Safestyle Windows Latest Press Release
11 Aug 2011 04:25
Award-winning Safestyle celebrate more recognition
We've been very busy at our Safestyle Manufacturing facility, producing thousands of our award-winning double glazed windows and doors to install in more than 800 homes per week, up and down the country! We’re not standing still though, and people have noticed.
The Safestyle Eco Diamond Window is going down a storm, and speaking of storms, winter's just around the corner and with our window A-rated as standard it will help customers save energy and cut those dreaded heating bills right down.
The demand means that at Safestyle, manufacturing never lets up, even in these tough economic climes, but we're always trying to improve things – we've got lots of developments in the pipeline to further improve product quality and deliver even better customer service and satisfaction.
And with nationwide concerns over security and safety much in the news lately, our highly-rated windows and doors, with their high security multi-point locking systems and robust construction, will keep the burglars out and give you peace of mind.
But our products and service are not the only things winning awards! We've received another award recognising the hard work put in to achieve our industry-leading safety record, the International Safety Award, which Safestyle have won for the 11th time.
As we continue to grow, we're constantly recruiting and recently the volume of online job applications has been booming even more than usual. Apprenticeships have also been in the offing down at the factory, with an incredible response to a limited number of available apprenticeships. One of our latest recruits has even won an award – 18-year old Sarah Borrino won the Learner Achievement Award from Independent Training Services.
Look out for our latest Safestyle videos and TV ads on the Safestyle YouTube channel.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
11 Aug 2011 04:24
Safestyle UK enjoys new environmentally-friendly transport fleet
The UK's largest independent double glazing company Safestyle UK has reason to celebrate its new state-of-the-art fleet of vans, comprising 170 of the new Renault Masters.
The new front-wheel drive Renault models have a larger payload, as well as better length and height than Safestyle’s previous installation vans. The vans are more environmentally friendly with improved fuel economy, are styled to be better looking, and have a versatile ergonomically designed cabin.
Attending the presentation were Safestyle UK’s Andy Kyle and Martin Larkin, with Renault UK's Richard Turk, Arval's Duncan West and Sean Bingham, as well as ERA's Commercial Director Graham McKinnon.
Dave Clarke, Safestyle UK’s Director of Operations, revealed: “We are thrilled about the new fleet of vans and that our award-winning fitters will be in brand new vehicles.
“We always take great pride in our work and we now have a new fleet of vans that are instantly recognisable as our own brand. This further stresses our commitment to customers.
“The vans have a greater load space, excellent fuel economy and are extremely stylish. We think they represent a great choice for any fleet. We are looking forward to getting the show on the road.”
Supplying the fleet was Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA), who with the help of their specialist section Fleet Cost Management Ltd, which is renowned for supply, cost and purchase management. Their clients range from public to private sectors, and this contract has allowed Safestyle UK to save 16% on its transport costs.
Sean Bingham, Principal Consultant at ERA Fleet Cost Management, said: “Safestyle UK agreed it was the most cost-efficient and appropriate van for its teams of fitters.”
Darren Payne, Renault UK’s Director of Fleet and CV Operations, commented: “Safestyle UK’s fleet of new Master vans has already passed a stringent set of criteria to make sure they offer the best value possible.”
Andy Kyle, representing Safestyle UK Transport, also added, “Our award-winning installation teams are eager to get to work with the new vans. As a mobile workshop the added bonus of a lower floor height will make loading and access easier and safer. We are also looking forward to working with our contract hire supplier, Arval, who will be managing all our servicing needs.”
Famed for its distinctive TV advertising campaigns, starring Ken Morley and Jeff “The Window Man” Brown, Safestyle UK provides uPVC double glazed windows, doors and other products to over 800 homes a week across the UK.
Author: Safestyle UK
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
02 Jul 2011 02:55
As the first week passes feed-in energy tariffs are generating cash for households
As of April 1st, households with green energy production systems such as solar panels and wind turbines were being paid for any energy they fed back into the National Grid. As the first week of the new scheme passes, many homeowners have already started earning but the initial costs may put potential adopters of green technologies off. The average cost of installing solar panels at home is between £10,000 and £12,000, a lot even when earning money back each month.
The Energy Change & Climate Secretary, Ed Miliband, laid out the payment structure of the new feed-in tariffs back in February stating that people installing these systems could earn up to £1000 for the electricity they generate. Government figures outline that a typical solar panel system should offer annual income of around £900 as well as saving around £140 a year on electricity bills. The Government could also introduce a similar incentive scheme this time next year to motivate the public to adopt low-carbon heating systems in the home.
Also, a number of leading energy suppliers have began trials of a ‘Pay As You Save’ scheme in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust. This will allow 500 households nationwide to test a scheme where the upfront costs of green technologies will be paid back through savings on their bills. Despite the initial outlay, interest in the new tariff scheme seems to have been high and according to a leading renewable energy company enquiries have quadrupled since February.
Although expensive initially, the figures sound promising for these renewable energy technologies. However double glazing and other traditional eco home improvements are the first thing homeowners should bear in mind on their journey to improved energy efficiency and lower bills.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
01 Jul 2011 02:55
Scottish Island Residents win Major Green Award
The people of tiny Scottish island Eigg have been awarded the overall UK Ashden award for energy efficiency after halving their energy usage and generating 90 per cent of their electricity from renewable sources.
The 95 residents of the island cut home and business energy usage by 47 per cent by improving home energy efficiency and teaching themselves how to use less energy. 90 per cent of all the island’s electricity comes from a combination of hydro, solar and wind power and each home’s usage us capped at 5 five kilowatts and businesses are capped at 10. Every resident has an energy monitor and if the limit is exceeded, it warns them and trips off their electricity but so far this hasn’t happened.
The community is also notified when renewable energy supplies are low through a traffic light system which keeps them informed with posters around the island and via email alerts. Being involved in the traffic light system is voluntary but according to the director of Eigg Electric.
The chair of Eigg’s green team stated:
We're not saying everyone has to create a renewable energy grid or do a complete eco-renovation job on their home. But as a small group of people - whether it's an apartment block, a street, or an office - can identify what it is they are trying to achieve, do it, and celebrate it together."
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
13 Apr 2011 04:27
New Energy Saving Recommended Diamond Window!
You’ll love the simplicity of our Eco Diamond window. It has a secret between the panes. You see - we replace the air with clear Argon gas. This stops the cold getting in - and the heat getting out, helping your bills to go down and the corners of your mouth to go up, clever eh? And the glass can be styled to suit you. Because we know you like a perfect finish. So it’s not just your perfect window - it’s Mother Nature’s too!
By making it Energy Saving Recommended as standard, Safestyle have now set the benchmark for high quality, energy efficient double glazing. Our mission is to lead the way with energy efficient products – helping you save energy, save money and help the environment too! And high quality, energy efficient double glazing has never been more affordable with flexible monthly payments available.
The new Safestyle Eco Diamond Window is available now, so get your free quote right away - it’s quick and easy!
Doesn’t all double glazing save energy?
Of course all double glazing offers a degree of energy-efficiency; however Safestyle’s new energiSave Eco Diamond Window system is at least twice as efficient as standard modern double glazing.
How will Safestyle’s new Diamond Window make my home more energy efficient?
Safestyle’s energiSave glass technology will reduce the amount of energy net lost through windows by over 90%. That's enough energy to:
Run 9 TVs for a year
Drive over 1000km in an average car
Make 34,000 cups of tea and coffee
So how does Argon gas–filled energiSave work?
Argon gas-filled units are the ultimate in sealed units. Replacing the air between the glass panes with clear Argon gas is far better at preventing movement of heat or cold through the glass. Argon is naturally present in the air we breathe (0.9%), and is a safe, odourless, inert and non-toxic gas.
Safestyle’s Pilkington energiKare cross section with Argon gas filling Safestyle’s energiSave is different from standard double glazing as it works in two ways – it reduces the amount of heat lost through your windows and it also allows more heat (energy) from the sun in through the window.
This effect is known as "solar gain" and because it comes from the sun it’s free and you’ll feel its effects all year round.
energiSave is made up of two special types of glass (see cross section), Planibel A which stops heat escaping, and Optiwhite™ which is a special 'extra clear' glass that allows more solar heat in through the windows, so your home benefits by feeling warmer without the need to turn up the heating.
Safestyle’s double glazed sealed units themselves are 24mm overall in thickness, comprising two panes of glass (each 4mm thick) and an air gap of 16mm between. Our research and testing has proven that a 16mm air gap is the best option, with the most energy efficient insulating properties and a better lifespan, while units with larger air gaps can have the problem of increased air circulation and leakage over time.
What is “Energy Saving Recommended”?
Energy Saving Recommended is an initiative from the Energy Saving Trust backed by the Government. If you see the Energy Saving Recommended logo you can be sure that the window is particularly energy efficient.
Safestyle’s Diamond energiSave Windows come “Energy Saving Recommended” as standard, so you can rest assured you are getting a double glazing product that has been tested by the BFRC (the UK’s national system for rating energy efficient windows) and certified by the Energy Saving Trust. And as they’re also manufactured by Safestyle we can pass on the savings to you so the best energy saving replacement windows have never been more affordable!
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
10 Apr 2011 04:27
Sliding Sash Windows
It’s official – the Sash is back – but this time it’s double glazed. These really are the perfect type of windows for a smooth operator. And trust us, our Safestyle Sash windows are stunning and capture the classic, stylish look of a traditional sliding window, enhancing the look of your home whilst benefiting from all the features that modern uPVC provides.
If your home has Sash windows, you know how much they can add to your property in terms of character and value. Glass is styled to suit you. Because we know that you have perfect taste. Slick to slide, simple to open, secure and energy efficient – these windows really do have it all.
Technical stuff
Sliding Sash windows don’t have to be draughty – as ours prove. Want to know why that is? Well, it’s because our double glazing is built to the very highest standards possible. Our Sash window has its own specific glazing made from specialist high performance glass (Swisspacer V, 4mm Optitherm 4S+ and 4mm Optiwhite). Optiwhite makes the most of the solar heat transmission from the sun. Together they keep your home toastie and warm. In fact our Sash double glazed units reduce heat loss by up to 90%!
But the real secret is between the glass panes – because we replace the air with clear Argon gas. This acts as an extra barrier against the cold – and keeps your heat in. So the Sash window is perfect for you and for Mother Nature.
Installing our Sash windows really can make a huge difference to your bills. And just imagine – no more draughts, chills or lost heat.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
14 Mar 2011 03:11
Jeff ‘Window Man’ Brown Helps Boosts Charity Appeal
Our very own Jeff 'Window Man' Brown has been helping to boost a fund-raising drive for a Yorkshire mum who is battling breast cancer in the USA.
Jeff attended a charity auction night organised by family and friends of Bev Dransfield, who is receiving life-saving treatment in Arizona.
Jeff, compered the event, including an auction, to help campaigners raise a whopping £12,000 at the evening at Gomersal Cricket Club, West Yorkshire.
Jeff said: "After a whirlwind tour of Plymouth, Exeter, Bristol and Swindon, I was greeted at Gomersal by warm-hearted Yorkshire folk who gave very, very generously, and we even had a webcam link to Bev in Arizona."
Jeff added, "It was fantastic to talk to Bev and for her to see for herself how much her family and friends are rooting for her. I was also proud to be given the opportunity to represent Safestyle in presenting her Husband Lee with a cheque for £1,000 to add to the night’s total."
The event was organised by relatives of Bev, including Jonathan Fisher, who works at our Leeds branch.
Bev, 42, from Gomersal, West Yorkshire, is currently undergoing revolutionary treatment in the USA in a bid to finally beat breast cancer. After she was first diagnosed with the disease seven years ago, she underwent a full mastectomy with reconstructive surgery, and was given the all-clear.
Over the next few years, Bev and her friends helped to raise thousands of pounds for breast cancer charities by holding "pink parties" at the cricket club. But in November Bev was told the cancer had returned and had spread to her lungs, liver and lymphatic system. Medics gave her between two months and two years to live.
Refusing to give up, Bev and husband Lee left their sons George, 12, and Charlie, 10, on Boxing Day to set off for the clinic in Phoenix, Arizona. She is currently undergoing an alternative course of treatment involving low levels of chemotherapy, a special diet and homeopathic remedies.
Bev and husband Lee had already remortgaged their home to pay towards the £60,000 treatment but they still need to raise more so Bev can finish the course of treatment. The proceeds from the charity auction night will go a long way to helping and other events are planned.
At the charity auction, various items were donated by local businesses, including a signed England cricket top and a Leeds United shirt.
Jonathan said: "Everybody I have spoken to said the night was fantastic and Jeff really made the night. He was brilliant.
"We thought we might raise between £3,000 and £6,000 on the night but we have raised about £12,000 and there is more to come."
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
01 Mar 2011 03:12
Safestyle Salesman in Fund-raising Drive for Sister
One of our salesmen is helping to spearhead a fund-raising drive for a brave mum who is battling breast cancer for the second time.
Jonathan Fisher, who works at our Leeds branch, is organising a charity event to help his sister Bev Dransfield.
Bev, 42, from Gomersal, West Yorkshire, is currently undergoing revolutionary treatment in the US state of Arizona in a last-ditch attempt to beat breast cancer.
She was first diagnosed with the disease seven years ago and after undergoing a full mastectomy and reconstructive surgery she was given the all-clear.
Over the next few years, Bev and her pals helped to raised thousands of pounds for breast cancer charities by holding "pink parties" at Gomersal Cricket Club near her home.
Sadly, Bev found out in November that the cancer had returned and had spread to her lungs, liver and lymphatic system and doctors gave her between two months and two years to live.
But Bev has refused to give up and on Boxing Day she and husband Lee left their sons George, 12, and Charlie, 10, to set off for the clinic in Phoenix, Arizona.
She is undergoing an alternative course of treatment involving low levels of chemotherapy, a special diet and homeopathic remedies.
Bev and Lee have already remortgaged their home to pay towards the £60,000 treatment but they still need to raise more. Now Jonathan and the rest of Bev's family and friends are trying to raise as much as they can so she can finish the treatment.
They have organised a fund-raising auction on February 4th at Gomersal Cricket Club. The fund-raising group is hoping to get local businesses involved to donate prizes for the auction and they have already received items such as a signed England cricket top and a signed Leeds United shirt.
Jonathan said: "The response so far has been extraordinary and we are hoping to raise between £3,000 and £6,000 at the fund raiser. We are also hoping Bev's children will be able to fly to Phoenix to see her during her treatment."
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
02 Dec 2010 10:52
Government to encourage Widespread of Carbon Neutral Schools
Wind turbines, solar panels, energy efficient insulation and uPVC windows will be popping up on schools across the country as part of a Government drive to educate children about climate change.
From today every school in the country will be offered a hi-tech smart meter that shows pupils and staff how much energy is being used at any one time.
Ultimately schools will be expected to go carbon neutral by improving energy efficiency through insulation, uPVC windows, using low energy equipment and encouraging children to turn off appliances. Schools will also be expected to generate their own heat and power where appropriate by installing solar panels, wood chip boilers and wind turbines. What’s more installing uPVC windows will also contribute to keeping the heat inside the building and therefore considerably reducing the use of heating.
By 2016 there will be 36 carbon neutral schools across the country, with four in each government region to be an example to surrounding schools. These schools will be equipped with solar panels, wind turbines, energy efficient wall insualtion and uPVC windows.
The schools estate is responsible for two per cent of total UK greenhouse gas emissions. That is why the government is pushing for the installation of uPVC windows and eco-friendly wall insulation to make the schools more energy efficient.
Ed Balls, the Schools Secretary, said it was important people learn about cutting carbon at a young age.
"As parents know, their children have a real desire to become the environmental champions of the future and help save the planet for future generations – and we need to harness this interest and do even more," he said.
The £12 million initiative to provide smart meters to every school will help monitor energy use. It can also be used as a teaching tool by demonstrating how different appliances and lifestyle changes can cut energy use.
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01 Dec 2010 10:52
New report suggests home energy efficiency is appealing to the mass market
The 21st Century Living Project, collaboration between the Plymouth & Surrey Universities, Homebase, Acona & The Eden Project, have recently finished a year-long study and have concluded that there is a mass market for energy efficient home improvements. The provided 100 different homes nationwide with £500 to spend of green home improvements and monitored the outcome, actions taken by participants and also any problems they encountered.
Of all households that took part, over 80% adopted at least one energy saving measure over the year and on average saved around 10%. A variety of households from all income groups were included in the study and on average it was the lower income groups that were more proactive when investing in green improvements.
The most popular improvements were installing loft insulation and replacing regular light bulbs with energy efficient ones with over have the participants implementing them and around 25% replaced their white goods with more energy efficient models. What surprised the researchers was that the £500 gift led to over 60% of households putting £500 or more of their own money towards further energy efficient home improvements!
Despite the positive outcome, implementing anything beyond basic measures proved difficult and only 11% of participants installed cavity wall insulation. Many efforts from others resulted in the contractors advising that it would cause dampness issues or would be too difficult to install. A number of households in the scheme also stated they would be interested in small-scale renewable energy sources but were deterred by the lack of available advice and high prices.
The report also advises that providing consumers with tailored advice is key and thermal imaging of homes provided positive results in changing behaviours, as did electricity monitors. The report also stated that energy bills must be changed in layout in order for customers to be able to compare consumption to past months and from there think about energy efficiency.
Author: Thomas Davies
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
03 Nov 2010 01:35
Homebuyers could face new tax penalty for poorly insulated homes
New plans being considered by the government to help combat climate change could mean that homebuyers purchasing properties with poor insulation could face fines running into the thousands. The new taxes could be introduced as stamp duty penalties and are being looked at by ministers as a way of forcing owners to make their homes more energy efficient.
The penalties could apply to millions of homes that still have older boilers, single glazed windows and poor insulation. It is expected that the plans will be introduced alongside incentives that aim to encourage people to use less energy in the home and reduce CO2 emissions.
The plans state that anyone buying a house in the lowest energy efficiency bands will have to pay an extra 0.5% on top of the normal stamp duty. However, if they upgrade the house soon after moving in by installing things such as double glazing and improved loft insulation, they will be able to claim back double the initial penalty charge.
This new initiative could make up part of the government’s ‘Green Deal’ that features plans to help home owners pay for double glazing and other green home improvements. The intent of this new scheme is to create a reason for home owners to upgrade their house before selling and buyers to upgrade if the seller hasn’t before them. This is yet another government incentive that is set to boost the double glazing industry as well as other energy efficient home improvement industries.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
08 Oct 2010 03:45
Visualise your home with Safestyle doors
Pushing the envelope of technology and innovation, today sees the launch of the brand new state of the art Door Visualiser, on the Safestyle website. This fantastic new application allows you to interactively fit any one of our Safestyle residential doors, or GuardDoor composite doors, to a photo of your own home (or to sample photos provided). The sophisticated movement, sizing and lighting tools allow you to get the perfect fit at any angle, size, and lighting conditions.
Visualise the perfect door for your homeNot only can you fit any standard residential or composite door from the Safestyle range, you can choose the colour and profile that best matches your home. If you’re not sure, you’re just a click away from changing to another colour in an instant without having to fit it again. You can try a front or back door in the traditional white profile or the realistic wood effects of oak or rosewood, or if you’d like to try composite door, choose red, green, blue, black, white, oak or rosewood.
If you’d like to keep a copy of the house with your brand new door design, you can print or save the image. Or if you find yourself torn between two or several different designs and would like an opinion from friends and family, this is a really handy feature to use.
While the Door Visualiser contains the huge range of Safestyle doors and composite doors, there are still so many design features that haven’t yet been incorporated into the Visualiser – such as lead designs, coloured glass, bevels, handles, knockers, etc – so you can expect plenty of future upgrades to enable you to see just how good your home would look with the perfect designs to suit you, right down to the finest detail.
Find the perfect door for your home today!
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
08 Oct 2010 03:14
UK Government plans to fund green improvement of small businesses
The government is planning to make billions of pounds available to finance rapid green improvement to more than 4 million UK small businesses. The new plans mean that companies will receive loans to replace energy hungry equipment such as boilers and freezers and the loans will be repaid from the savings they make on their bills.
Government officials are speaking with the high street banks about the design of the scheme and how it will be funded and also talking to energy retailers about how the scheme will be administered. The scheme entitled ‘The Green Deal for Business’ mirrors the plans to offer loans to up to £6,500 to 14 million UK households to install energy efficient improvements.
The managing director of British Gas Business, Kanat Emiroglu confirmed they been in talks with the government about the scheme:
"There should be something in the Queen's Speech in November, in the Energy Bill.
"We are talking to the Government about its energy efficiency scheme for SMEs. They are very receptive about it. I am hoping it will be introduced in a way that's not bureaucratic."
British Gas aim to guarantee savings on certain types of equipment and the data they provide may for the basis of the loan scheme and give lending banks the confidence that they would be repaid without need cash upfront from business owners. The government and suppliers are keen to get the new scheme up and running while the government are seeking the involvement of Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds TSB. Both lenders are legally contracted to lend £94 billion to UK businesses and funding the scheme would make up part of this.
Author: Thomas Davies
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
05 Oct 2010 03:14
How to save on those winter fuel bills
Lately we’ve been talking a lot about the different ways in which you can bring down your energy bills, and getting your home ready in time for the winter. The Energy Saving Trust (EST) has provided some very interesting figures on how big an impact a properly insulated home can have on your energy bills. It estimated that up to £300 a year can be saved which equated to an average saving of 1.5 tonnes of CO2 per household. Such savings can be achieved by insulating your home, upgrading or improving your internal heating system, installing double glazed windows and doors, and by being energy efficient.
The EU is due to publish new legislation on energy performance certificates which are set to come into effect in 2012 and will make it compulsory for energy ratings to be published in all “homes for sale” adverts. So you could make your home more desirable implementing some energy-efficient measures.
Cavity wall insulation is one of the most cost-effective measures that can be taken and can slice up to £115 off your heating bill according to the EST. Loft insulation can save you up to £150 and double glazing about £135 a year on an average property.
The older your boiler, the less efficient it is likely to be and if it is 15 years or older, you may want to consider replacing it. By replacing your old G-rated boiler with a new A-rated condensing model, you can save up to £235 a year, says the EST.
Energy-efficient appliances use less power and are cheaper to run so when making a purchase look out for the Energy Efficiency Recommended logo. Look out for the distinctive blue logo on goods such as fridges, dishwashers and light bulbs.
Make the most of the government grants that are available for those who are looking to make energy efficiency improvements to their home. If you’re not sure which grants or discounts you may be eligible for, contact your council or energy supplier. The EST can direct you to a local energy adviser.
Author: Thomas Davies
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
01 Oct 2010 03:13
Home Improvement market set for promising year ahead
The editor of Build It Magazine, Anna-Marie DeSouza strongly believes that Britain’s home improvement market is set to have a “promising year” ahead with the sector currently experiencing a revival, and also that she is “not at all surprised” at recent statistics showing how popular DIY is becoming.
The statistics say that over 18 million people are hoping to embark on a home improvement project in the next 12 months, with an average budget of around £2831 by a typical homeowner on their property. Industry experts believe that this trend has been influenced by the marked increase in the number of television programmes offering DIY advice to those looking to make improvements to their home. These statistics prove that homeowners are looking to upgrade their residences themselves rather than hiring professionals to do the work for them, the expert went on to say.
Ms DeSouza went on to add that DIY home improvements such as mending or replacing something are becoming a very trendy pastime for homeowners.
Author: Thomas Davies
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
09 Aug 2010 03:47
Energy Secretary Lifts Ban on Council Sales of Excess Renewable Energy
From today local councils will be allowed to sell excess renewable electricity produced back to the national grid. Energy Secretary Chris Huhne announced plans to lift the ban at the Local Government Association (LGA) conference back in June and today urged councils to be at the forefront of a renewable energy revolution and that the scheme could earn financially struggling local authorities in England and Wales up to £100 million a year.
At the moment renewable energy sources owned by local authorities only account for 0.01 per cent of all the electricity in England. The figure in many countries around Europe is much higher, up to 10 times higher in Germany and the lifting of the ban will help the UK meet EU energy targets as well as domestic ones.
Gary Porter, Chairman of the LGA stated that authority owned renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, solar panels on government buildings such as council homes, leisure centres and town halls could all generate revenue. He said:
"Councils have lots of buildings, from offices and leisure centres to houses and flats, depots and community centres that could be transformed into local green power stations."
The UK is at risk of missing the EU target of 15 per cent of all energy coming from renewable sources by 2020. Mr. Huhne’s lifting of the ban has been a swift and positive move and he said last night:
"For too long, Whitehall's dogmatic reliance on 'big' energy has stood in the way of the vast potential role of local authorities in the UK's green energy revolution.
"This is a vital step to making community renewable projects commercially viable, to bring in long-term income to benefit local areas, and to secure local acceptance for low carbon energy projects."
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
30 Jul 2010 03:48
Homeowners to face increase in fuel bills to fund greener energy
Ministers announced on Tuesday that plans to tackle climate change could add £277 to household fuel bills each year unless people undertake green improvements on their homes. Chris Huhne, the Energy and Climate Change Minister, stated that the huge increase in the number of wind farms and clean coal power stations across the country will mean that electricity and gas prices shoot up.
However, Mr. Huhne said that these price increases will be countered by the government plans to increase the energy efficiency of millions of homes across the UK. `The Department of Energy and Climate Change has also said that this move towards a green economy will cause electricity prices to rise by 33 per cent and gas prices to rise by 18 per cent.
The current average gas bill for houses in the UK is £620 and electricity is £500 but these rises would mean that these could rise to £732 and £665, a £277 increase. Despite the government saying that ‘green makeovers’ could offset these enlarged costs, many consumer groups have warned that many families and the elderly who can’t afford double glazing, insulation or new boilers could be adversely affected.
In his first annual energy statement on Tuesday, Mr. Huhne also said that the first of a new generation of nuclear power stations would be built by 2018 and price rises will pay for ten thousand on and offshore wind turbines. He also said the government’s ‘green deal’ where millions of homes will get insulation, double glazing, new boilers and draught excluders would reduce the demand for energy. This would counter the price increases, meaning domestic fuel bills would only got up by 1 per cent and business bills would rise by 26 per cent.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
23 Jul 2010 03:48
Latest Property Values News Click here to view Archive Homebuyers could face new tax penalty for poorly insulated homes [Published on: Fri, 23rd Jul, 2010] New plans being considered by the government to help combat climate change could mean that homebuyers purchasing properties with poor insulation could face fines running into the thousands. The new taxes could be introduced as stamp duty penalties and are being looked at by ministers as a way of forcing owners to make their homes more ene
New plans being considered by the government to help combat climate change could mean that homebuyers purchasing properties with poor insulation could face fines running into the thousands. The new taxes could be introduced as stamp duty penalties and are being looked at by ministers as a way of forcing owners to make their homes more energy efficient.
The penalties could apply to millions of homes that still have older boilers, single glazed windows and poor insulation. It is expected that the plans will be introduced alongside incentives that aim to encourage people to use less energy in the home and reduce CO2 emissions.
The plans state that anyone buying a house in the lowest energy efficiency bands will have to pay an extra 0.5% on top of the normal stamp duty. However, if they upgrade the house soon after moving in by installing things such as double glazing and improved loft insulation, they will be able to claim back double the initial penalty charge.
This new initiative could make up part of the government’s ‘Green Deal’ that features plans to help home owners pay for double glazing and other green home improvements. The intent of this new scheme is to create a reason for home owners to upgrade their house before selling and buyers to upgrade if the seller hasn’t before them. This is yet another government incentive that is set to boost the double glazing industry as well as other energy efficient home improvement industries.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
19 Jun 2010 01:11
Britain could cut its emissions to zero by 2030!
In a report named “Zerocarbonbritain2030” published by the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), a comprehensive energy strategy for the UK has been outlined where the country’s greenhouse gas emissions could be cut to zero by 2030 without having to resort to nuclear power. It has put forward a scenario where the UK would become a net exporter of renewable energy, while at the same time creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs.
While not defining how such a strategy could be financed, it explores different policy options for reduction in carbon emissions, including cap and trade, carbon tax and tradable energy quotas. At present, the UK is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050.
The document proposes massive investment in wind power, both offshore and onshore, as well as other renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro and biomass which has the potential to change Britain from a net importer of gas and oil, to a net exporter of renewable energy.
"Zerocarbonbritain2030 shows how the right mix of wind power, hydro, solar, biomass – plus an intelligent grid to manage demand. We can 'keep the lights on’ and supply the energy the country needs – with major win-wins across the economy," said Paul Allen of CAT.
In transport, it proposes that energy use could be reduced by 63% by switching from petrol and diesel powered vehicles to electric and battery powered vehicles.
The report also says that a further 50% reduction in energy demand could be achieved by what is described as a “deep retrofit” of UK homes, including wall and roof insulation, as well as double glazing.
It also sets out steps to get Britain producing most of its own food again, which would improve food security and reduce food miles, whilst also proposing an 80% reduction in livestock products which generate 82% of greenhouse gasses in the agricultural sector.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
14 Jun 2010 01:11
Green makeovers for all households
Details have been announced of the new 'pay as you save' scheme that will allow households to get a free 'green makeover' from an 'energy doctor' at their local supermarket. The 'energy doctor' will assess where homes are leaking from and after this 'energy audit is completed, a plan will be drawn up making recommendations for measures to be take up to a cost of £10,000.
However rather than having to foot the bill or get into debt, householders will be able to pay off the costs once they start making saving on their energy bills. The new scheme is part of a whole new package from the coalition government that aims to make Britain's homes more energy efficient.
The package also includes plans to have smart meters installed in nearly every home by 2016 as opposed to the 2020 deadline the previous government proposes, a change to fuel bills that will tell people the cost of the average bill in an attempt to encourage them to cut down on usage and payments to households that install wind turbines or solar panels that feed energy back into the national grid.
The government aims to cut CO2 emissions by 80 per cent on 1990 levels by 2050 and to achieve this, anywhere between 400,000 and 1.8 million homes per year will have to be upgraded at a cost of anywhere between £5 and £15 billion.
The 'pay as you save' scheme is set to be a boost to the double glazing industry as well as households wanting to save on their energy bills. Double glazing is an essential part of making a home energy efficient and is likely to be a recommendation on a lot of energy doctor's plans.
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
01 Dec 2009 05:44
Another Safestyle customer wins prize draw
Wouldn't it be a nice surprise to start the festive season, as the lucky winner of a prize draw?! Well that's exactly the pleasant kind of fortune that Mr John Griffin of Darwen in Lancashire is now enjoying, having been drawn as November's winner of the Safestyle UK quarterly prize draw. John, 27 and a local joiner, is the latest in a line of winners dating back to 2007.
The Safestyle quarterly prize draw is a part of the Diamond Account Club flexible payments finance package, where customers can enjoy various benefits, including discounts from various trusted partner companies, and automatic entry into the prize draw.
Winners are selected randomly and when John's lucky number came up, it meant that he could have the remaining outstanding balance of £1,484 on his windows paid off in full. "I'm thrilled to have won the Diamond Account Club draw," he said, "The money I've saved will go towards further improvements on my house, I'm planning on refitting the entire bathroom in time for Christmas!"
The latest Safestyle double glazing technology has been helping customers up and down the country save energy by keeping their houses warm and cosy, reducing heating requirements so you can turn your thermostat down and save money on your heating bills.
"I'm really happy with the quality of my new windows and the efficient service that Safestyle provided," added John, "I'm looking forward to the double glazing saving me more energy and money off my heating bills every month too."
Safestyle UK's Managing Director, Steve Birmingham, also commented: "It was a pleasure to inform Mr Griffin of winning the prize draw, and having his outstanding account balance paid off in full. We're pleased that our energy efficient windows will help him save energy and reduce his heating bills, not to mention add value to his home too.
"We're delighted that he was happy with the service that we provided and the standard of our products, as customer satisfaction is of great importance to us. I wish John the best of luck with his new home project."
The next lucky winner of the Safestyle prize draw will be drawn in February 2010, so look out for that!
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
28 Aug 2009 09:40
Safestyle UK news roundup
While there maybe positive signs of let-up in the economic climate, at Safestyle we're doing anything but letting-up. Our drive and approach is still the same as it was before the downturn began: bringing you the latest energy saving double glazing technology to England and Wales, without compromise. Our resilience to the economic storm is now paying even greater dividends, with the calibre of our people rising and emphasis on recruitment at even higher levels than in the past. Our Sales, Canvass and Installation forces continue to expand and strengthen.
Ongoing training is also a main focus: improving the knowledge base and skill levels of our workforces, which will provide added benefits every aspect, including production and efficiency, enabling us to pass on greater benefits to our customers. The accreditations and qualifications continue to be gained, with many high level NVQ passes and ILM Team Leading successes, in partnership with local colleges.
With the Safestyle order book continuing to grow, production continues to increase. The volumes ordered and produced at our factory, Safestyle Manufacturing, are impressive and encouraging, particularly considering the industry's meant to be in a recession. New product updates and developments include improvements to inhouse composite door production with full PAS 23/34 and integrated stock management systems.
Our production team like to play hard as well as work hard and, as with all at Safestyle, our competitive streak is deeply ingrained. Recently they took to the racing track at P&R Karting Challenge Cup 2009, with Safestyle beating the Anglian windows team on the way to a respectable 4th place finish.
On the marketing and advertising front, the Safestyle Window Man has literally been in action in a new TV ad, the first of several coming very soon. Watch this space!
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
07 Aug 2009 09:42
Window Man at Safestyle Manufacturing
Our famously loud Safestyle Window Man recently stormed the factory for a surprise visit, much to the delight of our hard working manufacturing force and management. We expect they could hear him coming as Jeff "The Window Man" Brown went to meet and greet everyone in person over the course of the day. He saw firsthand the latest product developments and double glazing manufacturing machinery that Safestyle has invested in to upgrade and keep ahead with cutting edge glazing technology.
Safestyle's Factory Operations Manager, Keith Jones, was delighted to welcome the Window Man. "I would like to thank Jeff Brown for taking the time out to come down to our Barnsley site," said Keith, "It was an experience to say the least, he had everyone in hysterics." It appears Jeff was a real hit, "By the end of his visit people were jumping off fork lift trucks to have their picture taken with the famous Window Man."
Window Man meets his alter ego on a Safestyle lorryThe Window Man himself found the whole experience enlightening, seeing our Safestyle windows and doors being made right before his eyes. "We have very impressive facilities, and it makes you very, very proud, to see every worker so very focused," said Jeff, "I think everyone who works at Safestyle should visit there!"
Jeff's visit seems to have made a dramatic impact, both on him and the team at the factory. "The big thing for me was it makes you feel part of the team," said Jeff, "When I left there that day, I felt such a great pride and responsibility in representing our people, to help keep their livelihoods secure, by letting everyone know on TV, and in my travels, about how great our energy saving glazing products really are!"
Jeff was impressed with his reception, "Thanks for the hospitality (the buffet and my egg butty was great), everyone was such a great laugh, they made me feel so welcome and it's so heartening to know we have a huge team of tremendously nice, hard-working people, producing the very best double glazing windows and doors in the land!"
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
24 Jul 2009 09:41
Safestyle bucking the trend
The double glazing industry still appears in the grips of recession, but Safestyle windows are bucking the trend. We've also enjoyed a solid June performance, our replacement window business flourishing thanks to the efforts of our Sales and Canvass teams who have shown hard work and commitment - nice one! With July we see the start of some exciting new competitions to run alongside the ones we already have.
For our Marketing Canvassers, the "Rookie Club" & "Canvass Club" have been completely revamped and updated. The all-new and exciting Clubs are now in effect with lots of great new prizes to be won. They are so impressive and the initial reaction is that they've never been so good. Targets have been set, to be achieved and rewarded with fantastic prizes!
The "July Jungle Madness" is also on! This is a new Safestyle competition where all our branches have been placed into 10 groups of 3 and the way it works is simple: top your group (based on written business) and choose your prize - either a fun-packed day go-karting, or an action-packed day paint-balling with Jeff "The Window Man" Brown! So the message is work hard together, achieve your potential and enjoy your prize with your team!
Another major incentive development is the "Safestyle UK Reward Scheme" which has already started and the way it works is that our regional, branch and team managers all have targets set which, if they achieve the criteria, gives 50 Reward Points each time. They can then collect their points and exchange them for prizes, choosing to claim a small prize or save up and accumulate more points until they have enough to exchange them for one of the amazing top mega-prizes! To accompany this, the new Safestyle Reward Scheme glossy brochure is going out to all our branches.
With so much being invested in Safestyle's future, it's never been more rewarding to work hard and reach the potential we all have within ourselves. If you aren't already part of the Safestyle team, why not join us today? You can apply online, it's quick and easy!
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Safestyle Windows Press Release
16 Jun 2009 09:39
Safestyle jobs and recruitment on the up
Jobs and opportunities at Safestyle UKSafestyle is looking to expand our manpower in various areas, including Sales, Canvass and Installations. If you're looking for a job, or want a change to where the grass is greener, then Safestyle is the place to be. We're going from strength to strength, and our performance this year - especially considering the economic climate - has been impressive, so it's a great time to come and join our team.
While there have been encouraging signs that the recession is possibly easing up, including increases in UK industry output, house prices on the up, as well as ever-improving supermarket growth, this is tempered with expected job losses in the public sector, and rising overall UK unemployment. The knock-on effect has been quite hard in particular on sectors like the car sales industry, with May sales down nearly 25% compared to last year, despite 60,000 orders under the scrappage subsidy scheme.
Double glazing sales, though - at least at Safestyle - have been on the up and more new people are coming on board to work with us, knowing they have the backing of multi-million pound advertising campaigns, with new and exciting products coming from continuous development in technology.
Fitters, Salespeople and Canvassers have been joining the Safestyle team as new incentives, prizes and bonuses are being introduced to reward good performances. We are getting a fantastic response and encouraging more newcomers on board, you can even apply online. Now really is the time to get in touch with Safestyle and see what you could be earning with the nation's leading energy saving glazing company.
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