Door Bell Security Enhanced By Nearby Exterior Lights

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Garden and exterior lighting schemes in general have come a long way in a few short years.  The out of town shopping and do it yourself emporiums are stocked full of lighting arrays – huge displays of various shapes and sizes.   These can vary wildly from the simple wired in carriage lamps that are generally places either side of the garage doors, to fully wired security lighting included – motion operated so that it comes on whenever anyone approaches.   These are particularly good to tie in with the security focused door bell systems.  These look like normal door bells – to a certain extent – but contain a camera or at least a lens, which helpfully takes snaps of anyone approaching the door and operating the bell.  If the exterior lights near the garage come on first, there will be a really good view of the caller, and importantly, what they may be getting up to in addition to pressing your doorbell.

There have been many instances recently of delivery drivers showing their dishonest sides – and a very well disguised security door bell helps here – they can very often be very clearly seen putting the parcel down, taking the obligatory photo and walking away . . . . only to creep back a few minutes later to steal the parcel away again for neferious reasons.   Many of the drivers have now cottoned on to the fact that the regular workers who will be away all day,  every working day, have now installed these security camera lights, as many of the rogues are being caught out by their own stupidity.  Hurrah.

Ideas On Best Exterior Lighting Schemes

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There are many more lighting schemes available these days than back in the pre LED days.  Now we can have a choice of all sorts of LED light bulbs which can be either fitted in indivudual spots or within a fixture of LED strip lights.    Solar powered lighting is the most convenient however for the very good reaso that you don’t need to wire them in.  Just put the baton shaped lighting unit anywhere you fancy, out in the garden and it will soak  up the daylight rays and as the light fades and turns to dusk, the bright solar bulb will come alive.  They require very little maintenance and the batteries are rehargeable and will last for ages before they need changing.  There is a minor downside.  They vary massively in quality so taking a peek at the specification of the bulbs.  If a property only offers only shady back garden with trees all around, then the solar idea may not help, so back to the drawring board.

There are some fantastic lighting schemes nowadays for the garden and outside areas of our property.  Most have the benefit of being solar powered and have a delayed action of storing the rays in the bright daylight but then as soon as it becomes twilight, the solasr lights shine forth and the magic begins.

Choice Of Wired In Or Solar Powered Lighting Offers Garden Flexibility

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Whether we need garden lighting or not depends entirely on the time of year in the UK.    Let’s face it, from May onwards into summer, the light in the gawrden is good until about 10pm, quite late enough to not need more than a little odd solar light in the pot nearest the seating area.   However, get towards the end of September and we are heading rapidly into autumnal hues and shadows.  The days shorten very rapidly from then onwards and any hope of entertaining without the necessary arc lights from the garage!

So what to choose.  Various out of town hypermarkets now offer a superb range of solar powered lanterns which can recharge with just about bright daylight – although full sun for a few hours  is far more successful.   In fact there are many solar powered systems on the market with some of our smarter  home outlets offering solar bollards for lining a pathway or globe shaped orbs for a really punchy effect after dark.   Some of these are the sort of futuristic themes that would have featured in the top flight homes and garden magazines a few years ago and we’d laugh and not think for one minute that we would have such gorgeous and useful lighting objects in our lifetime!  All free power too.

One of the best ideas these days is to have solar powered motion sensor lighting.  They only come on when any motion is detected, thus saving energy but enough to deter intruders.    So all sorts of ideas available these days.

The Easiest Way To Find Your New Housekeeper

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How to Find a Housekeeper: A Guide for UK Households Maintaining a tidy, organised home can be challenging, especially with the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple tasks, or someone who simply values a clean living space, hiring a housekeeper can greatly improve your quality of life. If you’re wondering how to find a housekeeper who suits your needs, this guide will walk you through the essential steps. Why Hire a Housekeeper? The decision to find a housekeeper is often born from the desire for more free time and a less stressful home environment. Housekeepers offer a variety of services that can include regular cleaning, laundry, ironing, organisation, and even cooking. Some are live-in, while others visit daily or weekly. Having someone take care of your household chores allows you to focus on what matters most—your family, career, or personal wellbeing. Determine Your Needs Before beginning your search, assess what kind of support you require. Do you need someone part-time or full-time? Are you looking for help with basic cleaning or a wider range of tasks? Do you require a live-in housekeeper or would occasional visits suffice? Make a list of the duties you want covered and the hours you need. This will help you narrow down your options and communicate clearly with potential candidates. Where to Look There are several effective ways to find a housekeeper in the UK: Agencies: Professional housekeeping agencies can match you with vetted, experienced candidates. They often handle background checks, references, and contracts. Online platforms: Websites like Care.com, Housekeep, and Gumtree offer listings of available housekeepers. Always vet individuals carefully when using these platforms. Word of mouth: Personal recommendations are one of the most trustworthy ways to find a housekeeper. Ask friends, neighbours, or colleagues if they know someone reliable. Local adverts: Community notice boards, shop windows, or local newspapers sometimes feature housekeeping services. Interviewing and Screening Once you’ve shortlisted a few candidates, it’s time to conduct interviews. Prepare a list of questions covering: Previous experience and specific duties performed Availability and working hours Salary expectations References from previous employers Any qualifications or training (e.g., COSHH awareness, health and safety) Be sure to also discuss practical matters such as insurance, holiday pay, and notice periods. Trust and compatibility are essential, so take the time to gauge whether the person is a good fit for your household. Trial Period Before making a long-term commitment, consider arranging a short trial period. This allows both you and the housekeeper to determine whether the arrangement works well. During this time, provide clear instructions and expectations, and keep communication open. Legal Considerations When you find a housekeeper to employ directly, you may have legal obligations as an employer. This includes: Registering with HMRC as an employer Providing a written contract Paying at least the National Minimum Wage Offering holiday entitlement and statutory sick pay Ensuring safe working conditions Alternatively, hiring through an agency can reduce your administrative burden, as the agency usually acts as the employer. Building a Positive Relationship A good housekeeper can become an invaluable part of your home life. To build a strong relationship: Treat your housekeeper with respect and kindness Be clear and consistent about your expectations Provide the necessary equipment and cleaning supplies Give constructive feedback when needed A happy, motivated housekeeper is far more likely to deliver excellent results. Conclusion Choosing to find a housekeeper is an investment in your home and peace of mind. With a bit of careful planning and research, you can find someone trustworthy, experienced, and capable of meeting your household’s unique needs. Whether through an agency or personal recommendation, the right housekeeper can make your life more manageable and your home a place of comfort and calm. Let me know if you’d like this expanded into a longer version or formatted for a website or brochure.

Those Extra Patio Sets Makes Seating Guests So Much Better

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There is something rather wonderful about visiting a neighbouring garden that has an abundance of seating and patio sets.  To have the choice of where to sit when you are asked round for the inevitable family barbeque makes it all so much more bearable.  There is nothing very funny about standing around making small talk with a glass of bubbly in one hand and a plate of ‘finger nibbles’ but then not be able to dip in; something has to go and the dilemma is bubbly or fodder?  Difficult.

However when  you offer plenty of the table and chair sets that are flooding the hardware stores these days, your guests will be most impressed and will play along with the theme of the party much more freely.  There are some really excellent and versatile sets to be had, from the robust square table surrounded by sumptuous sofas around 3 sides, to the simple but very manouverable little two person bistro set with everything inbetween.   The chance to sit out early on a spring or summer morning, taking breakfast or just favourite cuppa out to the garden and relax on a patio chair does take some beating!

Of course the plush teak deck loungers are still available for that touch of vintage elegance and class.  What can be better than lying back, pimms or gin & italian in hand?  The only thing about teak wood is the need to teak oil it every spring and to protect it from very wet rain or harsh weather – so in the garage for winter then.

How to Find a Housekeeper: A Guide for UK Households Maintaining a tidy, organised home can be challenging, especially with the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple tasks, or someone who simply values a clean living space, hiring a housekeeper can greatly improve your quality of life. If you’re wondering how to find a housekeeper who suits your needs, this guide will walk you through the essential steps. Why Hire a Housekeeper? The decision to find a housekeeper is often born from the desire for more free time and a less stressful home environment. Housekeepers offer a variety of services that can include regular cleaning, laundry, ironing, organisation, and even cooking. Some are live-in, while others visit daily or weekly. Having someone take care of your household chores allows you to focus on what matters most—your family, career, or personal wellbeing. Determine Your Needs Before beginning your search, assess what kind of support you require. Do you need someone part-time or full-time? Are you looking for help with basic cleaning or a wider range of tasks? Do you require a live-in housekeeper or would occasional visits suffice? Make a list of the duties you want covered and the hours you need. This will help you narrow down your options and communicate clearly with potential candidates. Where to Look There are several effective ways to find a housekeeper in the UK: Agencies: Professional housekeeping agencies can match you with vetted, experienced candidates. They often handle background checks, references, and contracts. Online platforms: Websites like Care.com, Housekeep, and Gumtree offer listings of available housekeepers. Always vet individuals carefully when using these platforms. Word of mouth: Personal recommendations are one of the most trustworthy ways to find a housekeeper. Ask friends, neighbours, or colleagues if they know someone reliable. Local adverts: Community notice boards, shop windows, or local newspapers sometimes feature housekeeping services. Interviewing and Screening Once you’ve shortlisted a few candidates, it’s time to conduct interviews. Prepare a list of questions covering: Previous experience and specific duties performed Availability and working hours Salary expectations References from previous employers Any qualifications or training (e.g., COSHH awareness, health and safety) Be sure to also discuss practical matters such as insurance, holiday pay, and notice periods. Trust and compatibility are essential, so take the time to gauge whether the person is a good fit for your household. Trial Period Before making a long-term commitment, consider arranging a short trial period. This allows both you and the housekeeper to determine whether the arrangement works well. During this time, provide clear instructions and expectations, and keep communication open. Legal Considerations When you find a housekeeper to employ directly, you may have legal obligations as an employer. This includes: Registering with HMRC as an employer Providing a written contract Paying at least the National Minimum Wage Offering holiday entitlement and statutory sick pay Ensuring safe working conditions Alternatively, hiring through an agency can reduce your administrative burden, as the agency usually acts as the employer. Building a Positive Relationship A good housekeeper can become an invaluable part of your home life. To build a strong relationship: Treat your housekeeper with respect and kindness Be clear and consistent about your expectations Provide the necessary equipment and cleaning supplies Give constructive feedback when needed A happy, motivated housekeeper is far more likely to deliver excellent results. Conclusion Choosing to find a housekeeper is an investment in your home and peace of mind. With a bit of careful planning and research, you can find someone trustworthy, experienced, and capable of meeting your household’s unique needs. Whether through an agency or personal recommendation, the right housekeeper can make your life more manageable and your home a place of comfort and calm. Let me know if you’d like this expanded into a longer version or formatted for a website or brochure.

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Maintaining a tidy, organised home can be challenging, especially with the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple tasks, or someone who simply values a clean living space, hiring a housekeeper can greatly improve your quality of life. If you’re wondering how to find a housekeeper who suits your needs, this guide will walk you through the essential steps.

Why Hire a Housekeeper?

The decision to Find a Housekeeper is often born from the desire for more free time and a less stressful home environment. Housekeepers offer a variety of services that can include regular cleaning, laundry, ironing, organisation, and even cooking. Some are live-in, while others visit daily or weekly. Having someone take care of your household chores allows you to focus on what matters most—your family, career, or personal wellbeing.

Determine Your Needs

Before beginning your search, assess what kind of support you require. Do you need someone part-time or full-time? Are you looking for help with basic cleaning or a wider range of tasks? Do you require a live-in housekeeper or would occasional visits suffice?

Make a list of the duties you want covered and the hours you need. This will help you narrow down your options and communicate clearly with potential candidates.

Where to Look

There are several effective ways to find a housekeeper in the UK:

  • Agencies: Professional housekeeping agencies can match you with vetted, experienced candidates. They often handle background checks, references, and contracts.

  • Online platforms: Websites like Care.com, Housekeep, and Gumtree offer listings of available housekeepers. Always vet individuals carefully when using these platforms.

  • Word of mouth: Personal recommendations are one of the most trustworthy ways to find a housekeeper. Ask friends, neighbours, or colleagues if they know someone reliable.

  • Local adverts: Community notice boards, shop windows, or local newspapers sometimes feature housekeeping services.

Interviewing and Screening

Once you’ve shortlisted a few candidates, it’s time to conduct interviews. Prepare a list of questions covering:

  • Previous experience and specific duties performed

  • Availability and working hours

  • Salary expectations

  • References from previous employers

  • Any qualifications or training (e.g., COSHH awareness, health and safety)

Be sure to also discuss practical matters such as insurance, holiday pay, and notice periods. Trust and compatibility are essential, so take the time to gauge whether the person is a good fit for your household.

Trial Period

Before making a long-term commitment, consider arranging a short trial period. This allows both you and the housekeeper to determine whether the arrangement works well. During this time, provide clear instructions and expectations, and keep communication open.

Legal Considerations

When you find a housekeeper to employ directly, you may have legal obligations as an employer. This includes:

  • Registering with HMRC as an employer

  • Providing a written contract

  • Paying at least the National Minimum Wage

  • Offering holiday entitlement and statutory sick pay

  • Ensuring safe working conditions

Alternatively, hiring through an agency can reduce your administrative burden, as the agency usually acts as the employer.

Conclusion

Choosing to find a housekeeper is an investment in your home and peace of mind. With a bit of careful planning and research, you can find someone trustworthy, experienced, and capable of meeting your household’s unique needs. Whether through an agency or personal recommendation, the right housekeeper can make your life more manageable and your home a place of comfort and calm.

A Few Ideas On Modern Outside Lighting

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There are many more lighting schemes available now than back in the pre LED days.  Now we can have a choice of all sorts of LED light bulbs which can be either fitted in individual spots or within a fixture of LED strip lights.  The LED is energy efficient and extremely bright which is great for outdoor settings.  Their durability lends them to being able to withstand weather conditions such as rain, snow and wind.  In most cases, an LED bulb can last for over two years, very often for as many as 50,000 hours.

Now, hare far apart to space them.  Good question indeed.     A general rule would suggest between 180 and 240 metres  to ensure safe constant and consistent lighting for paths.   For a porch it can be placed on the wall about a third the height of the door for a single lamp or one quarter if placing two, one either side of the door.

There are one or two pitfalls to avoid – for example too much light can cause glare and will reduce visibility at night.  It will also cause enormous light polution which is likely to annoy the neighbours.    Installing the light fixture too high or low is going to create very awkward shadows and uneven coverage.  The ideal colour LED for outside would be a warm white 2700K to 3000K.  This would be considered ideal for outdoor residential lighting schemes as it will feel inviting without being at all harsh.

Choosing the Right Experts for Commercial Roofing Essex

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When it comes to maintaining or upgrading the roof of a business premises, choosing the right contractor is crucial. Whether you operate a warehouse, office building, or retail outlet, ensuring the roof is fit for purpose, durable, and compliant with current regulations is essential. That’s why so many businesses are turning to trusted specialists in Commercial Roofing Essex.

The demands of a commercial roof are quite different from those of a residential one. They must withstand heavier usage, larger spans, and often incorporate specialised features such as ventilation systems, solar panels, or roof access for maintenance. Moreover, many commercial roofs are flat or low-sloped, which require different materials and drainage solutions. This is where engaging a firm that understands the specific needs of commercial roofing Essex becomes invaluable.

A quality roofing contractor will carry out a thorough site survey before any work begins. They will assess the current condition of the roof, identify any underlying structural issues, and offer bespoke solutions to match the building’s needs and your budget. Reputable companies in commercial roofing Essex will also provide detailed quotations and timelines, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations.

In Essex, the variable British weather means that roofing systems must cope with everything from high winds and driving rain to prolonged heat and cold snaps. That’s why selecting durable, weather-resistant materials is key. Many businesses opt for systems such as single-ply membranes, EPDM rubber roofing, or GRP fibreglass solutions—all of which are highly suited to the demands of commercial roofing Essex.

In addition to installation, regular maintenance and timely repairs are vital. A proactive maintenance schedule can significantly extend the life of a roof and prevent costly repairs down the line. Leading roofing contractors in the region often offer maintenance packages that include inspections, gutter clearing, and minor repairs—providing peace of mind and long-term value.

Choosing a local expert brings several advantages. Local firms have a solid understanding of planning regulations and building control standards in Essex. Furthermore, they are more accessible in the event of an emergency, offering quicker response times when urgent repairs are needed.

In conclusion, investing in high-quality commercial roofing Essex services is not just about improving your building’s appearance—it’s about safeguarding your business, assets, and staff. By working with experienced professionals, you can ensure your roof performs well for years to come, whatever the British weather throws your way.

Keeping Up Style With Need For Comfort In Latter Years

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As we start our journey into home ownership, it’s usually by way of  a very second hand flat that has been rented in the past and now needs that bit of love & attention.  You don’t have a lot of spare cash so often the furnishings will be a bizarre selection of mismatched armchairs and sofas together with a dining table and odd assortment of chairs.  Bedrooms need a brand new bed – non of this passing on the old and lumpy these days.  Hygiene demands a new matress at least.

The sitting room furniture can be very tricky, it is tempting for parents or grandparents to gallantly go out and order a brand new suite so they can pass on the ‘cherished’ old one.  The younger recipient may well wish to go and buy a brand new one for themselves.  The only sofas that stand the test of time really well are generally leather and this is only when they have been looked after properly and the leather cleaned and fed regularly, they can live on for decades but once the leather dries out, starts to crack and become unstable, then it’s not worth keeping – out with the old and in with the definitely new and modern, easy to keep and oh so comfy sofa!

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your New House: What You Need to Know

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Introduction to Home Buying

When you decide to buy a new house, it’s essential to arm yourself with the right information to make a sound investment and choose a home that suits your needs and preferences. This guide walks you through crucial steps to ensure a smooth and successful purchase process.

Assess Your Financial Position

Understanding Your Budget

Before diving into the house-hunting process, evaluate your financial health. How much can you comfortably afford to spend on a new home? Consider your income, debt, savings, and the additional costs associated with buying a house such as stamp duty, legal fees, and removal costs. It’s prudent to get a mortgage in principle, which gives you an estimate of how much you can borrow and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Choosing the Right Location

Finding the Perfect Area

The location of your new house affects not just your daily lifestyle but also the long-term value of your investment. Research different areas considering factors such as safety, local schools, amenities, and transport links. Think about your current and future lifestyle needs when deciding on the right location.

House Hunting

What to Look for During Viewings

Viewing potential homes can be exciting but also overwhelming. Make a checklist of non-negotiables such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and other essential amenities. Pay attention to the condition of the property, focusing on areas like the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems, which can be costly to repair or replace. Don’t hesitate to visit the property at different times of the day to get a feel for the neighbourhood’s atmosphere and activity levels.

Making an Offer

Securing Your New Home

Once you find your ideal house, it’s time to make an offer. Your offer should be based on the property’s value, your budget, and the local housing market condition. Prepare to negotiate and be flexible with your terms if needed. At this stage, having a solicitor experienced in property law is beneficial. They can handle negotiations and legalities on your behalf, ensuring everything proceeds smoothly.

The Legal Process

Understanding Conveyancing

After your offer is accepted, the conveyancing process begins. This is where the property’s legal title passes from the seller to you. Expect to deal with various legal checks, searches, and paperwork at this stage. Your solicitor will guide you through the process, which can take several weeks based on the chain’s complexity and other factors.

Conclusion

Ready to Move In

Buying a new house is a major decision that comes with many responsibilities and challenges. However, with careful planning and the right advice, it can also be a rewarding endeavour. Use this guide to navigate your journey to homeownership adeptly, and soon you’ll be ready to enjoy your new home. Remember, the key is not to rush the decision-making process and always be prepared for potential obstacles along the way.