Category: BBL

What Is An Accreditation?

Granting credit or acknowledgment, particularly to an educational institution that upholds acceptable criteria, is the act of accreditation. Any individual or educational institution that needs to demonstrate that they fulfil a minimum standard of excellence must obtain accreditation.

GGFi – Warranty Protection

Thanks to GGFi Guarantee Protection on all of the work we do, when you pick BBL Windows, you can rest assured that your warranty will be honoured.

Warranty Insurance plans were developed in response to the need for Competent Persons Schemes like FENSA to give homeowners access to greater protection. These policies provide protection against the failure of installation enterprises to continue operating.

Any issues typically recoverable under the guarantee’s provisions in the event that the business collapses during the guarantee’s term may be the subject of an insurance claim in accordance with the terms of the policy.

Members of GGFi may also benefit from deposit protection, which insures deposits made on consumers’ behalf against a member company’s closure.

Pilkington

One of the most well-known architectural standards for environmentally friendly or sustainable building design is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Glass and other building materials cannot be certified, but they can be very helpful in obtaining LEED credits.

Compliance with ISO 14001, an international standard for environmental management systems, shows that we have put in place procedures and policies that address how we interact with the environment and lessen its impact. By assisting architects and clients with demonstrating the sustainability of their buildings through programmes like BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED, this certification can have a significant positive impact (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

Home Improvement Protection

An Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG) is in place to protect the customer’s investment and house in the event that any company they hired for home improvement work goes out of business.

Life is full of surprises. A business may stop operating due to insolvency, forced or voluntary liquidation, bankruptcy, the passing of all the principals, or retirement. An Insurance Backed Guarantee aims to uphold the conditions of the guarantee as originally provided by the contractor, regardless of what happens.

As soon as the deposit is paid and a Deposit Protection certificate is produced, home improvement protection begins to protect it. 

Consider paying a deposit to reserve home remodelling work. The worst then occurred when, for whatever reason, the trader stopped trading before beginning the task. The good news is that Home Improvement Protection will safeguard that deposit, arrange for contract fulfilment, or reimburse the deposit.

FENSA

A government-approved programme called FENSA keeps track of whether replacement windows and doors adhere to building codes. They periodically evaluate each FENSA Approved Installer to make sure that compliance with building codes is upheld, including big national brands and small local businesses.

The goal of FENSA is to increase the quality of window and door replacements throughout England and Wales by safeguarding homeowners and professionalising installers.

They ensure that the work is energy-efficient, in accordance with construction codes, and registered with the local council. Check the insurance status of each FENSA Approved Installer’s warranty as well.

British Manufactured

You must show that either a “substantial transformation” or at least 50% of the production of or value addition to such products is finished in Britain in order to label them as being made ‘British Manufactured’.

Products must be completely created, manufactured, or assembled in the UK or considerably altered there through a treatment or process in order to qualify as British-made, and the Seller must be based in and selling from the UK (UK here means England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland ).

We hope this blog post has been informative and will hopefully leave you feeling like we are a business that you can trust. For any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us today!

If you’re looking for ways to increase the value of your home, there are many brilliant home improvement ideas that can add value and appeal to your property. Whether you’re looking to do a quick and easy project that will give your home interior a facelift or undertake a larger extension, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the best home improvement ideas to increase the value of your property. So whether you’re dealing with structural issues, need a new heating system, or are looking for ways to add extra living space, read on for inspiration!

Redecorate

One quick and easy way to add value to your home is by re-decorating. This can be done relatively cheaply and easily but can make a big difference in terms of the overall look and feel of your home. If you’re looking for something with a bit more impact, consider adding bifold doors. These are becoming increasingly popular, especially in homes with limited space. Not only do they look great, but they also allow for more natural light and can make your home feel more spacious.

Convert your loft

If you’re looking to add extra living space, a loft conversion is a great option. This can be a relatively expensive project, but it will definitely add value to your home. A loft conversion is the process of converting an empty attic space into a usable room, and it can be customised to fit your specific needs. For example, you could add an extra bedroom, office, or even a home cinema. In addition to increasing the value of your home, a loft conversion can also be a great way to improve your quality of life. It’s the perfect solution for growing families who need extra space, or for those who simply want to make better use of their attic.

Invest in solar panels

With energy costs on the rise, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their monthly bills. One option is to invest in solar panels. Solar panels collect energy from the sun and convert it into electricity, which can then be used to power your home. In addition to saving money on your energy bills, solar panels can also add value to your property. Because they provide a clean source of energy, solar panels are becoming increasingly popular with homebuyers. As a result, installing solar panels can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and help you secure a higher sale price.

These are just a few of the many home improvement ideas that can increase the value of your property. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect project for your needs!

Composite doors are becoming more and more popular among homeowners for their many benefits. Compared to other doors, composite doors are much stronger and better insulated, making them a great choice for climates with extreme temperatures. They also require little maintenance and come in a variety of colours and styles to match any home décor. If you’re considering replacing your old door with a composite one, here are some of the benefits you can expect to enjoy.

Durable 

Composite doors are extremely durable, they’re designed to withstand all kinds of weather conditions, making them ideal for both homes and businesses. 

Energy Efficient

One of the most appealing features of composite doors is their energy efficiency. These doors are made of materials that are designed to insulate against heat and cold, helping to keep your home comfortable all year round. 

Reduce Noise Pollution

Another benefit of composite doors is that they help to reduce noise pollution. The door itself is made from a variety of materials, which helps to reduce the amount of sound that can pass through the door. In addition, the door is also fitted with a special seal that helps to further reduce noise pollution. 

Low Maintenance

One of the benefits of composite doors is that they are easy to maintain. Unlike wooden doors, composite doors don’t require regular painting or staining. You can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking like new. If you do happen to damage your composite door, it’s easy to repair. Just sand down the area until it’s smooth and then apply a new layer of finish.

Composite doors are a great choice for homeowners looking for an affordable, durable and stylish door. At BBL Windows, we offer a wide range of composite doors in a variety of colours and styles to suit your needs. If you’re considering replacing your old door with a new composite door, be sure to get a quote from us today. We’d be happy to help you find the perfect door for your home.

When the weather gets hot, there’s nothing better than coming home to a cool house. But if your home is feeling a bit too warm, don’t despair – there are plenty of ways to reduce the heat and make your living space more comfortable. Read on for some tips on how to keep your home cooler in the summer.

Update your windows 

There’s nothing better than a cool breeze going through your home on a hot day, and the best way to increase this airflow is by updating your windows. Tilt and turn windows allow you to keep them open all the time, whilst still keeping your windows locked and your family safe, perfect for summer. Updating your windows will also increase the thermal efficiency of your home, keeping the warm air out and the cold air in.

Buy a fan

Although it seems like a simple solution, purchasing a fan is a great way to circulate air and keep things cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, fans can be a lifesaver in a hot home. If your home is already warm when you turn the fan on, try putting a bowl of ice behind the fan so cool air is blown throughout your home.

Unplug electronics

Another simple tip that doesn’t require any money is turning off your electronics where possible, especially your lights. Although electronics don’t expel a lot of heat, there is still some there that is going to aid in heating your home, so turning these off will help to reduce this heat.

Rethink Your Pillows

You might not think that your pillows are making you hotter, but they are known for trapping heat and warming you up throughout the night. Buckwheat pillows might be a great option to help this issue, as they don’t absorb heat like regular cotton and down. These pillows will help to keep you and your bedroom cool during hot summer nights.

Plant Vines

Using plants to reduce your heat in your home is a very effective method that not many people know about. If you plant vines, these can cover the walls of your home and shade a house’s walls from the sun, reducing the average daily fluctuation of temperature by up to 50% through a process called evapotranspiration. However, be careful with this as it can creep through your walls.

There are many ways to reduce the amount of heat in your home. Some methods, such as buying a fan and unplugging electronics, are relatively easy and inexpensive to do yourself. Others, such as purchasing new windows, may require professional installation but can be well worth the investment. By implementing one or more of these strategies, you can keep your home cooler and more comfortable during the summer months – and save money on your energy bills in the process. If you want to update your windows, then contact us at BBL today to get your free quote.

When it comes time to replace your windows and doors, you’ll want to make sure you find the right installer for the job. Not all installers are equally good, and there might be one that’s more suitable for the type of work you want, so it’s important to do your research before selecting one. Here are three tips to help you find the best window and door installer for your home. 

Get recommendations

One of the best ways to find the right installer for your home is to get recommendations from friends and family who have had similar work done on their own homes. There are a couple of reasons that this is a good idea, when getting these recommendations from friends and family, you know that this is a reputable source. You also know that the installers are likely to work in your area, and do the types of upgrades that you’re looking for.

Read reviews 

Once you’ve found the name of their company, reading reviews online is the absolute best way to see what a company is actually like. You can see reviews for this type of work on websites like CheckATrade, Google reviews, or even Facebook. Keep in mind when looking at reviews how a company responds to the negative ones, as this will tell you about how they handle customers if something does happen to go wrong.

Look at their social media

You might not think about window and door installers having their own social media accounts, but a lot of these businesses will have them to show off all of their work and share updates about their company. If a business has social media pages, then this alone shows that they care about their company’s image, and clearly have high quality enough work to share images of. So next time you’re about to trust a company with your home upgrade, check out their social media profiles.

Although it is important to take the time to research and find the best window and door installer for your home, it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the tips provided in this blog post, you can rest assured that you are making an informed decision that will result in beautiful new windows and doors for your home.

As a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the things that buyers look for when deciding whether or not to purchase a home. By understanding what buyers are interested in, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and potentially increase the sell price. Here are 5 things that buyers typically look for in a home.

Space

Buyers want to be able to spread out and live comfortably in their new home, so they will look for houses with enough space for them and their family. If you live in a smaller home without much space, then you might want to consider making a few upgrades. This could be something as simple as changing the layout of your furniture, or even upgrading your doors to sliding ones so they give the feeling of having a bigger room.

Neighbourhood safety

Many buyers are concerned about the safety of a neighbourhood, and will look for homes that are located in safe areas with low crime rates. If you want to become more aware of the safety in your neighbourhood, then you could attend neighbourhood watch meetings or talk with neighbours about their experience. 

Good schools and local amenities 

If buyers have children, they will want to make sure that they are moving into an area with good schools, and this is one of the most important factors for many families. Buyers will also often look for homes that are close to supermarkets, parks, and other amenities that they may need or want to use on a regular basis.

Good quality windows and doors 

Windows and doors are an extremely important aspect of a home, and something that almost everybody will have to replace at least once in their lifetime. You can add massive appeal to your home if your windows and doors have been recently upgraded, as this means the new owners can go years without thinking about it. They also improve a home’s style, and look exponentially better on the outside. 

The little details

Sometimes it’s the little things that make a difference when people are looking for a new home. This could be something as simple as home decor that fits together nicely, freshly painted walls, or a bathroom that has clearly been kept in good condition. 

It’s important to understand what buyers are looking for when moving so you can make sure you get the best rate possible for your home, so make sure to consider these 5 elements if you are looking to sell. If you like the idea of upgrading your windows and doors to attract a better offer, then you need to use BBL Windows as your quality installers today, just visit our website to get a free quote.

Upgrading your living room decor to the latest trends can make you fall back in love with your home, as well as adding value if you’re looking to sell, especially if you’re making permanent changes. As we move further into the 21st century, styles and trends in home decor continue to change, and it can be hard to keep up with these changes. So here are the top 5 living room decor trends of 2022 that you’re going to want to watch out for. 

Eclectic 

Eclectic home decor is a mixture of lots of different decor styles to create one unique design tailored to your specific taste. This decor style is great because you can use elements of pieces you already own, meaning you don’t have to purchase lots of new items to keep up with this trend. Some of the elements we see within the eclectic style are vintage furniture pieces, bold colours, and a mix of materials.

Bold colours and patterns

Trends often have a cycle and we’re happy to say that bold colours and patterns are making a comeback. For years the minimalist style was one of the only styles that stayed consistently popular, but now you can expect to see at least hints of bold colours and patterns in many homes. If you’re looking to have a brighter and more fun living room, then you could try painting your walls an electric blue, or add colourful accessories for a less permanent change.

Minimalistic 

Although other styles are becoming increasingly popular, there’s no doubt that minimalism is a decor style that isn’t going anywhere soon, which is only made easier by the evolving home technology available to us. The clean and fresh look is often something people want to achieve for their homes, and this style is also great if you’re not sure what colour pieces you should be incorporating into your home, as nearly all of your furniture will be a shade of white or cream. This style is also associated with a bright and airy room, which can be achieved easily with a brand new large window or door install, letting maximum light into the room, especially during the summer.

Rustic 

This trend is perfect for those of you that want to create a cosy and warm living room which is going to be perfect for the English winters. The usual colours associated with this decor style are usually warm tones like brown and deep reds, often mixed with creams and greys. If you’re looking for a rustic home decor style then purchasing wooden furniture and installing oak flooring is the perfect place to start.

Contemporary

The contemporary style of home decor can be tricky to get right, but if you do, you’ll create a stunning living room which is just as practical as it is good looking. This style focuses on an edited aesthetic that is free of clutter and mess. Contemporary style embraces minimalistic elements highlighting greys, beiges and shades of white, often with slight pops of colour to add depth to a space. Inspiration photos of this style are easy to find online, and are a great place to start if you want a visual to base your decor off. 

Based on the trends we’ve seen so far, natural materials and vintage designs are likely to continue to be popular, as is using technology to create a more immersive experience. We also expect to see a lot of boulder choices in colour and pattern, as well as more personalised designs that reflect the individual tastes of homeowners. Whatever happens over the next few years, one thing is sure – your living room is bound to evolve along with the rest of the home decor industry if you continue to read our blogs. Looking for a more permanent living room change? Contact BBL Windows for your window and door upgrade today.

If you want a cosy and inviting space that will make guests feel comfortable and special, we highly recommend using wooden elements in your interior design. Wood is not only a practical and beautiful material but also helps promote sustainability – something we should all be striving for in this day and age. Therefore, wooden front or back doors are great for every home, whether it’s modern or contemporary. Read our blog post and learn more about the benefits of wooden doors.

Easy maintenance

There are a lot of benefits to choosing timber doors. Not only is it easy to maintain them, but you can also repair them if they happen to break down in the future without having to replace your entire window or door frame.

Great insulation

If you are looking for a cost effective way to keep your home insulated and energy bills low, timber is the material you should go for. It is also environmentally-friendly and non-toxic. You can trust us when we say that this humble material can do wonders for your home insulation.

Durability

Timber is a natural resource that will last you for decades. It’s durable, renewable and has been used by people for centuries to make homes, doors, window frames etc. Timber is the perfect material for creating homes, furniture and more. It’s durable, sustainable and can last you a lifetime…literally! 

Versatility

Whether you are looking for a new timber door to replace your old one, or want to add some character and style to the entrance of your home with an exterior timber door, there is something here that will suit every taste. And with so many different colours available, it’s easy to find one that matches your existing home decor.

If you’re looking for a new door, consider one made from timber. Timber doors have many benefits and are environmentally friendly too. They can be found in both interior or exterior applications so they will work with any home design. So if you want to upgrade your home’s front entryway or add some character, then get started by checking out our selection today. We offer free quotes too so contact us now!

Security of your home should be one of your priorities as a homeowner. This is why we have compiled a list of ways to protect your home. We hope that you find these tips useful and that they help keep your home and belongings safe from intruders. If you have any other questions or need more advice on how to secure your home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – we’re always happy to help.

Secure your windows

Make sure your windows are fitted with secure locks, e.g. Yale. Yale’s products are one of the most trusted in the security industry. Their shootbolt high-security locking systems are designed to offer homeowners peace of mind with their windows, keeping them safe from intruders looking for an easy way into your home.

Secure your doors

Doors may seem like a simple part of your home, but they are actually one of the most important items when it comes to security. Make sure you are taking the necessary precautions to protect your home by ensuring your exterior doors are strong and secure. Burglars are looking for the easiest way into your home and if your exterior doors aren’t up to scratch, they will find it. Keep your family safe and secure with strong exterior doors that can withstand even the most determined of intruders.

Secure your garage

Securing your garage is just as important as securing your home. Make sure you have a strong lock on your garage door and take other precautions to make it more difficult for burglars to gain access. Remember, even if you don’t keep valuable items in your garage, it can still be used by a burglar to break into your home.

Install lights in the garden

Criminals are easily deterred by outdoor lighting. So install plenty of lights to keep your home safe and secure, while also making it easier for you to walk around in the dark. By using motion-activated lights or setting a timer, you can make it look like someone is always home. Not only will this keep your family and belongings safe, but it will also provide peace of mind knowing that your home is well-lit and secure.

Thank you for reading our blog post on how to secure your home. We hope our tips have proved helpful and that you will take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, safety is always a top priority, so be sure to take the necessary steps to ensure your security. If you have any questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can help increase your home’s security by installing quality, secure windows and doors! Call us now for a free quote!

Timber windows and doors are a beautiful addition to any home. They also add value to the property because they tend to be more expensive than uPVC windows and doors. Not only do timber windows and doors make your house look aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide insulation for the inside of your home during the winter months and help keep it cool in the summer. If you’re looking for an alternative that will last longer while giving your house some style, then timber may be the best choice! However, it’s important to remember that timber windows and doors require regular maintenance. In this blog post we will walk you through the best ways to keep your windows and doors looking great for year to come.

Regular cleaning

To keep your timber windows and doors looking good, we recommend you do the following to maintain their appearance. For general cleaning use a soft cloth with water mixed with soap or washing-up liquid. Using too much detergent may leave streaks so for hard dirt such as grease marks it is best to dilute some washing up liquid without any water then rinse it off again with clean water.

Hardware checks

There are a few simple steps that you can take to keep your door and window locks in good working order. When was the last time you checked the hinges on both sides of the door? And when was the last time you cleaned off dirt and grime from handles/plates using a soft cloth (avoid abrasive detergents)? You might want to have a look at your window and door hardware ahead of winter and lubricate it with light oil.

Repaint when necessary

When a timber window or door is damaged, the first thing to do before repairing it is assess how serious the damage is. Serious cracks will need more extensive repairs and restoration work but if you have just a few scratches on your surface, they can be repaired quickly with filler and re-painting or staining. This quick rule of thumb should help save time and money when restoring your timber surfaces back to their original luster. If you’re not sure what level of repair would be best for your project, contact us! 

To keep your timber looking its best throughout the years, make sure you take care of them by following these simple guidelines. And if you feel like your timber windows need replacement, contact our friendly team here and we’ll be happy to offer a free, no-obligation quote and professional advice on replacements!