October 27, 2023
Boosting Curb Appeal: Exterior Upgrades That Make A Difference

Boosting Curb Appeal: Exterior Upgrades That Make A Difference

Curb appeal is more than just a buzzword in the real estate world; it’s the first impression your home makes on neighbors, visitors, and potential buyers. A house with an appealing exterior can boost its market value and foster a sense of pride for homeowners.   In home improvements, companies like

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

October 27, 2023

Ideal Heating & ACV launch Low Carbon Systems CPD at CIBSE Build2Perform Live

Ideal Heating & ACV launch Low Carbon Systems CPD at CIBSE Build2Perform Live

Stand 206 Groupe Atlantic companies Ideal Heating – Commercial Products and ACV UK will be exhibiting together at this year’s CIBSE Build2Perform Live event, 5-6th December at London Excel, on stand 206. As part of their Experts Together campaign, both companies will be showcasing their range of commercial heating and hot water solutions and will be presenting a new CIBSE accredited CPD – ‘Low carbon systems: appliances and applications using heat pump technology’. The new CPD is the first one to be developed jointly between Ideal Heating – Commercial Products and ACV UK and follows on from the recent announcement of a £60m investment programme at Groupe Atlantic’s manufacturing site in Hull to further its development of innovative low carbon technologies. As well as covering the principles underpinning the mechanics and operation of a heat pump system, the new CPD will also look at how commercial monobloc air source heat pumps can be best used with other technologies including direct electric. For those not able to attend the CPD presentation at Build2Perform Live, it can be booked through https://idealcommercialboilers.com/cpd-courses and delivered online or in person. Visitors to Build2Perform Live can not only benefit from the CPD, but also see Ideal Heating – Commercial Products and ACV UK products up close. The ECOMOD range of commercial monobloc air source heat pumps will take centre stage for Ideal Heating. These heat pumps, which are available in six outputs from 14kW to 70kW, offer highly efficient COP performance with low environmental impact, thanks to the use of R32 refrigerant. POD Heat Interface Units (HIU), designed to meet all the requirements of the heat network installer, operator and end user, will also be displayed, alongside Ideal Heating’s market leading condensing boilers. The Evomax 2 – the UK’s number 1 selling wall hung commercial boiler – will be shown in cascade to clearly demonstrate its space saving footprint, whilst still able to deliver up to 900kW. Sitting alongside Ideal Heating, ACV will be exhibiting some of its most popular products including the WaterMaster Evo gas fired stainless steel condensing water heater with tank-in-tank technology. Also utilising tank-in-tank technology, ACV’s SMART ME range of stainless steel indirect cylinders will be on show. These have been designed for use with multi-energy sources – including heat pumps – to produce domestic and commercial hot water. Lastly, visitors to the event can also see the E-Tech W wall hung electric boiler range from ACV. Available in seven models, single or three-phase, the range provides an easy to integrate back-up or top-up to heat pumps. With this year’s Build2Perform Live theme addressing delivering Net Zero and adapting to climate change, experienced Specification Managers from both ACV and Ideal Heating will be on hand at the show to not only take visitors through the product ranges, but also provide advice on the most cost-effective means of decarbonising commercial heating.  For more information on CIBSE Build2Perform Live, plus to register for free attendance, go to www.build2perform.co.uk. For more information on Ideal Heating – Commercial Products, visit https://www.idealcommercialheating.co.uk/ and for ACV UK go to www.acv.com/gb Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Boosting Curb Appeal: Exterior Upgrades That Make A Difference

Boosting Curb Appeal: Exterior Upgrades That Make A Difference

Curb appeal is more than just a buzzword in the real estate world; it’s the first impression your home makes on neighbors, visitors, and potential buyers. A house with an appealing exterior can boost its market value and foster a sense of pride for homeowners.   In home improvements, companies like Prairie Exteriors have gone the extra mile to offer exterior upgrades that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They stand out as a testament to innovative solutions that beautify homes.   But how do you determine which exterior upgrades will provide the most significant boost to your home’s appearance? In this article, we’ll explore the importance of curb appeal and some impactful exterior improvements for your property.   Understanding The Importance Of Curb Appeal  Curb appeal is the overall visual impression that a home makes from the street. It’s important for several reasons, including:  By understanding what your home’s curb appeal is like, you can make informed decisions about improvements, sell your property for more money, and enjoy living in a more beautiful place.  Exterior Upgrades That Boost Curb Appeal  There are numerous ways to enhance your home’s exterior. Let’s delve into some of the most effective upgrades: Nothing revives your home’s exterior like a fresh coat of paint. Over time, weather elements can cause paint to chip, fade, or peel. Consider getting a refreshed paint job for your property. Opt for high-quality, weather-resistant paint to ensure longevity. Neutral colors like beige, taupe, and gray are classic choices that appeal to most tastes. However, don’t be afraid to choose bolder shades for doors or shutters to create contrasting focal points. A well-maintained lawn and garden can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. Start with landscaping basics like mowing the lawn regularly and trimming overgrown bushes. But don’t stop there. Additionally, plant colorful flowers. Seasonal blooms can bring vibrancy to the front yard.  Also, add mulch as it can help protect plants and offer a polished look to garden beds. Lastly, install a garden path. A stone or brick pathway can guide visitors to your front door while adding an elegant touch. Your front door is a focal point of your home’s exterior. A worn-out door can diminish the overall appearance. Consider either refinishing your current door or replacing it with a modern design. If you’re on a budget, upgrading the door handle or adding a stylish knocker can make a difference. Good lighting is both practical and decorative. For instance, outdoor sconces, hanging lights, or landscape lighting can transform the ambiance of your home after sunset. Furthermore, solar-powered pathway lights are an eco-friendly option that illuminates the way to your door without increasing your energy bill. Cracked or stained driveways and walkways can detract from your home’s appeal. So, consider resurfacing options or replace old concrete with pavers, bricks, or stamped concrete to create a more refined look. Older windows can be less energy-efficient and can detract from your home’s visual appeal. Therefore, modernizing windows can be an excellent exterior upgrade. For example, modern window designs can offer better insulation and come in various styles to complement your property’s architecture.   Additionally, updating window treatments, like shutters or flower boxes, can further elevate the overall look. Siding doesn’t just protect your home from the elements. It’s a significant factor in defining its style. Whether you opt for vinyl, wood, or fiber-cement siding, ensure it’s in good condition. A faded or damaged siding can be an eyesore, so consider power washing or replacing sections as needed to improve the appearance.   Though often overlooked, the roof plays a pivotal role in curb appeal. A sagging or leaky roof can be a potential red flag for buyers. Regular roof inspections can help identify issues early and perform routine maintenance to prevent more serious problems.   However, if your shingles are aging, consider a replacement. Today’s market offers a plethora of styles and colors, allowing you to choose one that best complements your property. Sometimes, minor decorative additions can make a significant impact. For example, swap out old numbers with stylish, modern designs and replace the old mailbox with a unique one, adding a touch of charm to your home’s exterior. Strategically placed planters can also add warmth and greenery to the entrance. A well-maintained fence can frame your property beautifully. If you already have a fence, ensure it’s in good condition free from rust or rot. If you’re considering installing a new one, choose a design that complements your home. Decorative gates can also serve as an inviting entrance to your abode.  Conclusion   Boosting your home’s curb appeal is a combination of various elements. From foundational upgrades like siding and roofing to decorative touches like lighting and landscaping, every aspect contributes to the overall allure.   As you consider the plethora of options available, remember that the objective is to create a cohesive look that reflects your home’s character and your personal style. With careful planning and by keeping the information mentioned above in mind, you can transform your home’s exterior into a captivating sight for all who pass by.

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