Anna Preston 's Entries

• 23 Aug 2019
  How To Declutter To Move In With A New Beau

  Tips, tricks and handy advice to help you downsize your stuff ready for a big move with a brand new beau. Moving in with a new partner is a very exciting time as you leave the single life behind and start a brand new phase with a special person. The only problem is, you both have lots of stuff filling out where you live now, and realistically, you'll both only be able to take half of that into your new shared home. So, how do you strip your things down ready to move in with a new beau? Here are our top tips to help you get ready for this huge life change: Together, Write a List Of Everything A House Needs It may sound basic, but writing a list of everything you need for a house will help you form a basis for knowing what can be taken from either of your homes, and what needs to be bought. Gain An Understanding Of 'Sticking Points' There will be items that you both want to move into your new place, but only one person's item can fit. Once you know which items are sticking points, such as sofas and beds, you can negotiate and discuss those items. Perhaps you're willing to sell your sofa as long as you get to keep your bed. Knowing the sticking points gives you the ability to work together to move forward with a decision. Help Each Other Declutter Decluttering can be difficult when you're on your own and you'd rather be doing something else so, it makes sense to help each other declutter. Two hands make light work! Pop some music on, have your partner sit with three boxes and then go through each item they have, asking them if they want to give it to charity, keep or sell. Then they can return the favour for you. Eventually you'll both only own things you really want, or things you use, so you're not bringing clutter to your new place. Buy Yourself Time With Cheap Self Storage Cheap self storage is a secure unit you can rent for short periods of time, or longer periods of time if you need to. You can usually move between different sized of unit easily if your needs change. It might be that your contract is coming to an end in your current property and you and your partner are eager to make the move to a new place together quickly. Cheap self storage is a great option, enabling you to move items you don't want to move to your new place and out of your current rental. It buys you the time to sort through your things in your own time, and to move in with your new love as quickly as you feel you want to. To find out more about typical self storage prices see Storing.com’s price comparison chart. Reuse Items That Don't Have A Place in Your Current Home Maybe you've a desk in your spare room that can be used for a home office in the place you'll be sharing with your partner. Maybe you've a wardrobe and chest of drawers you've never had room to use properly because of an integrated system, but the new house you're moving into needs them. Try to think carefully about items you have stored in the garage, spare room and cheap self storage and how they might be useful in your new place with your partner. Moving in with a partner is so exciting, but the process of downsizing your stuff can be tricky. With such a great reason to let go of your clutter, hopefully the process won't be too stressful. Remember to work together, keep your eye on the end result, and enjoy the process of decluttering, which can be a therapeutic process for some. Soon enough you'll both be enjoying your new place together, making memories in this new chapter of life as a couple.

  1005 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How To Declutter To Move In With A New Beau

  Tips, tricks and handy advice to help you downsize your stuff ready for a big move with a brand new beau. Moving in with a new partner is a very exciting time as you leave the single life behind and start a brand new phase with a special person. The only problem is, you both have lots of stuff filling out where you live now, and realistically, you'll both only be able to take half of that into your new shared home. So, how do you strip your things down ready to move in with a new beau? Here are our top tips to help you get ready for this huge life change: Together, Write a List Of Everything A House Needs It may sound basic, but writing a list of everything you need for a house will help you form a basis for knowing what can be taken from either of your homes, and what needs to be bought. Gain An Understanding Of 'Sticking Points' There will be items that you both want to move into your new place, but only one person's item can fit. Once you know which items are sticking points, such as sofas and beds, you can negotiate and discuss those items. Perhaps you're willing to sell your sofa as long as you get to keep your bed. Knowing the sticking points gives you the ability to work together to move forward with a decision. Help Each Other Declutter Decluttering can be difficult when you're on your own and you'd rather be doing something else so, it makes sense to help each other declutter. Two hands make light work! Pop some music on, have your partner sit with three boxes and then go through each item they have, asking them if they want to give it to charity, keep or sell. Then they can return the favour for you. Eventually you'll both only own things you really want, or things you use, so you're not bringing clutter to your new place. Buy Yourself Time With Cheap Self Storage Cheap self storage is a secure unit you can rent for short periods of time, or longer periods of time if you need to. You can usually move between different sized of unit easily if your needs change. It might be that your contract is coming to an end in your current property and you and your partner are eager to make the move to a new place together quickly. Cheap self storage is a great option, enabling you to move items you don't want to move to your new place and out of your current rental. It buys you the time to sort through your things in your own time, and to move in with your new love as quickly as you feel you want to. To find out more about typical self storage prices see Storing.com’s price comparison chart. Reuse Items That Don't Have A Place in Your Current Home Maybe you've a desk in your spare room that can be used for a home office in the place you'll be sharing with your partner. Maybe you've a wardrobe and chest of drawers you've never had room to use properly because of an integrated system, but the new house you're moving into needs them. Try to think carefully about items you have stored in the garage, spare room and cheap self storage and how they might be useful in your new place with your partner. Moving in with a partner is so exciting, but the process of downsizing your stuff can be tricky. With such a great reason to let go of your clutter, hopefully the process won't be too stressful. Remember to work together, keep your eye on the end result, and enjoy the process of decluttering, which can be a therapeutic process for some. Soon enough you'll both be enjoying your new place together, making memories in this new chapter of life as a couple.

  Aug 23, 2019 1005
• 02 Oct 2018
  How To Store Instant Film

  Find out how to store instant film so you protect your precious creative projects from damage and potential theft. Instant photography is slowly making its way back into popularity, which is really exciting for creatives who love this photography medium. Because photographs online are so easily made and shared, people are starting to enjoy single, one off items again which is why vinyl is popular again too. People want things they can hold in their hand. Instant film is incredibly sensitive and full of different chemicals and materials that make it vulnerable to damage if it is stored incorrectly. Some people who have kept film in a box on the shelf have fallen victim to the deterioration of their precious film, usually leading them to get a lot more serious about film storage to avoid it happening in the future. Keep It Cool Some advice is to keep instant film in the fridge but, you can simply use cheap self storage with climate control, such as from Storing.com, and keep the temperatures really cool. It slows down any ageing and preserves the film, unlike hot environments which literally do the reverse. Do be careful to avoid putting the temperature down too low because that can cause the chemicals to crack. Speak to a professional to get an idea of the temperature your film should be stored in. Avoid A Climate That is Too Dry Or Too Wet An environment that is too dry will dry out the film, and one that is too wet will penetrate the film and cause it to become damaged. A neutral self storage environment is ideal for storing instant film.  Avoid Direct Sunlight Direct sunlight is really bad for instant film and it will affect how your images end up looking when they are developed. Any self storage units with windows should have the windows covered to avoid the direct sunlight damaging the instant film. Find out more here. Store The Film Upright Storing film upright protects them from becoming warped or changing in the tones and shades they would be developed in. Film Should Be Protected The environment could be perfect for film but they should be protected inside the unit as well. Keep the film stored upright in a protected labelled box so you don't accidentally crush it under a box of something else. Labelling it will also ensure that you can enter the unit and find exactly what you need without having to rummage through lots of things to find what you need. Keep Your Film Secure How much film is worth depends on the individual. It could have high financial or sentimental value that means it needs additional protection. Cheap self storage helps to ensure your film is: Protected from theft Protected from climate damaged Stays organised Stays protected from children and pets Remains in good condition for many years to come Cheap self storage can be as large or compact as you need it to be and the rates are competitive. Look into self storage for your instant film today, to look after the images of tomorrow.      

  431 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How To Store Instant Film

  Find out how to store instant film so you protect your precious creative projects from damage and potential theft. Instant photography is slowly making its way back into popularity, which is really exciting for creatives who love this photography medium. Because photographs online are so easily made and shared, people are starting to enjoy single, one off items again which is why vinyl is popular again too. People want things they can hold in their hand. Instant film is incredibly sensitive and full of different chemicals and materials that make it vulnerable to damage if it is stored incorrectly. Some people who have kept film in a box on the shelf have fallen victim to the deterioration of their precious film, usually leading them to get a lot more serious about film storage to avoid it happening in the future. Keep It Cool Some advice is to keep instant film in the fridge but, you can simply use cheap self storage with climate control, such as from Storing.com, and keep the temperatures really cool. It slows down any ageing and preserves the film, unlike hot environments which literally do the reverse. Do be careful to avoid putting the temperature down too low because that can cause the chemicals to crack. Speak to a professional to get an idea of the temperature your film should be stored in. Avoid A Climate That is Too Dry Or Too Wet An environment that is too dry will dry out the film, and one that is too wet will penetrate the film and cause it to become damaged. A neutral self storage environment is ideal for storing instant film.  Avoid Direct Sunlight Direct sunlight is really bad for instant film and it will affect how your images end up looking when they are developed. Any self storage units with windows should have the windows covered to avoid the direct sunlight damaging the instant film. Find out more here. Store The Film Upright Storing film upright protects them from becoming warped or changing in the tones and shades they would be developed in. Film Should Be Protected The environment could be perfect for film but they should be protected inside the unit as well. Keep the film stored upright in a protected labelled box so you don't accidentally crush it under a box of something else. Labelling it will also ensure that you can enter the unit and find exactly what you need without having to rummage through lots of things to find what you need. Keep Your Film Secure How much film is worth depends on the individual. It could have high financial or sentimental value that means it needs additional protection. Cheap self storage helps to ensure your film is: Protected from theft Protected from climate damaged Stays organised Stays protected from children and pets Remains in good condition for many years to come Cheap self storage can be as large or compact as you need it to be and the rates are competitive. Look into self storage for your instant film today, to look after the images of tomorrow.      

  Oct 02, 2018 431
• 13 Aug 2018
  How to Incorporate Loud Prints into Your Home Decor, Without Sc

  Find out how to use and enjoy loud and exciting prints in your home without creating a garish aesthetic that does not appeal to your family. Some people love loud and exciting patterns and colours, but they just don't feel able to use them for fear of creating a garish look. It is a little bit like when you go to a friends house and somehow they have a leopard print sofa and it works really well with their decor, but you just know if you tried it, it would be more shriek than chic. You should know that there is a place for patterns in your interiors. They are a great way to add personality, interest and depth to your home and if done right, they won't cause your family to threaten to evict you for the changes you have made. Here are 10 ways to include patterns in your home without scaring your family: Get Creative with Tiling Porcelain tiles (Décor Tiles have a wide selection) are fantastic in neutral shades but they can also be a great entryway into patterns and exciting prints. Vintage tiles or designer floor tiles can come in a wide variety of colours and patterns that look great on a bathroom floor or in a fireplace, without overwhelming the room. If you are searching for some inspiration, look no further. Get a Loud Sofa A printed sofa will work in a neutral room, and it will even bring something wonderful to the room if you dot the accent colours in the pattern around the space. If you are too afraid to get a big patterned sofa, try a cheque sofa or one with a soft pattern on it to easy your way in. Rugs and Pillows are Easily Replaced Rugs and pillows can add a bit of aesthetic jazz to your room without making you permanently agree to the pattern. If the pillow or rug is really not acceptable to your family or you go off it, you can easily return them and get something more neutral. Pillows and rugs are the ideal way to experiment with pattern in the home without putting too much on the line. Get Arty Art is a great way to introduce pattern in an 'acceptable' way because it is creative so, anything goes. You could take some photos yourself of patterned objects and expand crops of those photos for your wall. You could just choose some loud art, or even just a plain cut of a print you love. A leopard print picture framed with a bright or metallic frame would look very cool on any wall. You can introduce pattern into your home easily, you just have to be brave and go at your own pace. Your family may well respond to something new, but, they may come to love it. Even more so, they will probably love your new found creativity and passion for decor. Enjoy yourself and get creative with loud prints so the pattern shouts loud, but your personality shouts louder.    

  444 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How to Incorporate Loud Prints into Your Home Decor, Without Sc

  Find out how to use and enjoy loud and exciting prints in your home without creating a garish aesthetic that does not appeal to your family. Some people love loud and exciting patterns and colours, but they just don't feel able to use them for fear of creating a garish look. It is a little bit like when you go to a friends house and somehow they have a leopard print sofa and it works really well with their decor, but you just know if you tried it, it would be more shriek than chic. You should know that there is a place for patterns in your interiors. They are a great way to add personality, interest and depth to your home and if done right, they won't cause your family to threaten to evict you for the changes you have made. Here are 10 ways to include patterns in your home without scaring your family: Get Creative with Tiling Porcelain tiles (Décor Tiles have a wide selection) are fantastic in neutral shades but they can also be a great entryway into patterns and exciting prints. Vintage tiles or designer floor tiles can come in a wide variety of colours and patterns that look great on a bathroom floor or in a fireplace, without overwhelming the room. If you are searching for some inspiration, look no further. Get a Loud Sofa A printed sofa will work in a neutral room, and it will even bring something wonderful to the room if you dot the accent colours in the pattern around the space. If you are too afraid to get a big patterned sofa, try a cheque sofa or one with a soft pattern on it to easy your way in. Rugs and Pillows are Easily Replaced Rugs and pillows can add a bit of aesthetic jazz to your room without making you permanently agree to the pattern. If the pillow or rug is really not acceptable to your family or you go off it, you can easily return them and get something more neutral. Pillows and rugs are the ideal way to experiment with pattern in the home without putting too much on the line. Get Arty Art is a great way to introduce pattern in an 'acceptable' way because it is creative so, anything goes. You could take some photos yourself of patterned objects and expand crops of those photos for your wall. You could just choose some loud art, or even just a plain cut of a print you love. A leopard print picture framed with a bright or metallic frame would look very cool on any wall. You can introduce pattern into your home easily, you just have to be brave and go at your own pace. Your family may well respond to something new, but, they may come to love it. Even more so, they will probably love your new found creativity and passion for decor. Enjoy yourself and get creative with loud prints so the pattern shouts loud, but your personality shouts louder.    

  Aug 13, 2018 444
• 09 Aug 2018
  How To Pack Shoes For Self Storage Or Moving House

  Find out how to pack shoes for moving house or self storage so they remain undamaged and in great condition until you need access to them again. Some people only have one or two pairs of shoes, some people have hundreds. If you have hundreds of pairs of shoes, or even just 20 or more pairs, you may well find that you need to take special care packing them up for moving house, or for self storage. This is particularly true of expensive or designer shoes, which you really do want to protect so that they maintain their value. How To Pack Your Shoes Padding The key to protecting shoes when packing them away is to use lots of protective padding. It is a great idea to use thick boxes that protect the contents, and then padding to keep the shoes shape. You'll place this padding inside the shoe to ensure it stays in the right shape and doesn't bend in on itself and crease. You can use almost anything to pad the space out, but do take care to watch anything with a print on that could leak its colours into your shoe. Padding around the shoe can be clean and dry towels, bubble wrap or even old clothes that you plan to get rid of. Anything to keep the shoes packed in and protected will work. Weight It is a great idea to place the heaviest shoes on the bottom of the box and the lightest shoes on the top. This stops any crushing happening, and helps to ensure the box is balanced well, avoiding it toppling or breaking in the weakest places. Shoe Preparation It is important to prepare shoes properly so that they store well. Packing them with mud or dirt on, could lead to the materials degrading. You also don't want to get your shoes out of storage to wear, or out of your box to wear at home, only to find that the shoes are dirty and not ready for wear. Just a simple wet wipe down till help to clean the shoes, and perhaps a full machine wash for trainers that need a bit of extra help. Keeping It Dry Of all the things that you can do to ensure your shoes are protected when you pack them, ensuring they are dry is the most important thing. Moisture anywhere near or on your shoes when you pack them could result in all kinds of things you don't want to happen including:  Mould Material rotting Staining Any packing materials you use, and any shoes you pack for moving house or self storage (see Storing.com) need to be completely dry to ensure moisture doesn't wreak havoc on your precious footwear. Packing your shoes may seem like an easy task, but it can be tricky to get right sometimes, especially with expensive shoes that really can't come to any harm. Take your time, look up any specific care instructions for designer shoes, and label the boxes clearly so they don't get thrown around and crushed under heavier boxes. With care and patience when you pack, you will keep the whole collection in amazing condition until the next time you need access to any of your beloved shoes.      

  382 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How To Pack Shoes For Self Storage Or Moving House

  Find out how to pack shoes for moving house or self storage so they remain undamaged and in great condition until you need access to them again. Some people only have one or two pairs of shoes, some people have hundreds. If you have hundreds of pairs of shoes, or even just 20 or more pairs, you may well find that you need to take special care packing them up for moving house, or for self storage. This is particularly true of expensive or designer shoes, which you really do want to protect so that they maintain their value. How To Pack Your Shoes Padding The key to protecting shoes when packing them away is to use lots of protective padding. It is a great idea to use thick boxes that protect the contents, and then padding to keep the shoes shape. You'll place this padding inside the shoe to ensure it stays in the right shape and doesn't bend in on itself and crease. You can use almost anything to pad the space out, but do take care to watch anything with a print on that could leak its colours into your shoe. Padding around the shoe can be clean and dry towels, bubble wrap or even old clothes that you plan to get rid of. Anything to keep the shoes packed in and protected will work. Weight It is a great idea to place the heaviest shoes on the bottom of the box and the lightest shoes on the top. This stops any crushing happening, and helps to ensure the box is balanced well, avoiding it toppling or breaking in the weakest places. Shoe Preparation It is important to prepare shoes properly so that they store well. Packing them with mud or dirt on, could lead to the materials degrading. You also don't want to get your shoes out of storage to wear, or out of your box to wear at home, only to find that the shoes are dirty and not ready for wear. Just a simple wet wipe down till help to clean the shoes, and perhaps a full machine wash for trainers that need a bit of extra help. Keeping It Dry Of all the things that you can do to ensure your shoes are protected when you pack them, ensuring they are dry is the most important thing. Moisture anywhere near or on your shoes when you pack them could result in all kinds of things you don't want to happen including:  Mould Material rotting Staining Any packing materials you use, and any shoes you pack for moving house or self storage (see Storing.com) need to be completely dry to ensure moisture doesn't wreak havoc on your precious footwear. Packing your shoes may seem like an easy task, but it can be tricky to get right sometimes, especially with expensive shoes that really can't come to any harm. Take your time, look up any specific care instructions for designer shoes, and label the boxes clearly so they don't get thrown around and crushed under heavier boxes. With care and patience when you pack, you will keep the whole collection in amazing condition until the next time you need access to any of your beloved shoes.      

  Aug 09, 2018 382
• 13 Jul 2018
  Is Artificial Grass the Best Option For Your Garden?

  Find out how artificial lawns work, how they could look in your garden and the potential pitfalls of having an artificial lawn in your outdoor space. Artificial lawns are having a bit of a moment when it comes to home decor trends. But that doesn't mean every home will suit this kind of garden addition. The convenience of an artificial lawn could also be perfect for some homes. Whether or not they are a good option for you, is down to a lot of factors, but the very first step in making that decision is understanding the facts around this kind of large garden decor change. What Is An Artificial Lawn? An artificial lawn sits in place of a real lawn and can be made from all kinds of different materials which are usually some sort of plastic. Artificial lawns are not biodegradable and they can cover a very small section of your garden, or they can cover lots of ground, as with artificial grass golf courses. Why Consider An Artificial Lawn? Many people choose an artificial lawn instead of real grass or an area with slate effect floor tiles or stone slabs because it looks visually green and attractive, but there is minimal maintenance. In summer you can have to cut grass once a week or more which is a lot of work some people would like to avoid. The PROS There are lots of pros to having an artificial lawn including: Easy maintenance because you avoid having to mow the grass or strim it. It always stays the same colour, consistency and length so no unexpected bald patches or yellowing. Excellent for gardens where grass areas are tricky to mow, like a sloped area. Safe and soft for all the family, without ant hills or thistles. No waterlogged, muddiness to contend with. The CONS There are lots of downsides to having artificial grass which are important to be aware of before you make a purchase. Artificial grass is made from plastic which is a blight on the environment. It is also taking away from the organic environment birds and other animals rely on to thrive. Artificial grass can get hot in summer so you don't get that refreshing feeling of sitting on fresh grass. Artificial lawns can be expensive to install compared to turf lawns. Artificial lawns do look realistic but you can still tell they aren't real. You can never really replace the lush, natural feel of a real lawn or how it looks because it is completely organic. Is An Artificial Lawn Right For You? Because of the cost, the environmental impact and the other pitfalls to having an artificial lawn, you likely have to really hate mowing in order to have one. They do suit some people and some gardens though and could be a great alternative to turf. If you are wanting something low maintenance but beautiful, perhaps stone slabs, garden slate effect floor tiles or decking could be a good alternative, with easily contained pot plants bringing colour and life to the space instead.      

  393 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Is Artificial Grass the Best Option For Your Garden?

  Find out how artificial lawns work, how they could look in your garden and the potential pitfalls of having an artificial lawn in your outdoor space. Artificial lawns are having a bit of a moment when it comes to home decor trends. But that doesn't mean every home will suit this kind of garden addition. The convenience of an artificial lawn could also be perfect for some homes. Whether or not they are a good option for you, is down to a lot of factors, but the very first step in making that decision is understanding the facts around this kind of large garden decor change. What Is An Artificial Lawn? An artificial lawn sits in place of a real lawn and can be made from all kinds of different materials which are usually some sort of plastic. Artificial lawns are not biodegradable and they can cover a very small section of your garden, or they can cover lots of ground, as with artificial grass golf courses. Why Consider An Artificial Lawn? Many people choose an artificial lawn instead of real grass or an area with slate effect floor tiles or stone slabs because it looks visually green and attractive, but there is minimal maintenance. In summer you can have to cut grass once a week or more which is a lot of work some people would like to avoid. The PROS There are lots of pros to having an artificial lawn including: Easy maintenance because you avoid having to mow the grass or strim it. It always stays the same colour, consistency and length so no unexpected bald patches or yellowing. Excellent for gardens where grass areas are tricky to mow, like a sloped area. Safe and soft for all the family, without ant hills or thistles. No waterlogged, muddiness to contend with. The CONS There are lots of downsides to having artificial grass which are important to be aware of before you make a purchase. Artificial grass is made from plastic which is a blight on the environment. It is also taking away from the organic environment birds and other animals rely on to thrive. Artificial grass can get hot in summer so you don't get that refreshing feeling of sitting on fresh grass. Artificial lawns can be expensive to install compared to turf lawns. Artificial lawns do look realistic but you can still tell they aren't real. You can never really replace the lush, natural feel of a real lawn or how it looks because it is completely organic. Is An Artificial Lawn Right For You? Because of the cost, the environmental impact and the other pitfalls to having an artificial lawn, you likely have to really hate mowing in order to have one. They do suit some people and some gardens though and could be a great alternative to turf. If you are wanting something low maintenance but beautiful, perhaps stone slabs, garden slate effect floor tiles or decking could be a good alternative, with easily contained pot plants bringing colour and life to the space instead.      

  Jul 13, 2018 393
• 13 Jul 2018
  Think About These 5 Things Before You Renovate Your Bathroom

  Read about these important things to consider before you spend money on a bathroom renovation, so that the outcome is as professional and beautiful as possible. Getting a new bathroom fitted is eventually a really amazing change to the home. As a family, you spend time putting makeup on, shaving, washing, bathing and relaxing in this one room so, it makes a big difference when it is all new and beautiful. However, before you begin the process of refitting your bathroom, there are lots of things to consider so that you get the best possible results. Take a look at these 5 considerations before you get started on your latest home renovation project: 1. Wait For Price Reductions Just like clothes or decor accessories, trends will come and go and stock will be replaced. If you do not need an urgent bathroom refit, choose the toilet, shower, bath and non slip floor tiles for your bathroom and then keep an eye on them. You are looking for reductions in delivery costs, promotions over bank holidays and end of season sales. You could get over 50% off so it is totally worth giving it a wait and hanging in there. 2. Is There Anything You Can Keep? You might want to rip everything out and start fresh but that will end up costing extra money. Take a look at the bathroom and think carefully about all of the different parts, including the fixtures. Any parts that are perfectly intact and that will go with your new bathroom could stay in place and save you money for other features. 3. Get Your Measurements Right It wastes a lot of time and money to get the measurements of items wrong, especially if you're getting one off end of line items. Measure twice, or even three times if you need to so you have the exact numbers you need. You can't check the details too many times. 4. Consider A Professional Doing The Job Sometimes, it is better to admit defeat and let a professional do the job. If you aren't entirely confident of your abilities, you are short on time, or you just want the ease of a professional doing the job, then get some quotes. A good bathroom fitting company will give you a fair quote and they should also give you lots of different options for products like white porcelain tiles, sanitary ware and fixtures if you aren't supplying them yourself. 5. Keep A Record Get photos of the bathroom underneath (valves etc). This will help you with any future plans for renovation and it helps if there are any issues after your fitting. As long as the refit isn't urgent, you can afford to take your time and enjoy the process of getting the best deal and creating the most efficient renovation plan. By thinking carefully about these five points, and by taking your time and being patient in general, you are much more likely to get the best possible outcome during your bathroom refit.  

  441 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Think About These 5 Things Before You Renovate Your Bathroom

  Read about these important things to consider before you spend money on a bathroom renovation, so that the outcome is as professional and beautiful as possible. Getting a new bathroom fitted is eventually a really amazing change to the home. As a family, you spend time putting makeup on, shaving, washing, bathing and relaxing in this one room so, it makes a big difference when it is all new and beautiful. However, before you begin the process of refitting your bathroom, there are lots of things to consider so that you get the best possible results. Take a look at these 5 considerations before you get started on your latest home renovation project: 1. Wait For Price Reductions Just like clothes or decor accessories, trends will come and go and stock will be replaced. If you do not need an urgent bathroom refit, choose the toilet, shower, bath and non slip floor tiles for your bathroom and then keep an eye on them. You are looking for reductions in delivery costs, promotions over bank holidays and end of season sales. You could get over 50% off so it is totally worth giving it a wait and hanging in there. 2. Is There Anything You Can Keep? You might want to rip everything out and start fresh but that will end up costing extra money. Take a look at the bathroom and think carefully about all of the different parts, including the fixtures. Any parts that are perfectly intact and that will go with your new bathroom could stay in place and save you money for other features. 3. Get Your Measurements Right It wastes a lot of time and money to get the measurements of items wrong, especially if you're getting one off end of line items. Measure twice, or even three times if you need to so you have the exact numbers you need. You can't check the details too many times. 4. Consider A Professional Doing The Job Sometimes, it is better to admit defeat and let a professional do the job. If you aren't entirely confident of your abilities, you are short on time, or you just want the ease of a professional doing the job, then get some quotes. A good bathroom fitting company will give you a fair quote and they should also give you lots of different options for products like white porcelain tiles, sanitary ware and fixtures if you aren't supplying them yourself. 5. Keep A Record Get photos of the bathroom underneath (valves etc). This will help you with any future plans for renovation and it helps if there are any issues after your fitting. As long as the refit isn't urgent, you can afford to take your time and enjoy the process of getting the best deal and creating the most efficient renovation plan. By thinking carefully about these five points, and by taking your time and being patient in general, you are much more likely to get the best possible outcome during your bathroom refit.  

  Jul 13, 2018 441
• 13 Jul 2018
  How To Integrate Scent Into Your Home Decor

  Find out how to utilise scent in your home to create a much more personal, beautiful decor style in every room. When decorating the home, most of us focus on textures and the visual components. Paint, large floor tiles, furniture, accessories, they all combine to make a room look lovely, and work well practically. However, we often forget that other senses come into play when it comes to making a home feel personal and lovely to spend time in. The sense of smell, in particular, can be very powerful when it comes to decorating a home, and it can completely change the way a room feels. With this in mind, we have 5 great tips for you to get started playing with scents to enhance your home decor: 1. Focus On Your Home Entrance What you smell when you enter your home, and what guests smell, will set the scene for your entire house. Use a fresh and light home fragrance to spritz before guests arrive, and consider popping a diffuser in your hall so it always smells lovely. 2. Integrate Fresh Flowers Fresh flowers always look beautiful and bring life into the decor of a home. If you choose scented flowers such as lilies, hyacinth and freesia they will look great and bring a gorgeous scent into the room you have placed them. 3. Get Herbal Kitchen herb gardens are totally on trend, but they will always be a useful addition to your home because they provide fresh product to add flavour and flair to your cooking. Herbs also smell beautiful and even if you don't have the full plants in your home, adding some to garden bouquets for your house will add some fresh and botanical scent. 4. Use Different Scents for Different Rooms Different scents make us feel different and which scents trigger different emotions for us personally will always be different because of life experience. However, certain scent types match different rooms. Fresh and awakening scents work well for the kitchen, more relaxing and comforting scents work well for the living room or bedroom. 5. Experiment with Scent To make your scent decor personal you will need to try different scents to see how you feel about them. Start by picking items like candles, diffusers and flowers with a smell that appeals to you, and try them in different areas of the home. Some scented candles on the fireplace wood effect porcelain tiles, a diffuser on the kitchen window ledge, a herbal bouquet in the hall: play with scent in different parts of the home and see how they make you feel. When they start to trigger positive emotions and make you feel like you're 'home' then you're getting your scent decor right. Play with different types of scent and where you place the products, and have fun with the process of experimentation. Using scent in the home is a really easy and enjoyable way to create an extra decor element that is personal to you.    

  448 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How To Integrate Scent Into Your Home Decor

  Find out how to utilise scent in your home to create a much more personal, beautiful decor style in every room. When decorating the home, most of us focus on textures and the visual components. Paint, large floor tiles, furniture, accessories, they all combine to make a room look lovely, and work well practically. However, we often forget that other senses come into play when it comes to making a home feel personal and lovely to spend time in. The sense of smell, in particular, can be very powerful when it comes to decorating a home, and it can completely change the way a room feels. With this in mind, we have 5 great tips for you to get started playing with scents to enhance your home decor: 1. Focus On Your Home Entrance What you smell when you enter your home, and what guests smell, will set the scene for your entire house. Use a fresh and light home fragrance to spritz before guests arrive, and consider popping a diffuser in your hall so it always smells lovely. 2. Integrate Fresh Flowers Fresh flowers always look beautiful and bring life into the decor of a home. If you choose scented flowers such as lilies, hyacinth and freesia they will look great and bring a gorgeous scent into the room you have placed them. 3. Get Herbal Kitchen herb gardens are totally on trend, but they will always be a useful addition to your home because they provide fresh product to add flavour and flair to your cooking. Herbs also smell beautiful and even if you don't have the full plants in your home, adding some to garden bouquets for your house will add some fresh and botanical scent. 4. Use Different Scents for Different Rooms Different scents make us feel different and which scents trigger different emotions for us personally will always be different because of life experience. However, certain scent types match different rooms. Fresh and awakening scents work well for the kitchen, more relaxing and comforting scents work well for the living room or bedroom. 5. Experiment with Scent To make your scent decor personal you will need to try different scents to see how you feel about them. Start by picking items like candles, diffusers and flowers with a smell that appeals to you, and try them in different areas of the home. Some scented candles on the fireplace wood effect porcelain tiles, a diffuser on the kitchen window ledge, a herbal bouquet in the hall: play with scent in different parts of the home and see how they make you feel. When they start to trigger positive emotions and make you feel like you're 'home' then you're getting your scent decor right. Play with different types of scent and where you place the products, and have fun with the process of experimentation. Using scent in the home is a really easy and enjoyable way to create an extra decor element that is personal to you.    

  Jul 13, 2018 448
• 13 Jul 2018
  How to Choose the Right Patio Doors to Your Home

  Find out which patio doors are the best options for your home, to create seamless access to your outside space. Summer makes us all conscious of our access to our outdoor space. Pot plants, matching indoor and outdoor large floor tiles and open plan spacial design all contribute to us feeling more connected to our garden. However, there is one big change you can make to your home so that you have quick and easy visual and physical access to your garden. That big change, is patio doors. But which patio doors are right for your home? There are so many to choose from, it can be quite daunting choosing a set that will suit your decor and style. If you want a little head start in your quest for the perfect set of patio doors for your home, read these great tips and you'll have a gorgeous home to garden addition to your property in no time: Keep It Consistent It is aesthetic suicide to add doors that do not match your windows or other doors. Match the style at least, and if there is a glass pattern, you might want to match that as well, although that isn't as important. Keep It Eco-Friendly The glass should all be up to EU standards when it comes to being eco-friendly. This is important for your home comfort too, as large glass doors like patio doors can let out a lot of heat if the glass is not properly thermal. Thin safety and use non slip tiles. Keep It Professional It is so important that you consult a professional about the door fitting, especially if you don't have the doors fitted yet and only have the raw wall. You'll be affecting the structure of the home, and a large part of how it looks and functions. Patio doors isn't a part of renovation you should be looking to cut corners with. Keep It Practical You can get all kinds of patio doors and it is important to choose a type that suits your lifestyle. Sliding doors tend to work for everyone but you might want one you can lock open, as the sliding mechanism can be a concern to parents of children tall enough to operate the door. You may also want minimal glass or cleaning if you have a busy family life. Keep It In Budget Patio doors are in investment so they will never really be cheap. However, you can set a budget for your doors so that you aren't swayed by sales tactics or doors that will put you into debt. Remember to account for fitting and any extras. You may want to get a few companies round to give you quotes and some catalogues so that you have a more realistic idea of your options. If you have to remove the wall and start from scratch there could be extra costs for structural changes and working around building problems that crop up. Remember, getting patio doors is a really great investment and as long as you plan well, research well and choose your patio door company well, you'll have an amazing addition to your home decor to enjoy for years to come.        

  401 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How to Choose the Right Patio Doors to Your Home

  Find out which patio doors are the best options for your home, to create seamless access to your outside space. Summer makes us all conscious of our access to our outdoor space. Pot plants, matching indoor and outdoor large floor tiles and open plan spacial design all contribute to us feeling more connected to our garden. However, there is one big change you can make to your home so that you have quick and easy visual and physical access to your garden. That big change, is patio doors. But which patio doors are right for your home? There are so many to choose from, it can be quite daunting choosing a set that will suit your decor and style. If you want a little head start in your quest for the perfect set of patio doors for your home, read these great tips and you'll have a gorgeous home to garden addition to your property in no time: Keep It Consistent It is aesthetic suicide to add doors that do not match your windows or other doors. Match the style at least, and if there is a glass pattern, you might want to match that as well, although that isn't as important. Keep It Eco-Friendly The glass should all be up to EU standards when it comes to being eco-friendly. This is important for your home comfort too, as large glass doors like patio doors can let out a lot of heat if the glass is not properly thermal. Thin safety and use non slip tiles. Keep It Professional It is so important that you consult a professional about the door fitting, especially if you don't have the doors fitted yet and only have the raw wall. You'll be affecting the structure of the home, and a large part of how it looks and functions. Patio doors isn't a part of renovation you should be looking to cut corners with. Keep It Practical You can get all kinds of patio doors and it is important to choose a type that suits your lifestyle. Sliding doors tend to work for everyone but you might want one you can lock open, as the sliding mechanism can be a concern to parents of children tall enough to operate the door. You may also want minimal glass or cleaning if you have a busy family life. Keep It In Budget Patio doors are in investment so they will never really be cheap. However, you can set a budget for your doors so that you aren't swayed by sales tactics or doors that will put you into debt. Remember to account for fitting and any extras. You may want to get a few companies round to give you quotes and some catalogues so that you have a more realistic idea of your options. If you have to remove the wall and start from scratch there could be extra costs for structural changes and working around building problems that crop up. Remember, getting patio doors is a really great investment and as long as you plan well, research well and choose your patio door company well, you'll have an amazing addition to your home decor to enjoy for years to come.        

  Jul 13, 2018 401
• 11 Jul 2018
  How to Make the Perfect Study Space

  Read tips and tricks on taking a space in your home and turning it into an ideal place to relax and study when exam time comes along.   Whether you are studying at university, you have a big exam coming up or you're sorting out a big work presentation, having somewhere quiet and minimalist to focus on your task is so important. It may seem like a huge task if your house is already set up where every space seems 'allocated', but you can easily set something up over a weekend or even in one evening depending on how prepared the space already is. Follow these steps to get the perfect study set up in your home: Pick a Location Choose somewhere quiet, somewhere where there is space for a desk and where you have ventilation and both natural and artificial light. It could be in your summer house, your spare room, even in the corner of your living room. As long as it provides you with a quiet area to study, it can be wherever you choose. Declutter the Space You need to move the items currently in the space you want to use to study. You may wish to simply move them into another area of the home, to place them in your self-storage unit, or to completely declutter and sell them or give them to charity. Try to make enough space for a desk and chair so that you have the desk to dedicate to study materials. Decorate the Space An inviting study space is much more likely to get you to concentrate and to study in the first place than somewhere cluttered and uninspiring. Think neutral, minimalist and fresh. You don't want anything too distracting so you can focus on the task in hand. Comfort is another important focus so that you feel able to stay in the space for long periods of time. Add Smart Furniture You'll want to add smart furniture to the space so it is as efficient as possible, especially if it is part of the rest of a room like the living room. Perhaps you have some suitable furniture in your self-storage unit you could use. Alternatively visit space and storage efficient shops for furniture that makes the most of the space you are using. Add Something Personal Add some plants, pictures or other personal touches that make the space special to you. You could add a beanbag or blankets to turn it into a reading and relaxation space if you enjoy spending time there, which works very well if you've been using a spare room as it utilises the space further. Plan to Make Your Study Space This Weekend If you know you need a study space but you've been putting off setting it up, make this weekend the time that you spend making the perfect space to concentrate and get things done. With a little decluttering and careful furniture placement, you'll be studying hard in your new study space in no time.        

  437 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  How to Make the Perfect Study Space

  Read tips and tricks on taking a space in your home and turning it into an ideal place to relax and study when exam time comes along.   Whether you are studying at university, you have a big exam coming up or you're sorting out a big work presentation, having somewhere quiet and minimalist to focus on your task is so important. It may seem like a huge task if your house is already set up where every space seems 'allocated', but you can easily set something up over a weekend or even in one evening depending on how prepared the space already is. Follow these steps to get the perfect study set up in your home: Pick a Location Choose somewhere quiet, somewhere where there is space for a desk and where you have ventilation and both natural and artificial light. It could be in your summer house, your spare room, even in the corner of your living room. As long as it provides you with a quiet area to study, it can be wherever you choose. Declutter the Space You need to move the items currently in the space you want to use to study. You may wish to simply move them into another area of the home, to place them in your self-storage unit, or to completely declutter and sell them or give them to charity. Try to make enough space for a desk and chair so that you have the desk to dedicate to study materials. Decorate the Space An inviting study space is much more likely to get you to concentrate and to study in the first place than somewhere cluttered and uninspiring. Think neutral, minimalist and fresh. You don't want anything too distracting so you can focus on the task in hand. Comfort is another important focus so that you feel able to stay in the space for long periods of time. Add Smart Furniture You'll want to add smart furniture to the space so it is as efficient as possible, especially if it is part of the rest of a room like the living room. Perhaps you have some suitable furniture in your self-storage unit you could use. Alternatively visit space and storage efficient shops for furniture that makes the most of the space you are using. Add Something Personal Add some plants, pictures or other personal touches that make the space special to you. You could add a beanbag or blankets to turn it into a reading and relaxation space if you enjoy spending time there, which works very well if you've been using a spare room as it utilises the space further. Plan to Make Your Study Space This Weekend If you know you need a study space but you've been putting off setting it up, make this weekend the time that you spend making the perfect space to concentrate and get things done. With a little decluttering and careful furniture placement, you'll be studying hard in your new study space in no time.        

  Jul 11, 2018 437
• 11 Jul 2018
  An Easy Introduction to Kitchen Worktops

  Find out about kitchen worktops and what you need to be looking out for to ensure your kitchen is as functional and beautiful as possible. Worktops in a kitchen get a lot of use. Just think about how scraped, banged, leaned on and generally abused they get on a daily basis: they really are the workhorse of the heart of the home - the kitchen. They also take up a lot of space, so visually they have a big impact on how a kitchen looks. Because they are so important, it is a good idea to give a lot of thought and consideration to your kitchen worktops before you choose them. Take a look at these questions to help you get the best worktops for the heart of your home: How Much Do You Want to Spend? Kitchen worktops can be really cheap, really expensive and everything in between. Laminates tend to be the most cost effective choices, whereas complete granite slabs are pricey. When you think about how much you want to spend, think about longevity and durability. Cheaper worktops could be false economy, and it might pay to invest in more durable worktop materials. You can always mix and match your materials as well if you want to. Using white porcelain tiles in some places, more durable stone slabs in other places: you can create a beautiful look combining materials. Do You Want To Fit It? If you are fitting the kitchen and you are inexperienced you may wish to use materials that are less costly to replace should you go wrong. If you are concerned about fitting the worktops, then it might be worth getting a kitchen fitter to fit the entire kitchen. They are professionals in this area of work and if you are spending thousands on a kitchen, it might be worth spending that bit more to get it fitted properly so the finished product is everything you wanted it to be. How Do You Want It To Look? Take some time to browse all of the different options you have out there. Try to ignore current trends and instead think about the look of your house, the feel of your house, and think about how your kitchen needs to operate in a family home. Kitchens aren't something most people look to replace often, so, ideally it needs to be timeless and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. What Material Do Is Right For You? The material you choose to use for your worktop is so important and has a huge effect on cost, feel, aesthetics and durability. There are lots of different materials you can use for kitchen worktops including:  -       Tile - not commonly used at the moment as people tend to opt for seamless surfaces, but white porcelain tiles can look attractive and work well on the less used areas of the kitchen. -       Hardwood - Warm and full of character, hardwood is a strong choice and sustainable options are better for eco-conscious customers. -       Composite - Composite worktops are made from a natural stone, and engineered stone. It is highly durable and comes in a wide variety of colours and tones. -       Granite - Granite is costly but very attractive and luxurious, and will last for a long time if looked after. -       Laminate - Laminate is the cheapest option for worktops and comes in a huge variety of colours and wood and granite effects. -       Corian - Corian is very modern and solid, and tends to be used in a lot of the most modern kitchen designs. -       Stainless steel - Stainless steel is hard wearing and looks modern and attractive. It is a good choice for kitchens that are in ultra-modern houses.  Remember to take your time when looking at worktops for your kitchen. There will always be offers on and money-off and the chances are once you know the worktop you need, you will be able to wait and get it with a discount or promotional price. The most important thing is to take your time when choosing, because a kitchen is an investment and the worktops are so central to the whole room, the material and look you choose will have a huge impact on the end result.        

  415 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  An Easy Introduction to Kitchen Worktops

  Find out about kitchen worktops and what you need to be looking out for to ensure your kitchen is as functional and beautiful as possible. Worktops in a kitchen get a lot of use. Just think about how scraped, banged, leaned on and generally abused they get on a daily basis: they really are the workhorse of the heart of the home - the kitchen. They also take up a lot of space, so visually they have a big impact on how a kitchen looks. Because they are so important, it is a good idea to give a lot of thought and consideration to your kitchen worktops before you choose them. Take a look at these questions to help you get the best worktops for the heart of your home: How Much Do You Want to Spend? Kitchen worktops can be really cheap, really expensive and everything in between. Laminates tend to be the most cost effective choices, whereas complete granite slabs are pricey. When you think about how much you want to spend, think about longevity and durability. Cheaper worktops could be false economy, and it might pay to invest in more durable worktop materials. You can always mix and match your materials as well if you want to. Using white porcelain tiles in some places, more durable stone slabs in other places: you can create a beautiful look combining materials. Do You Want To Fit It? If you are fitting the kitchen and you are inexperienced you may wish to use materials that are less costly to replace should you go wrong. If you are concerned about fitting the worktops, then it might be worth getting a kitchen fitter to fit the entire kitchen. They are professionals in this area of work and if you are spending thousands on a kitchen, it might be worth spending that bit more to get it fitted properly so the finished product is everything you wanted it to be. How Do You Want It To Look? Take some time to browse all of the different options you have out there. Try to ignore current trends and instead think about the look of your house, the feel of your house, and think about how your kitchen needs to operate in a family home. Kitchens aren't something most people look to replace often, so, ideally it needs to be timeless and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. What Material Do Is Right For You? The material you choose to use for your worktop is so important and has a huge effect on cost, feel, aesthetics and durability. There are lots of different materials you can use for kitchen worktops including:  -       Tile - not commonly used at the moment as people tend to opt for seamless surfaces, but white porcelain tiles can look attractive and work well on the less used areas of the kitchen. -       Hardwood - Warm and full of character, hardwood is a strong choice and sustainable options are better for eco-conscious customers. -       Composite - Composite worktops are made from a natural stone, and engineered stone. It is highly durable and comes in a wide variety of colours and tones. -       Granite - Granite is costly but very attractive and luxurious, and will last for a long time if looked after. -       Laminate - Laminate is the cheapest option for worktops and comes in a huge variety of colours and wood and granite effects. -       Corian - Corian is very modern and solid, and tends to be used in a lot of the most modern kitchen designs. -       Stainless steel - Stainless steel is hard wearing and looks modern and attractive. It is a good choice for kitchens that are in ultra-modern houses.  Remember to take your time when looking at worktops for your kitchen. There will always be offers on and money-off and the chances are once you know the worktop you need, you will be able to wait and get it with a discount or promotional price. The most important thing is to take your time when choosing, because a kitchen is an investment and the worktops are so central to the whole room, the material and look you choose will have a huge impact on the end result.        

  Jul 11, 2018 415
• 13 Jun 2018
  Paying for care costs in your "Golden Years"

    It is understandable that many people worry about how they will manage both physically and financially as they get older. Nobody wants to be living in poverty in their old age and most of us would like to think we will be able to leave something to our children when we go. But with so many people living longer because of medical advances the cost of care for elderly people is now becoming a big issue that everyone should be aware of so that they can plan ahead for the costs (and also so they can be involved in the decision making on the type of care they would prefer). There are many options to funding care in old age and in the UK the government will pay for care if you do not have the means to do so yourself. But is you do have a significant amount of savings or a valuable home then you really should plan ahead for the cost of care. Choose the care option that is best for you Before you can start to plan for how you will pay for care you need to know what care option will suit you best. Although residential care homes are the most common option there is growing awareness of another option: live-in care or homecare, according to The Live-in Care Hub. With the growing awareness of live-in care more and more people are choosing this for themselves or for an elderly relative as an option where the person needing care can stay in familiar surroundings and have the consistency of the same one or two carers all the time. It is also a more rewarding role for those becoming a carer. Take advice Once you now what care option will be most suitable you can then plan for the financial side – and there are certainly financial challenges caring for the elderly so it pays to be prepared. Some people choose to get some advice from an independent financial adviser (IFA) if they already know one they trust. An IFA can help you create a payment plan for privately funding (self-funding) care in a simple and straightforward way. Be prepared The average cost of care for an elderly person can vary enormously. It not only depends on the level of care you might need but also on the type of care and even the area where you live. So investigate your options and compare your options once you have made a decision about the type of care you might need and how much you can afford to pay. Many people are shocked by how expensive the actual cost of elderly care is but it is better to know now and have some time to plan and prepare than leave it until the last minute. Some people will have to use savings and/or income to pay for elderly care and some may consider selling their home but this is a serious step and not one to take lightly. Government support If you do not have much in the way of savings and either don't own a property or still have a partner living there then the state will pay for your care. But state-funded care limits your choices of type and style of care and it is unlikely that state-funded care would offer the option of live-in care.

  571 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Paying for care costs in your "Golden Years"

    It is understandable that many people worry about how they will manage both physically and financially as they get older. Nobody wants to be living in poverty in their old age and most of us would like to think we will be able to leave something to our children when we go. But with so many people living longer because of medical advances the cost of care for elderly people is now becoming a big issue that everyone should be aware of so that they can plan ahead for the costs (and also so they can be involved in the decision making on the type of care they would prefer). There are many options to funding care in old age and in the UK the government will pay for care if you do not have the means to do so yourself. But is you do have a significant amount of savings or a valuable home then you really should plan ahead for the cost of care. Choose the care option that is best for you Before you can start to plan for how you will pay for care you need to know what care option will suit you best. Although residential care homes are the most common option there is growing awareness of another option: live-in care or homecare, according to The Live-in Care Hub. With the growing awareness of live-in care more and more people are choosing this for themselves or for an elderly relative as an option where the person needing care can stay in familiar surroundings and have the consistency of the same one or two carers all the time. It is also a more rewarding role for those becoming a carer. Take advice Once you now what care option will be most suitable you can then plan for the financial side – and there are certainly financial challenges caring for the elderly so it pays to be prepared. Some people choose to get some advice from an independent financial adviser (IFA) if they already know one they trust. An IFA can help you create a payment plan for privately funding (self-funding) care in a simple and straightforward way. Be prepared The average cost of care for an elderly person can vary enormously. It not only depends on the level of care you might need but also on the type of care and even the area where you live. So investigate your options and compare your options once you have made a decision about the type of care you might need and how much you can afford to pay. Many people are shocked by how expensive the actual cost of elderly care is but it is better to know now and have some time to plan and prepare than leave it until the last minute. Some people will have to use savings and/or income to pay for elderly care and some may consider selling their home but this is a serious step and not one to take lightly. Government support If you do not have much in the way of savings and either don't own a property or still have a partner living there then the state will pay for your care. But state-funded care limits your choices of type and style of care and it is unlikely that state-funded care would offer the option of live-in care.

  Jun 13, 2018 571
• 13 Jun 2018
  Care costs and how to keep them under control

  Certain major events in all of our lives are a significant expense such as a wedding. buying a home or raising a family. These are often things that we will save up for and plan for in advance. But when it comes to our so-called Golden Years we are not so well prepared – either financially or in terms of the decisions that must be made on the type of care we would wish for. An explanation for this lack of preparation for perhaps once of the most important periods of our lives is that we don't want to have to think about getting old and frail, and needing a carer. Quite often one partner simply becomes the carer of the other in a long-term relationship without any specific recognition of that fact. But what if you don't have a live-in partner or they have passed away by the time you need care? Understandably when you require care that cannot be provided by a partner or relative it is going to come at a high cost so it makes sense in all sorts of ways to plan for those costs; not least so you don't have to sell your home to pay for care costs. Plan ahead Find out what your care options are before you do anything else – it is never too early to start looking to avoid the situation where you have to make a rushed decision. Did you know, for instance, as we found out from The Live-in Care Hub, that there is such a thing as live-in care (or homecare) where a carer come sto live in your home to provide for all your needs? This is an increasingly popular alternative to a residential care home but one that not everyone even knows exists. Speak to other people when considering your care options – especially if you already know someone in a care home or who is becoming a carer. That way you can weigh up the advantages and disadvantages for yourself based on the honest opinion of people you already know. Don't underestimate the cost of care Many people do not understand both the costs and the rules surrounding government funding for elderly care so make sure you are not one of those people. What you might have to pay for care will depend on individual circumstances – both financially and medically. Some medical conditions requiring specialist nursing care may be eligible for government funding whilst others may not. Make sure you know the rules and regulations and keep up to date with them in case they change. A residential care home and full-time live-in home care services cost approximately the same, although costs can vary according to individual needs and even the area you live in. Funding If you already know that you will have to pay for your own elderly care (usually because you have a certain amount of savings and income) then it is essential to plan your care properly so that if you chose, for instance, live-in care you know that you can continue to pay for it for as long as you need to.

  567 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Care costs and how to keep them under control

  Certain major events in all of our lives are a significant expense such as a wedding. buying a home or raising a family. These are often things that we will save up for and plan for in advance. But when it comes to our so-called Golden Years we are not so well prepared – either financially or in terms of the decisions that must be made on the type of care we would wish for. An explanation for this lack of preparation for perhaps once of the most important periods of our lives is that we don't want to have to think about getting old and frail, and needing a carer. Quite often one partner simply becomes the carer of the other in a long-term relationship without any specific recognition of that fact. But what if you don't have a live-in partner or they have passed away by the time you need care? Understandably when you require care that cannot be provided by a partner or relative it is going to come at a high cost so it makes sense in all sorts of ways to plan for those costs; not least so you don't have to sell your home to pay for care costs. Plan ahead Find out what your care options are before you do anything else – it is never too early to start looking to avoid the situation where you have to make a rushed decision. Did you know, for instance, as we found out from The Live-in Care Hub, that there is such a thing as live-in care (or homecare) where a carer come sto live in your home to provide for all your needs? This is an increasingly popular alternative to a residential care home but one that not everyone even knows exists. Speak to other people when considering your care options – especially if you already know someone in a care home or who is becoming a carer. That way you can weigh up the advantages and disadvantages for yourself based on the honest opinion of people you already know. Don't underestimate the cost of care Many people do not understand both the costs and the rules surrounding government funding for elderly care so make sure you are not one of those people. What you might have to pay for care will depend on individual circumstances – both financially and medically. Some medical conditions requiring specialist nursing care may be eligible for government funding whilst others may not. Make sure you know the rules and regulations and keep up to date with them in case they change. A residential care home and full-time live-in home care services cost approximately the same, although costs can vary according to individual needs and even the area you live in. Funding If you already know that you will have to pay for your own elderly care (usually because you have a certain amount of savings and income) then it is essential to plan your care properly so that if you chose, for instance, live-in care you know that you can continue to pay for it for as long as you need to.

  Jun 13, 2018 567
• 13 Jun 2018
  Live-in care and other options for care of the elderly

    The first thing most people assume about caring for the elderly when they can no longer manage on their own is that the main option is a residential care homes. Elderly people often feel they will be “shipped off” to a communal home and have to leave all their valued possessions behind and live their final days in one room. Residential care home can be very nice with lovely communal areas and gardens but nevertheless they are still not the same as your own home with friends and neighbours nearby. And if you have a pet you certainly won't be able to take a pet to a care home. But there is another, increasingly popular option, and that is live-in care of home care as it is sometimes known. Live-in care or homecare is just one of a range of care services available in the UK for old people so it is good to be aware of what all the care options are so when the time comes and you or your elderly relative requires help then the right choice can be made. Residential care homes Care homes are most well-known type of care available in the UK for senior people who need help with the everyday tasks of life. There is a wide range of care homes across the UK varying in size, type and cost so there is something to suit all budgets. Care homes can be a good choice for many people as it provides a type of community with shared activities and being able to eat in communal dining rooms. They may also be the best option for people who need high levels of care, especially when nursing care is required or when there are particular needs such as for dementia sufferers. Live-in care Live-in care or homecare, as it is also known, is a care option that is only just starting to become more widely known although it has been around for many years. One of the main advantages of live-in care is that the person being cared for remains in their family home, which is often a place they have lived for many, many years with all its valued possessions and treasured memories. Live-in care is a suitable option even when someone requires specialist nursing care as the live-in carer can organise other help to come to the house as required. A live-in carer moves into the family home and caters for all care needs but also provides companionship and a sense of security for the elderly person. Those who are becoming a carer as their career are well-trained to offer stability and consistency that can quite simply mean the elderly person is happier and more relaxed and many a firm friendship has been forged with a carer. It is much easier for a live-in carer to know the likes and dislikes of the elderly person as they can focus all their attention on caring for that one person, which is very unlike what happens in care homes.

  653 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Live-in care and other options for care of the elderly

    The first thing most people assume about caring for the elderly when they can no longer manage on their own is that the main option is a residential care homes. Elderly people often feel they will be “shipped off” to a communal home and have to leave all their valued possessions behind and live their final days in one room. Residential care home can be very nice with lovely communal areas and gardens but nevertheless they are still not the same as your own home with friends and neighbours nearby. And if you have a pet you certainly won't be able to take a pet to a care home. But there is another, increasingly popular option, and that is live-in care of home care as it is sometimes known. Live-in care or homecare is just one of a range of care services available in the UK for old people so it is good to be aware of what all the care options are so when the time comes and you or your elderly relative requires help then the right choice can be made. Residential care homes Care homes are most well-known type of care available in the UK for senior people who need help with the everyday tasks of life. There is a wide range of care homes across the UK varying in size, type and cost so there is something to suit all budgets. Care homes can be a good choice for many people as it provides a type of community with shared activities and being able to eat in communal dining rooms. They may also be the best option for people who need high levels of care, especially when nursing care is required or when there are particular needs such as for dementia sufferers. Live-in care Live-in care or homecare, as it is also known, is a care option that is only just starting to become more widely known although it has been around for many years. One of the main advantages of live-in care is that the person being cared for remains in their family home, which is often a place they have lived for many, many years with all its valued possessions and treasured memories. Live-in care is a suitable option even when someone requires specialist nursing care as the live-in carer can organise other help to come to the house as required. A live-in carer moves into the family home and caters for all care needs but also provides companionship and a sense of security for the elderly person. Those who are becoming a carer as their career are well-trained to offer stability and consistency that can quite simply mean the elderly person is happier and more relaxed and many a firm friendship has been forged with a carer. It is much easier for a live-in carer to know the likes and dislikes of the elderly person as they can focus all their attention on caring for that one person, which is very unlike what happens in care homes.

  Jun 13, 2018 653
• 13 Jun 2018
  Take responsibility for caring for elderly family members

    Caring for elderly family members used to quite simply be the role of the younger family members when our communities were more close-knit than they are today. Elderly parents would often live with their adult children in their homes – it was quite normal and grand children would grow up in the same home as their grand parents. But In today’s changing society the situation is very different because the younger generation have often moved away from where they grew up – they go off to university and then make their homes elsewhere often in a bigger town or city. This may not be through choice as some adults are priced out of their home areas as housing costs have increased drastically in many arts of the UK. Do when different generations of families no longer live in the same area communities are much less united. And if you live a long way from your parents who will care for them when they get older and less able to cope on their own? People are living to a much older age now thanks to medical advances and an awareness of leading a healthy lifestyle – they are much more active than earlier generations – well into their 70's and 80's often. The downside to living a longer life is that these elderly people often require care with everyday tasks. Medically they might be quite well but bodies still get older and are less able to climb the stairs or perform simple tasks like bathing or cooking and cleaning. As well as physical limitations many elderly people suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, which can have a serious effect on a person’s ability to look after themselves. Be pro-active about care options It is a good idea to look into care options sooner rather than later – don't wait until there is a crisis situation when you will have to make a quick decision which may not necessarily be the best decision for your elderly relative. Many illnesses that affect mobility and other functions reveal symptoms and can be diagnosed long before they become a problem so it is possible to plan for care well in advance. And it is certainly possible to raise the issue and have afrank discussion about it with your relative – it's just that most people tend not to. Yet elderly relatives may want to be involved in researching care options – they may not even be aware that there are alternatives to the typical residential care home. How many people, for example, know that you can have a live-in carer come and live in your own home and look after you there? This is called home care or live in care and the people who choose this as a career find that becoming a carer is more rewarding than working in a residential care home. Live-in care or home care means that a person can stay in familiar surroundings, with all their own possessions; they can keep any pets they may have and will remain close to friends and neighbours. They can eat when they like and what they like – sit in their own garden and even work in their own garden if their health is up to it. Live-in care is a little know option but a life-changing one for many elderly people.

  647 Posted by Anna Preston
• By Anna Preston

  Take responsibility for caring for elderly family members

    Caring for elderly family members used to quite simply be the role of the younger family members when our communities were more close-knit than they are today. Elderly parents would often live with their adult children in their homes – it was quite normal and grand children would grow up in the same home as their grand parents. But In today’s changing society the situation is very different because the younger generation have often moved away from where they grew up – they go off to university and then make their homes elsewhere often in a bigger town or city. This may not be through choice as some adults are priced out of their home areas as housing costs have increased drastically in many arts of the UK. Do when different generations of families no longer live in the same area communities are much less united. And if you live a long way from your parents who will care for them when they get older and less able to cope on their own? People are living to a much older age now thanks to medical advances and an awareness of leading a healthy lifestyle – they are much more active than earlier generations – well into their 70's and 80's often. The downside to living a longer life is that these elderly people often require care with everyday tasks. Medically they might be quite well but bodies still get older and are less able to climb the stairs or perform simple tasks like bathing or cooking and cleaning. As well as physical limitations many elderly people suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, which can have a serious effect on a person’s ability to look after themselves. Be pro-active about care options It is a good idea to look into care options sooner rather than later – don't wait until there is a crisis situation when you will have to make a quick decision which may not necessarily be the best decision for your elderly relative. Many illnesses that affect mobility and other functions reveal symptoms and can be diagnosed long before they become a problem so it is possible to plan for care well in advance. And it is certainly possible to raise the issue and have afrank discussion about it with your relative – it's just that most people tend not to. Yet elderly relatives may want to be involved in researching care options – they may not even be aware that there are alternatives to the typical residential care home. How many people, for example, know that you can have a live-in carer come and live in your own home and look after you there? This is called home care or live in care and the people who choose this as a career find that becoming a carer is more rewarding than working in a residential care home. Live-in care or home care means that a person can stay in familiar surroundings, with all their own possessions; they can keep any pets they may have and will remain close to friends and neighbours. They can eat when they like and what they like – sit in their own garden and even work in their own garden if their health is up to it. Live-in care is a little know option but a life-changing one for many elderly people.

  Jun 13, 2018 647