Get Your Home Ready For Winter
It’s that time of year where summer seems like a distant memory, the days are short and cold with much more time spent indoors. With this, you want to be as comfortable as possible, so you need to make sure that you get your home ready for winter.
There are many different things you can do to prepare your home but these tasks may seem easy to put off until its too late.
That’s why we’re here to help, we have compiled a list of things you should do to get your home ready for winter.
Check your boiler and heater
Having no heating or hot water can be a real problem on bleak winter days, and all you can do to resolve it is a simple maintenance check.
Contact a gas safe registered company to get a certified engineer to make sure you’re not going to end up in any preventable issues when the winter really kicks in.
Look at our plumbing services here.
Secure your roof
It’s important that your roof is secure enough to stand the winter onslaught. You should take the chance to check for loose tiles as heavy snow and strong winds can wreak havoc on an unprepared roof.
It may also be a good chance to think about changing your conservatory roof if you have one. The winter months may see your conservatory neglected but with a lightweight roof system, this can mean you can enjoy your conservatory all winter. Find out more about solid roof conservatory’s here.
Keep central heating on
To save money on your bills and avoid any frozen pipes it can be useful to keep your heating on a timer and set to low heat throughout the day. Rather than turning the heat up high when you feel cold, keep it an all-around warm temperature and reap the benefits.
Prepare your windows
This is not the time of year to be letting the elements in due to ill-prepared windows. If you’re experiencing drafts or condensation, it’s probably time to upgrade. Our windows are designed to make your home feel safe and comfortable.
Amongst our choice of windows, we also supply secondary glazing, which can be applied to your existing windows for increased energy efficiency and insulation.
Make sure your windows are prepared and check our range here!
Clear gutters
Be sure to keep gutters and downpipes clear from leaves, moss and other material that can cause blockages. If not, water can fracture pipes if it freezes in them or causes quicker deterioration of soaked wall faces in frosty conditions where gutters spill over. You want to make sure that water runs away from your house, so a blocked gutter can cause much more serious problems.
Winter is a time of year you want to be warm and enjoy the comforts of home, so keeping on top of these issues and making sure your home is in working order can prevent unexpected, unnecessary headaches. So all you need to do is sit back and relax and enjoy the comforts of winter.
- Published in Building, Conservatories, Home Improvements, Solid Roofs, Uncategorized, Windows
What window colour is best for your home?
Do you know what window colour is best for your home?
Choosing the right colour for your windows can be a task you may overlook, but colour can be one of the most important design aspects to your home. Picking the right colour can be the most dramatic and personal statement you can make in your home project.
How to choose the right colour
With a magnitude of different colours to choose from it is possible to be overwhelmed, so it is essential to understand what colours to choose. It would be better if you chose a colour scheme that you can enjoy for years to come so your colours should work in harmony with the rest of your home.
When choosing the right colour for your windows, you should be aware of the effect you’re trying to create. Choosing a neutral shade can give you great looking windows that work together with your property and compliment the tones of the building.
If you have an older home and want to keep with the traditional look then you would just stay with the original colour palette, for example, Georgian homes tend to suit white frames.
If you feel like you want to choose a bolder colour for your windows you can make a statement and break up neutral tones. However, it would help if you thought carefully when doing this and should pick up on the property’s surroundings.nds a growing beyond what used to be ordinary, there is an increase in colours such as stylish pastels which create a sense of tranquillity in your home décor. Trends in 2018 have seen the rise in pastel shades so why not be a little bit bolder with your decision.
If brighter colours aren’t for you why not look at the ever growing in popularity Anthracite Grey. Grey is a colour that will work on many different styles, and with so many different shades to choose from each style can create its feeling. Lighter shades of grey can promote character and sophistication on period properties, whereas a darker grey will promote a modern and architectural feel.
Whatever you decide to go with Celsius Home improvements can help guide you along the way, our window expertise will help you decide on the best look for your home. Find out more by visiting our website or call the office now. (0151 5451400)
- Published in Home Improvements, Windows
Optima Windows for your Home
It’s important to have as much product knowledge as possible before making a purchase such as windows. That’s why we have compiled an in-depth article to help you learn about Celsius Home Improvements range of Optima windows.
Why Optima windows?
Celsius’ Optima windows are some of the most energy-efficient 70mm systems available. The components and options allow the fabrication of windows that perform to the best quality. Celsius can cater to all customer needs; triple glazed frames are available if you require the highest level of insulation. However, if you are on a budget, you can still get excellent insulation without breaking the bank. Our windows work at the top end of the energy efficiency scale, and they can reach the latest A++ WERs and an excellent U-value of just 0.8 W/m2K.
Celsius’ Optima windows are the ideal system. They are produced using state of the art equipment and tooling to guarantee exceptional quality and high environmental standards.
Our windows can achieve a 0.8 U-value as well as being well insulated. We have such high performing windows due to having more chambers which gives a much better thermal performance. An extensive range of cills, baypoles, accessories and packers give our windows better ancillaries. Our Optima windows have the best range of choice on the market giving you more ways to offer affordable and energy efficient windows.
What makes Optima windows better?
- Deeper drainage channels carry water away quickly improving weather performance.
- A central Eurogroove gives superior security and strength.
- Deep add-on legs allow increased tolerance during frame installation.
- Strategic, local wall thickening for better screw and hardware retention.
- Secure bead system passes security tests without glazing clips and is ready for proposed enhancements to PAS24.
- 10mm overlap for improved weatherability.
- Narrower frame for more light and improved solar gain.
- Can achieve U-values of up to 0.8, and WERs of A++.
Celsius’ windows are ideal for replacement windows, new windows, self-builds and commercial applications. Contact us today for a free no obligation quote.
- Published in Home Improvements, Windows
A Guide to Window Styles
The time has come you need new windows. Your old windows just aren’t doing the job they once did. But what now? With so many window styles to choose from picking your next windows may seem like a daunting task. Especially when you want them to look good while performing to the highest standards.
To help give you some guidance and make your decision easier. We have compiled an in-depth look into a variety of different window styles and their capabilities.
Casement windows
Casement windows are best suited in modern or period properties as the system is adaptable, stylish and high-performing. The casement windows product features include 10mm cover on weather seals, Yale hardware, sculptured edge design, five chamber sash, six chamber outer frames, 28 and 40mm glazing as standard.
Balance is imperative when it comes to Casement windows. Our windows are designed to provide slim aesthetically pleasing windows without sacrificing strength. Celsius’ Optima windows can achieve a WER of A+++ and U-value of 0.8W/m2K.
French Casement windows
French casement windows are ideal for cottages and smaller window apertures. Our windows offer exceptional weather-tightness and thermal insulation and the thermal insert for improved insulation to suit all budgets.
Despite a traditional appearance, Optima windows are very advanced. The casement windows have a sculptured profile with a simple but elegant design. The windows have bubblex gaskets that offer consistent compression. While also sealing the windows to prevent air leakage. The deeper drainage channels clear water away from the frames and sealed-units to avoid damage. These windows are ideal for any budget and property.
Tilt and Turn
More people are appreciating the practicality of Tilt and Turn windows in their home. Tilt and Turn offer many opportunities to all sorts of properties but are ideal for homes with access restriction or homes near a busy road. Celsius’ Tilt and Turn windows have a light and streamlined look but a reliable and robust performance. The tilt and turn windows have high levels of insulation and weather protection.
Glazing gaps can range from 24mm right through to 44mm; you can also get thermal inserts to enhance insulation. Our windows always reach the customer demand for high specification windows, with energy ratings of A++ and U-values of 0.8 W/m2k. Our Tilt and Turn windows are simple to operate and maintain while they incorporate all the advanced security hardware.
You can choose from a vast choice of woodgrain and coloured foils, including dual-coloured options and flat textured finishes.
Flush casement windows
The windows that we use created by Optima replicate the original features of timber casements accurately while giving superior thermal performance over rival products. Our windows have a four chamber sash, six chamber outer frame and 24mm glazing as standard.
Celsius offer different styles on casement windows, such as;
- Traditional style – These windows keep the conventional casement style while improving the product. A dummy sash provides a balanced look for frames with fixed lights, and there are foiled options which include period colours.
- The Blacksmiths art – Our monkey-tail handles show homage to hand forged hardware from the past.
Even with a lot of focus placed on appearance performance hasn’t been neglected. Our windows have 24mm double glazing, an A-rated window and an effective U-value of 1.4W/m2K is achieved with ease.
Contact Celsius Home Improvements now for a free no obligation quote here.
- Published in Home Improvements, Windows
How to Add Value to Your Home
Wanting to add value to your home is usually the main reason that a person would look to develop their home. Working your way up the property ladder is an achievable goal, but you need to know how to maximise the value of where you live now.
The co-op insurance conducted a study in which it found that 60 percent of homeowners had added value to their property with renovations. As well as finding that people had typically spent £18,224 and seen a £14,900 profit.
Whether you are planning on selling or just looking to add long-term value by investing in your home, this article will cover the best ways to achieve this.
Garage conversion
A well-done garage conversion can potentially add 20% value increase to your property. A lot of garages are left empty and unused meaning wasted space. Converting your garage doesn’t have to cause a headache either, if it is attached to your property then converting to a habitable room shouldn’t cause an issue. To find out more about converting your garage read here.
Kitchen Refurbishment
Kitchens are becoming the focal point of a lot of homes due to the popularity of open plan living, and a well-done kitchen refurbishment can add up to 6% value increase. When updating your kitchen, it’s essential to keep expense in proportion to the size value of your property. A clean looking kitchen is necessary both to buyers and valuation surveyors. When revamping your kitchen, there are fundamentals to consider such as shape and position. You may also decide to make structural changes, or you may relocate it. However, you can make a big difference to your kitchen by making modest changes to the fixtures and fittings. New doors and handles and other soft touches can make a massive difference to your existing kitchen as well as energy efficient appliances. Head to our kitchen page here for inspiration for your home.
Conservatory / Orangery
Extending your living space is always a good idea if you have that opportunity. A conservatory or orangery can be an excellent way to achieve this if done well. This means making sure that they are proportionate to your home and matches the style. You don’t want the build to look separate to the rest of your home. At Celsius, we always give the best advice on what’s right for your property. We can deliver bespoke designs to enhance your property. An orangery can also offer a fantastic alternative to the traditional conservatory. The additional use of brick built pillars means an orangery has a feeling of an extension at a fraction of the price. Allowing glass windows and roof to give an airy and bright feel to your home. Read more about Celsius’ Conservatory and Orangery installations here.
New Bathroom
Redeveloping or adding a new bathroom to your property is usually a good investment. A new bathroom can add 2.88% value to your home. To get the most out of a new bathroom creating an ensuite is the best option. However, you can also remodel existing space. Ideally, there should be a toilet facility on every floor that has bedrooms. Therefore, if you are converting the attic, try to include a toilet, if not a full bathroom.
Keeping the existing layout of a property can be an excellent way to keep costs down when updating your bathroom. Moving sanitaryware could mean relocating soil pipes and so forth which can become expensive. A bathroom doesn’t need an awful lot doing to increase value on your property. It can be more about the features that you put in. You can make a considerable difference with a set of new taps, a big shower head and power shower, a glass screen or door.
Extension
When deciding to extend your home, you can add a few rooms or extend existing living space. Your extension can differ from adding extra square feet to your home to make an open plan living area. You can also undertake a much more significant project like second-storey addition. An extension can potentially add up to 10% value to your property. To reach its full potential your build will need designing carefully so that the new space is integrated well with the original home.
During the planning process of any extension, you want to develop the rooms to be as big as possible, without sacrificing too much of the outdoor space. Our experienced team at Celsius can make the design stage as comfortable as possible. Read our pages here for more information. The most critical process for any extension is choosing the right people to do it. Read our comprehensive guide for selecting the right building company here to make your decision streamlined.
Loft Conversion
A safe investment for your home and one that can be carried out relatively easily requiring the layout of your home suits is a loft conversion. Converting your loft can be the easiest way to add an extra bedroom in your home and depending on the size of the space possibly an extra bathroom, which can add up to 10% value. For more information read our loft conversion page.
Replace windows
Replacing your windows with the most energy efficient and up to date windows available can be seen as essential to add value to your property, although thermal efficiency is significant, in higher valued features you will need to address the aesthetics of your windows. Look at the vast range of windows that Celsius offer here.
- Published in Building, Conservatories, Home Extensions, Home Improvements, Orangeries, Windows
How to choose the right windows for your home
Windows are an important part of any home and when you come to replacing the existing windows in your home there are a number of factors that you should consider.
As there are so many different styles, materials and features to choose from the choice can be overwhelming and the majority of people only think about their new windows in terms of the style and how they are going to look on their property. As the cost of replacing your windows is a major investment and they are expected to last a number of years it is worthwhile doing some research before you invest as it can save you problems in the long-run.
In this comprehensive guide we will explain what you should look out for before choosing the right windows for you.
Window Materials:
Windows are generally made from three main materials, UPVc/PVCu, Aluminium or Wood. Here are the main benefits of each:
- UPVC/PVCu Windows – this is the most common material used in the manufacture of windows. UPVc windows are usually cheaper than Aluminium or Timber and are a relatively cost effective solution. They require very little maintenance and only generally need a wipe down with a cloth. UPVc never rots, fades or rusts and so they will also look good for a long period of time. UPVc is a durable material and as such the majority of window manufacturers provide a 10 year guarantee with the windows. We would recommend that you choose a company that does offer this type of guarantee. Although UPVc windows come in a range of styles such as casement, sash and tilt-and-turn windows they can be deemed to be less aesthetically pleasing than aluminium as they generally offer less colour options and mainly come in a traditional white finish. Don’t let this put you off UPVc windows as modern manufacturing techniques have allowed for a much broader range of colours and finishes to be offered by the most reputable companies.
- Aluminium Windows – The cost of Aluminium windows is generally higher than UPVc but we would suggest that cost should not always be the deciding factor in your choice of new windows. Aluminium does offer some considerable advantages over UPVc such as durability. While UPVc is a durable material, it can degrade over time whereas you can expect to get a further 10 years on the lifetime of aluminium with the right care and attention. Aluminium windows offer the advantage of having a higher glass-to-frame ratio as the frames are stronger than UPVc and can be manufactured to a thinner profile (thickness of the frame). Aluminium Windows also offer the greatest choice in terms of flexibility of design and aesthetics. The windows can be coloured using powder coating giving the homeowner a far greater choice of window colours than traditional UPVc and can be different colour on the outside and inside. Another advantage of Aluminium over UPVc and Wood is that it will stay consistent throughout the year and will not swell and contract due to heat. Both UPVc and wood can expand and contract due to weather and temperature. A new aluminium product on the market today is WarmCore – Warm Aluminium. This features a thermal core which creates a window system with up to 25% more thermal efficiency than traditional aluminium.
- Wooden Windows – Are generally more expensive than UPVc. The majority of householders that choose wooden windows do so as they think the windows will match the style of the property or surrounding houses, although this can be replicated with UPVc. Wooden windows will take the most time in maintenance as they will need to be treated regularly to prevent on-going damage. Wood can also expand, warp and rot if not looked after properly. You do have the option to paint the windows using appropriate external paint so you would have a considerable choice of colours to complete the look you may require.
Window Styles:
Once you have decided on a material that best suits your home, the next thing to do is choose a style of window, the most popular styles are as follows:
- Casement – A casement window is a window that is attached to its frame by one or more hinges. Casement windows are hinged at the side or the top and are contained within a single frame. Casement windows have a handle and lock system used to open the windows from the inside.
- French Windows – are similar to Casement windows with sashes hung vertically but the main difference is that French windows have a floating mullion (centre bar) and as the windows are opened it gives a complete unrestricted view from the windows, whereas a casement window has a fixed mullion with windows that open either side.
- Sash – a sash window (or sometimes known as a box-sash window) is a window that is made up of one or more panels or “sashes” which can be slid vertically or horizontally to make an opening. As sash windows are a traditional style they often come with Georgian styling which gives the appearance that the window is made up of smaller squares.
- Tilt-and-Turn – a Tilt-and-Turn window functions in two ways. The tilt function opens the top of the sash inwards for ventilation, whilst the turn function creates an inward opening side hung operation similar to a casement window.
Window Glass or Glazing:
The next step is to choose the glass or glazing options for your windows. With advances in technology and manufacturing there are more choices than ever:
- Double Glazing – Is the glazing process in which a window is made with two panes of glass formed into one single window.The two panes of glass are separated by a layer of trapped gas either Argon or Krypton gas. The layer of gas acts as a trap and is a poor conductor of heat, this helps to keep warm air trapped inside your home and not leaving by your windows and helps improve energy efficiency.The second panel of glass acts as an extra barrier to the outside world which helps to reduce noise pollution into your home, thus keeping your home quieter. It also acts as another strengthening layer to help improve the security of your windows and home.
- Triple Glazing – Is the glazing process in which a window is made with three panes of glass formed into one single window and offers the ultimate in thermal efficiency. Triple glazing is only available in our UPVc range of windows.These glazed units have smaller internal chambers compared with double glazing which helps to reduce heat loss. The central glass panel reflects more heat making it warmer in your rooms and helps to reduce your heating costs. The gas used within triple glazed units is either Argon or Krypton gas. If your home suffers from external background noise, triple glazing offers superior noise reduction to double glazing, giving you a warmer and quieter home. The units are ideal for north facing windows or where the windows suffer from little natural sunlight. Depending on the placement of windows and the elevation of your home, you may not need triple glazing in every area therefore you could mix and match double glazed and triple glazed units to suit your particular home.
- Energy Ratings – We would recommend a glazing option that offers A, A+ or A++ energy efficiency ratings. These units will provide better thermal insulation of your home and help to reduce heating bills.Windows are rated from A+ (no heat loss at all) through to G (extremely energy inefficient), the window Energy Rating label allows you to see at a glance how energy efficient a window is.Windows Energy Ratings are calculated using various values:
- Thermal Transmittance (U value) – represents how much heat can escape through the glass
- Solar factor (G value) – represents how much energy is gained through your windows from the Sun
- Air Leakage (L value) – how much air is leaked through the windows (the lower the better).
Window Quality
You do get what you pay for with windows, while cost will be an important factor for most people it is even more important to choose a quality product, preferably made by a well known or reputable company. You want to make sure you choose a well made window that gives you the style you want, energy efficiency, ease of use and low maintenance to save any headaches in the future
Window Warranties & Guarantees
It makes sense to carefully examine the guarantees offered by the various window manufacturers. This is where a well known company with a good reputation will serve you much better than a one-man-band who may offer you a cheaper price but no security in the products that they are providing. Companies that have been around for a while are more likely to be around in the future should your window have problems or need replacement parts.
Other things to consider:
Sun direction on your property:
The sun is a source of free home heating and knowing the sun’s path and direction on your home can help you determine if your windows would need to have better thermal efficiency on one side of your property than the other. For example; if the rear of your property is south-facing the front or north-side of your property may be cooler therefore you could opt to have better thermal glazing on the north side of the property than the south. You could choose to have double glazed units to the rear and triple glazed units to the front.
This not only creates a better living environment but can also help to increase the energy efficiency of your home and potential reduce your heating bills.
- Published in Home Improvements, Windows