Category: General

When it comes to selling or renting your property, it can be an exciting, yet sometimes stressful time. 

You may have tried many different things to try and attract potential buyers but have you tried adding value to your home? 

There is a number of home improvements that significantly boost the property value and help you get the most for your money. 

In this article, we take a look at some of the ways you can increase your home’s kerb appeal and raise its value. 

• Replacing old windows 

Well-performing double glazing is becoming a must with buyers so if your windows only feature single glazing or are old and beyond repair, then you could be missing out on a potential sale. New windows will make your home more appealing to buyers and, therefore, actually increase the value of your home too. 

When replacing your windows, it is important to consider the style of window you choose. Your new windows should match the character of your property so that they don’t look out of place. For example, if your home is more traditional, then sliding sash windows will perfectly complement its aesthetic.

• Create a focal point with your front door 

 Your front door is usually the first thing that buyers will see when visiting your property so it is important that it makes a good impression. The colour you choose can completely transform the look of your home. If you want to create an aesthetically pleasing exterior, then replacing your current front door with a coloured door is a great way to do so. Also, it adds value. 

It is important to get the colour right as it should compliment your home. Need some inspiration? Well, if your home is a period or traditional property then a Chartwell green door will create a country feel and make a stunning addition. Whereas, if your home is more modern in style, then grey door will give it a sleek and contemporary look.

• Expand your home with a conservatory 

Fitting a conservatory to your home holds a whole host of advantages. If your house is short of space, with a conservatory you can add some much needed usable space that you could use for a whole range of functions. A conservatory will also flood your home with natural light creating a lighter and more airy space with that added wow factor. All these things are a real draw for potential buyers and will undoubtedly increase the value of your home. Although this may be a more expensive option, the benefits of a conservatory and the value it adds make it a worthwhile investment. 

At Walkern Windows and Homes, we believe there is no substitute for quality which is why we are dedicated to making sure all of our products are manufactured to the highest standards. From start to finish, we ensure all of our customers receive a first-class service. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, you can rest assured that when you choose Walkern Windows and Homes, your home is in safe hands. 

If you’re interested in learning more about how you can increase the value of your home, get in touch with us and a member of our team will be happy to answer your questions. Or, use our online tool to design your dream windows, doors or conservatory and receive a free quote today. 

Due to the pandemic, the nation has had to spend more time than ever before in their homes and it is likely that over the past year, you have used your conservatory more than ever before. 

Conservatories are a perfect way to create a space to relax and unwind in the sun.

So, with a newfound appreciation for your conservatory, it may be time for a revamp. But, where to start? 

No need to worry, our team is at hand to guide you through redecorating of your conservatory to give it a new lease of life. 

Let’s take a closer look. 

3 ways to revamp your conservatory 

• Plants, plants and more plants!

Decorating with houseplants, also known as ‘interior landscaping’ has recently surged in popularity with more and more homeowners using houseplants to decorate their homes. Scattering your conservatory with houseplants not only adds a pop of greenery but it also helps draw the outside in – which is what conservatories are all about. Decorating with houseplants also has a number of physical and mental health benefits. So, utilising houseplants in your conservatory will not only make it look good but will make you feel good too. 

• Be bold with colour 

If your conservatory’s current colour scheme is a bit safe and neutral then adding splashes of colour throughout will completely transform your conservatory’s aesthetic. Make your conservatory’s interior be a reflection of the sunshine with bright yellow cushions or go bold with brightly coloured furniture. Have fun and experiment with a colour scheme until you find the palette that matches your personality. 

• Invest in a solid tiled roof 

It is well known that conservatories can have the tendency to be pretty inhabitable when the temperatures drop but with a solid tiled roof that doesn’t have to be the case. In the same way that heat escapes from the top of your head, heat can escape from a conservatory roof – therefore by investing in a tiled roof you can help to keep the warmth in. Not only will your conservatory be a more comfortable place to be, but a tiled roof will also completely change the aesthetics of it by matching the interior and exterior of your home. 

Why not make the change with a tiled conservatory roof from Walkern Windows and Homes today? 

Choose a Conservatory from Walkern Windows and Homes 

As you can see, there are numerous ways to redecorate your conservatory. It may be as simple as adding some houseplants in your conservatory or something more drastic as replacing your conservatory roof. Although it can be stressful for some, there is a lot of fun to be had with redecorating – so have a play around and see what works for your conservatory.

However, unfortunately, not all conservatories are built equally so it is important to choose a conservatory from a trusted  installer. 

At Walkern Windows and Homes, we believe that our customers should never compromise on quality, that is why we are dedicated to ensuring that we supply and install products to the highest standards. 

With over 25 years of experience in the industry, when you choose Walkern Windows and Homes, you are putting your home in capable hands. 

If you’re looking to install a new conservatory in your home in Stevenage or Hertfordshire, get in touch with us and a member of our team will be more than happy to discuss your options. Or, if you know what you’re after, use our online tool to design your new conservatory exactly as you want it and receive a free quote today. 

As we head into 2021, you may have your New Year’s resolution list ready. Why not put home improvement on that list?

When it comes to style, your windows and front door are arguably the most important part of your home – as this is the first thing visitors and passersby see. 

Whether it’s picking a frame colour that suits the brick colour of your home or even going adventurous and opting for bright and bold colours, it isn’t always easy to choose the right colour for your windows and doors but if you get it right, it can completely transform the appearance of your home. 

In this article, we take a look at 3 reasons why you should install coloured windows and doors for your home ready for 2021. 

Reason 1: Enhances kerb appeal 

If you are the type of person who likes to stand out from the crowd then bold and bright coloured windows and front door are a perfect way to express your personality and get heads turning. Bright yellow and red are among some of the most popular colours when it comes to making a home pop. 

Reason 2: Increases chances of selling your home 

When it comes to selling your home, it can be a challenge to set your home apart from its competitors. However, uniquely coloured windows or front door might make a potential buyer choose your home over other properties. 

Reason 3: Matches the character of your home 

You may live in a modern new-build or perhaps a cottage. With the array of coloured windows and doors that are available, there is a colour to best suit the character of your home. For a more traditional look, Chartwell green is the best match and for modern properties, dark blue is the colour to go for. 

Walkern Windows and Homes  

Are you convinced that you should make the switch to coloured windows and doors in 2021? If yes, then it is also important to choose a trusted window and door installer to carry out the installation. 

Walkern Windows and Homes are windows and door specialists with 25 years of experience in the industry. So you can be confident that your home is in good hands. If you’re looking to install high-quality windows or doors, available in an array of colours, in your home, get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to assist you in making the right choice for your. Or, why not view our wide range of windows and doors online today? 

Maybe your family is growing or perhaps your home is a little on the darker side. Whatever the reason, a conservatory is a great way to add extra living space and draw in natural light into your home. But, if you already have a traditional glass conservatory, you probably already know that it has its flaws. 

However, a tiled conservatory roof is a modern solution designed to combat the problems the traditional conservatory has. So, what are the benefits of installing it and why should you invest in one? 

 5 Benefits of a tiled conservatory roof

• Increases thermal-efficiency 

The traditional conservatory tends to be too cold in the winter and too warm in the summer. With a tiled conservatory you can keep a more constant temperature, so you can enjoy it all year round and save money on your energy bills.

• Increases the value of your home 

We all want added value for our money. By installing a tiled conservatory roof you can not only save money on your energy bills but also making your home more appealing to buyers, increasing the value of your home. 

• Reduces noise 

A tiled roof can also go a long way in reducing noise pollution so that your conservatory can keep noise in and outside noise out. 

• Improves appearance

If you have a glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof that is a little worse for wear, by replacing your old roof with a tiled one will instantly transform the appearance of your conservatory 

• Increases security

Burglars will look for any way into your home and that includes your conservatory roof. If your conservatory roof is weak then this can leave your home vulnerable to a break-in. 

However, a tiled roof protects your conservatory from any would-be intruders.

Replacing your conservatory roof 

As you can see, there are many benefits of replacing your conservatory roof with a new tiled conservatory roof. 

You may even want to replace yours right away.  Before you do, it is important to choose a trusted installer to complete the work. 

At Walkern Windows and Homes, we have over 25 years of experience to draw from so you know you’re in safe hands. 

We are focused on delivering a quality service to all of our customers, supplying the highest quality products. 

FENSA approved, Walkern Windows and Homes are there for you every step of the installation process. 

If you’re looking for a new or replacement tiled conservatory roof in Hertfordshire, get in touch or request a quote today.

Single glazed windows seem to be the thing of the past but your home may still have single glazing. 

With double glazing becoming the standard, it may be time to switch. 

But what are drawbacks of single glazing and why should you change to double glazing? 

In this article, we take a closer look at some of the disadvantages of single glazed windows and why you should upgrade your windows? 

Disadvantages featured include: 

• Low security 
• Poor energy-efficiency
• Weak noise reduction 
• Less economical

What is single glazing? 

 Single glazed windows are made up of a single pane of glass fitted within the frame. 

Disadvantages of single glazed windows

• Low security

We should all feel safe in our homes but if your home still has single glazed windows, it  is more vulnerable to intruders. 

With just a single pane of glass, single glazed windows can easily be smashed providing burglars easy access into your home. 

• Poor energy-efficiency 

When the temperatures drop, you want your windows to protect your home from the cold outside air. 

Single glazed windows offer poor insulation compared to double glazing, letting the heat out and the cold air in. 

By switching to double glazing you can help keep your home warmer. 

• Weak noise reduction

Maybe you work nights and it’s important you get an undisturbed sleep, or perhaps you live next to a busy road? Whatever your reason, you should be able to enjoy peace and quiet in your home. 

Windows play a key role in blocking out outside noise. 

Single glazed windows provide poor noise reduction with a single pane of glass offering insufficient protection. 

• Less economical

As previously mentioned, single glazed windows do a poor job of keeping your home warm, meaning higher energy bills.

Although double glazing is more costly than single glazing, over time double glazed windows will save you money with its strong insulation properties. 

Why choose double glazing?

Double glazing is designed to resolve the issues of single glazing. 

Now you know just some of the disadvantages of single glazing, you may be interested in changing to double glazing. 

Before you do, it’s important that you choose a qualified installer. 

At Walkern Windows, we believe in our service. That’s why we offer a 10 year guarantee with all our new double glazing products. 

We have built a reputation for delivering a quality service, supplying top-quality products.

With over 25 years experience , we aim to leave all our customers 100% satisfied.

If you’re looking for quality double glazing windows, view our full range here or get in touch today. 

A quality conservatory, correctly installed, can be enjoyed all year round, but there’s no denying that it’s during the summer when the conservatory really comes into its own.

All those long summer evenings, enjoying a drink with the doors wide open and the breeze gently blowing through the garden are what your conservatory was designed for. 

If you’d like to get the most out of your conservatory this summer, our team here at Walkern Windows and Homes have put together this short guide with our top tips for enjoying your conservatory throughout the summer.

Install a tiled roof 

The sun beating down on a glass roof will very quickly heat up your conservatory and it could even be unbearably hot before you’ve finished your breakfast.

One way to overcome this is to replace your glass roof with a solid tiled roof. This will prevent the sun from shining through all day long and make it easier to regulate the room temperature. 

Install bi-fold doors 

Bi-fold doors can be used to really open out your home and bring your indoors closer to the outdoors.

The same principle can be applied to your conservatory. On warm days, you can fully open out the side of your conservatory, opening your conservatory right out to the garden. This creates a sense of greater space and is ideal for entertaining large parties in the garden. 

Include some plants 

The climate inside a conservatory and the amount of sunlight it gets, makes it an ideal place to grow some varieties of plants which you would usually struggle to grow inside and outside the home.

Plants also oxygenate the air inside and create a much brighter, airy feel in the room. Some of the popular types of plant you can grow in your conservatory include Cacti and succulents, Lapageria and Mandevilla. 

Hopefully these tips will have been useful in helping you get the most out of your conservatory this summer. If you don’t have a conservatory yet, or if you’re looking to upgrade or replace an existing conservatory throughout Hertfordshire, get an online conservatory quote.

A new conservatory is a great way to create some space in your home and has a hatful of different potential uses. Whether you’re looking for a playroom for the kids, a space in which to dine or entertain, or a room in which to relax and enjoy your garden, a conservatory provides a cost-effective solution. 

If you’re looking at purchasing a new conservatory in Hertfordshire, you may be spoiled for choice. With so many styles and designs available, how do you go about choosing the right one for you? This short guide should give you an idea of the options available when purchasing a conservatory for your Hertfordshire home. 

Conservatory style

There are a wide range of different styles available for your conservatory, each one offering its own unique benefits. Here are some of the popular types of conservatory available. 

Victorian Conservatory 

A Victorian conservatory is a traditional style conservatory characterised by a bay front and a pitched roof. Victorian conservatories also feature a stylish ornate roof ridge. 

Edwardian/Georgian 

Edwardian conservatories are similar in design to the Victorian conservatory but instead have a flat front and are more rectangular in shape. 

T-shaped 

Better suited to detached houses, a T-Shaped conservatory style often runs the full length of the house. It is characterised by a central projection which gives it its T shape. 

Orangery 

An orangery is a much more robust structure than a conservatory, featuring more brickwork or timberwork than a traditional conservatory. Because of their solid design, they have much more of an indoor feel to them and act more as an extension to the property. 

Lean-to 

Sometimes called a Mediterranean conservatory, a lean-to is the most cost-effective option and is perfect for those with a tight budget. 

Conservatory roof 

Depending on the chosen style, there are also a number of options to consider for the roof. 

Glass roof 

A glass roof will allow more light to enter your conservatory, making it feel brighter and more airy. The downside is that this also makes it heat up very quickly. In the summer months, your conservatory could be too warm to use, even early in the day. There are ways you can overcome this, but it’s something to consider when making your purchase. 

Lantern roof 

A lantern roof can be added to a conservatory or orangery to create a more spacious feel and allow more light into the room. 

Gable conservatory 

Unlike other styles, a gable roof maintains its height along the length of the conservatory, rather than sloping back toward the middle. This gives a greater feeling of height and spaciousness. 

Tiled roof 

A tiled conservatory roof in Hertfordshire creates a more solid feel to your conservatory and helps it to serve more as an additional room in your home. With a tiled roof, the temperature in your conservatory will also be easier to maintain, keeping warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer so you can get more enjoyment out of the space. 

At Walkern windows, we’re on hand to help Hertfordshire homeowners get the most out of their new conservatory. To discuss your options, get in touch with us today to request a free quote.

Buying a new front door can be a confusing affair.

In a marketplace teeming with options, how can you be sure you’re making the right choice for your home? One of the key considerations is which material to choose for your new front door.

We have assembled a short guide to some of the common front door materials and the key benefits of each one. 

uPVC Front Doors

uPVC is the default choice for many people, particularly if they already have uPVC windows installed.

uPVC is a durable, environmentally friendly material that offers good security and ease of maintenance. And with many options available in terms of colour and style, it can be used to create the ideal look for the entrance to your home.

Some of the key benefits of uPVC include: 

• Energy efficient
• Versatile, with a range of styles and finishes available
• High security 
• Strong and durable 
• Easy to maintain

Composite Front Doors

Composite front doors are rapidly growing in popularity. This is largely down to their robust look and feel and multiple options for customisation. Constructed from a combination of materials, composite doors are strong and durable and coated with glass-reinforced plastic, meaning they are easy to maintain.

Composite front doors can be purchased in a vast array of styles, from sleek, modern finishes to a classic timber look.

Some of the main benefits of composite doors include: 

• Wide selection of styles and finishes to suit any home
• Strong, durable material
• Easy to maintain
• Energy efficient
• High security 

Timber

Although becoming less popular, largely due to the realistic feel of timber-effect composite doors, many do still opt for timber for its classic authenticity.

Timber is a preferred option for many people who live in period or character properties and can add a real air of sophistication to your home. However, timber doors do take more effort to maintain, requiring regular treatment in order to protect them from weather damage. 

Whether you’re looking for a new look for your home, or replacing a damaged door, it’s important that you choose the right material for your new door in order to get the look you want. If you’re looking for a replacement front door and live in the Hertfordshire area, get in touch with us today.

Orangery is a word that has been in the double glazing dictionary for quite some time now, but for many, the word still remains a mystery.

So just what is an orangery? And, more importantly, why should you think about having one installed? Well, Walkern Windows are here to help you understand a little better. 

What is an orangery? 

An orangery is a sort of hybrid between a conservatory and an extension to your home.

Characterised by the inclusion of lots of glass in their design, an orangery is often mistaken for a conservatory and, in many cases, they are very similar, but with a couple of important differences.

The main difference is that an orangery is a more robust structure than a conservatory, featuring more brick or timberwork. But the key distinction is the roof which, on an orangery, is flat, with a lantern at the centre to allow in more light. 

What are the benefits of an orangery? 

You may be thinking that you’d be as well-off investing in a conservatory and, depending on your intended use, you may be right. The choice between an orangery or conservatory often comes down to personal preference. However, there are a couple of benefits to choosing an orangery over a conservatory. 

Living space

Because of its robust design and more solid roof, an orangery has more of an indoor feel to it than a conservatory. Where a conservatory can often feel like a room in the garden, an orangery is more of an additional room within your home that opens up to the garden. This makes it perfect for a permanent use in the home, whether as a dining room, an additional sitting room or maybe even a home gym. 

Year-round use

Orangeries tend to stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, meaning you can enjoy them all year-round. 

Cheaper than an extension

Adding an extension to your home will give you some additional space and add value to your property. However, depending on your reason for adding an extension, you may get the same benefits, for a fraction of the price, by installing an orangery. 

Blend in

The brickwork of your orangery can be blended in with the existing brickwork on your property to create a seamless transition between your property and the orangery. This makes it much more a part of your house, both from the inside and the outside. 

Merge with the outside

Like a conservatory, an orangery serves to blend the outside with the inside, opening up your living space and creating a much more open and airy feel. This makes it perfect for the Summer, particularly when entertaining large groups of people. 

Hopefully, this has cleared up some of the mystery surrounding the word orangery. If it sounds like something you might be interested in, talk to a member of the Walkern Windows team today and we’ll talk you through your options.