Want More Happiness? Make a Thankful Jar!

January 3, 2019

Looking for an easy way to practice gratitude this year? Want to feel happier, more thankful and have more joy in all you do? Consider making a thankful jar!

I’ll be honest, like many of you, I’m always on the lookout for ways to have more gratitude in my life.

There are so, so many ways to accomplish this, but, for me, my gratitude practice needs to be easy, without taking up too much time.

With just a few simple materials (a jar, a pen, and some slips of paper) this thankful jar is just the thing for noting and recalling the many blessings in my life.

Each day, simply jot down one thing you are thankful for. The best part is, this is an activity the whole family can take part in.

At the end of the year, sit down with your family and recall the many wonderful events and moments of gratitude of the previous year.

It reminds me a lot of our thankful pumpkin, which is one of our favorite Thanksgiving/Fall traditions!

What is one simple idea you are using to make your life better this year?

Thanks so much for reading all about our Want More Happiness? Make a Thankful Jar!. Have a lovely day.

Tips & Tricks

clever home organization tips and tricks

January 2, 2019

Sharing easy organization ideas to organize every part of your home! These tips and tricks will help you clear clutter and organize your way to a better life!

Happy New Year, friends! Like many of you, my thoughts this time of year always turn to ways to declutter and organize my home.

I love an efficient, tidy and well-organized space (who doesn’t?), and in today’s post, I’m sharing easy and clever home organization hacks. Let’s get started…

LOVE this simple and easy way to corral plastic bags via burlap+blue.

Have a tiny bathroom? These 11 space saving hacks can help you out!

I LOVE using baskets around the home. Here, we have space saving and organizational ideas using inexpensive wire baskets.

Need more bathroom organization ideas? Head here to see what we did with this one organizational system to organize my daughters hair bows!

I love this list of 17 things you didn’t know you could do with chickenwire!

Lastly, this post has home organization hacks for every room in your home!

Thanks for reading all about our clever home organization tips and tricks. Have a lovely day!

Tips & Tricks

Flower Box {The Very Best Resources for Window Boxes Online}

December 28, 2018

Looking to add to your home’s curb appeal? Want to decorate your home and porch seasonally? Consider a flower box!
I’m sharing some favorite finds with you today!

I love the idea of making the outside of my home as welcoming and appealing as the inside. If you feel the same, this post is for you!

A flower box (or window box) is a narrow box, made of various materials, in which flowers and other plants are grown. They are often placed on an outside windowsill.

I’ve gathered some of my favorite flower boxes to share with you all here today. If you’re looking to add style and color to your home, this is a great place to start!

Flower Box Favorites

This rustic flower box comes in many different sizes and is perfect for fans of the Fixer Upper look!

Insert succulents, grasses or your favorite blooms for year-round color and style.

As usual, leave it to IKEA to come up with a design that’s simple, design-forward and well-priced.

Their ASKHOLMEN flower box is adjustable, sustainable, and made from durable acacia, a naturally sturdy hardwood perfect for outdoor use due to the high density of it’s wood fibers.

Looking for a mixed materials flower box at a reasonable price point? This galvanized flower box may be just what you’re looking for!

It comes in several designs and the wooden construction is lightweight (but sturdy) and comes fully assembled with removable interior plastic liner.

If you’re looking for a more traditional window box with GREAT amazon reviews, this is one to consider!

It’s made of stainless steel with an antique copper finish (hand-applied) for universal appeal that works well with many house designs. Their craftsmanship and quality are hard to beat.

Lastly, Hayneedle is a great resource for window boxes in various styles and price points!

Lastly, this book, How to Window Box, is the perfect primer if you’re new to planting and designing creative flower boxes. It’s not overwhelmingly long, it just shares lots of how-tos and inspiration for making window box designs that wow!

“This genius, compact little book is a colorful (and meticulous) how-to guide for creating gorgeous indoor and outdoor window boxes.” Real Simple

Herbal Plants & Decorative Plants for Your Kitchen

October 1, 2018

Plant decor is popping up everywhere in the home and in all styles and sizes. Whether you’re a lover of herbal plants, you’re looking to add a fun home decor element, or you’re even wanting to purify your air, a low maintenance plant is the perfect addition to your kitchen.

There are many ways to incorporate a plant to your culinary space, regardless of how big or small your kitchen may be. Some ideas include:

Place in a macrame plant hanger
Add a geometric pot to your counter or kitchen island
Hang from the ceiling in a vintage basket
Add a potted plant to your open shelving

Experiment to find what option works best for your taste and kitchen space. If you lack counter space, a hanging plant may be your best bet.

When it’s time to choose the type of herbal plants or decorative plants, Kitchen Cabinet Kings has a helpful in-depth guide and visual to the 11 best plants for your kitchen.

It includes details on how much sunlight and water each plant needs, if you’re looking for a low maintenance option. Luckily, you won’t need a green thumb to keep most of these kitchen and herbal plants thriving!

Herbal Plants & Decorative Plants

ENGLISH IVY

The English ivy will grow lush long vines full of dark green leaves indoors just as easily as outdoors. The most important aspect of growing the English ivy indoors is light. It prefers bright filtered light, but it can survive in lower light conditions if necessary.

When watering the plant, check the soil first. Make sure it is dry to the touch before watering, and let the soil dry out on the top before watering it again.

ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is one of the easiest plants to care for. In fact, they thrive when they’re left alone. Aloe vera plants can certainly grow in partial shade near a window or sliding glass door, but they do best with as much light as possible.

During the summer, water once every couple weeks when the soil dries out. Water even less in the winter.

WHITE JASMINE

White jasmine grows easily indoors, working well in a hanging basket or clay pot. They are known for their bright white fragrant blossoms that will fill your kitchen with rich smells.

During the spring and summer months, white jasmine will need as much as light as possible, but during the winter months it can tolerate less light. Keep the soil moist during the summer and let keep it dry in the winter months.

CHINESE EVERGREEN

The Chinese evergreen is a durable plant that will thrive with very little care. They thrive in medium to low light conditions and prefer moderate watering. Be sure not to overwater, as that will lead to root rot. Place it on an empty space on your counter and enjoy the added touch of green.

AFRICAN SPEAR

The African spear plant produces unique spear-like growth which can be braided similar to lucky bamboo. The African spear is light tolerant but prefers bright filtered light.

It’s also drought-tolerant, but will do best when watered once every two weeks. Put it in your windowsill over your sink and watch as this strange plant thrives.

HEARTLEAF PHILODENDRON

The heartleaf philodendron works well as a hanging plant or table centerpiece. Its dark green heart-shaped leaves makes it a very elegant looking plant. It does best in medium light conditions but can survive low light conditions.

When watering, allow the top half of the soil to dry out first, then water lightly.

FIDDLE LEAF FIG

The fiddle leaf fig is a tough plant that can adapt to its environment. It’s a large plant that can grow to be six feet tall in the right conditions. Set it up in the corner of your kitchen or dining room and let it add some greenery to an otherwise empty space.

It prefers bright light by a sunny window but it can tolerate shady areas, too. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Water it thoroughly, allowing the water to run out of the drainage holes at the bottom, then let the soil dry out before watering again.

STRING OF PEARLS

The string of pearls succulent is a perennial vine that produces small sphere foliage. Hang it over your sink or in a bright area of your kitchen. It does best with bright light but it can survive with a lot of fluorescent lighting.

Water only when the soil dries out and then water thoroughly, allowing the water to soak through the entirety of the soil.

DEVIL’S IVY

Devil’s ivy, also known as golden pothos, is a fast growing vine that produces waxy heart-shaped foliage. It’s a highly drought-tolerant plant, but prefers being watered about once every one to two weeks.

When watering, let the soil soak completely until the water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Devil’s ivy grows well in shady areas, with some filtered sunlight.

ZZ PLANT

The ZZ plant gets its name from its botanical name, Zamioculcas zamiifolia. This plant is virtually indestructible, preferring moderate indirect light but can tolerate extremely low levels of light.

This makes it perfect for a dark spot in your kitchen that could use a decorative touch. Less is more when it comes to watering the ZZ plant, it’s able to survive months without watering.

PEACE LILY

The peace lily is a longtime favorite of homeowners as it is an overall easy plant to care for and rewards its owners with bright white blossoms when healthy. It’s also on NASA’s list of Top Ten Household Air Cleaning Plants for its ability to break down toxic gases like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

The peace lily prefers medium, indirect light and should be placed about six to eight feet away from the closest window. Knowing when to water the peace lily is easy, just pay attention to when it starts to droop and then give it a drink.

Within hours, it will perk right back up. Place the peace lily on a counter, end table or as a floor plant in your kitchen and reap its aesthetic and air-purifying benefits.

Pick a few of your favorite herbal plants & decorative plants from above based on the level of light in your kitchen and how often you’re available to water them, and stop by your local nursery to liven up your kitchen.

Thanks for reading all about Herbal Plants & Decorative Plants for Your Kitchen. Have a lovely day!

Tips & Tricks

Geometric Decor Ideas for the Home

September 20, 2018

Love the look of geometric decor? Today, I’m sharing ideas and inspiration for geometric home decor! Read on to see how you can add this modern and fun style to your own home!

Geometric decor is popping up in homes in small and large doses! You can normally find trendy designs splashed across walls or woven into baskets. Furniture and rooms with geometric decor features lots of sharp lines and unique shapes and patterns.

Throwing in some thoughtful elements here and there is a great route to take so you can you don’t overwhelm guests with a room full of heavy patterns!

For example, you can style a plain couch with a mix of geometric pillows in a variety of coordinated colors. A cohesive color palette paired neutral surroundings greatly balance out any bold patterns, even if they don’t directly “match.”

This combination of bold and subdued can really amp up your style in any room! Mixing this design element with other pops of patterns can greatly pull a room together.

Another way to keep a nice balance with your geometric style is by mixing textures and fabric! Soft pillow cases with bold patterns contrast well with other furniture made of natural material like wood and wicker.

Metallic and more industrial pieces also work well with geometric style. For example, more industrial and exposed lamps usually ushers in a unique look.

Try experimenting with different sizes and shapes for your lamp shade along with fun light bulb shapes and colors! This can especially elevate your living room or bedroom decor.

Other ways you can incorporate a more modern feel with an industrial style is by using metallic mirrors in different shapes. You’ll easily find round mirrors at most stores and these pieces can effortlessly blend in to any part of your room. If you want a more distinct look, try getting a mirror in a funky shape!

Beautiful sunburst mirrors, for instance, still take on a round center, but create a beautiful focal point with their (literally) outstanding shape and shiny material. You can also find mirrors that resemble gems, geodes and puzzle pieces.

If you’re still looking for more industrial geometric decor, consider using pieces made of concrete or stone! These natural materials can work well if you find pieces that are smooth, clean and even have room for a few enhancements. You can add a patterned placemat to a stone table or add some fresh plants or flowers in a concrete planter. You’re only limited by your own creativity!

You don’t always need to go out and find geometric pieces. With a little creativity and some patience, you can actually create a few pieces at home! DIY geometric decor is great if you want to have complete control over your home decor and add some personal flair to your rooms!

Wall space is a great area to start. You can paint a few clean lines on your wall to create a contemporary focal point for your living room. You can also draw, print out or design a few shapes and patterns for some contemporary geometric wall art!

There are lots of free patterns available online that can match any home decor style and give you some inspiration. If you’re feeling really crafty, you can even put together some simple wall shelves in simple shapes, like square and triangles, so you can artfully display your plants and trinkets to your friends!

With so many options to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start! ProFlowers put together a few ideas for including geometric decor in your home! They gathered a few different rooms and pulled out decor elements from a couple so you can see how to get the look.

Their guide also has a handful of styling tips so you can see how you can mix and match different elements. Take a look at their visual guide to see what ideas you can take away for your home!

Thanks for reading all about Geometric Decor Ideas for the Home. Have a great day!

Tips & Tricks

DIY Cat Tree and Three Other DIY Projects for Cat Lovers

September 17, 2018

Who says DIY has to be difficult? Check out these easy DIY projects, including a DIY Cat Tree, your cats will love, whether you own one cat or a full clowder! Your feline friend will surely love you even more!

Cats are taking over the world. In the United States alone, more than 36 million households own at least one feline friend, and many have two or more. The world has gone cat crazy, and for all of us crazy cat ladies (and guys!), that is a wonderful thing.

Whether your cat spends his time lounging in the sun or she prefers to be tucked away in a dark corner, your purr machine deserves some special treats and TLC from time to time. After all, they are part of the family, right?

Sure, you could go to the pet store or even do some online shopping to get new toys, furniture and other goodies for your cat, but why do all that when you can make something extra special with your own two hands?

There are a lot of DIY projects out there for cats, and it is easy to find something that is suitable for just about any skill and experience level.

If you love getting your hands dirty but don’t have a whole lot of DIY experience, here are some simple projects even the most finicky felines are sure to love!

A Real DIY Cat Tree

Forget the so-called cat trees from the pet store! Bring the outdoors into your home by building your own tree using a large branch from your backyard. A small tree also works well. You need something with multiple branches that are sturdy enough to hold your cat’s weight.

Scrape off the outer layer of bark and remove any small limbs and twigs. You will be left with a couple large main beams that will form your cat tree. Seal the wood and let dry.

Attach a base and shelves using strong lag bolts. Once everything is assembled, put your tree in your living room, and let your cat’s natural instincts go wild!

Cat Shelves

If you don’t have the space for a full-size cat tree or you are wanting to tackle a project that is a bit simpler, install cat shelves. All you need are some sturdy shelves, carpet, and double-sided tape. If you’re looking for a great deal on shelves, Ikea’s EKBY JÄRPEN shelves get the job done and look great. Win-win!

Install the shelves according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the ones you choose are strong enough to support your cat’s weight and buy several to give your fur-baby a lot of area to roam and explore. Arrange them in a pattern that allows your furry friend to easily climb from one to the next.

Once the shelves are up, attach carpet to the top of each using strong double-sided tape. The carpet may also be permanently affixed using glue, but using tape ensures that the carpet can be removed and replaced easily when it gets dirty or becomes damaged.

Self-Petting Station

Have a friendly feline that just can’t seem to get enough attention? Make a petting station to give her a way to get the pets she’s craving even when you’re busy with other things like working, cooking, or, of course, cleaning the litter box.

To get started, you’ll need a board that measures roughly 12” x 12,” a small 1” x 1” x 1” wood cube, carpet, Gorilla Glue, two (new) toilet bowl brushes, a drill and drill bits and a yardstick.

Remove the toilet brushes from their handles and straighten. Next, drill a hole through your block of wood. Apply glue to one end of each brush and insert through the block. This turns your two smaller brushes into one longer one. Let dry.

While the brushes are drying, attach the carpet to the larger board using Gorilla Glue. Line your yardstick up from one corner of the board to the other diagonally and locate the center. Measure 5” from the center on either side and drill a hole.

Now, apply a generous amount of glue to each end of your now-longer brush. Fit the flued ends into the holes on the top of the baseboard to create an arch. Once dry, you will have a self-petting and grooming station your cat will love! Try sprinkling a bit of catnip on the arch to really make your cats go crazy!

T Shirt Cat Tent

If your lap is your cat’s favorite place to curl up, help him feel secure when you are away with a cozy tent made from one of your old blank t shirts. Cat tents are super easy to make and require only a few basic supplies – an old t shirt, a piece of cardboard, tape, safety pins and a couple wire clothes hangers. You’ll also need something to cut and bend the hangers. A large pair of pliers works perfectly.

Start by cutting the hooks off both hangers. Shape the remaining wires into two uniform arches. Next, cut your cardboard down so it measures 12” x 12.” Use some tape to reinforce the edges and make it a bit stronger.

Poke a hole in each corner of the cardboard using the end of one of your hangers. Next, cross the hangers in the middle in an X formation, and tape together to prevent them from shifting. Insert the ends of the hangers through the holes you punched in the cardboard. Bend the ends under, and tape them down.

Pull your shirt over the tent frame, and arrange it so that the neck hole is located in the front center, and the shirt’s bottom is trailing behind. Flip the tent over so the hole is pointing upwards and the bottom of the cardboard is facing you.

Fold up the excess material and tighten it to ensure that the tent is taught. Use safety pins to secure the fabric on the bottom, then safety pin the t shirts sleeves to the sides of the tent. Keep tucking and pinning until everything is nice and secure.

That’s it! Your cat now has a stylish tent that smells just like his favorite person – you!

Thanks for reading all about our DIY Cat Tree and Three Other DIY Projects for Cat Lovers. Have a great day!

Tips & Tricks

15 unexpected uses for hydrogen peroxide

September 13, 2018

Sometimes, the simplest things truly are the best. hydrogen peroxide, a topical antiseptic and natural sanitizer, can be easily obtained for about a dollar a bottle. It’s time to think outside the medicine cabinet, though, as this simple solution has some clever, and unexpected uses! Today, I’m sharing 15 uses for hydrogen peroxide that may come as a surprise to you…

-Refresh sponges. Sponges have the reputation for being one of the dirtiest things in our homes. Fix that by steeping sponges in a cup of hydrogen peroxide to kill any lingering bacteria. Make sure to rinse it out thoroughly afterwards.

-Disinfect your dishwasher. To disinfect your dishwasher, add 2 oz. of 3% Hydrogen peroxide to your regular washing formula.

-Wash vegetables. Use as a vegetable wash or soak to kill bacteria and neutralize chemicals. Add 1/4 cup 3% H2O2 to a full sink of cold water. Soak light skinned vegetables (such as cabbage) for 20 minutes, thicker skinned vegetables for 30 minutes. Drain, rinse, dry and refrigerate.

-Remove mold from plants. To remove mold from houseplants, mix a pint of water with five tablespoons of 3% hydrogen peroxide or food grade peroxide. Spray your plants with the solution to remove any mold that has accumulated on the leaves.

-Use as a mouthwash. Use a cap full of hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse to help whiten teeth and kill germs that cause bad breath.

-Clean and disinfect toothbrushes. Soak toothbrushes in hydrogen peroxide to kill staph bacteria and other germs.

-Clean toilet bowls. Pour about half a cup of hydrogen peroxide into toilet bowls and let it soak for at least 30 minutes to clean, sanitize and remove stains.

-Use to clean glass surfaces. Spray hydrogen peroxide on dirty mirrors and other glass surfaces to loosen dirt and grime. Wipe away with a clean, lint-free cloth.

-Take a detoxifying bath. If you want to give your bathwater a detoxifying boost, try adding two quarts of peroxide to your bathwater. Soak in the bath for half an hour.

-Disinfect and clean cutting boards. Spray hydrogen peroxide on cutting boards to kill germs and bacteria. Rinse and dry for a clean, ready-to-use cutting surface.

-Clean your refrigerator. Non-toxic hydrogen peroxide is an ideal cleaning tool for your fridge. Apply, let it soak, and wipe clean.

-Clean and whiten grout. Dry your tub thoroughly, then spray it liberally with hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit for a few minutes, then come back and scrub the grout with an old toothbrush. Repeat if necessary.

-Highlight your hair! Add highlights to your hair by diluting the hydrogen peroxide so the solution is 50% peroxide and 50% water. Spray the solution on wet hair to create subtle, natural highlights.

-Clear up acne. Clear acne by applying a little hydrogen peroxide to the infected sites. It will act just the same way it does on wounds, helping to kill the unwanted bacteria and cleansing the area.

-Clean mold. Have a mold problem? Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the site, and then wipe it clean. Hydrogen peroxide is effective against many different types of mold and mildew!

Thanks for reading about 15 unexpected uses for hydrogen peroxide. Have a great day!

crafty things Tips & Tricks

5 Reasons to Start a Blog {and Ways to Make it Successful}

February 20, 2018

People ask me about blogging a lot, so today, I thought I’d share some of what I’ve learned over the past decade. I’m sharing 5 reasons to start a blog, and giving you my best tips and tricks on how to make your blog successful!

how to start a blog and how to make your blog successful

I’m a blogger. It’s part of my identity, as much as being a mom, wife and friend are parts of my existence. People, being inquisitive, and maybe hoping to find parts of themselves in something larger than themselves, often ask about my blog, my journey, and how and why they should join the legions of people who call themselves “bloggers.”

1. Blog to inspire others. Inspiring and encouraging others is one of the best parts of blogging. No matter your blogging topic, if you feel inspired by what you write, others will almost certainly feel inspired by you and maybe even moved to create change in their lives.

Being able to inspire others is a powerful gift, and while there are many ways to inspire, blogging is one of my personal favorites.

viral blog post

2. Blog to earn an income. Earning an income from your blog is doable once you have an engaged audience who finds value in your content. Making money shouldn’t be your main goal in starting a blog, but if you find yourself earning a few dollars from your hobby, all the better.

There are many ways to earn an income from blogging, including sponsored content, affiliate advertising, ad networks, and selling product such as ebooks, online courses, etc.

3. Blog to open doors. Want to become an author? A speaker? Sell your art? Make your mark? Blogging can be a means to an end for all of the above. No matter your goal, blogging can help you get noticed, build a thriving business, or take the next step towards your goal.

4. Blog to help you learn new skills. Blogging helps you become a better writer, listener, and speaker. It helps you acquire computer skills, SEO expertise, and even coding experience. Learning new skills may not be your main reason for wanting to start a blog, but it’s always gratifying to learn something new and gain expertise.

how to start a blog

5. Blog to become happier. This isn’t a sure thing, but it’s quite unlikely that you’ll inspire others, earn an income, have doors open for you, and learn new skills without a boost in your happiness. This is not to say that blogging is always easy; I can definitely attest to the fact that sometimes, blogging feels undeniably not easy.

However, I’ve always found that rising about whatever challenge I’m facing definitely makes me stronger, encouraged, and, yes, happier.

how to make post go viral

You have a blog–congratulations! Now, let’s turn to easy and doable ways to make it successful. Here are some of my top tips and posts:

Here, are some tips and tricks from top bloggers. I love learning from those who are in the business with me and thriving–hope their advice helps you, too!

In this post, I share 16 Pinterest tips that grew my traffic by 450%. Pinterest is an important part of my blogging strategy, and should be one of yours, as well.

If you’re starting from scratch, this post shares ideas on how to build a blog!

Thanks for reading all about 5 Reasons to Start a Blog {and Ways to Make it Successful}! Have a lovely day!

Tips & Tricks

10 reasons why you should replace your windows

December 28, 2017

Believe it or not, there’s a lot to consider when determining whether or not to replace your windows. Today, I’m taking you through some things you may not have thought of as you consider replacement windows for your home.

Simplify the Process of Buying Windows

Windows take the brunt of nature’s sometimes harsh elements and like any other item in your home, they can begin to show the unsightly signs of wear and tear. Selecting the perfect windows can be an enormous task to take on, with many of us avoid the issue – until its staring us in the face when we leave for work in the morning.

With a great deal to consider, from materials to glazing options, we’ve created this guide to take you through the steps needed to help you select high-quality products that stand the test of time and transform the appearance of your home!

If you would like help in finding windows which are aesthetically, functionally and economically right for you, continue reading.

Top Benefits of New Windows

Although we may rarely think about it, windows serve many purposes, they let in sunlight, organically heat our homes and provide all important ventilation – life could get pretty stuffy without windows, not to mention the rise in vitamin D deficiency!

Most modern windows will provide these benefits, but not all windows are made equal, the level of security, energy efficiency and noise reduction varies depending on the type of window you select.

Improving Your Home Security

Window suppliers understand how important security is for peace and mind, this is why security is considered throughout the entire process – from manufacturing all the way to installation. In order to provide the most protection for your home, consider products which adhere to the ‘Secured by Design’ scheme, a police initiative which aims to reduce crime by enhancing physical and home security, also look out for products which are highly certified by the British Standard Institute.

Windows with these accreditations will provide an elevated level of safety through the use of high-quality technology, such as reinforced materials, force resistant glass and window joint welding. Window security is an important consideration for many of us, with protecting our families, homes and valuable possessions being a priority when looking for new windows.

Saving You Money with Energy Efficiency

Replacing your old windows in favour of new more energy efficient ones will not only reduce your carbon foot print, but can also keep those energy bills down! How much can be skimmed off your energy bill is wholly dependent on the energy grading of your new windows ( A++ – E) and the type of home you own. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a singularly glazed home could save up to £105-£110 each year by converting to A graded double glazed windows.

Greater energy efficiency is achieved by reducing heat loss through windows and boosting its insulation effectiveness – helping you keep your home warm and toasty without much effort. Windows that have been graded by the British Fenestration Rating Council are tested using U -values. These measure how well your windows work at reducing air leakage, heat loss and retaining thermal energy.

Energy efficient windows provide a win-win solution by contributing to making your home more comfortable at a lower economic and environmental cost.

Making Your Home Quieter with Noise Reduction

Busy road keeping you up at night? New windows can help you keep 90-95% of those nuisance sounds at bay. Sounds enter our homes through various sources, common culprits include noise from cars, aircraft and neighbours. Consistent bombardment of these noises can not only be extremely irritating but in some circumstances, can negatively impact your health.

The degree of sound proofing achieved differs depending on the window you choose; some options include double glazing and secondary glazing. Homeowners who choose to soundproof their home using new windows, benefit from making their homes more attractive to potential buyers if they ever decide to sell.

Why You Might Need New Windows

With so many different windows on the market, all of which provide a diverse range of benefits, an important step in choosing windows which work wonders, is having a clear idea of what problems you’d like your windows to tackle.

Draught – A constant draught can cause serious discomfort, old, improperly installed or poorly maintained windows can lead to cold air seeping into your home. Extra glazing can help ensure your window glass is snugly fitted to your frames.

Rotting Wood – Rain is unavoidable, but rotting windows seals are. Water damage to your windows can not only cause rot but can also create damp within your home! Choose to nip this problem in the bud by converting over to PVCu windows and you might save a pretty penny.

Faulty Windows – Windows which are difficult to open and close are not only bothersome but can also suggest vulnerability. Get a health check of your windows to find out if they may need replacing.

High Energy Bills – The reality of eye-watering high heating bills, is enough to prompt many people to finally upgrade their windows to a more energy efficient type.

Modernisation – Many people choose to replace their old windows simply to modernise the look and feel of their homes – and also add value to their property!

Pinpointing the problems you’d like solve can go a long way in helping you find a suitable replacement windows option.

Knowing Your Window Options

Choosing a window style is a crucial step when considering purchasing new windows and replacing the ones you currently have. Windows make a dramatic difference to the appearance of your home and more importantly how you feel about the way your home looks. You’ll receive the best results from your new windows, by selecting glass and frames which complement the style and architecture of your home, whilst also being functionally practical.

Window Frame Materials

PVCu

PVCu is the most common material used for window replacement, not only is the material cheaper than timber and aluminium alternatives, it is also has fantastic insulation abilities for heat and against sound. Durable and long lasting, high-grade PVCu provides excellent security for your home, with little or no maintenance. PVCu provides a host of benefits however, in terms of style fluidity for traditional homes, PVCu may not always be the best aesthetic choice.
As window technology has improved over the last 30 years since PVCu windows came into popularity, the material is now functionally suitable for most homes in the United Kingdom.

Timber & Wooden Windows

Wooden framed and timber windows are classic, classy and timeless, they can give your home a certain charm that will make your neighbours envious. Wooden and timber windows are also functionally beneficial, homeowners who choose wooden frames are protected against heat loss and external sound. A level of upkeep is needed when selecting wooden framed windows, as an organic material, they can begin to rot without paint or treatment, however with proper care they can last a life time.

Aluminium Windows

The less well-known option of the three, aluminium windows are attractive to some home owners as they are light weight and flexible whilst remaining sturdy. Aluminium is easily manipulated and is a good option for homes with unusually shaped windows. Like PVCu they require little upkeep and are very affordable, however as a conductive material they are not the most energy efficient option.

Window Glazing

Like frames, the glazing option you choose will determine how effective your new windows will be at providing the three core benefits mentioned previously. Depending on your supplier you may also have the option of choosing the type of glass you would like, these can range from low emissivity glass, which lets more sunlight into your home, decorative and patterned glass or even self-cleaning glass – so you no longer have to spend your days off scrubbing your windows.

Double Glazing

Double glazing is the process of fitting two panes of glass with space in-between. It provides the following benefits:

• Retains heat efficiently to keep you warm in the winter, but also insulates your home against powerful sun rays in the summer – keeping your home at the perfect temperature.

• Good at protecting your home against external noise. The space between the two panes and the thickness of the glass means double glazed units provide some noise reducing properties.

• This option is the best at reducing condensation. Double glazing protects against mould and damp by reducing condensation build up in your windows.

Triple Glazing

Triple glazing is the process of fitting an extra pane of glass to your window, so you will have a total of 3 panes of glass. It provides the following benefits:
• Lowest U-Value compared to other glazing options, which means it is the best at reducing heat loss and the most environmentally friendly option.

• Fantastic for homes in cold climates, triple glazing provides the best heat insulation properties. In terms of your energy bill, over time triple glazing may be the best option for your piggy bank.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is the process of adding an extra framed glass or a ‘second window’ within your existing frames. It provides the following benefits:

• This option best for you if sound reduction is your biggest concern. Secondary glazed units provide the most protection against sound, with some units reducing sound by up to 90%.

• Convenient & Cost Effective. Windows are not required to replaced for secondary glazing, this means the process is often less time consuming and cheaper than full replacement.

Choosing the Right Supplier

There are a few things we recommend you look out for when buying new windows or doors to ensure you receive the best quality products and an outcome that you are happy with. Suppliers dedicated to customer care typically hold membership to regulatory bodies such as FENSA and are trusted traders with organisations such as Which and Checkatrade.

Many window supplier and instalment companies provide deals and offers to their customers, ask your supplier about any deals they may have to keep costs down. Suppliers can also help you protect your investment by offering guarantees up to 10 years, you can find out more about what this includes by discussing it with your window replacement supplier.

Out with the Old in with the New

Windows can alter the look and feel of your home, making a home you’ve lived in for year feel almost brand new! New windows are an investment that can pay off beautifully when you have properly considered which option suits your needs. To help you choose wisely, receive the best outcome and realise what you have always imagined your home should look like, we recommend you consult with a reputable supplier.

Wondering where you can buy new windows for your home? Contact Bennbrook Windows, as one of the largest UK regional suppliers of windows, doors & conservatories, you can count on us for top quality products, speedy installation and excellent after care for long lasting and effective results. Call for a quote on 01992 574 555.

Tips & Tricks

50+ Easy Ways to Organize Your Home

December 21, 2017

Happy week-before-Christmas, friends! Like many of you, my thoughts this time of year always turn to ways to declutter and organize my home. I love an efficient, tidy and well-organized space (who doesn’t?), and in today’s post, I’m sharing 50 ways to accomplish this through easy organization ideas!