Home Improvement Show Blog

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Best way to make an older home more energy efficient

Monday, September 20, 2010
Our show spokesperson and Real Homes editor-in-chief, Michael Holmes says: “With over 25 million older style properties in the UK, the energy performance of these homes need to be addressed in order to meet the Governments 2050 target of a 60 per cent reduction in carbon emissions.

“Carbon dioxide is one of the biggest contributors to climate change and 16 per cent of the UK’s production of the gas comes from domestic gas and oil heaters. One of the easiest ways to make an older style home more energy efficient is to start with the boiler.

“If your boiler is more than 15 years old than it is more than likely a G rated boiler. For as little as £400, a new condensing boiler can save up to £200 per year for the equivalent of 1.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

“Draughts and poor insulation are also a problem in older homes and also one of the reasons homeowners find themselves consuming and paying for more energy than necessary. Around 20 per cent of the energy list in the home comes from heat lost through windows, poor ventilation and draughts.

“Effective roof insulation could make savings of up to 15-20 per cent on your heating bill each year and so pay-back can be achieved in as little as two to three years. Additional savings can also be made quite easily by using left over insulation materials to wrap around piping and water tanks to prevent further heat loss.

“Cavity wall insulation is also incredibly cost effective costing as little as £250 to install and can save you around £110 a year on your fuel bills.”

“The installation of a secondary glazing system can be fitted easily to the window frame and addresses the problem of old Victorian sash windows. A whole house can be done for as little as £700 with savings of around 40 per cent to your energy bill each year. These are easily installed and perfect for older or listed properties where you can’t change the windows.

Click through to view our Masterclass and Real Homes Live! Theatre schedules and find out more on how to ‘ecovate’ your home.
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Women are doing it for themselves

Monday, September 13, 2010
More and more women are powering up and taking on a more equal share of home improvements following a recent survey which revealed that nine out of 10 women now own power tools and 67 per cent are actively completing their own DIY task around the house.

Julia Kendell, National Home Improvement Show expert, presenter of BBC1's DIY SOS and interior designer comments: “Women are natural DIYer’s due to their ability to multi-task and have a more patient and practical approach to problems than men. Not to mention that women are more likely to read instructions carefully and ask for help if it is required!

“The stereotypical line between home improvement ability and the type of tasks each sex traditionally would complete have become much more blurred and many projects now are more of collaboration between men and women.”

To find out more about women and home improvement, visit Julia at the Real Homes Live Theatre while she reveals her interior design secrets and provides inspiration on creating beautiful bathroom and kitchens. Julia is also available during the one-to-one Ask the Expert sessions where she will be on hand to ask your individual questions.

To The Tricks of the Trade feature at The National Home Improvement Show provides the chance to discover how to complete your project like a professional with the DIY Doctor’s step-by-step tutorials on all sorts of useful handy skills such as skimming a plaster wall, tiling and plumbing. You will be walking away with the confidence you need to tackle some of these smaller projects yourself.
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TO INFINITY AND BEYOND! SMART3 LAUNCH NEW INFINITYEDGE™ TOUCH SCREENS FROM CONTROL4 AT THE HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW

Thursday, September 09, 2010
Stand No 121
Home Improvement Show
Earls Court
1-3 October 2010

Smart3, leaders in luxury home automation systems, are launching two sleek new InfinityEdge Touch Screens from Control4 at the Home Improvement Show. This will be the first showing of these elegant new control panels in the UK. Smart3 will also be featuring on their Stand No 121, the latest home movie server Mini System from Kaleidescape and the revolutionary Siedle Scope video door comms system that also operates as a fully functional DECT phone.

Low Profile InfinityEdge Touch Screens Control4 are renowned for cutting edge technology combined with elegant design in their home automation system control panels, and the InfinityEdge range delivers all that and more with its low profile styling that fits flush to the wall.
Available in 12.5cms (5”) and 17.5cms (7”) screen sizes, these discreet edge-to-edge glass control panels will blend seamlessly with any décor, in any room. Fully functional as well as beautifully designed, InfinityEdge features Control4’s OS 2.0 interface with applications exclusively designed for the automated home. You can set your favourite or most frequently used icons through four easy customisable buttons on the panel. It also has an optional intercom capability.

Kaleidescape Scalable Mini System
For the ultimate home cinema and music system, Kaleidescape has launched its latest integrated movie server that can be scaled according to individual needs. With its quiet operation and compact, smooth design, the Mini System can operate equally well in a living room or dedicated home media room. It is also the first Kaleidescape system to include a remote control – it is literally plug in and play straight out of the box!
The starter Mini System holds up to 75 DVDs or 825 CDs, but as your movie and music collection grows, so you can scale up your Mini System to accommodate it. You can expand the system to other rooms by adding more players and increase storage with extra Disk Cartridges or servers. Or simply get a second Mini System to upgrade the whole system in one easy step!

Go Anywhere with Siedle Scope
The latest innovation from Siedle, the video and audio door communications systems specialists is the Scope portable video call station that is also a fully functional DECT telephone.

Uniquely, Scope delivers a real-time video image and audio link from the door communications system straight onto a DECT telephone – so wherever you are in your house or garden (up to 100m range) you can see who is at the door and operate the entrance door system. Features include an operations menu, on-screen display, zoom and image control and a separate door control button. Scope also offers all standard cordless phone functions such as phone book, caller list and number display.

In keeping with Siedle’s distinctive design heritage, Scope has a tough, matt black housing with a smooth, tactile finish. There are six design options to choose from including anodised aluminium; gold or chrome plated stainless steel.
For further information on all these new products and the complete Smart3 home automation and security systems solution, come to Stand No 121 at the Home Improvement Show or go to www.smart3.co.uk
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Prince Charles leading the way...

Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Our spokesperson, Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of Real Homes magazine comments on how homeowners can take inspiration from Prince Charles’s recent plans to install solar panels on the roof of Clarence House.

Michael says: “Homeowners who follow Prince Charles’s example and install renewable energy saving technologies in the home can add up to approximately five per cent to the retail value of a home. This is in addition to being able to generate up to £700 a year per household under the feed-in-tariff scheme, making up to £30 from selling power back to the grid and slashing around £100 from annual energy bills.

“With many homeowners looking to add value to their home to combat falling house prices, retro-fitting a home, like Prince Charles has done, can be considered the ultimate ‘responsible’ home improvement. Homeowners will not only see a financial gain with a bolstered market value, slashing bills and making a financial return, but are also making a strong contribution to the future homeowner and future generations.

“However, homeowners must understand that the job does not end with installing solar panels, PV cells or a ground source heat pump. It’s about consuming less energy as well as generating your own, so the house must be highly insulated and have low energy appliances and lighting too.”
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Eco-tips for homeowners that don’t cost the world

Saturday, August 21, 2010

New research conducted by the Energy Saving Trust reveals that making UK homes energy efficient would cost less than £3000 per house.

There are a number of ways in which a house can be bought up to average green standards for under £3000 including insulation (whether attic or cavity wall) and installing a new boiler, specifically, a condensing boiler.

1. Insulation
Effective roof insulation could make savings of up to 15-20 per cent on your heating bill each year and so pay-back can be achieved in as little as two to three years. Additional savings can also be made quite easily by using left over insulation materials to wrap around piping and water tanks to prevent further heat loss.

2. Boilers
Installing a new boiler will also make significant savings; The Energy Savings Trust estimates this to be up to £200 per year for the equivalent of 1.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Prices start from around £400 for a condensing boiler and home-owners can choose from gas, electric or oil fired.

3. Secondary glazing
The installation of a secondary glazing system can be fitted easily to the window frame. A whole house can be done for as little as £700 with savings of around 40 per cent to your energy bill each year. These are easily installed and perfect for older or listed properties where you can’t change the windows.

4. Water consumption
30 per cent of our water consumption comes from the toilet. Either flush less or install a displacement device which will reduce the amount of water used per flush, saving as much as 40 per cent of water annually.

Fix any dripping tap – it will save as much as 5000 litres of water a year! If you are looking for an excuse not do the dishes then use your dishwasher – it uses less water and saves approximately £15 per year.

5. Keeping it simple
Install under-door insulation by stuffing an old woolen stocking with unwanted clothes. The old fashioned ‘snake’ can cut down on a huge amount of wasted heat.

Don’t forget that the energy saving light bulbs cost as little as £3 and can save you up to £40 per year.

Visit Masterclass and Real Homes Live Theatre at the show to find out more on how to ‘ecovate’ your home.

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DIY Accidents and Property Values

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Following a recent DIY accident in Manchester, National Home Improvement Show’s spokesperson, Michael Holmes says: “More than 200,000 people end up in hospital following DIY injuries each year equating to a staggering 600 on average per day. Most of these accidents are a result of power tools being misused. Home improvers are often over ambitious and over-estimate their level of skill.

“As the threat of a double dip recession continues, it is expected that the number of people suffering injury while undertaking home improvements will increase significantly in order to save money.

“However, poorly executed DIY can have more than an affect on a homeowners health and reduce the value of a property as much as 5 per cent. Dodgy plumbing, electrical and major structural works are often the culprit.

“It is recommended that home-owners start with a smaller, less challenging project to start off with while you get their 'DIY legs'. “

Mr Holmes gives the following advice to homeowners: “Do your research and plan out what is required to complete the job and what tools are required. Make sure you understand what is expected of you. Be prepared however to get an expert in for more specialist jobs such as electrical and plumbing work.”

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Smart Home Zone

Friday, July 30, 2010

For all those technology fanatics looking beyond adding just space and value to their home, The Smart Home Zone, the latest in home automation at The National Home Improvement Show is the place to be as technology plays a major part in modern homes.

The Smart Home Zone sponsored by Laird King, custom installation and home automation providers, will demonstrate how audio, lighting, video, communication, data network, security and even energy management systems can be integrated to enhance your home and your way of life. It will showcase the latest smart home solutions and provide expert advice on a wide range of topics which include brilliant lighting design, smart home technology, the latest in home cinema design, designing interiors with technology and how to hide it all, using technology to reduce your bills and manage your carbon footprint and project managing your build and the technology within it.

To find out more on how to make your home smart, check out our seminar schedule. Sessions are 20 minutes long but make sure you arrive early to avoid disappointment.

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Find out how to value to your home in a buyers market

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

The number of people selling their home has hit a three-year high, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors says, sparking fears that house prices may drop.

To combat this, The National Home Improvement Show will show you how to add value to a property in today’s buyer’s market through its Real Homes Live Theatre and Masterclass sessions as well as its Ask the Experts drop-in-clinic.

The Real Homes Live Theatre delivers in-depth sessions on how to transform your home hosted by the celebrity experts including Michael Holmes (Real Homes editor-in-chief and I Own Britain’s Best Home), Julia Kendall (DIY SOS) and Matt James (City Gardner), who all have returned to appear at this year’s show. Show newcomer, architectural designer Charlie Luxton (Build a New Life in the Country) has now been included in the expert schedule.

The Masterclass programme will be running daily sessions exploring specific problems and issues you may encounter while adding space and value to your home. Hosted by leading industry specialists, topics range from how to extend without planning permission, designing an urban garden, creating beautiful interiors and how to make money by going green.

As well as presenting the seminar sessions, Michael Holmes, Julia Kendell, Matt James and Charlie Luxton will all be on hand for a drop-in style clinic to answer your individual questions. Bring along your plans and find out how they would enhance your project.

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We haven’t gone on holiday!!!

Friday, January 29, 2010

People may think that we have been on holiday for four months since the last Home Improvement Show in October 2009. Well they are sadly mistaken.

It’s been a very busy few months as we pull together the new features for the 2010 show. And don’t worry; the show will still be taking place at Earls Court just in case you heard that the venue might be bulldozed.

But back to the good news…the show will be expanding for 2010 with more exhibitors, more features and following visitor feedback the doubling of the catering space to ensure that we can feed everyone in good time.

We’ll be announcing some of our experts shortly along with a taster of what is to come so why not sign up to the newsletter to keep posted with our activities.

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The National Home Improvement Show – What were your highlights?

Friday, October 09, 2009

Well it’s been a few days since the launch of The National Home Improvement Show and a very tired exhibition team are back in the office and returning to normality. After such a great first year the team are buzzing with excitement and are already working on ideas on how to make 2010 even bigger and better.

One of my personal highlights were the TV experts. George, Julia, Matt and Michael who really put themselves out there at the show and their enthusiasm was infectious. The quality of discussions they had was fantastic.

Then there were some fantastic innovative products. What about those study sofa beds? Or the portable bio stoves? Amazing!

But that’s just my thoughts. I’d be interested to hear what you think so we can make 2010 even better. Please feel free to comment below. Roll on October 2010!

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National Home Improvement Show opens

Friday, October 02, 2009

Today (Friday 2 October) is the day when the first ever national home improvement show opens at Earls Court. (Picture of the entrance)

The biggest names in home improvement (George, Julia, Michael, and Matt amongst others) have already arrived this morning and are having a quiet coffee before the door swing open at 10am.

There is a sense of excitement around the show to see whether the Guinness Book of Records can be broken for the largest upholstered sofa chair when it is unveiled later today with our adjudicator from Guinness here to approve.

A sneak preview to the theatre of light has revealed some very interesting concepts which would work in many homes without costing a fortune.

Check back on the front page of the website later today when there will be a video highlighting the days activities.

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Build up for National Home Improvement Show

Thursday, October 01, 2009

Most of the show team are now onsite at Earls Court ensuring that the event is ready for the opening tomorrow at 10am (Friday 2 October). Work started on Tuesday (29 September) to rig all the lighting and signage along with the construction of our main features: 'Real Homes Live Theatre, Ask the Experts stand, Tricks of the Trade Stage and the Theatre of Light amongst other.

Over 220 exhibiting companies are building their stands, stocking up information racks and rehearsing demonstrations in preparation for the thousands expected through the door.George Clarke, Michael Homes, Julia Kendall and Matt James are also preparing for the inaugural National Home Improvement Show opening and chomping at the bit to answer your questions - hard or easy, large or small.

Advanced tickets sales close at 3pm today (Thursday 1 October) so be quick to get your discounts, otherwise we look forward to welcoming you on the day where you can purchase tickets on the day.

If you fancy a bit of a laugh of how not to improve your home then why not click on this video clip! Attend the show to ensure you don't end up in this mess........ http://www.facebook.com/theNHIS?v=wall&viewas=100000242173339&ref=ts

Don’t forget you can also make a visit to The Wedding Show and The Back Show which is also taking place at Earls Court (separate ticket price).

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