Author: MartinDomm

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Top 6 benefits of double glazing installation in 2023

The advantages of double glazing are more obvious than ever in 2023, making it an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and overall value of their residences.

To create a barrier that considerably enhances insulation, double glazing entails employing two layers of glass separated by a vacuum or a layer of inert gas, often argon.

window installation

Here are some of the most important advantages of double glazing in 2023:

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

As energy conservation and sustainability become more important issues, double glazing stands out as a simple yet efficient solution to increase a home’s energy efficiency. The insulating layer between the glass panes aids in heat transfer, reducing the need for continuous heating or cooling. This leads to decreased energy usage and, as a result, cheaper utility costs for households.

Climate Control

Double glazing is very useful in areas prone to severe weather. It helps to keep rooms cool in hot climes by blocking off a considerable percentage of the sun’s heat. In colder climes, it keeps heat from escaping, allowing a pleasant and stable temperature to be maintained within the residence. This climate control function not only improves comfort but also adds to a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment.

Noise Reduction

The acoustic benefits of double glazing are widely valued in an era marked by busy metropolitan surroundings and rising noise pollution. The two layers of glass, in conjunction with the insulating air or gas, serve as a sound barrier, decreasing the transmission of outside sounds into the residence. This is especially beneficial for residences near busy streets, airports, or other loud regions.

Improved Security

Homeowners are concerned about security, for obvious reason, and double glazing adds an extra layer of safety. The various layers of glass make it more difficult for thieves to break in, increasing the property’s overall security. Furthermore, some contemporary double glazing choices include laminated or toughened glass, which strengthens the windows against potential security concerns.

Condensation Control

Double glazing reduces condensation on windows, which is a typical problem in colder areas. The insulated barrier between the glass panes minimises the temperature differential between the window’s inner and external surfaces, lowering the possibility of condensation developing. This not only enhances visibility but also helps to prevent concerns like mould growth and window frame deterioration.

Increased Property Value

As demand for energy-efficient and technologically advanced houses grows, double glazing has become a popular feature among purchasers. Installing double-glazed windows may increase a property’s total worth, making it a good investment for homeowners wishing to improve both their living circumstances and the resale value of their houses.

Finally, the advantages of double glazing in 2023 go beyond energy economy and include areas of comfort, security, and environmental conscience. As technology advances, double glazing remains a practical and forward-thinking option for homeowners looking to improve their living spaces.

For more information on the advantages of double glazing Edinburgh installation contact us today.

by MartinDomm3 Min Reading
Blog

What security services do banks need?

Every property needs security, but nowhere requires a stronger or more comprehensive security system than a bank.

Banks come in all different shapes and sizes, but all have incredibly high security requirements and face a constant risk of theft, robbery, fraud and other crimes.

No commercial site needs an effective security system more than banks and there are a few key security services that are simply a must-have for these institutions.

entry gate
These Include:

Security Guards

Security guards are present in pretty much every bank in the UK and for good reason. These expertly trained security professionals not only help to prevent unauthorised entrants from getting inside the bank and take charge in emergencies but will also answer the general queries that customers may have and help to reassure clients that their hard earned money is safe.

Bank security guards will often be asked to assist with staff security training to ensure that each and every member of the bank’s staff know the protocols for attempted thefts and other emergencies.

CCTV

Every bank must have CCTV, it is as simple as that. Surveillance cameras should cover all the key areas of the bank including the main floor, the entrance, the vaults, and pretty much everywhere else as well.

Bank CCTV should be fully operational 24 hours a day and leave anyone approaching the premises in no doubt that they are being closely watched.

Monitored alarm systems

It is vital that whatever time of the day or night a security breach is detected inside your banks that there is an instant and effective response by a highly trained security team.

Monitored alarm systems are a great way of guaranteeing a real-time response around the clock to security alerts, notifying a team of experienced security guards to the situation at hand who will instantly deploy to the site to deal with the situation at hand.

Many banks also have alarm systems in place that will automatically alert the police in the event of an activation.

Access Control

Access control systems can be used to restrict movement within the bank, ensuring that only authorised individuals can gain access to certain areas.

Just because someone works at the bank, does not mean that they have the required security clearance to access all area, and a key pad, key card, or biometric identification system allows you to grant and deny permissions to each area.

Cyber Security

In a world of online banking, cyber security is just as important, if not more important to the security of a modern bank as physical on-site security. It should, therefore, be given just as much thought and attention.

Many security firms will only offer physical security assets and you should consult with a firm that specialises solely in cyber security to optimise your online systems and guard against fraud, hacks, and information leaks.

For more information on any of the bank security services on this list, or to learn more about the best way to protect a bank from criminal activity, get in touch with select solutions security services now.

by MartinDomm3 Min Reading
Blog

5 of the most exciting new construction technologies in 2023

It is fair to say that the construction industry may, in the past have been slightly more reluctant to embrace modern technology in comparison to other sectors.

The average age of a construction worker these days is over 40 after all and many companies are run by those who believe that the old ways will always be the best ways.

Times are a changing however, and the fact is that more and more forward thinking companies are adopting technologies that speed up time-consuming processes and reduce both the cost and length of construction projects.

Many of these technologies, especially security technologies such as construction site CCTV have become a must have for the modern building firm and those who refuse to adopt them will soon be left behind.

In a world of constant innovation where new technologies are being developed and produced every single day it seems, it is difficult to pick just a select few to include in this article.

Construction CCTV

Nevertheless, we have given it a good go and have picked out 5 of the most exciting new construction technologies that are currently on the market.

Drones

One of the first real indicators of a new age of construction was the introduction of drones for the surveying of sites and the tracking of project progress.

Drones have now been in use on construction sites across the nation for well over a decade and there are no signs that their use will decline again any time soon.

Drones are only incorporated with other security technologies such as infrared imaging or 3D lidar scans for maximum effectiveness.

Biometric scanners

With criminal activity a constant threat biometric scanners have made security much easier of construction sites, allowing you to control who can get inside and who cannot.

Fingerprint and facial recognition is much more secure than a keycard or passcode and ensures only fully authorised workers and visitors are allowed to enter your site.

3D laser scanners

Laser scanners can scan and analyse real life objects and are a fantastic tool for site surveying and health and safety protocols.

Accuracy levels has risen dramatically thanks to this technology that dramatically reduces the risk of a miscalculation.

New model generation would be much harder than it currently is if it was not for the development and application of 3D scanner technology.

Simulations

4D simulations save construction companies a huge amount of time, stress, and money, allowing them to test concepts without having to use any real life materials.

Simulations are also extremely popular among architects and property developers looking to pitch their projects to investors. It is not exaggeration to say that companies have saved literally months of planning time by utilising simulation technology.

Mobile CCTV Towers

Mobile CCTV towers provide construction sites with immediate full site surveillance and are fitted with a range of different smart features such as motion detection, shape recognition, and more.

They can be instlled rapidly and their footage is sent to you directly over 5G.

by MartinDomm3 Min Reading
Business Card

Pros and cons of using a security company

If you are looking to grow a successful business a strong security strategy must be the foundation upon which you build.

A comprehensive security plan will almost always involve the services of security guards, alongside a range of other technologies such as CCTV and alarms to support them.

With the right people in place, and the right tools in their hands, you can create a powerful security presence that will deter even the most determined of criminals and keep your property safe from threats of all natures.

When it comes to security you have two options, hire a professional security company to protect your property or attempt to manage your own security in-house.

Hiring a professional security company Leeds is widely considered to be the better of the two options, but given the cost of hiring full time security, there are certainly a few draw backs that you need to consider.

In this article we will look at the pros and cons of hiring a security company, giving you all the info that you could possibly need to make this important decision.

Pros of using a security company

security professional

Access to a huge range of services

If you choose to manage your own security, you will need to advertise for security guards, source a CCTV installer, find the perfect alarm system, and much more, all alongside running your business day to day.

A security company can handle all of this on your behalf, with access to a huge selection of different security technologies that can be used to create the perfect security system to meet your needs.

Cost-effective options available

Many people attempt to avoid professional security companies in an attempt to save money, without realising that they have plenty of cost effective options available.

Key holding and alarm response, for example, allows all emergency situations to be handled by SIA licensed security guards without having them on site 24 hours a day.

You could also arrange for them to conduct mobile patrols at random points during the night to check all is well, rather than having static guards in place.

Access to the latest training and equipment

SIA licenced security companies, particularly the nationwide ones that have been operating in the industry for many years, will have access to the very latest training programmes and security technologies from the moment that they become available.

It may take some time for this information and equipment to reach the general market so be attempting to go it alone you may well be putting yourself at a significant disadvantage.

Flexible services

Professional security companies will manage the security of a huge number of different businesses of all shapes and sizes.

If your business is currently small or medium sized but you are looking to expand in the near future, a security company will be able to accommodate this, expanding the services that they provide to meet the changing requirements that you have. On the other hand, if you try to handle your own security you will need to recognise when the time comes to advertise for more security guards and put a huge amount of time and effort into ensuring you have met your new needs.

At an exciting time for your business, is this something you really want to focus on or would you rather leave it to the professionals and focus on your business.

Cons of using a security company

Access control

Lack of integration

One of the only benefits of hiring your own security guards rather than using a professional security company is that they will be able to fully integrate themselves into your existing team and can be handpicked based on their compatibility.

However, modern SIA licenced security guards from security companies are highly trained to fit seamlessly into any environment and even operate a flexible uniform policy, allowing them to blend in perfectly once on site.

Cost

By far the biggest perceived drawback of hiring a professional security company is the cost. Yes, hiring your own security guards may be more expensive than outsourcing, but if you are only looking to install CCTV or an alarm system, is it really necessary to use a professional?

Well, if you are never targeted by a criminal then maybe, but the increased protection offered by a security company makes using their services the most cost effective long-term option in almost all situations.

Professional security guards are a major deterrent to criminals, and you are significantly less likely to be the victim of theft and vandalism with them on site. This could save you a huge amount of money in the long-term, not to mention the fact that many insurers are willing to offer lower premiums on building and business insurance to those with a security company onside as they recognise the reduced risk of being targeted.

by MartinDomm5 Min Reading
Blog

How to choose the perfect hot tub

Hot-Tubs

A hot tub is the ultimate home relaxation asset, offering a huge range of health and lifestyle benefits for you to enjoy all year long.

With many different types and styles available it is essential that you understand the benefits and limitations of each option before investing in your new home spa.

For starters, you may have heard the terms hot tubs, Jacuzzis, and spas used and be unsure what the difference is between each of these products.

Hot tubs and spas offer many of the same benefits with the major discrepancy between the two being that a hot tub is freestanding whilst a spa is built into the ground itself.

A jacuzzi, on the other hand, is simply a popular brand of hot tub.

Almost all Hot Tubs for sale Glasgow and home spas offer a fantastic relaxing experience but before you make your decision, read our expert hot tub buying guide to learn how to choose the perfect type for your needs.

Price

The great thing about the rise in popularity and availability of hot tubs is that there are now products available for all budgets and deciding how much you want to spend is the first step to narrowing down the market.

The cheapest tubs are usually inflatable and portable rather than built-in and can be a great choice for those who aren’t looking to experience all the wonderful benefits of taking a soak without the high installation and maintenance costs of a permanent fixture.

The most affordable inflatable hot tubs start at around the £200 mark, but the quality and features offered by such products will be limited as a result.

At the other end of the spectrum, the most expensive tubs will be much more durable, and will offer a range of fancy features such as more powerful massage jets, in-built speaker systems, and much more.

As well as the initial cost of installation, you should take ongoing maintenance into account when making your decision.

Space

Hot tubs can be quite bulky and the space that will be taken up by its installation is another important factor to consider.

An in-built spa, or a hard-shell/wooden hot tub is a permanent addition to your garden, and you should be sure that you are happy to commit a significant section of outdoor space before taking the plunge.

If you are looking for a temporary option that can easily be taken down and stowed away, giving you added flexibility when not using your tub, an inflatable option may be the better choice.

Hot tub types

Hard Shell Hot Tubs

If someone says the words ‘hot tub’ to you, a hard-shell hot tub is probably the first thing that would spring to mind.

Hard shell hot tubs are freestanding, installed on a hard often concrete base, and are furnished with hard side panels that may be made from any number of materials including plastic, acrylic, wood, and metal.

Hard-shell tubs can be fitted with many different fantastic features such as LED lighting, sound systems, Wi-Fi, pumps, and massage jets, allowing you to design your perfect relaxing environment.

As well as their extensive customisation options, hard shell tubs are incredibly durable, and can be used all year round thanks to their excellent insulation.

These types of tubs range from £3,000-£10,000

Inflatable Hot tubs

Inflatable tubs are exactly that, inflated using an air blower that will also power the jets, and fitted with an external heater which warms the water inside the tub once installed.

Inflatable tubs can be fitted with quite as many fancy features are permanent tubs but, for an extra cost, can with headrests, flashing lights, drinks holders, etc.

There are two main attractions of inflatable hot tubs.

Firstly, as mentioned, they are vastly cheaper than hard shell tubs, typically costing between £300-£1,500.

Secondly, they are portable, meaning you can store them away when not in use, allowing you to make the most of your outdoor space at all times.

Besides a lack of features, the main drawbacks of inflatable hot tubs are that they are much less durable, meaning you will have to fork out for a replacement much sooner and that they are not suitable for use in extremely cold weather, limiting the amount of the year that you can use them each year.

In-ground hot tubs

In-ground hot tubs, or spas, are often custom built and will usually be attached to a swimming pool or similar.

They are usually bespoke and designed specifically for you, and what you are looking for in a home spa.

For example, swim spas will come equipped with a counter-current jet that allows you to swim in your tub, and a hydrotherapy tub aids injury recovery by using strategically placed jets to help tackle certain medical needs.

In-ground hot tubs offer a huge range of premium options, and you should expect to pay slightly as a result with a spa typically costing upwards of £10,000.

by MartinDomm5 Min Reading
Blog

Pros and Cons of getting financial advice

Financial advisor

Seeking professional financial advice can be a great way to get your money working better for you, whether it is developing an investment portfolio or securing the ideal mortgage product.

Before you jump in, however, there are a few pros and cons of financial advisory services that you need to be aware of.

Pros

Getting financial advice is highly recommended to anyone who is embarking on a major financial commitment such as a mortgage, investment portfolio, or insurance agreement.

Just some of the many ways that a professional financial advisors’ advice can be beneficial to you include:

Exclusive Products

When you choose to apply for a mortgage or similar loan through a professional financial broker service you will be much more likely to secure a deal that is best suited to your needs.

Not only do brokers have an extensive knowledge of the industry and will be able to use your requirements to narrow down the market to products best suited to your needs, but many products are also actually only available to customers who apply through accredited financial advice companies.

This means that no matter how extensive and in-depth your research and market analysis is, if you do not use a professional broker service you will never be able to secure the best possible deal.

To ensure that you have access to the highest possible number of different products, it is essential that you use a whole-of-market company rather than a broker who is associated with a single mortgage provider, as they will be limited in the products that they can offer you.

Saves Time

Many people believe that with the right research they can manage their own financial investments without any assistance.

This may well be true in some cases but the time and devotion it would take to be as successful as you would be when using a financial advisor is a huge commitment.

Most people looking for financial advice already have busy lives, juggling a full-time job,

family time, and other commitments.

This makes down-time extremely limited, and if you can have the same success or better using an advisor whilst not having to constantly monitor your investment portfolio most people decide it is simply more convenient to use a professional.

Creating a Plan

Financial Investment is a long-term project and creating an effective game plan for the future is essential.

By consulting a wealth advisor, they will be able to use their experience to develop a plan with achievable milestones that you will be able to achieve in order to help meet your overall goals on time.

Cons

Hiring a financial advisor can have a major positive impact on your ability to save and make money but there are still a few potential negatives that you should consider before taking the plunge.

These Include:

Cost

Expert financial advice does not come free of charge and there will be some form of charge associated to their services.

This could take a number of forms depending on the service required and the company that you are dealing with.

Some advisors may charge you annually for ongoing services, a one-off fee for a single consultation or service such as negotiating a contract, via commission, or as a percentage of your investment portfolio.

If you are using a respected and highly rated financial advice service this expense is more than worthwhile, as the savings or profit you make from your investments or financial agreements will more than outweigh the ongoing cost.

Choosing the Wrong Advisor

There are very few negatives associated with getting sound advice from a competent financial advisor.

However, as is the case with any service industry the quality of advisor can vary widely.

If you pick the wrong advisor you could face disaster as poor advice could lead to you losing a lot of money through failed investments or entering into a long-term agreement such as a mortgage when there were actually better options available on the market.

For this reason, it is essential that you take your time when looking for a financial advisor paisley

and make sure that you are 100% comfortable before proceeding.

Some great ways to check the quality of a financial advisor include reading reviews of previous customers, asking plenty of questions during an initial consultation, and to ensure that they are fully authorised and accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Contact CSR Financial

CSR financial are a family-run financial advisory company specialising in property management, residential letting, residential sales, and mortgage advice.

With over 30 years’ experience providing satisfied customers in the West of Scotland and across the UK with bespoke financial advice, we aim to make the process of financial planning as smooth and hassle free as possible for all our customers.

To discuss any of our services with our expert team or to arrange a consultation, call us today on 0141 212 2636 or email us at colin@csrfinancial.co.uk.

by MartinDomm5 Min Reading
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