The Best Flooring for Conservatories

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

Carpet

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

Laminate Flooring

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

Tiles

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

Vinyl Flooring

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

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

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

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

1.Paint your front door

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

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

2.Weed your garden

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

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

3. Get a house number

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

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

4. Update your welcome mat

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

5. Pressure wash your paving

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

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

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Benefits Of Choosing Ready Mix Concrete For Your Next DIY Project

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

Precision mixed

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

Greater control

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

Ready to use

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

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

More economical

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

Better for the environment

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

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

Versatile mixing capabilities

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

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

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

Ready mix and The Concrete Network

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

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

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

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

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Expansion Of The Concrete Network

Expansion of The Concrete Network

As the UK’s largest independent concrete supply network, The Concrete Network (TCN) has been working hard to bolster its strong start – and build towards an even stronger future.

Developing the network

After moving to our new offices on 21st April 2018  and expanding to 20 members of staff – TCN really hit its stride as it gained over 130+ independent Network Partners. It is the close relationship we hold with our partners which allows us to deliver such an efficient, reliable and unrivalled national service. Whether it’s for commercial construction purposes or a home-based DIYer carrying out some weekend building, we know our customers look to us for a prompt and stress-free supply of concrete every time.

Supporting local charities

Since our establishment, The Concrete Network has always kept an eye to the future. Besides building our wide online knowledge and resource base for customers, we have also looked for ways to integrate and help towards important local causes. We are proud to have partnered with Herts Young Homeless (hyh), a local independent charity that, since 1998, has supported vulnerable people throughout Hertfordshire.

Herts Young Homeless provides close and ongoing support to 16-24-year-olds struggling with family issues, facing homelessness and caring for adults with mental health issues – as well as striving towards preventing homelessness through education and mediation. The Concrete Network believes in this goal, and through our partnership with hyh, we are supporting their efforts with great pride and commitment.

Aiming for expansion

As The Concrete Network continues delivering a straightforward, optimised and extensive service to all its customers, it’s safe to say that the future is looking bright. We’re always building for the future here, and we aim to expand both the business itself and the services we offer our clients. Not only do we aim to grow our network of trusted partners across the country, but we also are looking to grow our concrete pump hire services to ensure even the most awkward pour sites can be accommodated. At TCN, we aim to make it as easy as possible to address all your concrete requirements.

As we recruit more staff and build more job opportunities across The Concrete Network, we can offer our customers a superlative service wherever they’re based, however much concrete they require, and regardless of how complex their project.

If you’d like to learn more about The Concrete Network and any of its services or operations, then don’t hesitate to contact us via email, or call us on 0800 030 9623. Our team is always happy to help.

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Small is Beautiful: How to Make the Most of a Small Garden

Everyone needs a place to escape. For some people, this is their garden. But if your outdoor space is small and confined, it may feel unappealing.

The good news is, you don’t need acres to have a stunning garden. Beautiful and tranquil escapes can be created in the smallest of spaces, whether you have a balcony, courtyard, or little garden – it just takes a little imagination…

Choose Small Furniture

In a small garden, it’s important not to swamp or overwhelm the available space. So, when selecting furniture, choose something that’s functional, practical and size appropriate. A small bistro set would be perfect, or build your own DIY seating area to fit the space. Alternatively, choose fold-up furniture such as deck chairs and tables that can be easily collapsed and stored in the shed or garage, creating more space when necessary.

Create an Illusion

You may use mirrors indoors to make interiors feel brighter and bigger, but have you thought about using them outside? They can create the same illusion, making them ideal for small gardens. Use in a narrow garden to make it feel larger, or behind seating to double the area. Just be aware that when it’s really sunny any light bouncing off these could cause potential fires, so it’s best to make sure that you can easily cover up or take these down to avoid this happening at the height of summer.  

Think About Scent

To make your garden a relaxing place, you need to invoke an additional sense: smell. To do this, choose heavenly scented flowers, such as lavender, sweet pea, honeysuckle, jasmine and mint, to promote relaxation and make your garden smell as good as it looks. When you’ve only got a small garden, space for planting and growing such flowers will be limited. Prioritise some of the smelliest flowers first to create a nice aroma, adding other plants if there’s still room.

Work Vertically

You want your garden to feel beautiful but covering the area with plant pots will make it feel cramped. Instead, make use of the vertical space. Use trellis and climber plants, put up handing baskets, create a wall garden, and hang decorations, such as bunting and fairy lights, to add style. This can also minimise plants being affected by pests and disease, unlike those on the ground. You could also draw wildlife to your small garden by hanging up bird feeders or bird boxes on the wall or fence.  

Go Stripy

This is another illusion trick that can make a small garden feel bigger. Using stripes can help to draw the eye, so paint in stripes on the fence, wall, or floor, to boost space. Make sure to choose similar colours that will contrast without being too bold, such as cream and beige, or silver and grey. If you’ve got children then they’ll love to get involved with this and, with a little direction and supervision, it can be great fun.

Section the Space

You may be tempted to design your garden as one area, but sectioning can actually provide more depth. Give your garden purpose by using raised plant beds, having a mini herb garden, styling a seating area, or having a small grassed section. It’s often best to draw up a sectioned plan first, so you can efficiently work out what will go in each space and that there’s enough room for everything. Remember to include any vertical space in this plan too.

Designing a small garden is easier than you think, it just requires a little more planning and creativity. Hopefully these tips have inspired you to beautify your small garden, so you can create a space that is relaxing and practical.

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7 Ways to Cut Remodeling Costs Without Sacrificing Quality

Remodeling a home is seen as a large investment which should not involve compromising when it comes to quality. If your budget is not what you would like it to be, there are still ways you can go about it and do a quality remodeling.

Go by the list

Have you noticed that you spend significantly less money if you carry a shopping list? It also prevents you from forgetting things. If you want to bring structure into your home remodel, create a list of all the little projects involved in it. You can further elaborate by setting a budget per remodel and per each item on the list. You can record your expenses and tick off things as you go through them one by one. You can also use it to schedule projects as it is wise to do them in a certain order to avoid doing the same job twice.

DIY

Let’s start from the obvious shelf, shall we? Doing things, yourself, as opposed to hiring contractors to do them is often the quickest way to save money while remodeling. There are plenty of tasks you can perform without major consequences even if you are a beginner. These involve painting, laying floors, tiling, to building furniture, reupholstering, and doing the actual construction work, depending on your skill level. To help you out, being DIY has never been easier, since there are so many available tutorials on pretty much any project, targeting all the major issues and offering different approaches.

A DIY Architect

Not every project requires the work of an architect. There are even some smaller projects that don’t even require building permits. If you are looking to replace certain features, feature for feature, or laying a new roof of similar materials, it is pretty much safe to draw the plans on your own. However, if the work does require building permits for example demolishing a load-bearing wall be sure to acquire the proper permit beforehand.

Know your DIY limits

It is nice to have a hands-on approach; however, it can turn out to cost you more in the long run unless you are confident you can get the work done without causing any structural, or otherwise permanent damage to your home. If you are doing large structural remodels, redoing the attic, or building a large extension, you will need the help of an architect, not only to draw a plan which will grant you a permit but to tell you what you can or cannot do.

According to Sphere Constructions company, the same goes for any DIY stuff involving plumbing or electricity, as well as prep work you think you can do for contractors. Plumbing and electricity require permits. Prep work, including demolish, is essential for doing the actual job well, and often contractors won’t give you warranty as they did not do the prep work themselves.

Reuse and work with what you have

Old tiling or dated wooden floor does not always require ripping out and replacement. You can simply refinish certain surfaces such as kitchen cabinets, windows, floors, and decks. Perhaps the existing materials can impose certain limitations, but you can compromise and find equally beautiful solutions while preserving money. Perhaps your old floor can no longer get that honey-like light wood color, but it can look brand new with a coat of a dark color. Furthermore, if you can preserve some of the building materials, doors and windows during the demolishing faze, you could reuse them later on in the project, or for a future one.

Know where to shop

If you are dedicated to getting a lower price, you need to know where to look for the things you need. Even though you may think that large supply stores can afford to have better prices, smaller retailers will often offer more attractive discounts and payment plans to attract the customers. Also, make a note that stores have end-of-season sale and that you can get excellent deals if you only plan ahead of time and allow yourself a couple of weeks or even months to fish for discounts. Garage sales, auctions, and generally places with used goods can often guarantee you unique finds at affordable prices.

Do things gradually

Remember, you don’t have to finish everything at once, as long as you have a liveable home. Don’t get your credit card out, as often, it sounds like a good payment plan and you can get the credit card points of the purchase, but you will incur interest rates which make this affair less than cost-efficient. If you enjoy that with a credit card you do not have to pay everything at once, you can simply put money aside and wait till you have enough cash to continue your project.

Remodeling with money is much easier then on a budget, but as you can see it’s not all that bad. On one side when you are on a strict budget the project is much more hands on, you are more engaged more in control. And some people love that, they need to manage everything but on the other hand you waste much more time then when you just pay a construction company to do the whole job.

Hopefully this article showed you the correct path.

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