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Latest news from the world of home improvements in the UK
in association with The National Home Improvements Council (NHIC)
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February 2002 |
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Keeping an eye on the exterior Keeping a close eye on the fabric of your house is important - particularly after winter weather. Gradual deterioration of your roof, walls, guttering, fascias, soffits and cladding can be avoided by careful maintenance, helping you to eliminate any potential problems before they start. A leaky roof can cause all sorts of associated damage to internal ceilings and walls if left unchecked. It is important to find the source of the leak and rectify the problem as soon as possible, remembering that, because water may run down rafters and beams, rain may not necessarily be coming in directly above where it forms a damp patch on the ceiling. An easy and safe way to look for problems is to ask a neighbour if you can take a look from their windows using binoculars. Check for missing slates or tiles, or worn material on flat roofs and look out for wear and tear around the chimney breast. If any work needs to be done, it is best to call in a reputable roofer to make sure that the job is done properly and safely. If you have timber soffits and fascias, make sure they are regularly painted. Alternatively, having a proprietary upvc system installed will reduce the need for such frequent maintenance - a wipe over with a damp cloth every five years or so should suffice. Similarly, external timber should be painted with a preservative in order to protect it against the effects of the elements. But this can also be replaced with a low maintenance upvc system. Clear leaves from gutters and drainpipes as these can block them and cause them to leak, causing damage to the brickwork. Overflowing gutters can collapse, so ensure all gutter supports are secure and in place and are not rusty or worn. Blockages occur especially where trees overhang the property. Usually brickwork
needs relatively little maintenance, but mortar and pointing should You can clean brickwork by scrubbing it with soapy water. If you notice a white powder forming, you can brush it off and apply a neutralising liquid (sold in builders' merchants). This 'efflorescence' will not damage the brickwork and is only caused by moisture evaporation. Further information: Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel: 0207 828 8230 |
Feb 2002 |
There comes a time in many households when you could do with some extra space. But do you move on to a larger property, or simply stay put and add on? The latter is less hassle than the former, and if you love your current abode why not create the new space within or without your existing four walls? There are various
permutations from which to choose but only you will know what best If you plump for either the attic or the extension solutions, then you will need to speak to you local planning office for advice and details on procedures. Because in both cases you will need to submit plans. But you should find them extremely helpful and they will almost certainly provide you with official guidance notes on how to make your application. You may need to seek professional advice from an architect, architectural technician, building surveyor or a builder; they can be identified in Yellow Pages, or perhaps by recommendation from some one who has firsthand, reliable experience. A good builder who is a member of one of the UK's professional organisations, such as the Federation of Master Builders or the National House Builders Council, will almost certainly have his own design facility so he can provide a complete design and build package. But if you're a relatively competent draughtsman there's nothing to prevent you from submitting your own drawings for approval providing they are straightforward and include all the relevant construction details, including dimensions and materials. The local authority will expect your design to show the use of materials, windows, doors and exterior finishes that are sympathetic to the property itself and to the local vernacular. Also they will have to pay full regard to the latest changes to Part L of the Building Regulations, relating to energy efficient construction. It's also very important to consult your house title deeds (usually held by your building society or bank, if you have a mortgage) or tenancy agreement, to establish whether or not you can make alterations. If you are in a conservation area you may need listed building consent, and your local planning authority will explain how to make the relevant application. Once it has received your plans, the local planning authority has to make your intentions known to your neighbours either by means of a site notice or by letter. So obtaining planning permission can sometimes take six weeks or more in order to go through all the necessary procedures. In every case you will have to make sure the extension complies with the relevant parts of the Building Regulations, which cover the standards of work, even for loft conversions. Wherever you are in the UK, if you have any doubts whatsoever about planning permission an organisation called Planning Aid, provides free (although voluntary donations are greatly appreciated) and independent advice in certain circumstances, but they cannot draw up plans. They have offices in London, Birmingham, Godalming, Gloucester, Ipswich, Leeds, Newcastle upon Tyne, Nottingham, Salford, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin. Also, if you live in England or Wales, the Department of the Environment can supply the free booklet, "Planning - A Guide for Householders", obtainable from DETR Free Literature, PO Box 236, Whetherby, L23 7NB (tel: 08701226 236 or fax 0870 1226 237). In Scotland local authorities will provide additional advice; and Northern Ireland's Department of the Environment publishes "Your Home and Planning Permission", available from the Planning Service, DOE(NI), Clarence Court, 10 Adelaide Street, Belfast, BT2 8GB. Further information:
Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
Feb 2002 |
Keeping out intruders It's better to be safe than sorry so make sure that your home has got what it takes to fend off would be intruders. It doesn't have to be like Fort Knox, because according to the Association of Chief Police Officers if a burglar hasn't gained entry within a couple of minutes he's off to where he can! But there are opportune thieves who will dodge into a property when they see a door open, and be away with something valuable before you can say 'Stop Thief'! To make your home secure both front and back doors must be strong and sound with good, solid frames. It's preferable if any glass in or around them is laminated so they're not easy broken to gain entry. If you live in a flat make sure the front door is not weak, fit it with hinged bolts that stop it from being pulled off its hinges. And if you haven't already got one, consider having a telephone entry system fitted. For insurance reasons locks should be five-lever mortise/sash deadlocks for maximum security. But there are also some very capable rim deadlocks that are recommended for doors too thin to accommodate a mortise lock. Ordinary top and bottom bolts are a very good extra precaution, as is a chain so that you can safely identify callers through the gap. It is said that a third of burglars gain entry through out-of-sight windows - even small windows where, perhaps, they can push through a child who has been 'trained' to open door catches. Some louvered windows on downstairs cloakrooms are just what the burglar ordered because often the glass 'slats' are easily removed. So glue them in place. Key-operated window locks, particularly on all downstairs windows are important, but don't leave the keys in! Visible burglar alarms too, make intruders think twice. There are many types available, some can be installed by a handyman while others need a professional to do the work. Systems should meet BS4737 if professionally installed, and BS6707 if it's a DIY job. There is some doubt these days about the virtue of outside lighting because in certain circumstances it can actually provide the burglar with an obvious advantage. What seems to be better are sensor switches that turn on internal lights making the burglar think twice about his mission. In fact, if you've got lots of money to spend on security you can have installed by professionals a system which will first turn on the bedroom light then, a few seconds later, the landing light, and so on until every relevant light in the house is ablaze. CCTV is also a good deterrent and there are nominally priced systems around that can be installed by most competent DlYers, which can even be linked to domestic video systems to record potential intruders. It's also worthwhile indelibly identifying your valuables using a special pen, so the marks only show up in a certain light. Then you can obtain from your local police a special window sticker telling intruders that the house contains 'post coded property' - this makes it difficult for them to sell on the spoils of their misdemeanours. Finally, don't leave valuables in full view because it's courting disaster. Further information: Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
Feb 2002 |
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PROTECTION - Save £££s and nip repairs in the bud
Graham Ponting, Director of the National Home Improvement Council says: "It's a sad fact that many householders don't have repairs done on their homes until it's really necessary. And then they're usually much more expensive. Where as if you nip them in the bud you can save pounds. "Perhaps one reason why is because many people don't know how to go about getting the work done or they're worried about getting involved with "cowboys". But there are many trade and technical associations that maintain high standards who can give valuable advice on work to be done. Also they are a reliable source of information." For instance if you want to install full central heating or just have a new boiler fitted and don't know a reliable local heating engineer to dG the work, then there's an association that can put you in touch with the right person. If you are improving your heating system, what you gain on the greater efficiency swings you won't want to loose because of substandard insulation. So you will want to know if your home is up to par, and there are specialist organisations who have members with just the right sort of expertise. Electrical work in particular demands specialist attention but do you know the appropriate person in your area to turn to, especially in an emergency? There is no legal requirement to set up as an electrical contractor, so you must choose your specialist carefully! If you are planning a new extension to your home or a major improvement to the kitchen or bathroom obviously it's a big investment, so you must make sure that the work is done properly. You may be lucky and find a competent local builder but a recommendation where you can see the quality of the work is best. It's far better to be safe than sorry, so take advice from an appropriate association and use a warranted builder whose workmanship is guaranteed. So whatever you do around the home it's important to contact the right person for the job; the person who knows the correct solution to a problem and the solution that's going to be the most durable and cost effective in the long run. Using an appropriate association for this purpose is the first step in the right direction. Association and Federation members will always adhere to specific rules of conduct, as well as observing well-established standards and codes. In addition they will invariably be backed by warranties and guarantees that are intended to provide you, the consumer, with complete peace of mind. Further information: Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
Feb 2002 |
DECORATING - Anything goes , well almost The proliferation of tv makeover programmes has stimulated the decorating scene so much that styles, techniques and materials have brought a whole new dimension to home improvement. For instance, it's now quite fashionable to mix and match colours in ways that would never have been dreamed of a decade ago, and when it comes to applying finishes a piece of rag seems even more de rigueur than the humble paint brush. Today there is no excuse for not achieving the exact effect you want in your living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere else come to that. It can be done economically and efficiently. And, what's more it can be great fun experimenting with ideas, colours and textures that reflect your personality and characteristics. The range of finishes available from decorative products manufacturers means you can obtain superb results using techniques such clouding, combing, colour washing, sponging, ragging, rag rolling, stippling, marbling, stamping, bagging and straight forward stencilling. In fact, there is a strange paradox about some of today's decorating in that we often set out to create a new living space that has a well-worn look. Hence the techniques of ageing and crackle glazing. With the former method you apply a darker paint over a lighter one and then proceed to 'distress' the darker finish until the lighter one shows through. The crackle effect is also created by painting over a strong light colour with a special darker glaze. Then just sit back and watch the paint dry to provide an amazing crazed surface of the type that our parents would have been embarrassed to show the neighbours. Choosing the colours that are right for your home environment is very important because obviously you've got to live with them. Complimentary colour schemes can use various shades of the same tone, or a mix of similar colours. Contrasting colour schemes usually give a more colourful, dramatic look that makes a strong statement and creates interest. Gentle colour combinations can be enhanced by subtly sponging or clouding the finish, while strong contrasts may look better using bolder techniques like ragging or rag rolling. Combing is a well established technique too, that goes back over 50 years and is now used most effectively on both vertical and horizontal surfaces, even on floors. Clouding is a free and easy technique that gives a subtle, natural appearance. It's achieved using a soft, dampened lint-free cloth in small circular movements over the emulsioned surface carefully blending the finish as you g0. As its name suggests, rag rolling uses a rolled cotton cloth in a 'sausage' shape. It is dipped in the emulsion and then rolled up the wall maintaining a consistent pressure along the length of the roll. Ragging is a very similar technique but instead of a firm sausage the cloth is left as a loose, uneven pad. Sponging is best done with a natural sea sponge that has lots of holes and no hard edges. Dipped in the emulsion, the sponge is patted gently on the wall taking care not to drag or smudge the area. The secret is to aim for an even, flowing design of small individual marks rather than large joined up patches. Woodwashing on bare wood or over gloss and satin painted surfaces can, for instance, give tired and mundane cupboards and cabinets a refreshing new look that gives your kitchen a vibrant new appearance. It seems that by today's decorating standards almost anything goes. So be bold and adventurous, and have fun! More information: Graham Ponting, Director, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
May 2001 |
A SIX POINT STRATEGY FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT - The NHIC's Manifesto
Whichever political party is first past the post, the National Home Improvement Council immediately will be drawing the new Government's attention to the particularly poor state of health of the nation's housing stock During the next Parliament, the NHIC will continue to pursue its commitment to raising housing and environmental standards even more vigorously than ever before by highlighting a number of key issues. The NHlC's six-point strategy is to encourage and implement: The reduction of VAT to 5% or less across the board of home improvements. The reinstatement of nearly 1.5million homes that still remain unfit in England, Scotland and Wales. The conversion of thousands of large houses, offices and shop premises into fully functional living accommodation. The elimination of cowboy trades people who take advantage of homeowners and diminish their confidence. The introduction of further quality control standards so that all home improvements are backed by formal guarantees and warranties. Graham Ponting, Director of the NHIC, says "Over the months and years ahead we shall be seriously focussing on these six highly important points "By various means, including the consistent lobbying by our President, Lord Ezra, and our action committees, we have moved the home improvement debate forward significantly. Now we anticipate further positive steps by the new Government to ensure the momentum is progressive. "For instance, we expect VAT to be substantially reduced on renovation to encourage both the private and public housing sectors to forge ahead and make a real impact on preserving and maintaining our housing heritage. It should also have a substantial affect on reducing the cowboy element which is causing so much distrust and unnecessary aggravation particularly, among thousands of homeowners who are regularly taken for a ride. "We should like to think that over the duration of the next Parliament, the new Government will be able to look back with pride having made a major contribution to providing future generations with a housing investment to be proud of." Good housing and environmental conditions are imperative to the nation's well being leading to all round better lifestyles, greater public contentment and, thus, less dependency on an over stretched National Health Service. Now in it's 26th year the NHIC's general objectives are: 1 ) To promote to homeowners the benefits of renovating and upgrading their homes. 2) To act as the catalyst for public sector housing bodies to stimulate modernisation of the existing housing. 3) To be the voice of the home improvements industry, to government, opposition and Whitehall to ensure that housing policies and public funding are directed to home improvement. 4) To encourage private investment in the housing sector. 5) To support and encourage the improvement of standards throughout the home improvement industry. The NHlC's web site is at http//:www.nhic.orguk where homeowners and public and private landlords can read more about the Council's mission statement and its aspirations for the future of UK housing. More information:
Graham Ponting, Director, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
Feb 2000 |
HOME LOANS - Cashing in on home improvements
Not many of us have the wherewithal to pay cash for those larger improvements around the house such as a new bathroom or kitchen, or a complete extension. Never mind, there are plenty of opportunities these days to raise additional finance and at reasonable interest rates. But whatever you do don't get sucked in by those loan sharks that seem to lurk on most every page of today's newspapers. Of course, for those modest jobs around the home still the easiest method is to use your credit card. That will typically allow you up to a month of interest- free credit as long as you repay the amount next time you receive a statement. For the larger jobs, if you are employing a contractor to carry out major works, such as window replacement, it is possible that the firm will offer you its own finance package, usually arranged through a loan company. It may be convenient to tie-up the transaction with one person, but check the interest rate you will be charged, and compare it with alternative sources of finance. Most banks and building societies will be only too pleased to finance improvements, especially if it's going to increase the value of the property and if you've a good credit record. Sometimes it can be done on the basis of an unsecured personal loan, that means your home is not used as security - but the interest will normally be higher. On the other hand a secured loan means that you pay less interest but your home is at risk if you fail to make the required repayments. Personal loans need a short application form to be completed and a decision can usually be made as soon as you have provided the information required. However, if you already have a mortgage perhaps you can top it up with a new loan at very little expense, spread the payments over a longer period, and pay a lower interest rate - which at the moment are probably as low as they will go. New mortgages or mortgage adjustments usually need a slightly longer application form, and your property may need to be re-valued - but these days the bank or building society usually pays for the valuation. But you may be charged an administration fee on the interest arrangements. Finally, remember Take care whom you choose to do the work - the cheapest may not be the best! Ask to view an example of their work before you take the plunge. When deciding to take some form of financial product, consider the options and chose the one that best suits your circumstances. And do seek independent advice if you are in any doubt. Further information: Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel: 020 7828 8230 |
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EAGA PARTNERSHIP - Help With The Cost of Insulation For YOUR Home
Eaga Partnership Ltd manages a wide range of energy efficiency grant programmes throughout the UK, providing heating and insulation measures free of charge. Eligibility criteria for the schemes vary across the UK. A typical example is the Warm Front Scheme which is available throughout England. The Warm Front scheme provides grants of up to £2,500 to people who own their own homes or rent from a private landlord. • The Warm Front grant provides heating and insulation measures (such as loft insulation and cavity wall insulation) up to the value of £1,500 to pregnant women or householders with a child under 16 and in receipt of certain benefits or to householders in receipt of certain disability benefits. • The Warm Front Plus grant provides a grant of up to £2,500 for people who are over 60 and in receipt of certain benefits and can include central heating, in addition to insulation measures "There are many people - including many elderly people, those suffering a long-term illness and some families with young children - who simply do not realise that they may be entitled to free improvements to their household heating and insulation," says John Clough, Chief Executive of the Eaga Partnership Ltd, which administers the grants. "The Warm Front Grant is designed to help the more vulnerable people in society, and we all have a duty to encourage them to apply." Anybody who wishes to know whether they are entitled to a grant should contact Eaga Partnership free of charge on: Freephone 0800 952 0600 or visit www.eaga.co.uk and go to the 'Grants to Help You' section Notes to Editors 1. There are changes scheduled to the Warm Front eligibility criteria and grant maxima, so please contact Eaga for the latest details at the time of going to press. 2. In Wales, the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme provides two levels of grant: £1500 for insulation and heating measures for householders with children under 16 and in receipt of certain benefits; and £2,700 for people over 60, lone parent families with children under 16 or the disabled or chronically sick - all of whom must be in receipt of specific benefits. 3. The Warm Homes Scheme in Northern Ireland, provides two levels of grant for people who own their own homes or rent from a private landlord: £750 for insulation and heating measures to householders with children under 16 and in receipt of certain benefits or householders in receipt of disability benefits; and £2700 for the over 60s in receipt of certain benefits, for insulation and heating measures, including central heating. 4. In Scotland, the Central Heating Programme offers grants to the over 60s to people who own their own home or rent from a private landlord, to provide central heating, insulation and advice. This programme runs alongside the Warm Deal scheme, which offers householders in receipt of certain benefits grants of up to £500 to insulate their home to make it more energy efficient. 5. In addition, Eaga Partnership manages schemes on behalf of utilities and local authorities throughout the UK - contact Eaga for the details of what is available in your area. 6. Since 1990, Eaga has delivered energy efficiency measures to almost 5 million homes. 7. Eaga Partnership is an employee owned business, which operates under a partnership arrangement (similar to the John Lewis Partnership). Eaga was established in 1990 to administer the government's Home Energy Efficiency Scheme (HEES). |
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