Why it Pays to Hire Smart Home Experts to Automate Your Home

smart home experts

Smart devices and home automation products are more accessible than ever today, however, to reap the full benefits of automation, it always makes sense to work with smart home experts.

Whilst it is easy to purchase a wide range of smart devices and appliances, without the know-how to integrate them into a central control system, the results may be less than satisfying. Whilst many smart devices will work well on their own, allowing you to take control via a mobile device or voice activation, it’s when you attempt to link a range of different devices that problems can arise. Whilst the idea of a smart home is to make life easier, if devices don’t work together in harmony, you may end up making simple tasks more complicated than they need to be.

Why to choose professional home automation installation

Whilst there are some tasks that you may choose to carry out yourself, for example, fixing a minor plumbing leak, when it comes to a major installation, it’s likely that you will save yourself time and money, and ultimately, be much more satisfied with the results if you call in the experts in the first place. 

Whilst installing smart home systems may seem simple enough, when you consider the intricacies of integrating a variety of devices under a single control system, there are many potential complications that you may not have considered without experience in home automation and smart technology installations. For example, have you considered the security of the underlying software? Do you have the network infrastructure for an effective smart home system? How comfortable are you when it comes to diagnosing potential networking or control system issues?

Let’s discuss the most important benefits of professional smart home installation.

The job is done properly

When professional home automation experts install your smart home systems, you can feel confident that the job will be done properly. Not only will all aspects of your smart home be set up correctly and integrated under one control system, the underlying infrastructures will be in place in terms of wiring and networking, helping to prevent any potential future problems.

Professionals will ensure that all systems are designed, installed and programmed to suit your specific needs, and will not leave your home before all smart products are installed and working together from your central control system. Experts will also be able to provide you with clear instructions, training you on how to use all equipment.

Home automation professionals work with you from initial discussions through to the completion of the project, making sure that all of your needs are met and your smart products are set up to improve your lifestyle.

Products from leading manufacturers and knowledge of best control systems

Home automation specialists are knowledgeable and have access to an extensive range of products from the world’s leading technology brands, allowing them to provide solutions to meet all needs and budgets.

To ensure that all smart products can be used to their full potential, smart home installation experts are also up to date with leading smart control systems and technologies. This allows them to advise you a range of options before installing anything in your home. Once installation and programming is complete, you can feel confident that your new systems will perform at the optimum level.

Ongoing support

Having worked with professionals to install your home automation systems, in the future, if you wish to integrate new technologies into your smart home, need help fixing an issue, or wish to programme new actions, you will know who to turn to. 

One of the most important benefits of hiring a professional to help automate your home is that the infrastructure will be in place to help ensure further installations or upgrades can take place with little issue. Even if you need further training in operating your devices to their complete potential, or wish to learn more about programming in new settings yourself, you can call your installer for ongoing support.

Contact Smart Home Experts

For seamless smart home advice, design, installation, programming and ongoing support, you can contact Veritais. Based in the West Midlands, Veritais offer an extensive range of home automation, integration and home entertainment solutions for properties in Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham and around the Midlands.

The Most Important Advantages of Home Automation

home automation

For many of us, creating an easy life is a high priority. After experiencing a pandemic, and with the concerns around the rise in energy and living costs, it’s no surprise that an increasing number of households are looking into the benefits of home automation services. From automated climate control, through to home entertainment systems and complete home automation, there are many short and long term advantages of investing in home automation.

Convenience

The ability to integrate and control all home technology through the use of a single, simple app is a major benefit of smart home technology and automation. When all home devices can be accessed and controlled remotely through a smartphone or tablet, if you are at home, you can control one room whilst in another, or if you are away from home, you can keep and eye on and take control of devices and appliances wherever you are in the world (providing you have access to an internet connection). 

An advantage of smart control systems is that leading systems such as Control4 are highly flexible, allowing for an extensive range of devices and appliances to be integrated into the system, whether adding to the system, or replacing older devices.

Energy efficiency 

As energy costs have been a constant in news headlines in recent months, it stands to reason that an increasing number of households are looking closely at the ways they can reduce their energy consumption as a way to reduce energy bills as much as possible.

There are a range of different ways that home automation and smart home technology can help to reduce energy use, particularly by cutting out energy waste. Every day we use energy that we don’t need without even thinking about it. In many cases, we are building up energy bills when we are not even at home. For example, leaving lights on, or heating an empty house can certainly have a negative effect on energy bills over time!

Smart home technology and automation provides a wide range of energy saving benefits. For example, with remote control and integration, it is possible to check on any appliances left on when away from the home and switch them off remotely. Appliances can also be set on a timer to only be in operation at predetermined times, and smart thermostats can ensure that heating and air conditioning systems operate only when temperatures fall to or reach a certain temperature.

Comfort (climate control, lighting, blinds)

With access to climate control, lighting and automated blinds at our fingertips, in a smart home, it’s easier than ever before to make sure your living environment is as comfortable as possible. 

With home automation, individual areas of the house can be controlled independently, ensuring that different members of the household can ensure that temperature and light is set to their own personal preferences. 

Thermostats and motorised blinds can also be automated to maintain comfortable temperatures at different times of the year. For example, in winter, blinds can be set to stay down in order to help add an extra layer of insulation to keep warmth in the house. In the summer, blinds can be set to close to help block UV rays that lead to the build up of heat in the home throughout the day.

Security

Home automation also helps increase home security and safety. There are many occasions where security lapses or even break ins are the result of human error. For example, you may forget to activate intruder alarms when you leave the house, or even forget to lock the door behind you. 

With security systems that are integrated into home automation systems, including intruder alarms, CCTV, door locks and access systems, it’s possible to not only check on your home remotely, but also to correct human errors and lock doors or set alarms remotely.

Home Automation Services Specialists

For help designing and installing smart home technologies, or to ensure that you are getting the most out of your existing home automation systems, you can contact smart home specialists Veritais, based in Tamworth. Visit veritais.com to find out more.

Home Automation and Home Security

smart home security

Integrating home security systems with home automation

As home automation technologies continue to develop, the way we live is changing for the better. At the touch of a button, it’s possible to make sure your home is the perfect temperature, set mood lighting for any occasion, or even queue up every element of movie night, lowering blinds and dimming lights, as well as playing your chosen film on the big screen. However, whilst home automation has done wonders for home entertainment, the benefits of integrating your home security systems with your smart home technology can’t be overstated.

If you are a home owner, there is no doubt that protecting your home and your loved ones will be a high priority, so with that in mind, let’s discuss some of the advantages in investing in a smart home security system that integrates with your home automation technology.

Home Security Alerts in Real Time

Whilst traditional security alarms will sound the alarm when there is a break in to your home, if you are away from home, by the time you learn about the break in, it may well be too late to do anything about it. A smart home security system is proactive, sending you security alerts in real time so that you can take the appropriate action, for example, calling the police.

With smart technology, security alert notifications can be received by mobile phone, wherever you are. Whether you are just around the corner, away on business, or on holiday, smart security technology will let you know right away if there is an attempted break in to your property.

CCTV and Remote Monitoring

In addition to motion and contact sensors, CCTV surveillance solutions can be included in your security systems and integrated with your smart home systems. As well as allowing you to keep an eye on your home, or check in on loved ones whilst you are away, smart technology such as porch or doorbell cameras can alert you immediately whenever someone is close, as well as allowing you to communicate via two-way audio functionality. 

As well as allowing you to provide instructions to delivery drivers if you are not home, two way audio can also help to deter intruders from attempting to enter your home.

home security

Home Automation

When you are away from home for any extended period of time, you may worry about this being obvious to potential intruders. Some people may choose to leave lights on, or let the radio play, but this wastes a lot of energy and should the same light be on for days on end, burglars will not be fooled. With smart systems in place, certain technologies can be switched on or off at appropriate times to fool burglars into believing you are home.

Lights in certain rooms or exterior lighting can be programmed to turn on or off at certain times, or blinds can be opened or closed, depending on the time of day, helping to make it look like someone is at home.

Protection Against Human Error

Whilst older intruder alarm systems add a layer of protection to a home, they are only effective when activated. In a rush, it may be that you forget to set an alarm when you leave the house, leaving it more vulnerable than usual.

By integrating smart security systems with your home automation technology, you can set and monitor your security technology from anywhere. If you worry that you have forgotten to set intruder alarms, you can check via a mobile device and correct your mistake. You may also invest in smart locks, so if you forget to lock doors or windows, they can lock automatically after a certain period of time.

Better Home Insurance Rates

The better your home is protected from intruders, the more money you can save on your home insurance. As your property is less likely to suffer from burglary or other crimes, you will be seen as less of a potential liability by insurers.

Smart Home Security is Easy to Use

Smart security systems are designed to be easy to use, wherever you are. With the help of a home automation specialist, you can ensure that all alarm and CCTV systems are up and running in the most effective way, in a short period of time. Once in place, you can take control of all security elements at the touch of a button, as you do with other smart home technology, such as lighting, climate control and entertainment systems.

Protect your Home with Smart Security Systems

To integrate smart security into your smart home control systems, you can contact Veritais for more information.

The Best Outdoor Entertainment Ideas for Solihull Homes

outdoor entertainment ideas

Summer is finally here, and there’s no better way to celebrate the return of the sun than with some quality outdoor entertainment. Whether you spruce up your Solihull garden entertainment area with new lighting, or install an outdoor cinema for your friends and family, there’s loads you can do to embrace your outdoor space.

If you’re looking to inject some fun into your outdoor entertainment area, then look no further – because we’ve got some great ideas you can try. Read on to find out more. 

Outdoor entertainment ideas

Get audio visual ready with an outdoor TV and speakers

outdoor entertainment audio visual

Setting up a home cinema in your garden isn’t as expensive as you might think. Outdoor TVs start at fairly modest prices, and when paired with waterproof audio equipment, can seem as good as the real thing. Just be sure to spread your speakers out evenly if you want to create a true cinematic effect. When you work with a Solihull audio visual specialist, they’ll be able to advise you on things like screen positioning so that light pollution doesn’t adversely affect your movie-watching.

Set the tone with ambient lighting

When you move from day to night, having the right kind of lighting is essential. Not only does it help you see, but also sets the mood for the evening ahead. Finding the right lighting for your outdoor entertainment areas depends on the space you have available, but there are lots of things you can do, such as:

  • Creating silhouettes with ground-level lighting
  • Using spike lights to make trees glow
  • Use flames for a cosy vibe
  • Use lights to create a welcome path for your visitors
  • Use festoon bulbs for overhead lighting
  • Invest in pool and hot tub lighting.

Create an outdoor bar

Whether you go full on Tiki bar or have something sleek and minimal, an outdoor bar is a great place to entertain guests. You could even use a great audio visual system to make the bar the central focus of your event, with the best sound, lighting and tech. 

Get set up to play music

Getting sound right is the key to having a great time outdoors, so investing in quality audio equipment like Sonance or Bose speaker systems is well worth the money. When paired with the correct amplifier, speakers and controller, you’ll have an amazing sounding outdoor entertainment area. 

Make a BBQ space

Summer offers the ideal time to get out the bbq, so don’t forget to dust yours off and have it ready to go! People often congregate around the bbq and outside bar area, so you could make this a focal garden entertainment area with floor cushions, festoon lights, great music and drinks. 

Make a garden entertainment area

We’re all big kids at heart, and outdoor games can be full of fun. From giant jenga to boules and more, creating a garden entertainment area full of games is a great way to entertain your guests.

If you’re looking for more audio visual tips or ideas for outdoor entertainment for your Solihull home, contact the team at Veritais who’ll be happy to help.

How can a chartered surveyor help you when moving house?

how a chartered surveyor can help when moving house

Moving house is up there on the list of the most stressful events you’ll experience in your life. Even if everything seems to be running smoothly there are still factors beyond your control and a lot of procedures and paperwork to be completed before you can exchange contracts and pick up your keys. To help make the process as simple and stress free as possible you’ll need the help of a chartered surveyor.  

What does a chartered surveyor do? 

A chartered surveyor assesses buildings to find defects and identify future issues and possible repairs that might be required. They can also provide a valuation of a property if requested. These services are particularly useful if you want to know whether you are making a good investment, or just to provide peace of mind ahead of purchasing a property. 

What services do chartered surveyors provide? 

In brief, chartered surveyors carry out building surveys. These surveys involve inspecting the interior and exterior of a property to provide a report detailing any defects or future issues so that you have the right information available to help you decide whether to proceed with a sale, or perhaps to renegotiate based on the report findings. 

When do you need to contact a surveyor? 

It is a good idea to find a local chartered surveyor once you have put in an initial offer on a property and had it accepted. As most offers are made on a ‘subject to survey’ basis, it is accepted that once you have had a survey on a property that you might return to the agent and try to renegotiate the price based on what the survey has uncovered. 

What issues might a home survey reveal? 

There are 3 levels of homebuyer survey, ranging from a very simple condition report to a full structural building survey. The level of survey you choose will depend on the age and condition of the property and the alterations you may wish to carry out in the future. In general, a level 2 homebuyers report or level 3 building survey are the most widely used and these can uncover issues such as: 

  • Damp 
  • Subsidence 
  • Structural damage 
  • Asbestos 
  • Electrical issues 
  • Faulty drain pipes 
  • Roofing issues – such as missing tiles or flat roof wear and tear 
  • Woodworm or beetle infestation – particularly in timber framed houses 
  • Invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed 

What can you do about a bad home survey? 

If you are not happy with the results of your home survey and the chartered surveyor has unearthed issues and possible future costs that you haven’t foreseen or budgeted for, then you basically have three options: 

  1. Pull out of the sale 
  2. Ask the seller to fix the issues 
  3. Renegotiate the price 

As long as your offer is subject to contract then you are within your rights to pull out of the sale or request a change in the price. Depending on how many offers the seller has had or how keen they are to achieve a quick sale, they may be willing to fix the issues or reduce the price so that you can resolve them once you move in without having to be out of pocket. 

When renegotiating or asking for the price to be lowered, it’s advisable to be honest about the issues, citing only what the chartered surveyors report entails and having done your research on what would be a reasonable price to fix the issues. 

How to pick a good chartered surveyor 

Now that you know what you need to do and the different types of report available, it’s time to discuss choosing a good chartered surveyor. It probably makes sense to work with someone locally, as they’ll be able to visit the property promptly and easily, but you should also do your homework in terms of their credibility and qualifications. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is the governing body for surveyors, so choosing a chartered surveyor who is registered with them will give you the reassurance that they are properly qualified. In addition to this, look for their reviews, both on their website and on Google, to see what others in the same situation have to say about their services. 

Once you have chosen your surveyor and instructed them on the type of survey you require, it is time to relax and await the report, confident in the knowledge that whatever it uncovers, you are better to be informed than to proceed with a sale not knowing the condition of a property. 

JTM Building Consultancy is a firm of chartered surveyors in Sutton Coldfield, offering both residential and commercial building surveys across the West Midlands. For more advice on the types of survey available and what you need to do when moving house please visit their website jtmbc.co.uk. 

Father’s Day gifts for the Dad who has everything

Dads are notoriously difficult to buy for and once you’ve exhausted all your best ideas for their birthday or Christmas presents, it doesn’t leave much in the way of inspiration for Father’s Day. Yet, every third Sunday in June, we celebrate everything that is wonderful about dads, step-dads, fathers-in-law and dad-like figures, so it’s only right that you have a fitting gift to show him how much he means to you. If, like millions of others, you are struggling to find a present for Dad, here are just a few Father’s Day gifts that you might like to consider. 

To beard or not to beard 

fathers day gifts beard kit

If the dad figure you are buying for sports a fantastic beard, help him to keep it this way by giving him a beard kit. By choosing one that fits into a neat little tin, you’ll give him the power of grooming on the go – perfect for holidaying and trips away from home. 

fathers day gifts razor

If he prefers the clean shaven look, why not invest in a good quality razor so that he can keep up his sleek appearance and have something that looks great on the bathroom shelf? 

gift for fathers day - shaving soap

And, to accompany the razor, what about a shaving soap bar? Nicer than gifting a can of shaving foam, it’s the perfect gift for every dad who shaves. 

Father’s Day gifts for dads who like to travel 

gift ideas for dad - rucksack

If he’s a regular holidayer, day tripper or adventurer, you can’t go far wrong with a practical luggage gift that will enable him to pack all his necessities. From weekend bags for hotel trips to rucksacks for dads who like to explore, a high quality, durable bag makes a great Father’s Day gift. 

gifts for dads who like to travel

Or, if he is hankering for a new adventure, why not inspire him with a travel book? Bring new destinations to life with glossy photos and give him some itinerary ideas and your gift might be the reason behind his next adventure!  

Taking a tipple to the next level 

fathers day gift - wine cooler

If the dad figure in your life loves a tipple or two but you don’t want to end up just getting him another bottle of his favourite wine or whisky, why not get him a drinks-related gift to enhance the experience? Books, bottle openers and wine coolers are just a few of the cool Father’s Day gift ideas that you might like to try.

Gift ideas for city gent dads

gift ideas for dad - shoe shine kit

If he’s a city gent and proud of it, treat him to something this Father’s Day that will enhance his experience of working in the city. From a suit cover to keep his work suit pristine whilst travelling for business, to a shoe shine kit to ensure he always makes a great impression, just because he’s a workaholic doesn’t mean you can’t treat him! 

Gifts for dad to put his stamp on the home 

gifts for dads - lamps

It isn’t just mums that like their trinkets and home accessories, so don’t let dad miss out on putting his stamp on the family home. Give him a gift that everyone can enjoy by choosing an unusual lamp, photo frame (with you in it of course!) or garden accessories that match his personality and interests. 

Father’s Day clothing gifts 

fathers day clothing

You can’t go wrong with clothes, as long as you know his size and style preferences. For sporty dads you could pick up a rugby shirt or polo shirt. For outdoor dads, perhaps a gilet or tweed waistcoat, or for smart dressers (or those who you can’t fit into any other category) a soft lambswool jumper makes a lovely gift. 

If all else fails… 

socks

…There is always cologne, or socks! 

For all of these Father’s Day gifts and more visit Roxtons.co.uk and browse their gift collection for the man who has everything. 

Shopping for Hot Tubs in Staffordshire

hot tubs in Staffordshire

When you are shopping for hot tubs in Staffordshire, there are many things to think about when it comes to not only choosing the right hot tub for you and your family, but finding the right hot tub showroom. Understandably, a hot tub is quite a big investment, but by following our advice, you’ll find it less daunting to filter through all the hot tub models on the market, along with where to buy your hot tub cleaning chemicals and accessories to ensure you get maximum enjoyment for a long time to come.

Let’s take a look at some of the important steps for shopping for hot tubs.

What size hot tub do you need?

Hot tubs come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, so you should consider your needs when choosing the right hot tub. It always pays to do some initial research into the different model sizes available and how they will fit your requirements, as well as how much space you have.

  • Small hot tubs seat between 2 and 4 people – some models may feature lounger seats for couples, whilst a 4 seater hot tub can seat a whole small family.
  • Medium hot tubs seat between 4 and 6 people, making them ideal for a larger family.
  • Large hot tubs may seat 7 or more people, which is ideal for families that enjoy socialising in the hot tub.

As well factoring in how many seats you need, you must also consider the outer dimensions of different models and the area that you would choose to install a hot tub. A general rule of thumb is that at least 12” of clearance is needed, but with 18” of clearance around where the control panel is located. After your initial research into finding a hot tub that meets your size and seating specifications, it’s always worthwhile talking to an expert.

Visiting the right hot tub showroom

As well as finding a showroom that is near you, it’s important to find a company that is reputable (do they have favourable reviews online? Have they been recommended to you by people that you trust?), a place that has many different hot tub models from top brands on display, but also a showroom with staff who are friendly and knowledgeable.

We would advise that you take note of the space you have as this will help sales staff to assist you in finding a suitable model. When you have the chance to view a range of models up close and learn more about the special features available, such as lighting, hydro massage jets and built-in bluetooth speakers, you’ll no doubt think of many more important questions to ask before you think about making a decision.

As well as asking questions about different brands and models, you should also ask important questions such as:

  • Does the showroom also provide installation, maintenance and servicing? For peace of mind, it is always best to trust the professionals to take care of installing your investment, and to be confident you know who to call in the event of a problem.
  • Is there an option to try before you buy a hot tub? Some showrooms allow you to try a hot tub out to help you make your decision.
  • Does the showroom stock essential accessories to suit each available model? For example, you should consider finding the right hot tub cover, steps and shelter to suit your hot tub. 

What chemicals and cleaning materials do I need?

In order to keep your hot tub water clean and safe, as well as helping to keep your tub in good working condition, a combination of chemicals is needed. It’s important to ensure that you balance chemicals to achieve a safe pH level for the water, so it’s important to find a hot tub supplier who can also provide a regular supply of hot tub chemicals and talk you though what you need to make sure your hot tub is protected – using the incorrect products can not only damage your hot tub, it can also be dangerous for users.

As well as applying the correct chemicals, you will also need to consider hot tub maintenance on a regular basis, including interior and exterior maintenance and filter care.

What power supply does my hot tub need

A hot tub needs a power supply to function. As well as powering jets, lighting and speaker systems, a hot tub of course needs power to heat the water so that it can be ‘hot’. 

Typically, hot tubs will require a 13AMP or 32AMP power supply. A 13AMP hot tub can run on a standard plug socket, however, a 32AMP powered model will require a dedicated power outlet. Remember, it is required by law that electrical work in households is carried out by a competent person, so this should be discussed when making a purchase and arranging installation and commissioning.

13AMP hot tubs may generally be cheaper as they have fewer expensive electrics, 32AMP models will provide a better hydrotherapy massage and will cost less to run in the long term, so it pays to invest.

What are the best hot tub brands in Staffordshire?

As you would guess from the gulf of prices, not all hot tubs are equal. The easiest way to choose a model that offers excellent build quality, waterproofing, insulation, air jets, filtration system, control panel and special features, is to choose a world renowned brand, such as Jacuzzi. We would recommend sourcing a Jacuzzi supplier in Staffordshire.

For a one-stop shop for hot tubs in Staffordshire, where you can view the latest Jacuzzi models, as well as stock up on all essential chemicals, cleaning materials and accessories, and benefit from excellent customer care, visit All Weather Leisure at their Cannock or Shrewsbury showroom.

Apartment Cleaning Services: Cleaners Aren’t Just for Houses

apartment cleaning services

Whilst you may think of domestic cleaning as being house cleaning services, domestic cleaning extends to any residential property, be it a large family home, or a small flat or apartment. Whilst cleaning an apartment is unlikely to take up as much time as cleaning a large house, it can easily eat into your time, so let’s look at some of the reasons for investing in apartment cleaning services, as well as the range of services you might benefit from.

Why use apartment cleaning services?

It’s important to clean any home regularly, whether it is a house or an apartment. Regardless of the size of your dwelling, germs can spread just as fast and dust will not build up any slower, so regular attention to tasks such as dusting, hoovering and surface cleaning is essential. Whilst you may choose to take on these tasks yourself, there are certainly benefits to using professional apartment cleaners.

A sparkling clean home

Anyone you speak to who has an especially clean home will tell you that this is only achieved through regular cleaning. The longer you go without dusting, vacuuming, scrubbing and polishing, the more the dirt, dust and grime will build up. By calling in the professionals to carry out regular cleans, you’ll ensure that your apartment is sparkling clean and when you clean up after yourself routinely, this will be much easier and will take much less time!

More time to use as you choose

Whilst an apartment will usually be smaller than a house, if you are working full time, alongside other commitments and maintaining a social life, it’s likely you won’t have too much time left to simply relax, let alone give your home a deep clean. Hiring an apartment cleaning service will leave you with much more time to do the things you want to do.

Fast cleaning

When you take on cleaning tasks yourself, even in an apartment, they can eat up a lot of time, and in many cases, this is because you aren’t cleaning in the most efficient way. Professional apartment cleaners know exactly how to clean your home from ceiling to floor in the fastest and most efficient way, providing excellent results. Professional cleaners will always aim to work in the way that is least disruptive to you.

Clean away germs and bacteria

All surfaces and fixtures in a home carry germs and bacteria that can easily be spread. Professional cleaners not only know how to clean a home efficiently, they are experts in getting rid of germs, preventing them from spreading around the home and therefore, minimising the risk of anyone that lives with you from getting sick.

No need to worry about cleaning tools and supplies

When you hire a professional cleaning service, you won’t need to worry about providing expensive supplies. Experienced apartment cleaners will bring the supplies and preferred tools to do their job in the most efficient way possible.

apartment cleaning company

Find your local apartment cleaning company

Apartment cleaning services are ideal for students, young professionals, older people with poor mobility and anyone who wants to keep their living space in the best condition, whilst gaining time to spend as they wish. 

To find a local apartment cleaning company, visit domestique.co.uk

Reasons to Invest in a Home Cinema Room

home cinema room

Investing in a home cinema room can be one of the best home improvements. Here, a group of West Midlands home cinema specialists explore why.

When you’re looking to invest in your home, there are plenty of ways to do it. But one that creates the most wow factor is adding a home cinema room. Whether you’re watching sporting events or your favourite flicks on the big screen, there’s something to be said for cosying down with an all-round cinema experience. 

Reasons to invest in a home cinema room

A home cinema offers the ultimate comfort and convenience

A trip to the cinema might be exciting for two minutes – until you get seated next to someone chomping on popcorn and wittering on. On the other hand, a home cinema allows you to create the perfect environment – from sound and lighting to seating and of course, who you invite to enjoy the experience with you! 

You can customise the audio-visual settings in your cinema room

A bespoke home cinema installation allows you to transform your dreams into state-of-the-art reality. You’ll be able to choose your own AV receiver, the type and positioning of lighting and other elements like smart technology to provide an all-round cinematic experience from the comfort of your own sofa.

You can enjoy films, TV and sporting events on the big screen

When you invest in a home cinema room, you can kiss goodbye to that tiny TV and say hello to the king of screens. By utilising modern technology, you’ll be able to watch your favourite movies how they are supposed to be enjoyed, without squinting at the TV. Whilst you will only usually enjoy the full cinematic experience for films, your own home cinema room can be used for watching all of your favourite films, TV series, music and sporting events on the big screen, with surround sound, and in complete comfort.

Home cinema provides an immersive experience

With a dedicated home cinema, you can have an immersive viewing and listening experience as possible. What’s more, you’ll have complete control over what you watch without having annoying ads to contend with or times to stick to. 

Investing in a cinema room can increase the value of your home

Incorporating a professionally installed home cinema room can boost the wow factor of your home and increase its value. Furthermore, it gives you an edge over the competition when you come to sell.

A home cinema can be whatever you want it to be

Fancy installing the best sound systems in your home cinema room? How about plush cinema-style seating, or a cosy area to snuggle up in? The beauty of a professionally installed home cinema room is that you can have exactly what you want and where you want, spending as much or as little as you like.

Home cinemas are perfect for get togethers

Covid restrictions have changed the way we socialise, and now, more people than ever are having small gatherings at home. A home cinema offers the ideal attraction for friends and family, giving you a place to get together and enjoy the big screen together.

Home cinemas save time and stress

When you go out to the cinema, you have to get ready, drive to the cinema, find a space, buy overpriced food and drink and deal with other people. Conversely, when you have a home cinema, you can save time and stress by having everything to hand with ease.

West Midlands home cinema specialists

If you’re looking for West Midlands home cinema specialists, the team at Veritais are on hand to answer all you need to know. While it can be tricky to find West Midlands home cinema specialists with the right level of knowledge and experience, Veritais are certified experts who have helped hundreds of people just like you.

Essential Maintenance for UPVC Fascia Boards and Guttering

UPVC fascia boards and guttering

Maintaining UPVC fascia boards and guttering are the bane of many homeowners’ lives. But it’s one of those things that has to be done, otherwise problems can occur. From blocked or leaking guttering, to unwanted rodent visitors, broken UPVC fascia boards and guttering can lead to many potential disasters.

To keep disasters at bay, there are ways you can maintain your UPVC fascia boards and guttering. Here are just a few:

1. Keep your UPVC fascia boards and guttering clear

One of the most common types of problems with UPVC fascia boards and guttering stems from not keeping them clear. For example, if you have cracked or damaged fascia boards that are covered by big trees, you may not notice there’s a problem. The first sign you may have of something being amiss is wet internal walls or mould growing on the inside of your home. What’s more, broken UPVC fascia boards lead to unsupported guttering, which could lead to more serious problems.

If your guttering is full of debris and leaves, the water will have nowhere to go, and could begin ingressing into your property. If possible, regularly clear out your guttering to prevent them becoming waterlogged and pay close attention to its condition.

2. Patch up any cracks or holes in your UPVC fascia boards

A tiny hole in your UPVC fascia boards might not seem like a big deal. But here’s the thing – rodents can fit into the tiniest of holes and it only takes one to start an infestation. As the fascia boards often protect the roof space and rafters of your home, this has the potential to be very serious.

The minute you spot an issue in your board, repair it yourself or call someone who can. If you choose to undertake the UPVC fascia board repair yourself, choose an appropriately sized UPVC screw cap top and use specialist glue to go around the edges. If you have a rodent infestation but can’t see any obvious holes, a roofing specialist will be able to inspect your UPVC fascia boards and guttering to spot entrance signs.

3. Replace damaged parts of the UPVC fascia boards and guttering

If there are areas of your fascia boards or guttering that are broken, replace them as soon as possible to prevent more damage. It’s also wise to check for signs of wear and tear, such as hairline cracks, sagging, standing water and overflowing water. All these things are indications that something is amiss and needs attention as soon as possible. By taking these steps, you can prevent a potential disaster and save pounds in the process.

4. Keep a UPVC fascia board and guttering toolkit to hand

While fascia board and guttering repair kit might not be top of your shopping list, it can be useful to have a few items to hand if disaster strikes. While you might not be confident repairing them yourself, a few basic tools can help stem the tide until professional help arrives. Some of the things to have on standby include: a set of ladders, gloves, a bucket, a couple of cap tops and a liquid rubber guttering repair kit. If, however, you have a metal or asbestos gutter, we’d always recommend leaving it well alone until help arrives.

5. Replace wooden fascia boards with UPVC fascia boards

If you do have wooden fascia boards, we would always recommend replacing them with UPVC fascia boards. Wood is prone to rotting which can lead to damaged rafters – not to mention ruining your home’s aesthetic. If the fascia boards of a home are not structurally strong and durable, the roof tiles can become unsupported and the rain from the roof can sweep straight into the guttering.

If you need expert help with your UPVC fascia boards and guttering, call MW Roofline to get expert help fast.