It’s impossible to completely flood proof your home, but there is a lot of things you can do to lower the flood damage. Here is a list of improvements that could help you during this stressful time.
Firstly, what is a flash flood?
A flash flood is a flood caused by heavy or excessive rain in a short period of time, usually less than 6 hours. Flash flooding happens when rain falls so fast that the underlying ground cannot cope, or drain it away fast enough. Roads can become like rivers and if there is a lot of water, it can flood buildings and carry cars away.
How to identify if you live in a flood risk area –
The quickest and easiest way to find out if your house is in a high-risk area, is to check a flood risk map. There are environment agencies that provide live maps which give information about long tern flood risks to properties.
Some improvements you can make to your home –
Stock up on sandbags – sandbags are a simple, but effective way to prevent or reduce flood water damage. The sandbags can act as a barrier to divert moving water.
Raise the height of electrical sockets to at least 1.5m above ground floor level. However, this is not always practical and it can cost around £1,000 – £4,000.
Raise your household appliances. Putting your appliances on raised plinths is an easy way to keep them out of the water and from getting damaged.
Separate the electrical circuit for upper and lower floors.
Installing shelves. You should place valuable and sentimental items on the shelves to keep them out of reach from the water.
Have tiles on the ground floor. Carpets can get ruined by the water, so its best if you install tiles on the ground floor.
Landscaping – the outside areas of your home can be designed in order to divert the water away from your home.
Bifold doors are a great way to improve your home. They are able to blend the inside and outside space together, increasing the amount of natural light and fresh air into the home. In this blog we will look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of bifold doors.
Firstly, what is a bifold door?
Bifold doors are doors that slide open, made from a series of panels that fold up against the wall, kind of like an accordion. They are usually glazed with large glass panels that let plenty of light in. The doors are usually located at the back of the property, leading into the garden creating indoor outdoor living.
The advantages of bifold doors
Easy to live with and maintain –
Keeping aluminium and UPVC bifold doors in good condition is very easy. This is because they only require a wipe down with a standard window cleaner, just like you would do with your windows.
The doors are fitted onto tracks that are flushed with the floor. This makes the doors easy to open, and because they are flushed it reduces the trip hazard. They come with a slim profile which not only looks unobtrusive, but which allows them to be easily moved back and forth.
Bifold doors are modern and desirable –
Bifold doors have become a staple in new builds and modern homes. Aluminium is a great choice for the frames as they are strong and they look very impressive. Furthermore, many people now days love the idea of inside, outside living, so bifold doors is a great choice for them.
Highly secure –
The doors include multiple locking points across the structure making them one of the most secure patio doors available. Especially if they are made with aluminium.
Disadvantages of bifold doors
Some doors may stack inside the home –
If the doors fold into the home, then they will stack inside. If you have limited space this could be intrusive
Cost –
Because of the complexity and engineering that goes into high quality bifold doors, it’s not a surprise that they can be more expensive than sliding or French doors. On average, you are looking at around £1,000 per metre. Some installations need to be bespoke designs which will raise the cost
The doors include a lot of frames –
Each folding pane of glass has its own frame which, when closed, can mean a slightly obstructed view. You can minimise this by making the frames as slender as possible.
Roof lanterns are an impressive addition to an existing house or great to incorporate into your plans for a new house design. They create extra natural light, as well as being a beautiful statement piece in the room.
What is a roof lantern?
A roof lantern is a glass structure that sits on a flat roof, allowing light to flood he room below. A roof lantern is an elongated pyramid, usually rectangular based with four panes of glass, two trapezoids and two triangles making up the traditional lantern shape.
Skylights vs roof lanterns –
Many people get roof lanterns confused with sky lights, the main difference it the shape. As we explained a roof lantern is a pyramid shape whereas, a skylight is simply a window set in the roof.
People that have lower ceilings often opt for a roof lantern because they will increase the head height in the room. This makes the room feel bigger and more open.
Skylights are seen as a more modern feature on a house. Whereas, roof lanterns were first used by the Victorians, but they are becoming more popular in modern designs.
How much does a roof lantern cost?
The cost of roof lanterns depends on the size, materials, glazing, and any extras you may want to add. The average cost of installing a roof lantern in the UK is around £2500. However, for more accurate prices we recommend speaking to a roof lantern specialist to get a quote.
Where should you position your roof lantern?
The popular spot to install an overhead roof lantern is the kitchen, where the day light is the best. They are usually places above the dining table or the island in large kitchens. Although, some people like to place them in their living rooms to create extra natural light in the space.
Will you need planning permission?
Planning permission is not usually required for a roof lantern as long as these permitted development rules are followed:
Roof lanterns must be no higher than the highest part of the roof.
No roof openings, unless the height is at least 1.7m above the floor.
Roof lanterns positioned in a side elevation roof slope must utilise obscure glazing.
Roof lanterns must one extend 150mm above the sloping plane of the existing roof.
The exterior of your home is like the cover of a book, it’s the first thing people notice and it sets the expectation for what’s inside. By renovating the outside of your property, it is an easy and inexpensive way to look nicer and increase the value of the home. Here is a list of ways to improve your kerb appeal.
Take care of your grass –
This is one of the easiest ways to keep your garden looking fresh. You can regularly take care of your garden by mowing the grass, raking the leaves and pulling the weeds out. To prevent your garden from going brown, keep it well watered. If you live in a dry climate but still love the look of vibrant green grass, you can consider artificial grass.
Add some flowers –
This can be a very impactful way to boost the appearance of your home. You can use plants and flowers to frame and highlight key visual points, such as windows and entryways. Even just one flower arrangement can significantly add to your home’s appearance.
Power washing –
Power washing is such a satisfying job to do, when it comes to getting the dirt off of your house, I’m sure you get excited. Power washes are amazing because you can use them on anything. Such as, your house exterior, paths, driveways, and garages.
Updating your front door –
Whether you decide to add a new front door or refurbish your old door, this is an easy way of improving the look of your house. Each person has their own style but if you live on a road where the houses match, you should try and match your door with your neighbours.
Add a porch –
Adding a porch to your home can create wow factor and give character to your home. It is also practical because it provides extra storage space inside. Many people whose front door opens into a living room often go for a porch to separate the two areas.
Invest in some outdoor furniture –
Outdoor furniture is a great way to make your garden feel homely and comfortable. You should keep this furniture in good condition because it will always be on display. Try and buy some that won’t rust in different types of weather.
The rising cost of living have become a large hurdle when it comes to purchasing a first-time home. Research has shown that 7 out of 10 first time buyers are delaying their start into the property market. This is due to their ability to save for a deposit, which is being impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.
What is causing the cost-of-living crisis?
The cost-of-living crisis is caused by higher inflation, and low wage growth making many households struggle to keep up with their bills.
Covid was a big factor to the start of the crisis. Inflation fell as households were cutting back on spending and started saving their money. Once restrictions got lifted companies were not ready for the rise in demand. This caused supply shortages and rising prices.
Just as the Covid supply issues were starting to be resolved, the Russian invasion of Ukraine made those problems so much worse. This caused oil, gas, energy, and food prices to increase drastically.
What does this mean for first time buyers?
When mortgage lenders assess whether or not a first-time buyer can afford a mortgage they will seek to confirm if the borrower’s income will exceed costs during the term of the mortgage. Higher inflation and taxes mean higher monthly costs are on the horizon, meaning first time buyers will have less room for error to qualify for a mortgage.
How long will it take first time buyers to save for a deposit?
A survey of 2,051 people looking to buy their first home in the next few years have stated that saving for a deposit is the biggest hurdle. They were then asked how long they though this crisis would delay their plans to start house hunting. The results were that 77% said up to 3 years and 57% said up to 2 years.
When will inflation prices go down?
Currently there is no straight answer on when the prices will go down. Although, economic outlook researches have predicted that 2022 will have the highest rate of inflation, measured at 5.2%. Whereas, in 2023-2025 it is estimated that the inflation rate will average around 1.5%.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll, Passed away on September 8th 2022 at her cherished Scottish Estate, Balmoral.
Her Majesty was our longest reigning monarch and will be remembered for a remarkable lifetime of service. As a company we are deeply saddened by the news.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family. Our thoughts are with them at this time.
Here is a story about Queen Elizabeth’s many treasured homes.
Buckingham Palace –
London, England
Firstly, Buckingham palace is London’s royal residence and the headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in Westminster, it has become a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning.
The palace contains over 830,000 square feet of floor space. There are 775 rooms, including 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, 52 principal bedrooms and 19 state rooms. It also has a post office, cinema, swimming pool, doctor’s surgery and jeweller’s workshop.
So, Windsor castle is a royal residence at Windsor in the county of Berkshire. During the second world war the king and Queen and their children Elizabeth and Margaret lived in this castle for safety. This castle now serves as a country home, and the Queen frequently visited this location as a weekend retreat.
Additionally, Windsor Castle grounds cover 52,609 square metres (13 acres) and combines the features of a fortification, a palace, and a small town. It also has 1,000 rooms, making it the largest occupied castle in the world.
Balmoral castle has been the Scottish home of the royal family since purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. Balmoral is a private estate owned by the queen. Its where she spent many weeks at the end of each summer, it was believed to be her favourite residence.
The Balmoral Estate has been added to by successive members of the royal family, and now covers an area of approximately 50,000 acres. Also, the grandeur of Balmoral is said to be slightly overwhelming for first-time visitors.
With turrets, 52 bedrooms, draughty corridors, tartan rugs and walls mounted with antlers, it can be an intimidating place. “There is a certain fascination in keeping the place as Queen Victoria had it. Nothing very much has changed,” the Queen said.
Furthermore, this palace was the Queens official residence in Scotland. The late Queen Elizabeth ll, spent one week at Holyroodhouse at the beginning of each summer, where she carried out a range of official engagements and ceremonies.
In Addition, the Palace of Holyroodhouse covers 87,120 square feet of floor space and contains 289 rooms. The private apartments of The Queen and the other members of the Royal Family are located on the second floor of the south and east wings.
Sandringham Estate –
Norfolk, England
Like Balmoral, Sandringham Estate was the Queen’s private property. Also, like Balmoral, it was a place of personal significance to her Elizabeth’s father, George V, called it “the place I love better than anywhere else in the world” and would eventually die there on February 6, 1952.
Queen Elizabeth II‘s custom was to spend the anniversary of that and of her own accession privately with her family at Sandringham House, and, more recently, to use it as her official base from Christmas until February.
Similar to how the Queen stayed at Palace of Holyroodhouse when officially visiting Scotland, the Queen lived in Hillsborough during her visits to Northern Ireland. Hillsborough Castle is not a true castle, it’s a Georgian country house built in the 18th century. In addition, the home is surrounded by 100 acres of green gardens.
An annex is a self-contained living space, usually including a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. They are used because they provide more living space in a home. They can be built as an attached extension to your home or built as a separate building.
What is the difference between and annex and an extension?
An annex requires there to be at least 50cm of space between the boundary and the building. Whereas, an extension can be built closer to the boundary, when attached to the main building. In addition, even if the building is self-contained, if it’s attached to the main house, it will be classed as an extension.
Will you need planning permission?
Just like any building work, you do need planning permission before you start building your annex. You would either need planning permission or a lawful development certificate from your local planning authority.
If the building is considered to be a separate dwelling, you will need to apply for planning permission.
If you are converting an outbuilding into an annex, you would not require planning permission. You would just need to apply for a change of use.
Do annexes add value to your property?
Recent information from checkatrade reveals that on average, and annex will raise the value of your property by 20-30%.
Where can I place my annex?
If you are building a separate annex or as an extension, planning authorities usually insist on it being as close to the main house as possible. You also need to factor in amenities: electricity; water and sewerage, as these will also define your location.
Can you turn your garage into an annex?
Yes, you can turn your garage or other outbuildings into an annexe space. However, it is best to consult an architect as the building will need to be updated to adhere to the building regulations for a habitable building.
The build cost inflation has been increasing at a rapid rate. The factors of Brexit and covid 19 have made the costs of both materials and labour increase massively. They have contributed to supply issues and the volumes of delays to imported goods have had an impact on construction costs.
How much does it cost to build a house?
The cost to build a new house in the UK will depend on a number of factors. Some of the big ones include the size of your property, the materials you use, and the number of trades people you decide to hire.
So, because every project is different and each client has different wants and needs it is almost impossible to get a standard quote for a build project. However, averagely to build a house in the UK in 2022, you can expect to pay anything from £1,500 – £3,000 per m2.
How much has building work prices gone up?
Prices have increased over the past 2 years for several materials, due to lead times and growing demand. Year on year prices for all building work rose by 27.2% from May 2021 to May 2022.
Some materials which continue to be affected –
Timber – timber was up 30% in April 2022.
Roof tiles – prices of roof tiles have risen 24% in a year.
Steel – fabricated steel rose by 52.7%.
Bricks – brick prices increased by 12%.
Concrete – concrete bars are 64% more expensive than a year ago.
Will the building cost go down in 2022?
Furthermore, these higher material costs have led to rising inflation costs. Meaning it is unlikely for construction costs to go down in 2022.
Is it a good time to build?
Although, the costs and interest rates are rising it would be better to build your dream home sooner rather than later. It is likely that the cost will keep on increasing. So, it is an investment to start your build project now.
Glass box extensions have become very popular and they make a beautiful addition to a home. They come in many shapes and sizes but overall they add a ton of natural light and add a modern spark to an older home.
What is a glass box extension?
Glass box extensions, also known as frameless extensions are made from structural glass units and supported with glass beams and fins.
Can you enjoy the extension all year round?
Adding an extension to your property can be a big commitment and many people want to know the room will be used throughout all of the seasons. You cannot design this type of extension using cheap glass. So, modern glass box extensions use strong structural glass with built in temperature control. With this feature you can comfortably enjoy the natural light in the summer months and also keep it warm and welcoming in the winter months.
Will a glass box extension add value to the property?
Aa lot of clients like the idea of a glass extension because they know that it will add value to their property. As Schlüsseldienst Berlin Lichtenberg states from his own experience if the project is done right it can add up to 7% to the value of your home.
How much will it cost?
A standard glass extension can cost between £1,350 – £1,950 per square metre. Whereas a standard glass extension in London and the south east can cost between £1,800 – £2,300 per square metre. A full glass extension can cost up to £3,000 per square metre. Although this is the average price of per square metre, there are also other things that can affect the price such as:
Size
Choice of doors
Glazing
Choice of roof
Location
Ease of access
Architect/ structural engineering fees
Planning permission and building regulations approval
The bungalows are no longer reserve for the homeowners. There is a huge potential to transform them into something exciting. There is not just the potential for renovation but also great design opportunities.
Here is a list of design ideas to modernise your bungalow –
Renovate the exterior of the bungalow
When it comes to any property first impressions mean a lot, so don’t forget about the exterior. You can achieve a more modern look by simply adding a fresh coat of paint to the bungalow. Another way of making the exterior of your property stand out is by having a nice garden. Landscaping and adding garden furniture can make the home feel welcoming and create a good environment to be around.
Adding a loft conversion
You can also consider the loft conversion for your bungalow. However, you need to make sure that the head height is at least 2.3m. Furthermore, you may not need planning permission application as it comes under permitted development rights. A loft conversion is a great way to create some useable space. One of our favourite types is a dormer which is the cheapest and easy option.
Adding an extension
You can also consider adding a bungalow extension. However, the process is trickier to achieve from design and structure point of view. Although, bi-fold doors are the perfect way to create that indoor/ outdoor living and bring extra light in to your home. Also, if you like the modern style they add an amazing aesthetic to the house.
Focus on the social areas of the house
As Schlüsseldienst Bremen states from its own experience the kitchen is worth investing in because it is one of the most important rooms in a home. You should keep it open and bright making sure all the natural light comes floods in. It is also important to pick a style of kitchen and work with that so everything matches.
