Do not ever leave a spare key in a place where other people would look, for example under a door mat or under a flowerpot. Another thing not to do is to buy one of those ‘novelty’ rocks which hide a key. The reality is that they are not very realistic and can be easily spotted. If possible leave a spare key with a family member or a neighbour who you trust. If this is not an option and you have an outbuilding such as a garage or shed, consider keeping that key separate from your house keys and keep a spare house key in there.

When none of these options are available to you then you will need to access the property by other methods. You may be lucky and be able to enter through an open window however leaving a window open just in case this happens may increase the chance of you being burgled. It may get to the point where you need to contact a locksmith. Chances are quite high that you will not know a locksmith and so it will usually mean finding one through a directory or the internet. It is important that you use a reputable locksmith and even though you may not think about it at the time, it is worth checking out their credentials. If they are a member of an association such as the Master Locksmiths Association, you can be assured that they meet certain standards required. Some locksmiths offer a generic service while others specialise in areas such as vehicle security or commercial businesses. Make sure that you find a suitable one. As this is most of the time an emergency situation, you will be considering different things to if you wanted a locksmith to carry out a non-emergency job for you. For most people the important question is how much it will cost. This may include a call-out charge and may vary depending on the time. Out of hours call-outs may incur an additional charge. The locksmith may be unable to provide you with a quote for the actual job until they see it. The job may be easily carried out by them ‘picking’ the lock with no damage to it but it may involve damaging it. This will then need replacing and that will increase the price. If you do have to have a replacement lock, find out the length of warranty.

A locksmith is trained in the expertise of making, installing and breaking locks and can provide locks and keys for doors and windows as well as exterior buildings and cars. Many locksmiths are also qualified and registered alarm specialists. training courses for locksmiths are widely available. Should you want to become a New Zealand locksmith locksmith a good place to start is searching for locksmith training courses online. To become a locksmith you need to complete a three-year apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Locksmithing – Level 4. Locksmith apprenticeships are also available under the Modern Apprenticeships scheme, which is for people aged 16 to 21. Locksmiths must not have any criminal convictions that have a term of imprisonment attached. A security guard licence may be required and it is helpful to have a driver's licence.

A locksmith is able to repair locks that have suffered wear and tear due to usage and will also be trained in replacing locks that are too damaged to be repaired. Locksmiths can install new, high quality locks to meet insurance requirements. Security features such as hinge bolts and window bolts can be fitted to help keep insurance costs to a minimum.

There are a number of reasons why you might have to engage the services of a locksmith. If you have locked yourself out many locksmiths provide an emergency service and will be able to break the lock without damaging the door. A replacement lock can be fitted at the same time so that your property is not left vulnerable. In the event of a burglary locksmiths can replace locks and often have the facility to replace damaged doors and windows. Another regular task requested of locksmiths is to replace lost keys or make duplicates of existing ones.

When a locksmith is also a general security specialist they can also provide advice on home security and insurance requirements. They can provide services such as fitting home security systems but are also able to advise on installing security systems to commercial properties. These can include alarm systems, door and window grilles, CCTV and access control systems.

Locksmiths can be based in a shop or are often mobile and can work as independent contractors or as part of a larger organization. Many specialise in one area of the trade, such as master key system specialists or safe technicians. If there's a specific job you want doing, you might be able to find a locksmith who is an expert in that field.  Locksmiths are frequently certified in specific skill areas or to a certain level of skill within the trade. Always consider a locksmith's level of proficiency and whether or not he or she has the skill to do the right job for you. If you want to install new locks or a security system, a locksmith should provide you with accurate, helpful advice as to what product would most suit you and your property, whether it is commercial or residential.

New upholstery should be treated with a suitable fabric protector. If you're not sure about which type to use, contact an upholstery cleaning specialist. Fabric protector is usually applied by spraying it onto the upholstery. Once dry, you can't tell by either looking or feeling that it's there. However, it forms a barrier which repels any oily or liquid spillages. This helps to prevent your upholstery from becoming marked or stained. Always test on a hidden patch of fabric before using all over, as some dyes may not be colourfast. The fabric protector should be re-applied annually for maximum effectiveness.

Everyday cleaning is essential if you want to keep upholstery in good condition. Sofas and chairs attract dust just like any other household item, and this needs to be removed regularly, especially if anyone in the home suffers from breathing problems. If your vacuum cleaner doesn't already have an upholstery cleaning attachment, you may want to buy one, as this will make cleaning much easier. You should vacuum upholstery as often as you vacuum carpets. This is the kind of sofa cleaning Sheffield professional upholstery cleaners recommend to remove dust and reduce allergens such as pollen and pet dander. 

The time will come when you need to have your sofas and chairs professionally deep cleaned, however much care you take of them. Deep cleaning removes the dirt and allergens that your vacuum cleaner leaves behind, as well as restoring brightness and injecting freshness into stale and jaded upholstery. Many carpet cleaning companies also specialise in cleaning upholstery and are happy to offer help and advice. One of two cleaning methods may be used, usually depending on the type of fabric. That is why professional upholstery cleaners will always inspect the fabric first and maybe test fibres to ascertain which method to use. Many fabrics are suitable for wet cleaning, which is extremely effective. Using specialist equipment, the fabric is gently shampooed, rinsed and the deep-seated dirt extracted along with the moisture. Dry cleaning is generally more suitable for delicate fabrics. Dirt and grime is removed using a no-moisture foam or similar chemical compound. Before either cleaning method is undertaken, the upholstery will be thoroughly vacuumed with a powerful industrial machine.  If you care about the environment, check out the carpet cleaners Birmingham has to offer who clean upholstery using safe, eco-friendly products. 

Finally, accidents do happen!  Always remember to blot any spillages with a clean, white cloth or paper towel until you've removed as much of the liquid as you can. Then you may wish to use an appropriate stain removal product. 

What Is Sold Secure?

An organisation concerned with reducing the risk of crime through the assessment of security products. Sold Secure was established in 1992 by the Northumbria and Essex police with the support of the Home Office, and is now owned and run by the Master Locksmiths Association, one of the two main locksmith trade bodies.

Operating from a purpose-built premises near Daventry in the Midlands, Sold Secure has ties with several constabularies and insurers who provide intelligence concerning current theft methods and trends. This helps the team of locksmiths testing the security products to evaluate their effectiveness in the light of the most recent types of theft risk.

What Products Are Tested?

All types of security products from door locks, safes, wheel clamps to bicycle locks and more. Manufacturers and suppliers can apply to have their products tested and evaluated. Approved products are given a Sold Secure Quality Mark and information about them is circulated by Sold Secure to insurance companies, crime prevention officers, the media and the Home Office.

Approval Gradings

Approval gradings are classified in three categories: bronze, silver and gold with gold being the highest. There is a fourth grading  — diamond — for certain caravan, tracker and cylinder lock security products.

Approved Product List

The Sold Secure website has a comprehensive listing of approved products under various categories searchable by product type and level of effectiveness classification (bronze, silver, gold).

There is a product catalogue available for free download, but it may be best to use the approved products search. Due to the high volume of products passing through the testing process, the product catalogue could be out of date at any given time.

Sold Secure stress that products it recommends cannot be guaranteed to completely prevent theft, damage or any other security breach. Much depends on other factors — proper use of the product being a prime example — but you are at least using a product that has been given a rigorous test by security professionals.

Advantages of Independent Testing

Manufacturers of security products will make all types of claims concerning the effectiveness of their products but this does not always make it easy to judge one product over another. With a Sold Secure Quality Mark and a classification it offers proof that the product has been tested using present security demands as a benchmark for quality.

The Sold Secure classifications are useful in buying a product that balances security with cost outlay. For example, to deter an opportunist thief stealing a modestly priced bicycle a bronze classified bicycle chain might be sufficient. Alternatively, to protect an expensive racing bicycle from being stolen to order a more elaborate, gold rated security product would be the better option.

Sold Secure’s tests and ratings offer you many qualified security options.

Everyday care of carpets usually involves emergency stain removal. When dealing with spillages, do not rub. You should blot the spillage with a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Stains can also be treated with an appropriate stain remover from the wide range of carpet cleaning products available, but do remember to read the instructions first. It's a good idea to try and avoid staining in the first place by treating carpets with protective, anti-soiling agents. Make sure that all your carpets are treated and save yourself a lot of unnecessary heartache.

It may sound obvious, but proper vacuuming is essential. This should be done weekly, but more often if the carpet is in an area of high traffic, such as the hall or living-room. Vacuuming removes obvious dry soil from the surface and also draws up abrasive particles before they have time to work their way down into the pile and damage the fibres. It will also help to reduce allergens such as pollen, dander and dust mites – especially important if you or any member of your household suffers from hayfever or asthma. For all these reasons, one of the best tips for cleaning your carpet is simply to vacuum it as often as needed.

Having carpets deep cleaned regularly is a must if you want them to remain bright, soft and sweet-smelling. If you choose to have it done by a professional carpet cleaning company, you may be offered one of several methods. Prior to cleaning, the carpet is vacuumed thoroughly using powerful industrial equipment. Visibly dirty patches and stains may be treated. Hot water extraction, also known as steam cleaning, is very popular, as it emulsifies the greasy soil lurking deep within the pile, and draws it out. All residue is then rinsed out, using clean water or an acidic rinse. You'll be amazed at how your carpet's colours are restored to their original brightness – and how the pile feels like new again.

If you prefer, you can clean your own carpets using various types of machines. Steam cleaning machines can be very effective, as they penetrate deep within the carpet pile to remove dirt, grit and greasy deposits. But this method is probably not suitable for pure wool carpets. Alternatively, you can shampoo carpets using specialist equipment. If you don't want to use water, dry cleaning involves sprinkling a cleaning product, in powder or granule form, over the carpet. The product absorbs the dirt, which can then be removed using a special machine.

Preventative Measures

You can take a few steps to stop, or reduce, dirt and debris reaching your rug in the first place.

Clean access routes: try and keep pathways and other access routes to your property clean and free of debris to reduce the amounts reaching your home.

Mats: place mats both outside and inside entrances to catch debris from footwear. Clean them frequently.

Removing footwear: encouraging family members and visitors to remove their shoes when entering the house. This drastically reduces debris reaching your rugs and carpeting.

Routine Cleaning

Vacuuming: regular vacuuming will stop debris working its way deep into the rug and acting as an abrasive and damaging the fibres by cutting through them. Most vacuum cleaners work at their best on the backstroke (when pulling it towards you), so take it slow so as to remove as much debris as possible.

Work deliberately in stages from one end of the rug to the other rather than random sweeps. This will ensure all parts of the rug are vacuumed thoroughly.

Stain removal/spot cleaning

Have certain stain removal materials to hand before disaster strikes. It is important to remove a stain as soon as possible, so be prepared.

Be careful in choosing stain removers and other materials. The Woolsafe Organisation website has plenty of information specific to wool carpeting and rugs, and a list of approved carpet and rug care materials. Check their recommendations before buying anything, and ensure the ‘Woolsafe Approved’ mark is somewhere on the bottle.

Different types of stain often demand different removal methods, but two general rules to follow are:

• Attend to stain removal as soon as possible — preferably as soon as the staining occurs.
• Do not rub at the stain as this will simply push it deeper into the fibres.

Whatever materials you use, do not overdo the amounts as drying your carpet if it becomes extremely damp can take a long time.

Protective Treatments

Some wool carpets and rugs are supplied treated with a protective treatment to help reduce soiling and staining. Be aware that they will eventually wear off, so will need re-applying. Be careful in choosing a suitable treatment: it may be better to seek the services of a Woolsafe approved carpet cleaning company for re-treatments.

If your rug has never had a protective treatment and you think it may be worthwhile, check first that your rug is suitable. Some manufacturers do not recommend protective treatments.

Full Rug Clean

Despite your best efforts, you will likely need to give your rug a deep clean eventually. It is recommended to do this once every eighteen months to two years depending on use/level of soiling.

If you decide to clean it yourself, use cleaning materials carrying the ‘Woolsafe Approved’ mark as described above. If you prefer to use a professional carpet/rug cleaner, then find a Woolsafe approved company on their website.

A maintenance plan that includes areas away from the carpeting itself should be set up and tailored to reflect the use the carpeting experiences.

Reducing Maintenance

Much can be done to prevent, or at least reduce, the amount of soiling the carpet may suffer. By keeping areas outside the premises clean, such as paths, the amount of dirt entering the building will be reduced.

Heavy duty matting by entrances and other doorways will encourage people to wipe their feet, and ‘walk off’ tiles positioned where hard surfaces transition to carpeting will further help remove debris from footwear. Ensure the tiles are a heavy duty, absorbent type.

Suitable Maintenance Schedule

The key is being proactive rather than reactive. Instead of simply cleaning up when the carpeting becomes obviously soiled, an organised and regular maintenance schedule will ensure the carpeting never requires major remedial cleaning attention.

A popular planning method is to base maintenance activities on typical levels of footfall and type of soiling. It stands to reason a private office will have less footfall and therefore less soiling than the reception area or a main corridor: therefore, less carpet maintenance is required.

A large commercial carpet supply and cleaning company suggests the following basic maintenance schedule for varying commercial uses:

…For light footfall areas — typically private offices:

Vacuum twice a week and deep clean once per year.

…For medium footfall areas such as shared offices, interior hallways, conference rooms and classrooms:

Vacuum once per day and deep clean twice per year.

…For heavier footfall areas such as cafeterias and major public entrances (hospital entrances, for example)

Vacuum once to twice per day and deep clean twelve times per year.

Cleaning

The way in which professional commercial carpet maintenance is undertaken is based on effectiveness and reducing, as much as possible, disruption by having to use extensive methods. For example, heavy deep cleaning where areas of carpeting would be out of bounds for the duration.

Vacuuming: The basic, regular cleaning method. Frequent vacuuming not only clears dirt and debris, but prevents it working its way deep into the carpet where it can act as an abrasive and damage the fibres.

Interim Cleaning: Between full-scale deep cleans using water, an interim ‘low moisture encapsulation’ clean may be required. A cleaning agent is applied and worked into the carpet by machine, and when it dries is vacuumed up bringing the more deep seated dirt and soiling with it.  Due to this not being a ‘wet’ cleaning method, disruption caused by drying time is low.

Hot Water Extraction: Otherwise known as ‘steam cleaning,’ it cleanses the carpet of dirt and debris regular vacuuming cannot reach.

Spot Cleaning: this is the removal of random stains and spillages and would, by definition, be undertaken as and when these appeared.

Maintenance Schedule Adjustments

There may be times when schedules need revising such as periods when more (or less) footfall is experienced.

Rewiring is a critical task that should be performed by a certified ELECSA approved and JIB electrician who has the desired experience to guide you on the type of wiring that will be appropriate for your premises. If you reside in Sheffield, get in touch with this company to benefit from JIB and ELECSA approved electricians who are experienced in rewiring homes; or contact this firm of electricians if you reside in Nottingham.

Methods of rewiring your home

While there are a few different methods of rewiring, the most common type uses copper wire to connect wall outlets and fixtures to junction boxes. These are then connected to the main electrical panel and circuit breaker box by a copper wire. The type of wire that is used can be changed to silver or aluminium wire. Moreover, the outlet or fixture can be connected straight to the circuit breaker. Which is why, the type of electrical wiring that you use along with the method will affect the overall performance of the rewired electrical system.

Choice of a variety of wiring materials

The different wiring materials offer different features, For instance, aluminium is a lightweight wire and can be used over a longer length than copper wire, which is a comparatively heavier wire. Yet, copper is a better conductor of electricity, but quite expensive. Silver wire is another wiring material that is more expensive than copper and should only be used when substantially high levels of electrical conductivity are needed.

Junction boxes versus own circuit

The use of junction boxes while rewiring will enable you to connect several electrical fixtures into a single circuit. This will save considerable money, as it minimises the number of circuit breakers and the quantity of wire you will need. However, the overall performance of your electrical system will be compromised. On the other hand, if the fixtures and wall outlets are wired into their own circuit, there will be less risk of overloading and tripping the circuit. However this method, it is more expensive, as more wire is needed.

When deciding on whether to use junction boxes or own circuit consider the importance of the electrical equipment or device. For instance, wall outlets such as boilers should be plugged into their own circuit. This will reduce the risk of overloading and tripping of the circuit. Less critical wall outlets can be wired through junction boxes and then connected to the breaker box, thereby keeping vital appliances free from potential tripping.

You should also consider the type, length and quantity of wire that will be needed if you want to wire outlets and fixtures directly into a circuit. For wiring over a long area, use aluminium, as it less susceptible to corona, or discharge of electricity, but offers compromised conductivity compared to copper electric wiring.

Flat roofs can have extremely flexible designs, and are far easier than pitched roofs to install. They are pretty low maintenance and, as there are no slopes, they are simple to clean and maintain. More importantly, a building with a flat roof can help to reduce heating costs. This is because a flat roof has less space for the heat to rise in, but can also absorb heat from the sunlight. What most people don't realise is that you can still have a choice of windows to install in a flat roof. These are some of the most popular:

Raised Skylight - This is probably the most common type of window for a flat roof. It looks pretty similar to a normal window, as it comes in a square or rectangular shape. Unlike a regular window though, the skylight is built into a structure which is raised above the level of the flat roof. This is to help prevent water from gathering at the edges of the window, and seeping into the joints, eventually causing a leak. In addition, standing water could freeze in winter, and this could lead to structural issues.

Domes and Bubbles - These are so called because they are designed to be of a semi-spherical shape, which forms a bubble or dome shape. Because these windows are manufactured as an integrated unit, they can be put into a flat roof without the danger of any leaks. Flat roofs have a waterproof membrane that is usually made out of rubber, which encases the whole roof. The membrane is cut where the window is to be fitted, and the pieces are then run up the sides to ensure that all water is blocked from the seams. Joints are then sealed to create a totally waterproof window.

Clerestory - This is where an extra raised part of the roof is built to blend in with the rest of the roof, and a  window is put into it. Essentially, it looks like a window that you'd find on a pitched roof. A clerestory can be built to a dome type structure, or it can be an integral part of a large roof. Clerestory windows were most commonly used in the days before electricity was available, as they let so much natural light into the home. Nowadays, they're seeing a resurgence in popularity from those concerned over energy usage. 

The costs of windows for flat roofs does vary depending on the size of the window that you want, and how complex a job it will be to install it. Some small skylight kits can easily be dealt with by the keen DIY-er.

First of all get at least three quotes. Costs may vary but beware of someone offering to do the job very cheaply. You get what you pay for. They should also provide a written quotation. This is to protect both of you should anything go wrong. They should be able to show you some form of qualification. At the minimum they should have a certificate for chainshaw use. They need to have insurance and to be able to provide proof. Again this is to protect both parties and should be professional indemnity and professional liability. Do not be afraid to ask for references. Any reputable arborist should be willing and only too happy to show you some. If in doubt and depending on where you found their details, see if they are linked to a professional body. Further information can be obtained from websites such as BBC Gardening.

To provide a quotation they should do this in person. Beware anyone who is prepared to provide you with one over the phone or internet. They should give you a full and clear description of the work to be undertaken. They should be aware of the type of trees which will be pruned/cut. They should be aware of and tell you if there are any restrictions. For example it may be that the tree is in a conservation area or have preservation status. They should know where and who to seek permission from to carry out the job, or if they can actually legally do so. They should know how, where and when to cut the tree. If it is a case of complete removal this may not be an issue, however if it is a pruning task, you do not want this to happen ending in a dead tree.

A full risk assessment should be undertaken. Any potential hazards need to be identified. For example any overhead cables, other buildings or risk to the public while the task is being carried out. How accessible is the work? Will substantial erection of equipment be necessary? The extent of the work will determine how many people will be needed. Beware an individual who will try and take on a very large task on their own. The amount and correct equipment should be identified. Just leaning a domestic ladder against a tree is not safe practice. Safety equipment is vital. Working as an arborist can be a dangerous, wet and dusty job. They should take into consideration weather conditions and be professional in saying on the day it is unsafe because of the weather for the job to be carried out safely. Any reputable arborist will not want to risk their life or the lives of others for money.