A study by Clydesdale & Yorkshire Banks reported 30% of people in the UK are planning to move home in the next 12 months which is more than three times the level at the peak of the recession. It also represents the biggest rise since October 2008.

Homeowners in the South East appear to be more optimistic than other parts of the country, with 40% indicating a desire to move home. This compares to 22% of those surveyed in Scotland.

As double-glazing and conservatories specialists based in the Billericay area, we believe many people are contemplating the idea of releasing equity in their home and downsizing to have more money in the bank, especially in the current economic climate. This is especially true of people as they reach retirement age.

In our experience, properties which need considerable renovations including new windows and doors or conservatories added to make more space, are also highly favourable at the moment as they enable people to purchase their dream home much cheaper if they are willing to put in the extra work themselves.

This research found many of those planning to move home are doing so out of necessity with more than a third citing a change in circumstances. A total of 27% said the allure of a dream home bargain would spur them to move while a further 14% are relocating and 10% are expanding their family.

Steve Reid, Retail Director for Clydesdale Bank, said: “It is greatly encouraging for the property market that more people are clearly keen to move but, of course, there is still natural caution in the market.

“It’s understandable that many people will have put off moving in the last couple of years so the potential demand is there – but the conditions will have to be right for the individual housebuyer to see that demand translate into a move.”

He added: “Changing circumstance and the chance to land a dream house are clearly in the sights of a growing number of potential housebuyers but the price of a new property will have to be right.”

To read the full story about the research, click here.

A survey carried out by the Energy Saving Trust looked at “trigger points” – occasions when residents would consider installing insulation and other measures which will save them money on their bills.

The research found 22% of UK householders are planning or thinking about a major refurbishment project in the next three years.

Seven out of 10 householders upgrading a room are interested in implementing energy-saving measures as part of the work. And of this number, 90% admitted they would be tempted to increase their budget by up to 10% to incorporate some form of energy-saving measures as part of the works (between £527 and £1,027).

David Weatherall, strategy manager – housing for the Energy Saving Trust, said: “Few people have the time, money or even confidence to take on a full eco-refurbishment, but our research clearly shows there’s a massive opportunity to tap the potential of step-by-step energy efficiency changes alongside other refurbishment projects. It’s essentially a case of ‘when we’ve got someone in, we might as well do a bit of green stuff.

He added: “The key issue now is to make sure people get the right advice at the right time, pitched at the right level. For example, how can a customer be persuaded to use the upgrade of a kitchen to address energy efficiency needs of the house at the same time? What should the builder be advising their client? And what does the householder need to hear to be persuaded to use this opportunity and trust the builder?”

The report found there is less uptake of the larger eco-refurbishment measures such as solid wall or floor insulation, even though this would considerably lower energy bills. Reluctance to endure the disruption as well as lack of knowledge is blamed as one of the reasons why easier methods are not taken up.

The report found homeowners were instead motivated by the desire to improve the aesthetics of their home and for functional reasons, such as requiring more space.

For the full report, click here.

Rising energy costs are prompting architects to improve the environmental performance of buildings, new research shows.

A survey by construction industry specialists Glenigan found that reducing energy consumption through methods such as improved insulation was a major reason behind the drive to build greener homes.

A total of 70% of the 6,000 architects surveyed reported that reducing carbon emissions of the building in operation was a significant issue. Daily operations of buildings account for 43% of the UK’s total carbon emissions.

The research also found that 87% of architects believe that specifying materials to conserve energy when designing a building with a low environmental impact is highly important while 94% said they would specify more such material over the next two years.

In addition, 86% of respondents believed the higher, upfront costs to be the main barrier between creating more environmentally-friendly products.

Glenigan said public sector clients were reported to be more demanding in terms of improving environmental performance, according to 74% of respondents. This compares to only 32% of commercial property developers.

According to 70% of the respondents, Government policy is responsible for increasing consumer demand for more energy efficient buildings.

Martin, from Dual Glaze, said: “Homeowners are reflecting society trends in demanding more environmentally-conscious products and buildings but we must not forget that the current economic climate, with rising energy bills, means many consumers cannot afford to lose money on wasted energy.

“Although installing energy-efficient products such as double glazing can seem daunting at first because of the upfront cost, it is important to remember that householders will more than recoup that initial outlay with cheaper bills.”

The Energy Saving Trust says double glazing cuts heat loss through windows by half and installing its recommended double glazing could save around £130 every year on your heating bills.

Double glazing works by trapping air between two panes of glass, which creates an insulating barrier that reduces heat loss, noise and condensation.

Click here to read Glenigan‘s research.

It doesn’t matter how large our home, we’re never completely satisfied with the space it offers and constantly look for ways to open out our living space.

There are a number of ways of creating the illusion of space which go beyond the traditional technique of strategically-placed mirrors.

In recent years, knocking down the wall which separates the kitchen from the dining room to create a “living kitchen” has become extremely popular. In fact, many new homes are now designed in this way, especially barn conversions and factory/loft style renovations.

But you don’t always need to invite the builders in as there are other methods of creating space and light in your home.

Bi-fold doors are becoming hugely popular in homes as well as restaurants for their modern, aesthetic appearance and also because of their ability to open up a room to the outside. British weather is temperamental at best and Bi-fold doors are a great way of ensuring your customers enjoy a rare sunny day without you forking out for lots of expensive outdoor furniture that never gets used.

Bi-fold doors are simply folding doors which fold in or out to open up a space and allow you wider openings to your conservatory, patio or swimming pool.
 
Bi-fold doors are remarkably easy to operate with a simple stainless steel tracking system running along panels and are manufactured in aluminium or timber with a range of styles, textures and shapes.

Any home or commercial outlet can benefit from Bi-fold doors whether modern or classical. Doors can be glazed with standard, toughened, laminated or double glazed.

The doors can be installed with either internal or external opening door leafs and have slim panels so you have more glass and more light.

DualGlaze offers a full range of purposely-designed Bi-fold doors to suit any home or commercial property. For more information call us on 01268 534189.

When we move to a new home, most people like to put their own stamp on the property and give it makeover.

If the property has been recently built, the changes will probably be minimal and more for aesthetic purposes than anything else such as gravelling a driveway or redecorating internal walls.

However, if the property is several years old, such as a barn conversion or a cottage, alterations may be necessary to maintain heat and ensure the home is adequately protected in bad weather.

If you’re purchasing a property several years old it is worth getting a structural survey carried out to identify whether windows need replacing or not. If you’re already living in the property and are in doubt whether they need to be repaired, the simple check list below will help.

It isn’t just age that determines whether a window needs replacing or not as some windows last longer than others depending on the quality of the glass used and the way it has been fitted.

Do my windows need replacing?

1. If during the winter you find it impossible to maintain a comfortable temperature, even though your heating is seemingly on non-stop, then you may need to consider better quality windows to keep the elements out and also keep your energy bills down. Energy efficient glazing will keep your house warmer and quieter.
2. Signs of rot on frames and chipped wood or discolouration can be a good indication that the window is approaching its sell-by date.
3. Windows should open and close easily and if they become stiff and require a lot of force to do either, it could mean the windows are warped.
4. If your windows get fogged up on cold mornings, this can indicate a seal failure and it is wise to get an expert opinion as to whether they need replacing.
5. Do you hear excessive noise through your windows such as traffic and the wind? Again this could indicate the seal is broken and the current glass quality is not sufficient for your needs.

Windows do not always need to be replaced in the circumstances above and on occasions repairs can be sufficient to fix the problem.

If you have suffered damage to your window frame, cracked or broken glass or misting in your sealed unit, you can request for DualGlaze’s selected repairer to take a look.

The best time to consider buying replacement windows is in spring or Autumn. Having them installed will leave your home open to the elements for a day and it is better to carry out the project when there is a better chance of dry weather.

If you want to incorporate more space into your home whether it’s to cater for your family’s growing needs or simply to create an additional social space, a conservatory is often seen as an easier, low-cost alternative to a full-blown extension.

But regardless of the size of building work or the materials used, you must still check whether planning permission applies as not all projects – including conservatories – will be exempt from the rules.

There are a number of small developments or improvements to a private home that do not require planning permission and these are referred to as “permitted developments. These projects are allowed to be built so long as you follow certain rules. If in doubt, you can contact your local planning authority to request a document called a Lawful Development Certificate which confirms that your building work is permitted.

However, most professional window and conservatory companies such as DualGlaze Services Ltd will be fully aware of which projects fall within the rules and those which do not and can advise you accordingly.

The Government’s planning website says the size, position and distance to the boundaries of your property dictate whether your conservatory needs planning permission or not.

Conservatories are normally exempt from building regulations when they are built at ground level and are less than 30sq m in floor area. They should also be separated from the house by external quality walls, doors or windows, contain an independent heating system with separate temperature controls and glazing and fixed electrical installations should comply with the applicable building regulations requirements.

However, if you want to create a new structural opening such as a door or increase the distance between the conservatory and the house you will need approval.

Whether you require planning permission or not for your conservatory, it is best to inform your neighbours of any building work set to take place to maintain good relations.

For more information on conservatories and planning permission, click here or contact DualGlaze for advice.

Irrespective of how happy we might feel about our home, all of us at some stage will consider making improvements whether it’s redecorating, increasing living space or just freshening up what is already there.

But before we embark on any changes, especially if they are fairly dramatic, we can’t help but wonder whether we are going to recoup the cost of that expenditure later down the line when we come to sell our home. This is especially true if this is a first home and we’re hoping to climb the property ladder in the near future.

The good news about conservatories is that they not only enhance the aesthetics of your home and give you a new space to enjoy with your family, they also add monetary value and if it’s a contest between selling your property and something similar down the road without a conservatory, yours will win every time.

According to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), building a conservatory on your home can increase its value by as much as 5%. Other research shows that by the time you come to sell your property, you will recoup the full cost of building the conservatory in the first place which makes it a well worthwhile venture.

A conservatory is a low-cost alternative to building an extension and depending on the design and measurements may not even require planning permission.

It will provide you with a unique selling point but think carefully before choosing a design. Don’t sacrifice all your outside space as your home will look out of proportion and families wanting a garden will be put off. Similarly, think carefully about its position. A south-facing garden could become overheated unless you install adequate ventilation and shade whereas a north-facing room could become chilly in the winter and will need good heating.

Seek expert help from a conservatory specialist such as Dual Glaze before committing to a design to ensure you get everything you want out of your new space.

THINGS TO ASK YOURSELF

What you will be using the conservatory for.

How much of the garden will the conservatory take up – can you afford to take a large quantity of your garden to gain a room.

Budget.

Deciding on the size – to get a feel for what floor space you require, use a large room inside your home, using two of its walls (these will be the internal edges of your conservatory) and measure out from these walls the floor space you feel you need.

Adequate ventilation – by just having a couple of opening windows would not be anywhere near sufficient to providing good ventilation throughout the year. The best type of opening windows are fanlights.  Depending on the size of your conservatory, have as many as possible and if you can combine this with a roof vent, all the better for optimum ventilation, this will help keep the temperature at a comfortable level during the summer.

Using a company that personally comes recommended is always the best choice of company to use.  Being members of FENSA, Trust Mark (Government Endorsed Standards), GGF (Glass & Glazing Federation) and BFRC (the UK’s national system for rating Energy Efficient Windows) is another sure way you are dealing with a reliable and trustworthy company.

Here at Dual Glaze Services we know how important it is to save energy and the plant, we can help you to do this whilst saving money! Here are some tips and facts to think about that can make your house environmentally friendly and also your wallet!

First of all do you know how much heat is lost from your home, which is costing you money and harming the earth? According to the Energy Saving Trust, 26% of heat is lost through the roof, 33% is lost through the walls, 18% is lost through the windows, 11% is lost through the floor and the door and 12% is lost due to draughts and ventilation! We install thermally efficient windows and doors that will dramatically cut harmful CO2 emissions. Also our PVCu is lead free and fully recyclable ensuring you take a long term environmental view. This will all keep heat in the home, cutting down on the loss of money and heat!

I’ll be giving you some for facts about money and energy saving in the blogs to come, for now if you know of any don’t be afraid to comment!