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Home & Garden
lifestyle Home & Garden
8 WAYS TO RENOVATE YOUR HOME - WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK!
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by ELLA ATKINS
The cost-of-living crisis is adding pressure to household budgets, but don’t let this stop you from refreshing your home. The pandemic increased the demand for home improvements, and the increased costs coupled with reduced material availability has forced tradespeople to up their prices. However, if your revamp is essential, or you can’t face the same four walls, Which? has eight ways to save...
1. DIY it! If you have the skills (and courage) do it yourself!
Unfortunately, not all of us are DIY-savvy so if you aren’t 100% sure, always hire a professional (especially with gas/electrical projects!). 2. Lighter refurbs: Less is more, so opt for smaller updates for reduced costs. For example, rather than investing in a brand new kitchen, replace the unit doors and worktops for a refreshed look (and higher bank balance). 3. Higher quality = longer life: Always buy from reliable
brands that have performed well in tests/surveys and you’ll be saving money in the long term with durable products. Do your research and read reviews to find reputable brands. 4. Second-hand saving: Why not choose second-hand items for a cheaper and more sustainable approach?
Take caution though – it’s best to view items in person before purchase, as private sellers aren’t obligated to clarify defects. 5. Plan ahead: Planning projects in advance can save money as it gives you time to explore different methods of money management, such as repainting, sourcing cheaper materials, negotiating, investigating fitters or fitting products yourself. For larger projects (extensions/ loft conversions), agree on a quote and timeframe in advance. Include clearly defined conditions for potential dilemmas, e.g if the price of materials increases during the project, then you could look at getting three comparison quotes. Also, request an overall price for the job, rather than a daily rate as fixed costs reduce the likelihood of mishaps. 6. Practise good maintenance: Keeping rooms and
appliances well-maintained can help avoid expensive repairs long-term (e.g keeping sinks clean will avoid limescale build-up). Small measures could extend your products’ lifecycles whilst supporting the environment by reducing landfill. 7. Identify deals: Fitted furniture frequently goes on sale, so it’s worthwhile shopping around and investigating prices. Consider the timescales of deals and get multiple quotes, and always check details as retailers can run multiple promotions simultaneously. 8. Buy or rent discounted tools: Tools/ DIY products
often go on sale. If the task isn’t urgent, try waiting for a promotion or check to see if hiring products is an option. Try The Hub in The Glades for hiring tools (The Library of Things).
Keep hanging baskets looking their best
A hanging basket full of beautiful blooms and cascading colour is one of the easiest and most effective ways of making your home look glorious. Here are some simple tips from the experts at plant fertiliser brand Phostrogen® to keep your baskets blossoming for months…
• Position carefully
It’s important to consider the type of plant and its requirements. A basket full of shade-dwelling fuchsias or begonias placed in direct sunlight will quickly wilt, and equally, placing sun-loving plants like petunias in the shade will mean they soon fade, too. The elements also play a significant factor in the success of your hanging baskets, so ensure you choose an area that is sheltered from the wind. Rotate your hanging basket every so often to avoid plants growing unevenly and deadhead regularly to encourage repeat blooms. Water baskets generously until it streams through the drainage holes of the container.
• Feed regularly
Water is not the only essential element that plants need, so it’s important to invest in a quality fertiliser. Potting soil contains nutrients to help plants grow, but the compost soon becomes exhausted as the plants absorb the goodness that they need, so these need to be replaced regularly to help your plants thrive.
YOUR LOCAL ROOFING AND BUILDING COMPANY
SPECIALISTS LTD
OUR SERVICES TO YOU INCLUDE: • New Roofs • Roof Repairs • Flat Roofs
OF BROMLEYDear Houseowner, I thought we should let you know that A&J Roofing Specialist Ltd will be working near to you over the next few days and we would like to apologise for any noise or disruption that we may cause. In return for your consideration we would be happy to provide free advice on the care and maintenance of your roof. A&J Roofing Specialist Ltd can offer you free estimates and advice with a 15% discount with this letter. Our services to you include: • New Roofs • UPVC
ALL NEW WORK COMES WITH A 10-YEAR GUARANTEE
• GRP Fibreglass Flat Roofing System • Moss Removal & Tile Treatment • Roof Repairs • Flat Roofs • GRP Fibreglass Flat Roofing System • Moss Removal & Tile Treatment • Facias • Soffits • Guttering • New Windows & Doors
WE We are fully insurod & have references upon request All new workcomes with a 10 year guarantee.ARE FULLY INSURED & HAVE REFERENCES UPON REQUEST Thanks for your time, look forward to hearing from you soon.
TMS House, Cray Avenue, Orpington, BR5 3QBMobile: Email: info@ajroofinglimited.co.uk07407 233 191 Office: 0208 485 6470 Email: www.ajroofinglimited.co.ukinfo@ajroofinglimited.co.uk | www.ajroofinglimited.co.uk Mobile: 07407 233 191 Office: 0208 485 6470 Office: 0168 976 8648 TMS House, Cray Avenue, Orpington, BR5 3QB
PEOPLE IN BUSINESS (PIB)
We are a fun, friendly and affordable small business network group, holding monthly meetings for members who have exclusivity in their field. Our groups include Bromley, Bexley and Southwark.
Email pibnetwork@outlook.com or see www.pib-network.com for more information.
PRODUCTIVITY POD
If you’re a small business or sole trader and work alone – or just want some incentive to get your admin, accounts or social media done, join one of the Productivity Pod’s free sessions on Zoom! You continue to work with sound off but cameras ON & after the session you tell the others what you managed to get done in 2hrs!
Email productivitypod@post.com with your mobile number and name to register or for more details.
CLUBS, ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES
AQUAKIDS
Swimming lessons that last a lifetime. We offer classes with a friendly and personal approach to swimming and cater for all abilities - from beginners to advanced and even nervous first-timers. Please check the website at www.aquakids.co.uk/ for the latest updates or our social media.
www.aquakids.co.uk Facebook@aquakidsuk Twitter @Aquakidsuk Instagram @aquakids.uk
THE CREATION STATION SEVENOAKS, BIGGIN HILL, HAYES AND ORPINGTON
Providing award winning inspiring and imaginative arts and crafts sessions for all ages, parties, events, activities and after school clubs. For more information and booking visit www.thecreationstation.co.uk/alix-purton or call
Alix on 07906 078840 @TCSBeckenham on social media
MY PARTY BOX.FUN
We provide sustainable party boxes that contain everything needed for children's parties. Our aim is to provide stress-free planning while helping you to create magical memories!
www.mypartybox.fun Tel: 0333 444 2017 Email: josette@mypartybox.fun
JKA ORPINGTON SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB
Based at Darrick Wood Senior School, the club was established by its current chief Instructor Graham Richardson in 1975. Class times are 7pm-8.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 10am-11.30am on Saturdays.
See the website at www.jkaorpington.co.uk or email info@jkaorpington.co.uk
DESIGN & PRINT
NICKY GRANT DESIGNS
I specialise in making your business look its best with creative graphic design - offering a personalised, professional and cost-effective service.
T 07855 585690 E nickygrantdesigns@gmail.com NAANI MAA’S KITCHEN
Holistic, mindful vegan/vegetarian cook-along experiences, workshops and demonstrations. Also offers artisan nuts and spices, available for purchase at Bromley Health Store (8 Widmore Road, BR1 1RY)
Call Sushma Raval on 07508-822019, email naanimaas@gmail.com or see naanimaas.weebly.com
WEE CUPCAKES
We make bespoke cakes and cupcakes for all occasions. We cater for most dietary requirements including vegan, dairy free and gluten free.
Contact Wimbai on 07925496547 or email wimbai@weecupcakes.co.uk Instagram: @weecupcakes Facebook: Wee Cupcakes
HEAlTH, BEAUTY & MINDSET
CHERYL HUGGINS MAKEUP ARTIST + SKINCARE SPECIALIST
Professionally Licensed Makeup Artist based in Bromley trained in London & Paris with over 20 years’ experience in artistry and skincare. Together we will create your signature glam look for Special occasions, Bridal + Wedding guest, Zoom or social media makeup, Prom & Celebration Party nights, Business headshots. Makeup Master Classes. All ages, all skin tones. Book your FREE 30-minute consultation. Call 07947 821 991, email
makeup@cherylhuggins.com or see www.cherylhuggins.com
GEO SPORTS MASSAGE
Qualified Physiotherapist and Sports Massage Therapist, providing sports and pregnancy massage in the local area. Whether it is a specific injury or to alleviate general aches and pains, sports massage can benefit you.
If you are interested or would like more information, please contact via Facebook: Geo Sports Massage, Instagram: geosportsmassage or Whatsapp: 07771299123.
FAYE COX COACHING & THERAPY
Affordable Integrated Coaching and Therapy for Teens and Parents. Creating a deeper connection through better communication. We also offer Purpose & Progression sessions for 14-16 year olds, as well as a ‘Needs Audit’ for both parents and Teens. For more information
email faye@fayecoxcoaching.co.uk or send a message to 07968 381793.
PETS
TOP KNOT TOYS
We make safe toys for dogs using traditional Royal Navy knotting methods and, where appropriate, the dying trade of ‘whipping & splicing’ is used. We also offer a range of accessories, household essentials & gifts including dog leads, Monkey-Fist knot toys and doorstops.
