home buyers that your home is a valuable option and to also keep your garden in tip top condition is to mulch and weed. Instead of using alternatives like sugarcane, it is better to go with pine bark, forest fines, and other utility mulches. These create a cleaner and smoother aesthetic. Though you may be tempted to use wood chips for their nourishing properties, they tend to lead to added maintenance and mess.

Make Sure Your Lawn Is Defined Clearly

Messy edges can jeopardise the overall look of your lawn, even if it is tidy and neat. The grass looks low maintenance when you edge your lawn, and it’s easy to do. This is going to be a huge benefit when you decide to sell your home. You can complete the tasks of creating a divide or border with nothing more than a sharp spade. There is no need for special tools.

Introduce Form and Colour

Adding colourful containers, planters and installing impressive water features will liven up any dull entryways. You might also add attractive clipped topiary along with bright flowering perennials and annuals. This will give your garden an instant visual lift without costing you much. Plus, if you sell, you do not have to leave the containers or fountains behind. You can install them outside of your new home.

Limit Your Variety

Most of the time, having a large variety is a good thing. Yet, if you ever want to sell your home, take it easy on the variety. The more plant species there are, the more wary buyers will be of the upkeep that comes with such a diverse array. Try to group similar flowers together and pick complementary tones if you must have many species. This will make the yard easier to sustain when you sell your property.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/08/garden-improvements.html

Installing A Roof Lantern During A Home Renovation

Roof lanterns are the perfect addition to a home during a renovation due to the characteristics that allow light to flood into areas of your property that were previously dark. Light can flood into downstairs extensions of through flat roof extensions, and a roof lantern, rooflight, or skylight can be designed in bespoke fashion to dimensions that suit your specific home renovation project. Always make sure that your home renovation is fully thought out, designed and planned, with a roof lantern as part of the explicit design that you have agreed with your builder. That way it ensure that there are no nasty surprises further down the line and the roof lantern can become the perfect cherry on the top of your home renovation plans.

The beauty of roof lanterns within modern architectural design and home renovation techniques is that they bring so much elegance, light and joy to any room that they are applied to. Flat roof extensions and other flat roof areas that are being renovated on a project are the perfect surface for a roof lantern to be installed. These areas can come to life with modern glazing bringing with it a year-round warmth that provides home owners to utilise a brand new space no matter the weather outside. Roof lanterns can include two-tier vertical windows, be of various dimensions and with rectangle roof lanterns with large glass panels you have control over opening a room up immensely with just the choice of roof lantern design.

Within a home renovation there are many different factors to consider but a roof lantern application offers flexibility with its design and choice of colours. Whether you are adding to a traditional structure or building a modern extension to a property, through a flat roof extension, a well designed roof lantern, made from PVC or Aluminium will add a whole new dimension to the room it is being applied to.

All rooms are different during home renovations and this will alter where you choose to place the roof lantern, as well as the dimensions of your roof lantern and the size of the panes of glass. If you are looking to install rooflights on the flat roof of a long, narrow room and you are looking for multiple roof lanterns, the best approach might be to have a number of windows evenly spaced out along the length to ensure that all areas of the room benefit from the extra light. In a room that is tall and not as long it might pay to have one roof lantern, designed to be large in dimension and with larger panes of glass than the other option. In these instances the light will flood down from above and cover the whole room through one roof lantern.

As each project is different, it is good practice to speak to specialist roof lantern suppliers who understand how to produce bespoke designs for a range of requirements and desires. Once a roof lantern has been designed to your specification it can be helpful to have experts at hand to offer installation guidance as well.
Content written by Hannah Grimsby

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/08/installing-roof-lantern.html