How to Add Value to Your Home This Summer

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on June 14, 2022

If you want to know how to add value to your home, make sure you check all the boxes so you can increase value without breaking the bank. Building an extension, replacing old windows, upgrading your heating system, and investing in energy efficiency are just a few of the smart ways to enhance value and boost the appearance of your property.

Certain improvements are simple and quick to complete, adding instant appeal, while others are more involved and provide curb appeal to help add value to your home this summer. If you’re thinking of doing precisely that and increasing the value of your home, consider the following:

Add a new heating system

If you’re looking for a way to add value to your home this summer, look no further than your current central heating system. Many older homes lack central heating or have outdated systems that need to be replaced. Adding or modernizing a central heating system will always add more value to a home than it costs, and it should be done in tandem with enhancing the building’s overall energy efficiency. If your boiler has enough capacity, you could add new radiators and heated towel rails to the existing system, as well as underfloor heating.

Add bi-fold doors

With some new bi-fold doors, you can create an instant wow factor and a lot of light. Bi-fold doors are a great way to let in more natural light while also connecting your interior space to the outdoors. Bi-fold doors provide other advantages as well, such as increasing the perception of space and essentially creating a new ‘outdoor room’ during the warmer months.

Invest in solar panels

Everyone is looking for ways to reduce their energy costs. For many people, energy efficiency is a top priority because it is required for properties listed for sale to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). You’ll get a better EPC score and your property will be more appealing to home buyers if you install solar panels. Not only that, but they’ll get the benefits right away without having to pay for or install them.

Replace old windows

Many homebuyers now regard double-glazing to be a must-have and adding it will only add value to your home. Of course, if you’re restoring a historic home, you’ll need to be mindful of the house’s style, otherwise, you risk depreciating its worth. Unless the building is listed or located in a conservation area, old windows should be replaced like-for-like. However, they will need to be double-glazed to comply with modern Building Regulations.

Add more space

Adding a conservatory to your home will not only provide you with more space but will also enhance the value of your home. Choosing the perfect style, fit, and shape for your conservatory can turn it into a valuable asset when it comes time to sell your home.

First impressions matter

A stylish new front door can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Aside from increasing the look of your home, installing a new front door can have numerous benefits and be a good investment. Choosing the right front door is important though, so be sure to do as much research as possible. Supercraft Windows has an excellent selection of composite doors that are energy-efficient, provide security, and offer many designs to match your home and add value.

6 Reasons You Need Plenty of Natural Light in Your Home

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on May 6, 2022

The physical and psychological benefits of adequate natural light in your home are now well established. Natural light has so many advantages that it simply can’t be overlooked anymore. The question now is not about whether sunlight is healthy, but rather how to invite as much natural light into our homes as possible.

A Home Filled With Natural Light

UK winters can be harsh, but they do not have to be bleak. Winters can be as lovely as summer or even spring and autumn. If your home improvement projects are planned to enhance the quantity of natural light that enters your home, your family will be healthier and safer for it. Here are six reasons you need plenty of natural light in your home.

Natural light in your home saves energy and money

With all of the methods available to increase the quantity of natural light in your home, you may expect lower utility expenses, saving you money and energy in the long run. It wasn’t always like this, though. Historically, windows and doors lacked the air-tight insulation qualities that today’s products have. Energy is saved by modern doors and windows.

Natural light increases focus

Natural light in your home has been demonstrated to improve concentration and focus in both the morning and evening. For a jolt of alertness, peek out the window and soak up the sun for a few minutes. If you work from home, having enough natural light is crucial. A naturally lit workspace will help you be more productive than one that is artificially lit. Increased natural light during the day aids in improved sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed and ready to work the next day.

Natural light is sustainable

Natural light is a wonderful asset that nature provides. Anything that reduces the usage of fossil fuels to make energy is beneficial to the environment. Modern, thermal, and energy-efficient windows and doors that are available today, have increased our home’s exposure to the sun, making a healthier, happier, and more sustainable environment to live in.

Natural light wards off seasonal depression

Autumn is a euphoric season for many people—picture walking over crunchy foliage and everything pumpkin spice. So, getting as much natural light in your home as possible can aid in preventing mood swings. Fall ushers in a period of severe depression known as ‘seasonal affective disorder’ and this affects roughly 6% of the population. Another 14% suffer from the “winter blues,” which is less debilitating but nonetheless significant.

Natural light in your home improves sleep

Light and darkness set your internal clock, which tells you when to sleep and when to get up. If you have too little or too much of either, your circadian rhythm will be thrown off, jeopardizing your valuable sleep time. According to a study in 2014, people who were exposed to more natural light experienced better sleep.

Natural light in your home can benefit your vision

We all know that looking at our phones and computers can create eye strain and potentially harm our vision. Did you know, though, that fluorescent lights might be harmful to our eyesight as well? According to another study, an increase in eye diseases appears to be attributable to greater time spent in front of artificial lighting. Allowing more natural light in your home can be beneficial to the eyesight of both adults and children in the long run.

Home Improvement Ideas that Add Value

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on April 22, 2022

Choosing your next home improvement project is influenced by a number of factors. From your financial situation and how long you intend to live in your home to whether you want to increase the value of your home or would like to improve its energy efficiency. We have put together a few key home improvement ideas that add value and increase the resale value of your home.

Draught-Proofing and Insulating

By insulating your walls, you can increase the value of your home while also saving energy. Another great way to insulate your home and increase its resale value is to draught-proof your windows and doors. To reinforce the building envelope, re-caulk old spots around these openings. Double-glazed windows are very effective, and adding shutters to them for the winter months will help keep the heat in. You could also replace the wood or aluminium window frames with uPVC, which has the highest level of thermal comfort.

Improve Heating, Cooling and Ventilation

One way to improve your HVAC system is to install underfloor heating. You can also renovate your home on a greater scale for heating and cooling. Consider upgrading your HVAC system if it is a little out of date. There are a variety of low-carbon heating systems available that are both affordable and effective. Ground and air source heat pumps, for example, are environmentally beneficial, and you may be eligible for a rebate through the Green Homes Grant to help defray some of the costs.

Homeowners who install a ground source heat pump might save on their annual utility expenditures. Investing in alternative energy sources could be a good idea as well. There are a few cost-effective choices for households, such as low-carbon heating alternatives for individuals in the UK wishing to replace their gas boilers. Consider an electric combi boiler if you have a single-family home or limited space. These boilers are more compact than traditional versions and do not emit CO2. They’re also less expensive to install than gas boilers, so they’re a good investment if you’re on a limited budget.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

There are some small and large-scale modifications you may make to minimize your electricity expenses while adding value to your property. The scope and cost of these projects can vary. Why not start by replacing incandescent light bulbs with LED ones? Additionally, replacing old electrical appliances with energy-efficient ones is worth the money spent on them in the long run.

Major changes may be more expensive upfront, but they will undoubtedly bring the most value. Solar panels are one example of modernization. Many people are unable to buy solar panels since they can cost a lot. Domestic renewable energy technology, on the other hand, can receive green energy support, such as the Green Homes Grant, which you might qualify for and covers a portion of costs.

How To Secure Your Windows at Home

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on April 18, 2022

It’s essential to feel protected in your house, but break-ins can happen at any time. If you want to improve home security, your windows, as one of the most vulnerable areas in your home, require special attention. With these suggestions, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a safer house. Here’s how to secure your windows at home.

CHOOSE WINDOWS WITH SECURITY GLASS

When a burglar comes across a locked window, the first thing they do is try to break it open. Installing impact-resistant security glass is significantly more difficult to break than regular windows and can help deter burglars. Two or more layers of polyvinyl butyral laminating material are employed to fuse the panes together (PVB). This makes your windows extremely resistant to breakage attempts. Security glass may also protect you from harsh weather.

LOCK YOUR WINDOWS

Many burglars gain access to a home by simply accessing an unlocked window or door. Make it a habit to lock your windows and doors every time you close them to make these openings more secure. If the original window locks appear to be fragile, try installing additional locks to feel more secure.

INSTALL GRIPLOCK BY YALE

The multi-point locking system of the GripLock Casement lock ensures maximum security. In addition, for ultimate safety and security, we employ a Fab&Fix Handle, a Yale 6 Pin Cylinder lock, Yale Hinge Guards, and the Yale Friction Stay system as standard. This lock has been force tested and found to withstand over 4700 Newtons of force, making it the UK’s strongest and most secure lock.

INSTALL BURGLAR BARS

Burglars will not be able to fit through your windows and get inside your home if you have bars on them. Burglar bars come in various colours and styles which helps to make your home look less like a jail. Consider installing the bars only on ground-floor windows so that people in the home can escape through second-story windows if necessary.

INSTALL SECURITY SCREENS

A security screen is similar to an insect screen in that it keeps bugs out, but the mesh of a security screen is composed of steel, making it much harder and more difficult to cut with a knife. According to research, if breaking into a building takes more than four or five minutes, the burglar will abandon the attempt rather than risk getting detected.

SHOP FOR SECURITY GLASS IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

We take home security very seriously at Supercraft Windows. That is why we offer security glass windows. Please visit our local store in Stoke-on-Trent if you’re interested in installing these security upgrades in your house. We’ll answer any remaining questions you have regarding window security features and suggest solutions that will be most beneficial to you.

Visit us today or contact us online to request a free, no-obligation quote.

Wellness Benefits of Skylights

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on April 8, 2022

If you are planning to build a new home or remodel an existing one, you may want to include glass walls and picturesque doors in your architectural design. That’s a good thing because many recent studies confirm what we’ve inherently known—that a stronger connection with nature benefits us both mentally and physically.

Additionally, while glass walls and doors are an excellent way to connect your home to the outdoors, we shouldn’t overlook skylights. Most architectural layouts can benefit from skylights, and in some cases, they can be even more effective than windows and doors at delivering the health benefits that natural light and fresh air provide. And, of course, there’s nothing quite like lying down on your house or apartment floor, looking up and seeing nothing but sky through your magnificent skylight.

It’s not simply the sensation of awe that comes with staring skyward that will awaken your senses; there are numerous recognized health benefits of exposure to natural light, which include the production of Vitamin D—essential for bone and muscle health and metabolism. Roof lights can help your family’s health in a variety of ways, from assisting in the management of sleep cycles to fortifying the immune system.

Better sleep, brighter mornings

With fixed skylights in the bedroom, you can sleep peacefully under the stars. The sun can also act as nature’s alarm clock in this position, which can help regulate your circadian rhythm and increase your overall sense of well-being.

On a cellular level, most living species have an internal clock. Our internal clock and circadian rhythms regulate many of our vital biological functions, and the amount and type of light we receive during the day has a significant impact on how our circadian rhythms function. Over the recent years, we are not just less affected by the sun’s movement, but we are also exposed to far less natural light, resulting in poor sleep and an increase in mental and physical ailments. Fortunately, we can alleviate many of the negative consequences of our modern schedules and the pandemic by properly designing living spaces and implementing modern technologies.

Better mood and increased productivity

When adding skylights to your home, you increase the amount of natural light flooding in—providing great benefits such as an improvement in your mood. Not only that, but natural light can even increase your overall productivity and creativity, while also reducing anxiety and stress and adding comfort to your living space.

A breath of fresh air

Many people overlook how effective skylights are at bringing fresh air into indoor spaces and removing hot, polluted air. Opening a window to bring in the fresh air from the outside cool evenings is a simple approach to reducing inside temperatures without using an air conditioner. If you take advantage of the stack effect by adding a venting skylight near the highest point of the home, the cooling process can be significantly accelerated.

Energy efficiency

Property owners can lessen their overall reliance on artificial lighting by taking advantage of ample daylight throughout the year. Not only does this result in a more appealing living or working area, but it also means lower utility expenses, which may be used to offset the cost of a skylight over time.

If you’re looking for an installer, get in touch with us today for a no-obligation quote.

Why You Should Replace Your Windows During Spring

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on March 2, 2022

There are several good reasons why spring is such a popular season for home remodelling. Sunny spring days have a way of energizing us and creating a sense of productivity. It is a terrific time to get things done around the house—from spring cleaning the junk collected over the previous months to revitalizing our décor. So, open the windows, get some fresh air, and start the spring cleaning project—and pay attention to those old-fashioned and broken windows. But is it time for replacement windows?

Replacing windows is a big investment, but if you notice any of these signs, then it might be time for an upgrade. Drafty windows can be a pain, and the cost of a window replacement seems reasonable compared to lofty energy bills during the summer months. Another thing to consider is the window frames. No amount of repairs will help if frames are soft or cracked, and even worse, warped. Additionally, summer means more outdoor activities, so you might notice that your old windows aren’t as soundproof as they once were. Lastly, condensation can be the main sign of poor energy efficiency, which means you’ll have to run your cooling system more to keep your home comfortable during summer.

So, why should you replace your windows during spring?

Get a fresh, new look this spring

New windows are an excellent way to finish your spring cleaning with a lovely style improvement. New windows during spring mean your home will look stunning inside and out, providing natural lighting and great curb appeal. From bay windows to casement windows, spring has so much in store for your home.

Air out your home

During the winter, our windows aren’t open very much. And now that spring has arrived, everyone wants to let some fresh air in. However, opening the windows might be tough if they’ve been shut for a while and are otherwise difficult to operate. New windows allow you to air out your home after a long, damp, and musty winter. From awning windows that let in a soft breeze during spring showers to casement windows that provide easy ventilation above the kitchen sink, we’ve got what you need this spring.

Save on energy bills this summer

If your windows are old and drafty, you may have had to pay exorbitant energy bills this winter. During the summer, don’t continue to waste money on ineffective windows. Using double and triple-glazed glass, and UV-resistant coatings, you can enjoy plenty of energy-saving features when you opt for modern replacement windows.

Easy installation during the spring months

In the spring, there are additional daylight hours, allowing you to finish your project sooner. Because of the cooler temperatures and lower humidity, window installation is also more pleasant in the spring. Getting new windows in the spring is therefore a no-brainer—for both you and window contractors.

Measures to Prevent Window Condensation

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on January 25, 2022

Condensation on windows can be bothersome. While window condensation is a good indicator of excessive humidity levels, these measures can help you prevent window condensation.

Condensation on windows can be aggravating. Recurring condensation can cause long-term window damage if left ignored. With these tips, you can keep your windows in good working order and reduce internal and external condensation.

Tips for Reducing Window Condensation Inside and Outside

Peering through cloudy windowpanes caused by interior or exterior window moisture is not pleasant. When the temperature of the air outside and the temperature of the glass are significantly different, window condensation is common. While both interior and exterior window condensation can be annoying, untreated internal moisture is more likely to cause long-term issues. Condensation on the inside and outside of windows is not a symptom of a faulty window, and there are several ways to eliminate condensation in your home.

Condensation on the Inside of Windows

Condensation forms first on windows because glass surfaces are frequently among the coldest elements of your home. This usually manifests itself as water droplets or ice on the inside of your window. Condensation begins to dissipate as the internal air becomes dryer or the glass surface grows warmer.

What causes interior window condensation?

When warm air comes into contact with cool glass on the inside of windows and doors, condensation forms. This is especially prevalent during the winter when the inside air is warmer and more humid and outdoor air is cold and dry. Even if you don’t have a humidifier running, regular activities like bathing, cooking, and even breathing add to the humidity in your home.

Replacement of drafty windows and doors, as well as the installation of a new roof or siding, lowers air infiltration and creates a tighter seal in your home. Although a tighter seal saves money on energy bills, it also retains more humidity, which means condensation on colder surfaces in the home may occur more frequently as a result of these improvements. Mold and mildew thrive in wet settings and organic materials like wood, consequently, indoor window condensation can lead to their growth. Consider condensation on your windows as a warning sign that it’s time to lower the humidity in your home before worse problems arise.

How can I reduce window condensation inside my home?

You can reduce the amount of humidity in your home in a variety of ways. Using a portable dehumidifier or installing a whole-home dehumidifier are two options for reducing air moisture. Cover pots and pans when cooking to keep extra humidity at bay, and make sure the kitchen exhaust fan is turned on. The same can be said for restroom fans. Leaving the bathroom fan on during and after a shower will assist in the removal of humid air from your home. Finally, leaving inside doors open allows for optimum air circulation, preventing humidity from building up in one area.

Condensation on the Outside of Windows

Exterior condensation is more common during the summer months when the outside humidity is higher. When the temperature of the glass is reduced and it comes into touch with that warm, humid air, exterior window condensation happens in the same way as room-side condensation. Condensation on the outside of windows is not a cause for concern. In fact, it’s usually a good sign of a well-functioning window.

What causes condensation on the outside of my windows?

When your window glass is colder than the dew point outside, condensation, or dew, is likely to form on the outside of your window. When the air becomes entirely saturated with water, dew forms spontaneously. High external humidity, little or no breeze, and a bright night sky are the three main causes of exterior window condensation. After a chilly night, homeowners are more likely to see exterior window condensation early in the morning. The dew on the outside of your windows will evaporate as the sun shines and warms the glass.

How can I reduce exterior condensation?

Open window coverings at night to warm up the external glass to prevent exterior condensation. You can also help enhance air circulation by trimming shrubs near windows or doors. Raising the temperature setting on your air conditioner may also help keep your window glass at a warmer temperature.

If you think it might be time to replace or upgrade the windows in your home, contact your local Supercraft installer to schedule a no-obligation consultation to discuss the solutions that might be right for you.

The Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows and Doors in Your Home

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on January 21, 2022

You will inevitably find your way home, whether you are on holiday or at work. Because we spend the majority of our time at home, many people consider their homes to be important assets. Windows and doors are among the most important structural aspects of any home, and it’s necessary to make sure they are energy-efficient. We gathered a few benefits of energy-efficient windows and doors.

Better insulation for your home

Energy-efficient doors and windows are important for reducing cold and hot zones in your home because they provide a barrier that keeps summer heat and winter cold out. You won’t have to avoid those certain areas in your house that seem 10 degrees hotter in the summer and 10 degrees colder in the winter thanks to energy-efficient doors and windows.

It’s the eco-friendly option

Windows and doors that are energy efficient are better for the environment. Many people are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint in their homes as awareness of the implications of global warming and climate change grows. Installing energy-efficient windows and doors is one of the most effective ways to decrease your home’s carbon footprint. Some homeowners are unaware of how much energy is lost through their doors and windows. Because of its high thermal reflection capabilities, energy-efficient doors and windows help to control temperatures in your home, requiring less fossil fuel-powered electricity to maintain the correct temperature and making your home more environmentally friendly.

Soundproofing

The superb soundproofing of energy-efficient windows and doors is one of their most remarkable features. External factors, such as noise, are effectively blocked by these structural components. This is a significant benefit, particularly in neighbourhoods where houses are situated close together or near train tracks or major roadways.

They reduce maintenance

By reducing energy transfer, energy-efficient doors and windows help to decrease condensation buildup. This is especially essential for persons with asthma and other allergies since it decreases mold exposure. Furthermore, because of their UV-resistant coating, eco-friendly windows and doors frequently have little to no dirt and water buildup. This means that window cleaning and dusting are the only things that need to be done.

They increase your property value

Energy efficiency is one of the issues that homebuyers assess when making a purchase. If you plan to sell your home at a profit in the future, you should consider investing in energy-efficient doors and windows. Give us a call if you have any questions about the possible benefits of installing energy-efficient windows and doors, or if you’re interested in having them installed in your house. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have and help you discover the perfect windows and doors for your home.

4 Ways To Upgrade Your Front Door

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on January 13, 2022

Doors are frequently an afterthought when it comes to the overall appearance of your home, but we have a few tips on how to upgrade your front door this year.

4 Ways to Upgrade Your Front Door

1. Pick a new front door colour

An entry door is a little canvas that can be updated quickly and easily. However, despite the small canvas, changing the colour of your new front door has a significant impact. While you can undoubtedly draw inspiration from your home’s exterior colour scheme, many homeowners prefer to make a dramatic colour choice by choosing a bright and eye-catching swatch. This has long been a popular door design trend since it allows you to express yourself more than the frequently muted tones utilized in traditional exterior paint schemes.

Are you having trouble deciding on a colour? Choose a front door colour that complements your landscaping. Take inspiration from the seasonal blooms of the surrounding flora and trees. You’ll like seeing the small splashes of colour that sprout up to liven up your front entrance and give your curb appeal some consistency.

2. Style your entrance with décor

The possibilities for outdoor home décor are endless. If you can imagine it, you can almost certainly find it. If you can’t locate it, you can make something to style your door to suit your personal preferences. Whether you enjoy changing up your outdoor decorations with the seasons or want to adhere to one style all year, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind when sifting through all the front entrance décor options:

Begin at the very bottom. Decorate the area around the door using the steps and space on your porch. You can add a lot more décor to your entryway without making it cluttered or covering it up. Decorating from the ground up also draws attention to your lovely front door and makes a pleasant walkway for visitors.
Before the door, give a compliment. Choose front porch décor that complements the colour of your entry door, much like you would with your landscape. Plants, pots, furniture, and pillows in the same or similar hues should be chosen. At the entryway, you can create your own unique colour palette that contrasts with the rest of the façade.
Over the entrance door, you can create a contrast. Choose contrasting colours for wreaths, signs, calligraphy, and even welcome mats. Décor in colours that are too similar to the colour of your entry door will blend in.

3. Accessorize

You can enhance your front door in a variety of ways, including hanging a wreath or sprinkling some seasonal décor. During the door design process, you could add a variety of actual front door decorations. These beautiful accessories allow you to add architectural aspects to a wood entry door that match your home’s style.

4 Ways to Conserve Energy and Maintain Style in Your Home

4. Add glass

Make the door design larger if you want to go all out with your front door improvement. Above the entryway are the transom windows. Sidelights are windows on one or both sides of a structure. Both types of windows provide more room to work with. You can add sophisticated and ornate motifs to your transoms or sidelights by using decorative glass on them. Your entry will appear more modern with clear, unobstructed glass. Not to mention the finishing touches. The window frames can be painted to provide a pop of colour or to draw attention to the windows and front door design.

If you’re ready to change up your entryway, then give us a call or visit our showroom. We also have a fantastic door designer option to help you find a unique front door for your home.

3 Window Privacy Ideas For Your Home

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on December 29, 2021

When you’re looking for just the right mix of both natural light and privacy at home, these window privacy ideas might help.

Maximizing natural light through a large number of windows and doors is extremely appealing, as it brightens areas and improves emotions. However, there are some areas of the house that require a little more seclusion. Bathrooms are one of them, but so are other areas such as a home office or a bedroom. Even a public meeting spot in the home, such as a sitting room, can benefit from privacy on occasion. So, if you want to take advantage of natural light while also wanting some privacy, here are 3 window privacy ideas for your home.

Skylights

Skylights can provide the same level of seclusion as awning windows positioned high up. A strategically placed skylight lets in natural light while maintaining privacy. If you’re thinking about adding skylights, think about the type you want. Is it possible to have the function you want with a fixed, non-venting skylight, or does ventilation play a role in your decision? In either case, a skylight in your home will provide natural light and seclusion while maintaining security.

Curtains or Blinds

Installing drapes or blinds may be the first privacy solution that comes to mind for most people. When changing windows and starting on a full renovation project is not an option, this is certainly one approach to reduce exposure to the outside. It can also be a simple, elegant, and cost-effective solution. Homeowners can obtain a more modern look by incorporating translucent materials into their blinds (and as a bonus, they can avoid the dust that collects in Venetian-style blinds).

Check out 6 Signs You Need New Windows and Doors

Tinted or Decorative Glass

With tinted, decorative, or textured glass, you can achieve privacy while also adding a touch of style. A bronze, grey, or green hue can create a peaceful and secluded atmosphere in your home, as well as a honeyed hue on the outside. And decorative glass can have a watery translucent appearance, or an opaque sequin appearance, which could provide the solitude you seek while also adding charm. When choosing tinted or decorative glass as a privacy solution, look through the possibilities because there are so many to choose from that you can truly create a bespoke, one-of-a-kind place.

Category: Tips