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DOING YOUR BIT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT – ACT ON CO2

March 5, 2010 – 3:58 pm

It will come as no surprise that more than 40% of the UK ’s CO2 emissions result from the choices we make as individuals. By taking an active interest in sustainable living, changing the way we live and introducing energy efficiency measures into our homes, we can make a difference to this global issue.

To help you improve the energy efficiency of your home, whether it is an existing house or a new build, the organisers of The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, on at the NEC from 18 to 21 March, have put together some great pointers:
Get Educated!

Find out how sustainable you and your home are by checking out your own carbon footprint. Use the Energy Savings Trust’s carbon calculator (www.energysavingstrust.org.uk/calculator/start ) and get a personalised action plan to do your bit for the environment and reduce energy bills. You can visit the Energy Savings Trust at The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show to get further information or attend the free seminars at the Show. How to heat your home for free and turning your existing home into a low energy house are just two of the many eco topics in the seminar and masterclass programme.

Start with the Basics

There are so many simple ways to become more sustainable in the home – and save money! Turn down your thermostat by one degree (which could save 10% on your heating bills), use the economy setting on the dishwasher, don’t leave appliances and Read the rest of this entry »

Roofline Products with Style and substance.

February 17, 2010 – 9:12 pm

TRADITIONAL STYLED PLASTIC CAST IRON RAINWATER SYSTEMS IN A RANGE OF GUTTER AND DOWNPIPE PROFILES WHICH PROVIDES AUTHENTIC TRADITIONAL CAST IRON EFFECT IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN.

A unique patented manufacturing process combines with authentic cast iron architectural detailing on guttering, rainwater pipework, soil pipework, fittings, hoppers and water butts to give the full appearance of traditional cast iron with all the benefits of plastic. The full range comes ready to fit with no need for jointing compounds, primers, undercoat or topcoat paint finishes preventing corrosion. The complete system is UV stabilised which means it will retain the authentic Black cast effect for many years to come. When fitted to a white Fascia Board the Black Cast effect texture of the guttering and downpipe system compliments the Fascia board and adds real substance whether fitted to PVCu Fascia boards or traditional timber.

It goes without saying plastic is a modern building material with thousands of applications, its robust and is very lightweight ensuring installation at height is safer and easy for drainage and rainwater systems this is no exception. The UK is seeing a growing trend in the replacement of traditional cast iron systems with those made of plastic rainwater systems that closely resemble traditional cast iron.

This is an ideal way to replace older damaged systems, ensuring that the building is protected and that the traditional appearance of the exterior is safeguarded. In selecting the replacement system on this basis it is important to ensure that it has been developed with cast iron in mind and that it replicates the subtle details, such as central joining seam on fittings or the availability of curved pipes to resemble more traditional applications on heritage buildings, for example, for a really convincing finish.

However, achieving this look can prove to be cost prohibitive and of course cost is a driving issue. Traditional cast iron is expensive, it is also time consuming to work with because grinders are needed to cut it to size, after which it needs to be primed, sealed and painted onsite. Because of the weight of real cast iron, contractors have to be extra vigilant when working at height, with more time taken to lift joint and fix a system into place. This represents an added cost that can see the price of specification and installation rise significantly for the local authority or housing association, particularly when older buildings in the public sector are in need of repair and maintenance and the main reason for the replacement of a rainwater system is a practical one. The guttering needs a secure fixing, if the timber fascia board is rotten then now is the time to fit maintenance free PVCu Fascia Board. Water from the roof of the building needs to be directed away preventing the ingress of moisture and its effects on the building’s fabric, the right traditional styled plastic Cast effect rainwater system can have significant impact on the aesthetics of a building.

Size matters, for example the plastic effect Cast Iron Style range features three styles of domestic gutter (106mm Profiled Ogee, 112mm half Round and 115mm Deep gutter profile, all utilising 68mm round down pipes and a 65mm square down pipe range). However for larger scale commercial buildings such as council offices, leisure, or education applications there is a high capacity system with a choice of half round gutter and a choice of round and rectangular down pipes. Guttering is available in 4 metre lengths to reduce joints thus speeding up installation times saving time and labour costs, downpipes Feature external fixing lugs, enabling easy access with power tools speeding up installation, even the pipe fixings are matt black coated for that authentic finish. Gutters are push fit clipped together so no nuts, bolts, lead strip spacers, jointing compounds, spanners, and metal primer, paint or disc cutters required.

So when contemplating the next renovation or refurbishment project where the roofline products such as Fascia boards and Guttering are to be considered remember there are some fantastic cost effective choices with TRADITIONAL STYLED PLASTIC CAST IRON RAINWATER SYSTEMS WITH STYLE AND SUBSTANCE.

Collins DIY Survival Demos

December 20, 2009 – 6:46 pm


12 Simple DIY Videos that you can view now!

To show the true value of this outstanding book, Amazon have published 12 FREE DIY Survival videos. Visitors’ to our forum you are welcome to view the videos by clicking on the link below. You do not have to register or give out any details to watch the videos.

Do you want to know how to…

Remove and replace a broken ceramic wall tile
Set up a water butt
Successfully unblock a sink or basin
Reset a miniature circuit breaker
Repair damaged plasterboard
Fix a dripping tap
Fit, hang or put up shelving
Re-do grotty grout
Fit a window lock
Draught proof a window
Fix a squeaky floorboard
Or bleed a radiator
?

To view all 12 free videos showing you in detail how to successfully complete any of these tasks – click here

Is the Black & Decker Workmate the most popular or useful DIY accessory that you can buy for less than £60?

December 2, 2009 – 11:42 am


The Black & Decker Workmate, designed and invented by Ron Hickman (who also designed the Lotus Elan) in 1968, went on sale here in the U.K. in 1973 and later in 1975 it was introduced in the U.S.. By 1981 over 10 million Black & Decker Workmates had been sold Worldwide.

So just what makes the Black & Decker Workmate so popular amongst Professional, Trade and DIY users?

Well for a start it’s fully portable and fold’s flat for easy storage. The Workmate generally has a dual working height which doubles its versatility. The top of the Workmate is a giant vice which is designed to hold add shaped materials securely. You can easily hold circular objects and pipes without fear of them falling off whilst working on them.

Product Description

This has two working heights and a fixed position vice jaw which can be opened to a maximum distance of 136mm. It will stand a maximum load of 160kg, has a working top made from particle board and is supplied with adjustable pegs which enable it to hold irregular shaped objects.

Vice jaw length - 610mm

Working Heights 595mm & 775mm.

Product Features

* Dual working heights allows use as a workbench, bench tool stand, vice or sawhorse
* Durable steel construction
* Folds flat for compact storage and easy transport
* Dual clamping cranks increase clamping force and versatility
* Adjustable swivel pegs and jaw retention grooves provide clamping versatility and reliable material hold
* Designed for easy set-up and clean-up
* Rubber feet are anti-slip
* Working heights 775 / 595 mm
* Folded size (W x H x D) 610 x 740 x 195 mm
* Vice jaw opening 0-136 mm
* Vice jaw length 610 mm
* Max table width - Jaws open 384 mm
* Vice jaw positions 1
* Maximum load 160 kg
* Vice jaw material Particle board

Admitted the Black & Decker Workmate has been developed since it was first introduced in 1973 but I think that the sales figures show that the Black & Decker Workmate could be the most popular and useful DIY accessory in history! - What do you think and do you find it useful?

Black & Decker Workmate WM536

SOUTH WEST HOME SHOW PROMISES TO INSPIRE

November 16, 2009 – 7:11 pm


Are you interested in picking up the latest in innovative products and services, inspirational design ideas, renovation tips and cost saving solutions for the home?

Then look no further! The Homebuilding & Renovating Show, the UK ’s only dedicated self-build and home improvement show, is coming to Shepton Mallet on 21 & 22 November.

On at the Bath & West Showground, The South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show features over 120 exhibitors, 36 free seminars and master-classes as well as the unique opportunity to get advice from the Experts. This really is a must-visit event.

Whether you are looking for land to build your own home, want to extend your property to create an open plan kitchen or are thinking about converting your loft or basement to create extra space, you will find the products, services, advice and information to help create your perfect home.

Want to find out more about how you can improve your home? Then attend How to Successfully Add Space and Value to your Home’, a free seminar at 11.30am on both days. Concerned about your impact on the environment and want to do more? Learn more about reducing your carbon footprint by attending ‘How to Heat Your Home for Nothing: Dream or Reality?’ a free seminar at 1.30pm on both days. Visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk. to find out more about the other free seminars and the master-classes that run on both days of the Show.

If you’re still at the planning stage of your building project, then bring along your drawings, plans or just your ideas and speak to one of the many experts at the Show and get some great advice. Visit the Homebuilding & Renovating magazine stand where Michael Holmes, TV presenter and Editor-in-Chief of Real Homes and Homebuilding & Renovating magazines, will be heading up a team of experts specialising in renovating, design, planning, self-building and greener living.

The South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show is on at the Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet on 21 & 22 November. The Show features over 120 exhibitors, 36 free seminars and masterclasses and the chance to Ask the Experts. For more information and tickets, visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk.

Tickets are £5 in advance by calling 0844 5811377 or £8 on the door (children under 16 go free).

SUPERDADS IN LINE FOR £1M INSULATION BONUS

August 27, 2009 – 2:46 pm

Superglass Insulation has joined forces with Scottish and Southern Energy in a £1m deal to make British homes green and help keep household finances in the black.

From September, consumers will be offered one free roll of insulation for every two purchased from Superglass builders merchant stockists in a scheme regulated by OFGEM and funded by SSE under the government’s Carbon Emission Reduction Target (CERT) scheme.

Michael Beard, Sales & Marketing Director of Superglass stated, “This is a great opportunity for us all to do a little bit for the environment but save on one of our everyday household bills. It also means supporting local business in the form of our independent builder’s merchant. We are convinced there are more than just a few ‘SuperDads’ out there!

“And if getting it for nothing isn’t good enough, it’s worth knowing that Superglass Insulation is manufactured in the UK from recycled, locally sourced glass. The recycled content of one roll of Superglass’ Multi Roll 44 is in excess of 80%, making it more sustainable and eco-friendly than many other insulation products, indeed there are as many as 27 (empty) wine bottles in one roll of Superglass Multi Roll 44!”

Russell Ogg, Energy Efficiency Manager of Scottish and Southern Energy commented:
“We are delighted to embark on this exciting new partnership with Superglass. In these financially uncertain times this DIY scheme gives householders the prospect of making a significant difference to their household running costs. This initiative also enhances Scottish & Southern Energy’s commitment to providing energy savings in a responsible and sustainable way.”

The two UK owned, Scottish based companies have moved to provide more energy efficient solutions in the consumer market. Superglass, based in Stirling and SSE, with their headquarters in Perth, have teamed up to promote a ‘Superdad’ advertising campaign to encourage homeowners in the DIY sector to take the simple step of insulating their loft in a bid to cut energy waste as well as their heating bills.

Welcoming the scheme, Chris Pateman, Managing Director of the Builder’s Merchants Federation said: “At last, energy companies have started to notice merchants are the natural place to go for home improvement products. Hats off to Superglass and SSE for having the vision to bring this project to market. We hope it will be just the first of many routes for the merchant trade to access energy-efficiency price subsidies which have so far been available exclusively to DIY retailers.”

Allan Durning Executive Chairman of NBG LLP added “Superglass and SSE are to be congratulated for recognising the importance of the independent builders merchant sector in making a real contribution to the UK’s ambitious Zero Carbon objectives in domestic dwellings. Independents are strongly placed to offer the general public sound advice and availability of products for the correct application to save energy in their homes.”

The seven figure sum has been committed to support builder’s merchants and consumers and, if well received, may even be increased next year.

End of release.

Notes to Editors:

Further details of the CERT scheme are available from http://decc.gov.uk

Details of local stockists are to be found on the Superglass website www.superglass.co.uk

For further information please contact:

Superglass Insulation

Michael Beard - michael.beard@superglass.co.uk - 07855 420485

Laura Ralston - laura.ralston@superglass.co.uk - 07836 663119

Is your dream home turning into a nightmare?

July 29, 2009 – 2:51 pm

Sarah Beeny’s Brand New Property Series

Have you discovered problems in your home such as damp, dry rot, leaks, flooding, blocked drains, infestations, cracked walls or worse?

Are you thinking about renovating but need to do some serious repair work first?

We are looking for people who own what they hoped would be their perfect home but have since found serious problems such as subsidence, damp, dry rot, blocked drains or infestations and really need some help and advice to repair and restore their property.

Sarah and her team can help in this exciting new property programme.

How to Apply

If you are looking to save your property then please phone 020 7855 7545 or email property@redhousetv.co.uk

Please include a contact telephone number in your message so we can call to discuss the programme further.

We look forward to hearing from you.

BUILD YOUR OWN CONSERVATORY AND SAVE THOUSANDS

July 6, 2009 – 3:33 pm

Building your own conservatory

A conservatory is the ideal way to create some extra living space without the expense of moving house or building a full extension. In many cases, planning permission is not needed. This versatile space can be used as a sun room, dining room, family den or a study – letting in light, warmth and views of the garden. Building your own conservatory can save you money, while adding value to your property.

According to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), a conservatory could increase the value of your property by up to 5%. Keen DIY-ers can build their own conservatory to maximise the financial benefits, doing it yourself means you get the conservatory you want at a Read the rest of this entry »

Profiting from Property in a Recession by Graham Norwood

June 25, 2009 – 10:54 am

This book gives budding property developers and investors all they need to know to profit from property. The author offers a new twist on buy-to-let and shows how the market for renting to some groups is expanding even in these tough times.

Overseas opportunities are examined too, identifying which countries offer the best opportunities to buy cheap, let and then sell. For investors willing to get their hands dirty there is also an explanation of exactly how to pursue a self-build or renovation project and sell at a profit with advice on finding the right craftsmen, writing contracts and monitoring progress, plus selecting the best estate agent. This book also looks at how amateur investors can enter the complicated commercial sector of shops and offices, and touches upon property investment trusts for those with faith in the stock market. Getting a lodger as a good source of tax-free income is also demonstrated.

About the Author
Graham Norwood is a freelance property writer contributing regularly to the Financial Times, the Daily and Sunday Telegraph, the Daily Mail, The Guardian and The Observer. He writes a weekly column on global property issues for Emirates Business 24/7, frequently appears in The Wall Street Journal and is a regular contributor to Estates Gazette and other industry publications.

RRP: £19.99
Price: £16.99 & Free Delivery with Amazon Prime
You Save: £3.00 (15%)

Product details

* Paperback: 150 pages
* Publisher: Estates Gazette (1 Jul 2009)
* Language English
* ISBN-10: 0728205750
* ISBN-13: 978-0728205758

Click here to find out more about ‘Profiting from Property in a Recession’

5 Myth Busting Tips To Consider When Designing & Building Your Own Conservatory

May 28, 2009 – 8:28 pm

A few years ago a conservatory was classed a luxury that was enjoyed by a few. Nowadays it appears that almost every other home has one. With the cost of moving increasing and the present economic climate, the conservatory is becoming increasingly popular with families that wish to improve their lifestyle and their home.

There are a number of specialist companies that will supply a D.I.Y. package for a conservatory that can be erected and installed on a prepared base. Most suppliers will even supply the required drawings and installation instructions for the DIY enthusiast who wishes to add a conservatory to their property. One thing that I must add is that almost everyone I have spoke to have said that they use their conservatory far more than they though they would. It has been their best investment on their property and they wished it was bigger!

Before you start planning you dream conservatory let’s get rid of five myths that people seem to think about conservatories;- Read the rest of this entry »





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