Windows and doors can often be forgotten about when re-decorating. An old door may be lacking in security and could put your home at risk, and with an extensive range of designs ad styles, a bi-fold door may be the ticket to enhancing your quality of life. New windows offer a host of benefits – smooth operation, lower maintenance, fewer drafts and they can add a new element of light to those darker spaces in the room. Not to mention their energy saving qualities. So, what are the best ways to prepare yourselves if you want any of these home improvements….
In some rare circumstances, (such as being in a conservation area) it might be worth checking if you need planning permission. When you get the go-ahead from local authorities, it’s time to look into exactly what you want.
Getting ideas: Search the internet for blogs, forums and online showrooms of products. Envisage what would suit your home, whilst bearing in mind your price range. There are so many different styles, materials, colours and designs out there – so have a good look around and find your preference. Bi-folding doors can be the main feature of a room, they can visually connect you to your garden and flood a room with natural light. They also add a ‘wow factor’ to your home with their cool, modern designs. When it comes to windows, it’s good to know exactly why you want to change them – it can help your final decision. For example, if you want to improve your energy costs, look at different glazing types. If you just want to freshen up the image of your home, check out a range of designs and decide which one you like the most.
With budgets and ideas in mind, take your influences to a designer. The manufacturing and fitting of the product can be an exciting process, so get involved as much as you can and make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for.
If you’ve hired a professional to come to your home, it’s useful to set some time to prepare for their arrival and work. Contractors will try their best to be neat, but there are a few things you can do to help the process. Make sure you clear the way – there should be space around the window or door area for the contractor to work. The removal of furniture and household items prior to the work-date can save time. Take down anything surrounding the affected area – curtains, shutters, blind and ornaments must be vacated to create a free workspace. Finally, cover your floors and with old sheets and drop cloths. The house can often become messy with dirt and dust, so it’s good to get a head-start with the cleaning so you can enjoy your new features straight away!
