British winters find the tiniest crack and make the house feel as if the North Sea is moving in. Draughty sashes whistle, meeting rails scarcely meet, and single panes mist up the moment the kettle boils. By dawn the cill looks tearful, the paint is sulking and the boiler has been tap dancing all night. Comfort leaks at the usual suspects. Staff and parting beads have loosened with age, pulley apertures behave like tiny megaphones and the frame to masonry joint has lost its pliable seal. Putty has cracked, gaskets have flattened and the odd distorted sash leaves a gap…
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The winter season is easily the hardest season to maintain energy efficiency in a home. With energy prices at an all-time high, this means extra effort is needed now more than ever to keep energy bills down this winter and at manageable levels. But it doesn’t have to be incredibly complicated or expensive to make this happen. Try applying these energy efficient tips heating experts recommend to save you some serious money this next winter. Insulate, insulate, insulate Insulation is the first step in keeping the heat inside your home. You can do this by ensuring the spaces that lose…
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Kitchen design and modernisation depend on choosing the right oven. An oven must fit the area’s aesthetic and satisfy energy efficiency, culinary preferences, and infrastructure requirements. Renowned for its adaptability and simple installation, the 13-amp electric stove is ideal for modern homes that value simplicity, energy efficiency, and minimal disturbance. Due to their timeless appeal, many homeowners prefer an AGA oven over newer ones. Like an AGA oven, a 13-amp cooker offers traditional kitchen utility and consistent, dependable heating. Although varying in form and structure, both kinds of cookers meet the present home needs more effectively than high-amperage ones. Evaluating…
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Sash windows, a quintessential feature of many period properties, offer timeless elegance and charm. However, the decision of whether to opt for sash window repair or replacement can be daunting, especially when dealing with rot and decay. In this article, we will explore the options for repairing or replacing your existing sash windows, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision. Understanding the Structure of Sash Windows Sash windows consist of movable panels (called sashes) that hold the glass panes in place. These windows typically feature timber frames, which, over time, can suffer from rot, particularly in…
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Arts and crafts are a wonderful way to express creativity, whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast, a parent managing playtime chaos, or someone looking to organise their growing supplies. However, keeping your crafting area tidy can feel like an endless challenge. Paint brushes, glitter, paper scraps, and fabric pieces can quickly take over your home if left unchecked. This guide will help you create an organised storage system for your arts and crafts supplies, turning your home into a haven of creativity and order. Why Does Craft Organisation Matter? With an organised arts and crafts space, you’ll enjoy less clutter,…
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Installing vinyl flooring transforms living spaces while offering exceptional durability and value. Many homeowners choose Vinyl flooring with wood effect for its realistic appearance and practical benefits. The success of vinyl flooring installation depends entirely on avoiding common mistakes like improper subfloor preparation, skipping the acclimation period, and incorrect plank alignment. Professional-looking results require attention to detail and proper planning. Each step of the installation process plays a crucial role in achieving a flawless finish, from measuring the space accurately to ensuring proper underlayment placement. Taking time to understand the installation requirements helps prevent costly errors and ensures long-lasting performance.…
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Pictured: Julian Bowen Pickwick Wooden Bed Frame, available from Bedstar (priced £223): the bed height is sufficient for drawers to be used as under bed storage. Turning Your Bedroom into a Multi-Purpose Haven Are you a creative soul looking to transform your bedroom into a multifunctional haven for your crafting and sewing hobbies? With a little creativity and organisation, you can turn your bedroom into a multi-purpose haven that inspires creativity while maintaining comfort and functionality. Here are some ideas to get you started: 1. Dedicate a Craft Corner Designate your workspace by using a rug, a different colour on…
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Your home is your sanctuary, the place where you relax, recharge, and feel most like yourself. A cosy home doesn’t just look inviting; it makes you feel at ease from the moment you walk in. Creating that perfect balance of comfort and style can be simple with the right touches. Let’s explore the essentials for transforming your space into a haven you’ll love coming back to. Start with Soft Furnishings Nothing says comfort quite like soft, plush textures. Cushions, throws, and rugs can instantly add warmth and cosiness to any room. Choose fabrics like velvet, chenille, or faux fur for…
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With technology at our fingertips, there’s a constant need to escape. Combined with the constant hustle and bustle of everyday life, the desire for relaxation is even stronger. Book nooks were quick to gain popularity; becoming a beloved spot for most as it introduced a quiet retreat within the home to vanish into a good book for an hour or so. But like everything, this tiny corner couldn’t keep up as we sought out more expansive comfort. A Cosy Cave is more than a book nook. It’s a space that invites warmth, serenity, and even a little bit of magic…