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Birmingham Has a Low Recycling Rate

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Waste Disposal In Birminghams

At Junk Hunters, we specialize in rubbish removal in Birmingham Our experience has given us expertise in rubbish removal and promoting sustainability. As leaders in this field, what are 5 things we at Junk Hunters want Birmingham residents to know about waste disposal?

As of the end of 2018, the city of Birmingham has the lowest recycling rate in the West Midlands. It’s at 21%, based on household waste recycling. The only other local authorities with a lower rate are Barrow-in-Furness Borough Council in the North West (20%) and Newham in London (14%). Birmingham is tied with the Council of the Isles of Scilly in the South West.

Waste Disposal In Birmingham

The city was down 3.7 percentage points from the 2016/17 period. The 2017/18 rate of 21% is the lowest rate the area has scored since the Department for Environment started taking these statistics in 2011. Although this decrease can be attributed to the industrial action in the summer of 2017, Birmingham has had consistently low recycling rates in the last few years compared to other cities across the UK. At Junk Hunters, our goal is to increase the recycling rate for the area with our professional Birmingham waste collection services. You can prefer the grab hire services for professional delivery and material removal service.

The 2017 Birmingham Bin Strike Cost £6m

In the summer of 2017, bin workers in Birmingham went on strike over job losses and changes that had been proposed by the Birmingham City Council. Union officials said that a restructuring of the service would lead to 120 staff being laid off. The Council pointed to funding cuts from 2011 to 2017 which reduced the waste management budget by £6m. It also expressed concerns over productivity levels, which were lower compared to other local authorities in the country.

The strike lasted 3 months, ending in late September 2017. The work stoppages resulted in tonnes of waste lining the streets of Birmingham, which drew national and international attention. The Council has said that the dispute cost over £6m.

Tonnes of Batteries Are Sitting in Landfills

Over 20,000 tonnes of batteries are sent to landfills in the UK per year. Batteries consume 50 times more energy to make than the energy they provide. Only about 1000 batteries purchased per year are recycled and every person in the UK uses about 10 batteries per year. The EU issued a Battery Directive in 2006 stipulating battery recycling and collection. Since then, the number of used batteries collected relative to the number on the market has increased.

Tonnes of Batteries Are Sitting in Landfills

There are battery recycling companies in Birmingham that are certified to dispose of your used batteries. When you rely on Junk Hunters for your rubbish removal needs, we can ensure that your batteries are disposed of properly and recycled when possible.

Food Waste is Almost Half of Birmingham’s Rubbish

On average, 48% of rubbish in a bin in Birmingham contains food waste. In the UK, 30.8% of all food purchased is thrown away. Food waste is a major problem nationally and internationally. Many households in Birmingham don’t have a waste reduction plan. This could be anything from avoiding disposable items like plastic water bottles to planning a weekly meal plan to avoid buying and then tossing food.

Birmingham has improved in overall waste reduction, though. In 2016/17, waste collected in the city was 568kg per person. In 2017/18, it dropped to 354kg per person. In total, the Birmingham City Council collected 402,337 tonnes of rubbish in 2017/18.

One Tonne of Recycled Paper Saves 17 Trees

Paper and cards are some of the easiest materials to recycle. Indeed, paper and card made up 38.1% of all 5.9m tonnes of dry recycling in England in 2017 – the largest percentage. Paper and cards made up 16% of Birmingham’s waste in 2016. It’s easier than ever to go “paperless” in our digital world. When you do use paper, always recycle.

What are some other paper recycling facts? It takes about 5 liters of water to create one sheet of A4 paper. Recycling paper consumes 70% less energy than producing it. The average British family throws away 6 trees per year in paper products.

One Tonne of Recycled Paper Saves 17 Trees

Conclusion

Hopefully, these 5 facts about waste disposal in Birmingham gave you a clearer picture of rubbish collection. At Junk Hunters, we have experience dealing with unwanted rubbish and we do so at the highest environmental standards. Give us a call today to see why we’re a top rubbish collection agency in Birmingham and what we can do for you.

Harsha Rathnayake is the CEO of Junk Hunters. Junk Hunters started in 2009 and now has an annual turnover of over £ 2 million. Harsha has experienced growing teams from the ground up and is now utilizing this knowledge to create successful franchises.

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20 DIY Fall Wreaths: How To Make A Wreath

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Thanksgiving Wreath

A wreath is a simple and elegant way to welcome your guests into your house. They’ll feel the fall vibes just looking at your beautiful wreath, which is hanging on your front door. Want to decorate a door with a wreath? but confused about how to make thanksgiving wreath? Basically, a wreath is an arrangement of flowers, leaves and other fall items on a circular loop or ring. As it sounds to you, it is effortless to create also.

Buying a wreath is a good idea, but what about making a one? They are easy to make and also budget-friendly. Even if you have never made one, don’t worry, here we are to guide you to make your first wreath. So, if you’re here in search of some really cool ideas to make your own personal wreath, you are in the right place.

Here, we are providing 20 fresh and easy DIY wreath ideas, so take inspiration from here and surprise your visitors with totally unique and personalized wreaths.

With the appropriate material, foliage and some basic supply items, you can make an awesome wreath in no time. Definitely, these wreaths will stand out in the whole decoration of your home.

What You’ll Need:

  • Wire
  • Wire Cutters
  • Glue & Glue Gun

After getting these basic supplies, let’s start with the 20 easy DIY fall wreaths:

Leaf Wreaths: 

Fall is all about the changing of the leaves from green to bright orange, so why not you include these pretty leaves into your fall decors. Here are four easy wreaths that you can make in under five minutes.

1. Arbor Boxwood Wreath 

 Arbor Boxwood Wreath 

Arbor Boxwood Wreath is a perfect transitional wreath because of its green leaves as it reminds us of departure of hot summer and arrival of cozy fall. Just pick some Arbor Boxwood leaves and wrap them in a ring shape, and your leaf wreath is ready for fall.

2. Autumn Grapevine Wreath

Autumn Grapevine Wreath

This autumn wreath includes fall berries and velvety delphinium. Tie all this in a loop and decorate it fall peonies, and your Autumn Grapevine wreath is ready !!

3. Eucalyptus Wreath

Eucalyptus Wreath

To make this wreath, you’ll need a wooden hoop, and some eucalyptus adorns. Place them only to the bottom half of the loop.

4. Artichoke & Herb Wreath 

 Artichoke & Herb Wreath 

You don’t have to stick with the traditional themes, try different colors or rainbow wreath like this one.

Wheat Wreath

5. Wheat Bundle Wreath

Wheat Bundle Wreath

A wheat wreath is soft and effortless to make. Just grab a few strands of ripe wheat and wrap it around the circular loop in a bundle.

6. Wheat Berry Wreath

Wheat Berry Wreath

These wheat wreaths can easily blend with the neutral surroundings. To make the simple wreath more interesting, add some corn husks, pinecones, and acorns. It will look astonishing and gives the perfect fall vibes.

Berry Wreath

7. Faux Juniper Berries Wreath

Faux Juniper Berries Wreath

Want a dark color themed wreath? Then try Faux Juniper Berries Wreath; it is a dark, moody, and perfect piece for fall.

8. Red Berry Wreath

Red Berry Wreath

Who says that berries are only for eating? They can also look great as winter decor. Pick some dry red berries and place them in a circular loop. You’ll feel the festive burst with its vibrant red color.

9. Scented Berry Wreath

Scented Berry Wreath

A wreath with bright sunset orange berries will be the perfect thanksgiving wreath. The scent of the berries will remind us that the holiday season is coming..!!

10. Beaded Berry Wreath

Beaded Berry Wreath

This wreath is made from frosted fall berries, so you can already guess it !! It is very simple to make; you can make this in just 5 minutes.

11. Maple Leaf And Berry Wreath

Maple Leaf And Berry Wreath

To add more interest to a Maple leaf wreath, place some berries with them. The yellow-orangish colored leaves will be a pop of color in your decor.

Flower Wreath: 

A flower wreath is mainly made from flowers and foliages, which are sewed onto a circular loop. They look exquisite and classy.

12. Plum Blossom Wreath

Plum Blossom Wreath

What’s better than a flower wreath? Right..!! As they bring happiness to any place. To make this wreath, all you need is a Plum blossom flowers. Pick some long and thin tree branches and wrap them to make a circular loop. And finally onto this place the flowers and your beautiful Plum blossom wreath is ready.

13. White Tulip Wreath

White Tulip Wreath

We’ll think that tulips are associated with summer. But that’s not true; you can also use them in your winter decorations. Grab some tulips from the local flower shop and place it around a circular wire loop.

14. Golden Sunflower Wreath

Golden Sunflower Wreath

As we already told you that you could use summer flowers in your fall decorations. And the simplest way is to make a wreath from these. Use a thick branch ring instead of a traditional one.

15. Autumn Harvest Wreath

Autumn Harvest Wreath

To get a burst of color in your home decorations, use various kinds of flowers. This twig autumn harvest wreath is perfect for thanksgiving. Complete the wreath by placing a bow on top of it.

16. Geranium Wreath

Geranium Wreath

If you want a romantic fall decoration, then try out this wreath. It is made from Geranium flowers, which are the perfect definition of romance. Beautiful red will add more beauty to your outdoor decorations, and it is very easy to make. Just buy some geranium flowers from a local shop and start winding them around a thin tree branch. And your romantic wreath is ready, hang this onto your outdoor door.

Unusual Wreaths

So this holiday season ditches the traditional wreaths and makes the wreaths that are unique. Here are some cool and funky wreath ideas:

17. Vintage Bulb Wreath

Vintage Bulb Wreath

We all embellish our houses from lights, but now it is an ordinary style. This season, accessorize your home by a fun glowing wreath. Yes.. you read it right !! you can also use your old bulbs, which are not working. Tie them with the help of wire and secure tightly on a wire loop. This DIY wreath hardly takes ten minutes.

18. Shiny Brites Ornament Wreath

Shiny Brites Ornament Wreath

Don’t think that ornaments are only for the Christmas tree; you can also make a beautiful wreath from them. Tie all the shiny and funky looking ornaments on a wire loop. You can also attach some ribbons.

19. Candy Wreath

Candy Wreath

This holiday season, if you’re planning to make candies, then think about a candy wreath. A candy wreath is perfect for thanksgiving. Wrap your homemade candies in colorful papers and then make a wreath from them. It looks fascinating and unique. Kids will love it, but make sure they don’t steal all your candies from it.

20. Pom Pom Wreath

Pom Pom Wreath

A Pom Pom wreath? We know it sounds a little weird… But we assure you that you’ll love this after you make one. Just grab some pom-pom from a dollar store and a wooden loop. That’s it. Now start placing pom-poms around the loop in a random manner. You can either go for colorful ones or neutral/basics ones; both will look amazing.

Thanksgiving Wreaths

Conclusion

This holiday season, Feel the autumnal energy by these DIY wreaths. Just add a wreath along with some garlands and shows your festive spirit to your neighbors. Don’t think that you can decorate wreath only for holiday season; they are evergreen beauty. So include them now in your house decor. You can place a wreath anywhere in your house from the main entryway door to place above your fireplace. For more holiday decor, visit Architecturesideas.

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Making the Most of Your Interior Design for The Least Amount of Money

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Interior Design in low budget

So many people feel like they have to wait until they have beefed up savings before they can start working on interior designs. It’s like they have to live with feast or famine. It’s all Ikea couches and Craigslist beds until they finally have enough to buy everything at once.

It doesn’t have to be that way! Part of building a personal style is collecting items you love along the way. You design your home the best you can with what you’ve got. Not everything costs a ton of money. There are plenty of ways to make your home modern and stylish on a realistic budget.

A living room filled with furniture and a chandelier

Here are some good ideas on how to make the most out of your interior design for less. There are a ton more than these, but the below options are a great place to start. A few key upgrades in your house will make all the difference and get you started on an interior design kick. Try one and you’ll see the difference and can go from there!

Spend Money on Affordable Decorations

A living room filled with furniture and a center table

Cool style is all about finding a way to express yourself through your interior design. Anyone with money can buy something that looks like it came straight off the showroom floor. It looks decent, but the best way to make the interior design your own is to find ways to communicate who you are and build the kind of home you want to live in.

Too many people have bare walls and tables in their house! You can change that by frequenting yard sales, consignment stores, and local arthouses to find unique pieces that change the look at feel inside your house. Even people with unlimited budgets look in these places because you can find real antiques and one of a kind art pieces. It’s a fun activity you can do on the weekends.

Try Some Easy DIY Home Improvement Projects

A living room with a gray couch and a white coffee table

Labor costs are the biggest component of interior design projects. If you cut out labor costs, your money will go a long way. It’s daunting taking on renovations yourself. That first time swinging a sledgehammer into a wall can carry a lot of anxiety. We’re not suggesting you take on something major unless you’re a seasoned home improvement pro.

Instead, take on manageable tasks that you can do on evenings and weekends to improve your home interior design. Believe it or not, you can switch out bathroom fixtures, lights, and doors without too much trouble. If it’s been years since the house was upgraded, changing out doorknobs, switch plates, and other fixtures will make a huge difference. It’s a small but very impactful upgrade that you’ll notice every day.

Affordable Countertop Upgrades

A kitchen with a center island and a sink

Changing the countertops in your kitchen and bathrooms is another interior design improvement idea. If you’ve got older countertops that are starting to crack or look a little drab, put some thought into replacing them.

Countertop upgrades don’t cost an arm and a leg, either. Yes, if you go for rare marble countertop slabs, you could be looking at a high price tag. However, there’s been a lot of innovation in the countertop space that brings them into almost everyone’s price range.

Quartz comes in different grades. You can find lower grades for under $100 per square foot that look fantastic and are very durable. The more you pay, the more options you have, but you should top out at under $200 per square foot for the best quartz on the market, according to this article. One of the reasons countertops have become more affordable is the popularity and availability of quartz.

Quartz slabs are manufactured, unlike the mining process that produces granite and marble. It uses recycled natural stone and crushes them into slabs that come in all colors and shapes. You’ll get plenty of variety of choice and your kitchen and bathrooms will look fantastic.

Experiment with Paint

A living room with a couch a chair and a table

The house is yours, you bought it. That means you get to do what you want with it. No written rule says every house has to be white on the inside.

Look for inspiration online for information on color and paint trends. Find what you like and take a trip to your local paint or home improvement store to buy a sample. When you get home, find an inconspicuous spot to test the samples out. Leave them up for a few days and soak them in mentally. Once you’re ready, try changing the color of a wall in your living or dining room.

The best part about the paint is that it makes a big difference and is very affordable. Paint doesn’t cost much, and if you find a color you love you’ll spend time thinking about what else you can switch up inside for style points.

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Step By Step Guide On: How To Frame A House

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How To Frame A House

You already heard about people building their home stairs and backyard deck area. People can easily make wood furniture by following a DIY guide and decorate their house interior. It may look intricate at first but with proper guidelines nothing is impossible. You would have felt like a pro after completing the project.

A large brown and white house next to a brick wall

So, like that Have you ever thought of building a house? We know that it also sounds really complicated task to do. But as we said “with proper guidelines nothing is impossible” at the end of this blog, you’ll get an overall idea on how to frame a house.  Framing of a house is a lengthy procedure, and you will have to do it in stages to get the finished look.

With the right steps and process, you’ll able to do house framing pretty easily. With these simple steps, you will be able to build a house without taking help from a local builder.

So, let’s start our complete guide on house framing:

What Framing Is?

house Framing idea

First, time hearing the word framing? Framing is the backbone of the house, aka “ walls,” which is made from specific materials (mostly from wood). If the walls are not sturdy and durable, then, there is quite a chance that your house will not stand for a longer period.

So, choose the proper and suitable tools and materials to frame your house.

Materials

There are two types of framing- heavy-frame construction and light-frame construction. Pole, Timber, and steel are used in heavy construction framing. Choose the framing according to your house size and budget because heavy framing can be a little heavy on your pocket.

Whereas, light steel, balloons, and platform framing are used to lightly frame the house, which is more budget-friendly.

Methods Of Framing

Balloon and Platform framing are the most basic type of framing; that’s why it is prevalent these days.

1. Balloon Framing

Balloon Framing idea

Whereas in the Balloon framing, studs are running from bottom to the top of the house. It goes up to a maximum height of 2 feet. This style of framing was popular back in the 1920s. The empty spaces between the studs were filled with stucco. These types of walls are expensive and sometimes dangerous (because of their height and weight).

2. Platform Framing

Platform Framing idea

To achieve platform framing, the first step is to make a subflooring on the ground and then onto this; you’ve to build all the walls. These floorings are present at each storey of the house. They give strength and support at every level of the house.

Both the framing have some pros and cons. Balloon framing is good up to 2-3 storeys, whereas you can go as many levels in Platform one. They are more sturdy than the Balloon one.

How To Build A House

Here are all the steps, read them carefully before you start building your dream house:

1. Take Permission 

Always take permission from the local authorities before you start building. Take care of the building codes such as the size of the windows and doors, and the framing of the house.

A diagram of a building with all the parts labeled

2. Wall Stud

First, measure all the dimensions you want and choose the material accordingly. After that, cut the dry wood in the 8-foot sections. (Typically the size of a storey is around 8-9 foot). Once you are done with cutting wall studs, then toenailing them at about 16 inches with nails. Repeat the process and pre-build the outside frame with these woods.

Tip: You can also draw the design roughly on a paper to get a clear idea of the house design.

3. Jack Stud

Jack studs are also a type of wall studs which is used to cover windows and doors. They are special types of bracing used to brace the trimmers and headers.

Tip: nail down every part securely with the appropriate size of the nail.

A house being built in the middle of a field

4. Sill Plate 

The sill plate is a horizontal base where all the wall studs are vertically attached to it. Carefully, place wall studs one by one on this. And don’t forget to insert braces at every corner, until you finish.

Tip: Adding the post in the corners will add more support and power to each section

5. Repeat 

Follow the same procedure for the entire circumference of the house. After completing the first storey of the house, do the same for the upcoming storeys.

Tip: place the studs, joists, and rafters precisely at 16 inches apart to provide reliable support.

6. Roof Trusses

After succeeding in the previous steps, its time to build the roof. So the first and foremost step is to make roof trusses. Build the truss according to the shelter you want. Nowadays, some houses have high pitched roofs and dormers. Think before you start building your roof, go through all the options and select the one which works best for you.

A house under construction with a lot of windows

7. Wall And Roof Sheathing

Once you’re done with the framing, the next step is wall sheathing. The sheathing is used to provide sufficient rigidity to the base – Brick, concrete and other materials to fill up space. In earlier times, people used ½ inch thick boards to cover up the wall studs. Same as wall sheathing, you can do roof sheathing.

After completing all these steps, its time to install doors and windows. And paint the whole house with the color of your choice and decorate it.

A house under construction in the middle of the day

At The End

Framing acts as a “skeleton” to the house, no matter how expensive is your house exterior and finishings, but if the base is weak, then it’s not gonna work out. So, always make sure that you use good material with sufficient support is provided in the framing. A house with a good foundation will bear all the harsh weather condition and remains as it is for years.

A large wooden house sitting on top of a lush green field
A large wooden house with a lot of windows
A large house in the middle of a snowy field

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Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television

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Deco TV Frames

We are the golden age of television. TV shows have never been this good nor are there as many options to choose from. So, why is there still a lot of hesitance from people in buying a television set? The reasons range from economic to practicality. But now, more than ever has been the best time to invest in some of the best quality entertainment hubs. If you are worried about having a television set ruining your living room decor, you could just buy Deco TV frames.

In this article, we will look at the reasons why you should definitely start to browse for the best value television that you can get.

TV Frames

Deco TV Frames: Why to Buy a Television – Sports Nowadays is a Spectacle

I do not know about you but I love sports and a majority of America agrees. There is a reason why there is a sudden spike of interest in sports with the advent of high definition TV. Television and sports go together like baseball and hotdogs in a bun. Never had the excitement of watching a game back at home become as nerve-wracking as being in the actual stadium itself. Accompanied by the best audio systems that technological advances have to offer, being a sports spectator has never been so fun and comfy.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television – Drown the Noise

The world is getting more populated than ever before. And let’s face it. The simple truth is that if you are living, then the chances are you are staying in one of the densely populated areas of the world. That is simply how communities have evolved over time. And knowing that, one of the biggest problems that modern society has to endure is the constant noise that both overpopulation and industrialization has brought upon.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television - Drown the Noise

Having a television ready to drown out the noise outside the four walls of your room can be a big blessing that you might not have yet come to realize. The first time that I have lived without a television set was right when I graduated in high school. I was renting a studio apartment a few blocks away from the university. Everything about the place was perfect except that it was right across the busiest intersection in the area.

The days were fine but when the night comes, the street transforms into the party spot of the county. I had little recourse. I could buy noise-canceling headphones but Having anything attached to my ears kind of throws me off. And then, I figured that if I could not live in a place that was quite enough for me to function, I could, at least, choose the kind of noise I would be drowning in. And that is when I invested in a television set.

Note however that this trick is not for everyone. For instance, living with family is not always the best situation for you to unplug yourself from. Television, as much as any of the wonders that we have today, must be used responsibly.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television – For the News

Ask the people you know where they get the news and you would probably hear them say social media more often than you expect. This is after all that had been the trajectory ever since the smartphone and the internet were invented. Ever since the information was reachable by the palm of our hands, who needs to crawl over to find a remote that usually disappears into another dimension each time you sit down to watch your favorite show.

So, if you could get information faster and easier through other means, should we not cast away the television the same way that we cast away the newspapers? The answer is of course no. While viewership has indeed declined, like the newspaper, every once in a while, we are reminded of how much we rely on the basics when we need to hear the news.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television - For the News

News from the television is carefully curated and packed for us to summarily see what is worth seeing. This is in contrast with news from the internet which really relies on the kinds of news that interests the majority of people there. This means that the news about a war breaking out could be overtaken by a windsurfing squirrel because the squirrel video got more likes and shares.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television – For the Family

Remember a simpler time when the whole family would cozy up in the living room watching a show that all of you loved? Well, I do, and it is said that this is slowly becoming out phased by our desire to get our entertainment from means that would let us have it when we want it. Television was special because the time we had to watch it was limited.

We would savor each of the scenes and even try to entertain ourselves with the commercial breaks. The feeling was shared by the entire family and though we did not talk a lot and see eye to eye throughout the day, we knew that when TV time comes, we would share an intimate time with each other.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television – To Relax

The choice is a powerful concept. It is the bedrock of democracy and, as we live and breathe, we are given each our own free will. This was the same power that overtook when the excitement over the latest streaming services have arrived. We felt that there could be nothing else to obstruct us from the way we wish to consume our entertainment. While this is all well and good, we sometimes fail to see the stress that it brings.

Deco TV Frames: Why Buy a Television - To Relax

Choice gives as much of a problem as it does in happiness. Knowing that we can pick what shows we want to watch and when to watch it means that we now have the desire to watch the best one that is showing and to watch them all.

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Best Ways to Pay for Your Home Remodel Project

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Home Remodel Projects

Do you have some big ideas on how to remodel your home? Have you been thinking about renovations for years? Well, now is the time to turn those ideas into reality! There are many ways to pay for your home remodeling project so you can finally get the home that you want.

Home Remodel Project

Credit Card Payment

If you have a credit card with a high limit, you may be able to pay for your home remodel using your card. If you do not have a credit card already, look into getting a new one with a zero percent introductory rate. This way, you can pay for your remodel and then pay off your credit card over a few months without interest. Keep in mind that if you do not pay the card in full right away, interest will be applied to the amount which could make your remodel expensively. You should also make sure your contractor accepts credit cards as some may only take cash. If you plan well, a credit card could work for you!

Take Out a Cash Loan

Head down to your local bank or find a great online lender to grant you a cash loan to help pay for your remodel. With you opt to use a loan to pay for your home renovations, you will be able to set up easy, manageable monthly payments that you can afford. Most cash loans have set interest rates so your payments will stay the same throughout the life of your loan. You can get the remodel that you want instantly and then pay it off little by little!

cash loan for Home Remodel Project

DIY Your Renovation

If you are handy, try doing some of your homes remodel on your own. Demolition can be the easiest part of renovating (it isn’t too hard to rip things down!) and you can save money by doing this part yourself. Watch some videos online about home projects and see if you could manage to do your remodel yourself. You may surprise yourself and save money at the same time!

Save Up Your Money

If you have time to wait to pay for your remodel project, take the time to save up your money and then start the project once you have enough set-aside. Figure out how much the remodel will cost you and then save as much as you can each month. This may take some time but you will be able to pay for the project upfront with no interest or monthly payments afterward.

Save Up Your Money for Home Remodel Project

Barter Your Skills

You may be able to find someone to complete your home remodel in exchange for a service that you specialize in. For example, if you are an accountant, you may be able to offer your contractor free tax assistance at the end of the year. If you are a stay-at-home mom, perhaps you could offer babysitting services to your construction lead. Think about what skills you have that could be traded for your home remodel.

Barter Your Skills for Home Remodel Project

Conclusion

As you can see, funding your home remodel may be easier than you think! Get creative and look into all your options before you commit. Between doing projects yourself to taking out cash loans, you are sure to be able to make your project become a reality!

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ZHA & COX Architecture Wins The Western Sydney Airport Competition

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Sydney Airports

On 29 October 2019, the Zaha Hadid Architects and COX Architecture wins the International Design Competition for Western Sydney International Airport. Western Sydney Airport (WSA) was selected from forty international and national aspirants. Which was further narrowed down to the main five selected designs. 

Sydney Airport

Sydney Airport

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is titled after a famous aviatrix. Situated at the rural site- Western Parkland City, Australia, and its construction are spread over the 1780 Hectare area. It is the second airport in the city, which acts as a vital catalyst for the growth of the Badgerys Creek site. The airport gracefully reflects its natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the natives.

Sydney Airport

The airport will be built in four stages, and the primary stage is estimated to complete in 2026 with a 10 MAP (Million Annual Passengers). And another mind baffling thing is that it will further be increased to 82 MAP, which makes it the largest international gateway to Australia.

Architects

Zaha Hadid Architects and Cox Architecture were appointed as the Master architect for this project. We already know that both are known for their exceptional work in the field of architecture. 

Architecture of Sydney Airport

We are honored to have been selected for this amazing project. The design is an evolution of Australian architecture past, present, and future,” said Cristiano Ceccato, project director at Zaha Hadid Architects.

interior of Sydney Airport

Zaha Hadid is the first woman to win the RIBA Gold medal. There are numerous spectacular buildings around the world, which shows the immense and extra-ordinary work of her. And to bring this project onto another level, she collaborated with Cox Architecture, which is one of the most significant architectural practices in Australia. They expertise in projects like exhibitions, museums, hotels, and residential and commercial developments. You already have seen their works such as Sydney Football Stadium and AAMI Park.

Structure And Design

The architects (i.e. ZHA and COX Architecture) designed the whole structure with overarching designs with the thoughts of future expansion. The entire airport has a theme of “Sustainable design”. They extensively wanted to use daylight and natural ventilation with water recycling.  In short, they want to create a modular and energy-efficient design structure.

Structure And Design of Sydney Airport

The COX Director, David Holm, says “The design takes inspiration from the unique local flora of Western Sydney and its unique natural qualities, such as the Great Australian Light. These spaces, colors, and materials have been incorporated into the design to give the project an unmistakable regional identity.” 

Design of  Sydney Airport

Conclusion

After seeing Western Sydney International Airport, you can believe that “Anything is possible” in terms of architecture, no matter how big or small the structure is. Here, Architects wanted to give a “ Seamless Travel Experience” to travelers. So, they created this futuristic structure by taking the hands of nature.

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Everything To Know About Vinyl Windows

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Vinyl Window

Not All Windows Are Created Equal, Why Vinyl Windows Should Be Your Energy-Efficient Choice

When we think of windows, most of us don’t think about them in any real depth, just that they are a necessity for comfortable living. Something your house has may sometimes need to be replaced and that’s about it. That is until it becomes time to do something about them.

Vinyl Windows

Perhaps that draft just keeps getting worse, or every time you walk past the window you get a cold chill. Maybe it’s not even that, just the simple realization that you need new windows, and soon. Like most, you’re probably just thinking about what new windows I can get. The reality is not all windows are created equal. Some types stand up above their competition. Vinyl happens to be one of them.

Why?

Well just like any other major renovation to your home, unless you have an unlimited budget, you’re going to be looking for replacement windows that won’t cost an arm and a leg. Vinyl windows are one of the most affordable, energy-efficient choices on the market today.

Beyond cost, there are other factors that should have you leaning toward vinyl windows as well.

Vinyl windows come in a wide range of colors and styles so no matter what your home looks like or your personal tastes you should be able to find vinyl windows that work for who you are and the appearance you want for your home.

They are also low maintenance. Let’s face it, we all lead busy lives, and no one really wants to come home on weekends to have to sand and repaint their window sills. If we can give them a quick rinse with the hose and scrub with soapy water as needed, that’s a much better choice for our on-the-go lifestyles.

They are also long-lasting. This means you will know that your investment will be worth it over the long range. You won’t have to be looking at paying for windows again for a very long time. This can relieve some of the stress of being a homeowner and reduce things on the honey-do list.

Vinyl windows are also a great choice for those looking for eco-friendly options. Once the windows have run their lifespan and need replacement they can be recycled.

They are also a great choice for those wanting to get the best possible energy efficiency out of your home. Poor insulating windows can be like leaving the window wide open in the middle of winter. Out goes your heat, and your money. Not a happy thought for anyone.

Vinyl Windows for your home

Conclusion

Another added benefit to them being energy efficient is that you might be eligible for rebates for having them installed in your home. The government is doing its part to encourage homeowners to reduce their carbon footprints by giving rebates for replacing outdated drafty windows, this means not only are you improving your home, but you’re also getting money back for doing it. It’s a great benefit for you as a homeowner.

As you can see there are many reasons why a window is not just a window and why you should consider looking into vinyl windows as your replacement window of choice.

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Everything You Should Know About Tudor Style House

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tudor style houses

History Of Tudor Style (1890-1940)

Tudor style first originated in the United States in the mid-19 century. Tudor style house movement was a revival of old English architecture which was present in the 16th Century. Due to their amazing architectural designs, these houses gained immediate popularity. They were sometimes called “Stockbroker Tudor” because only financially stable or wealthy people could afford them.

Do you want to know more about the history of Tudor architecture? If yes, keep on reading. Here, you’ll find all the information about the Tudor style.

What Is A Tudor Style? 

Tudor style is an architecture style that has been used in past centuries. It was prevalent back during the medieval days, but nowadays, it seems to come back in the form of Tudor Revival. Some of the prominent elements of this style are- roofs, arched doors, and bay windows.

tudor style house

If you’re interested in remodeling or redecoration by adding modern elements following the Tudor style, then this article will definitely help you out.

How To Recognize The Tudor style?

You may also wonder, how would you recognize a Tudor house?

Well, to clear the air, here is the answer. There are some well-known factors and their distinct appearance through which anyone can quickly recognize a Tudor house. Tudor homes come in all sizes and have a storybook appearance. Tudor Style house decorations are expensive to build, so it is correct to say that only wealthy people can afford that.

Main Elements

All Tudor homes had some peculiar features. They were made from myriad materials and had solid masonry with elaborated forms. These qualities made them unique among all the neighboring houses.

Here are the seven key elements of this style:

1. Steeply Pitched Roofs 

Steeply Pitched Roofs tudor style house

Tudor homes had a steeply pitched roof with multiple overlapping gables. To cover the triangular portion of the roof, they used front face gables. You’ll see the height variations in the ceiling of these stylish houses.

2. Decorative Half-Timbering

Decorative Half-Timbering tudor style house

As we said before, Tudor houses are recognized by their extreme decorations like half-timbering. If you don’t know what timbering is – it is a frame of thin boards that are added to the outside cladding of the house. Earlier, they were used to support the house, but now they serve only as decoration.

3. Oriel Windows

Oriel Windows tudor style house

A window is another factor that is easily recognizable in Tudor homes. They are narrow, tall with multiple panes, and generally in groups of two, three, and four. You will see these windows in rectangular or even in diamond shapes. Tudor homes also have Oriel windows – which are floating windows, that are present in the first or second storey. They typically open outward to keep house airy and fresh.

4. Arched And Embellished Doorways

 Arched And Embellished Doorways tudor style house

All Tudor houses have elegant but protective entryways against the harsh weather. They have one common entrance door like any other architecture style. They usually have beautiful embellishments on them. The round arch on the top and bordered by contrasting stones makes them stand out.

5. Chimney

Chimney tudor style house

How can we forget about Tudor chimneys? They are another notable element in the Tudor style architecture. The base of the chimney is made out of bricks, but the top is decorated with stones and metal extensions.

Let’s talk about the interior and exterior of the house:

6. Interior

Interior of tudor style house

Tudor homes were designed in such a way that the whole interior complimented the exterior of the house. The asymmetry of the front façade was totally enhanced the beautiful detailed interior designs. Interiors were often accented in dark woods from ceiling beams to wall paneling. And interior features richly wood-paneled walls and decorated ceilings. Molded plaster was used to decorate ceilings, walls, and cornices.

7. Exterior

Exterior of tudor style house

The main characteristics of the Tudor architecture include – lavish use of half-timber work, a large number of bay or oriel windows, complex roof with gables, and stone decorations. They have interesting chimney designs with brickwork. The exterior was mostly made from solid bricks, and the gaps between the bricks are filled with Stucco or stones.

Examples

Here we have listed some remarkable Tudor style buildings around the world:

1. Montgomery Country, Maryland

Montgomery Country, Maryland

This house has characteristics that accurately defines Tudor architecture. Dormers, decorated chimneys, wide vergeboards, and stone porte-cochere are the main features of this house.

2. Ascott House

Ascott House

Ascott House is located in Buckinghamshire, England. James, I built this beautiful house in the 19th century. It is the perfect example of Tudor style or English country house. The current owner of this house is the Rothschild family, and now it is even open to the public.

3. Blakesley Hall

Blakesley Hall

Blakesley Hall situated at Yardley, Birmingham, England, which was built around the 16th century. Richard Smalbroke built this house as a residential property, but after so many changes, it is now a museum. So, if you want to see more closely the elements and designs of Tudor style, then definitely visit this place.

4. The Lake House

The Lake House

This pretty house is situated in Pahang, Malaysia. It is one of the best models of the Tudor revival architecture style. It was constructed in the 20th century. Colonel Stanley J. Foster built the Lake House. It is currently serving as a hotel, so next time you visit Malaysia, don’t forget to put this place on your vacay-list.

Tudor Revival

Tudor styles are hard to achieve, but after completion, they look extraordinary. So, If you’re looking to add a few interior style decorations to your home, here are a few ideas:

  1. Exposed ceiling beams
  2. Heavy fabrics for drapes or chair upholstery
  3. Warm color schemes
  4. Flagstone fireplaces
  5. Arched doorways
  6. Ornate wood furniture

Things To Keep In Mind

Tudor style homes are expensive to build, and you can not replicate the designs. Another drawback of this style is that they need high maintenance.

Who says you can’t go for a Tudor style at this time? Tudor style may have originated in 19 century, but still, it is one of the most famous architectural styles preferred by architects. You’ll find the pure luxury with comfort in Tudor homes. So don’t think much. If your budget allows you, it is the right time to go for a Tudor style home design.

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Where Is Aluminum Used in Construction?

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Aluminum Used in Construction

Introduction

Over the past 50 years, aluminum has proven to be one of the essential metals the building and construction industries use. The rise in the application of aluminum has it facilitated by the factors that it is strong, collision-resistant, durable, and its ability to be recycled. Architects and constructors highly prefer aluminum for building and construction due to its uniqueness in its properties and more so the low maintenance cost that comes with it. In the current world, construction is not just about putting up buildings. The materials used play a significant role in the structure. Let’s see where aluminum is highly used in building and construction.

Window Frames Construction 

Window Frames Construction 

Aluminum has shown to be of great help in the construction of window frames. It is airtight hence making it the ideal material for window frame construction.  The airtight property helps in the reduction of heating and cooling loads. Most materials that were used for the construction of the window frames seemed to have natural cracks, which led to air leakage. With the use of aluminum, air leakage is no longer a problem for most of the buildings. This airtight property makes aluminum the best material for window frame construction.  

Construction of Skyscrapers

Construction of Skyscrapers

Most architects and designers choose aluminum on the structure and building of skyscrapers. Well, this is because it has a high strength to weight ratio, not forgetting the durability factor. This makes it easier for aluminum to be used in construction as its more flexible and easier to handle.

You are some guidance on how to choose an aluminium suppliers.

Unlike when materials like steel are used, using aluminum makes skyscrapers weigh less as even the foundation does not have to be very deep. Using aluminum is also much cheaper as the labor and energy used isn’t much as there isn’t much work to do. Transportation of construction materials can be expensive, but with aluminiumwarehouse.co.uk/aluminium, its much cheaper as its more comfortable to handle.

Aluminum For Roofing

Aluminum For Roofing

Aluminum has proven to be an excellent material for the roofing of buildings. It is usually a collusive resistant material making it more durable when used for roofing. By being able to withstand the sunlight, wind, and rain effects, it serves as the best material to go for in the building and construction industry.

For an extended period, you will have your roofing and surrounding bright and lively as aluminum won’t rot, stain, or even discolor. Aluminum roofing is easy to wash and maintain the reason it should be your number one choice.

With the increasing need to put up robust, easy to maintain, and flexible buildings, it is clear that aluminum application in the building and construction industry will rise.

Conclusion

Indeed, no material can ever be perfect, but trusting aluminiumwarehouse.co.uk/aluminium for your construction material would be a good idea. Aluminum has its disadvantages, but its advantages outweigh it. Many architects will tell you the truth that there is no alternative material to use other than aluminum. The fact that aluminum is most architects and designer’s first choice which shows that the use of aluminum in the industry of building and construction will continue to rise gradually.

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