Ways to use decorative glass for interior design

When it comes to giving your house a sense of your own individual style, many think to decorate the walls or buy furniture. But one material many do not consider that can create a splash of uniqueness to your home is decorative glass.

Today, we’ll be breaking down the way glass can be used for all aspects of your house. From your windows to your furniture.

Your own personal style

Glass as a material has been used in art pieces for years and years. Glass has such a sleek look that fits any kitchen style you want in your house, rustic, marble or otherwise.

Using glass splashbacks in your kitchen not only has a pristine quality to it but allows for easier maintenance for cleaning. It also removes the hassle of scrubbing the grout in tiles.

Glass splashbacks are also versatile. If you’re worried about it breaking under the heat of your stove or oven do not fear, our glass splashbacks are heat resistant and durable so you can cook to your heart’s content while all the basics are covered.

They are also customisable, they can match any colour. So if your kitchen is all black or a specific shade of blue, we’ve got it covered.

Along with this, glass splashbacks can be more cut and shaped to fit your specifications. This feature, on the surface may be simple, but it can be just the thing your kitchen needs to pop with its colour and sleek design.

Check out our colour match service to find out more.

Taking your home to the next level

decorative glass

Utilising glass on your stairs as a staircase is a subtle way to create an effective sleek feature.  Glass staircases aren’t just for decoration either, it can elevate your hallway/landing and make it seem more spacious.

Using glass isn’t just an element that can just be used inside your house, glass can be used for balconies that take your house to a whole new level. 

Glass balconies don’t block the view of your house and their durability means you and your family are safe to enjoy the view. It doesn’t compromise the style of your house, glass can be moulded and shaped to flatter your space and create a sleek yet homely feel to a space that many homeowners don’t consider.

decorative glass

Top of the table

Using glass in your furniture is something a lot of homeowners are starting to incorporate. Say you have a coffee table that you want to protect from wear and tear while giving it a sleek finish, a glass top does that for you.

Don’t worry about it smashing, as mentioned before, the glass we use at Abelglass is durable and strong. 

It adds a three-dimensional aspect, turning a standard table into a conversational piece when guests come to visit. As well as this, glass shelving is a simplistic yet visually appealing aspect. 

The almost invisible effect glass shelving provides directs eyes to what’s on the shelves and gives off the impression of less it more.

glass dining table

Creating your own sanctuary

Your bathroom/shower room should be your hub of relaxation in your home, so making sure it feels that way is essential.

Using frosted glass for shower enclosures and shower screens gives a simple touch yet does so much. As mentioned before, the simplistic yet sleek design adds a touch of class to your room and elevates your bathroom/shower room.

decorative glass

A clear welcome

One essential piece of your house, arguably the most essential aspect of your home is your door. Using and incorporating glass into your doors maybe your patio doors or even your front door. 

Using glass doors not only looks effective and clean, but it also has environmental factors to it. It is a great way to preserve energy, allowing natural light to shine-free and make your house energy efficient. For more information visit our website abelglass.co.uk for more information on this.

As well as our splashback boards, we make our glass customisable to your taste and interior style. So there are just a few possibilities glass can present when incorporating it into your interior design.

Finishing touch

It is a subtle way to bring your house into the modern age. For instance, if your house has a rustic and vintage style to it and you want to incorporate more modern elements into it without ruining it, glass won’t compromise that. Our expert team and our amazing materials are a must for homeowners looking into this so if you’re interested please get in touch. You can give us a call at 01253 893355 or email us at enquires@abelglass.co.uk

 

COP26 – Striving for a Greener Future

Colder winters & rising energy costs – what’s your pledge?

We’ve been hearing from the world’s leaders outlining their climate commitments to a global audience at Glasgow’s COP26 global climate summit. They’ve pledged to accelerate action and, somewhere down the line, we’re all expected to see how we must fit in with their agenda for change.

energy usage

Like many of you, we listen with a renewed enthusiasm to support these changes. However, it’s also easy to quickly lose momentum.  Frustrated by how inaccessible, time-consuming and expensive making these changes are.

For example, our wish list at Abelglass includes mobile, industrial-size post-consumer glass crushing machines, a fleet of electric vehicles and much more. However, there is still lots we can do in our day to day lives.

energy usage

Here’s how you can play your part

Making improvements and changing aspects of your property can really make big changes to your energy usage.

So, we’ve put together some brilliant ways to cut down on your energy usage and the bills you pay.

Draughts

Draught proofing is one of the cheaper alternatives of energy saving, keeping your house warmer and saving you money.

Small little fixes can go a long way in making your home feel more compact and secure. There are many ways to go about draught proofing your house.

energy usage

Using draught excluders under doors is really effective, especially in your living room.

If you have one or two doors/windows that need draught-proofing then a DIY approach could be effective. However, if you have an older house with a lot of single glazed windows then installing double-glazing would be a better option.

Heating System

energy usage

When it comes to boilers, it varies depending on the size of your house. Smaller houses tend to use combi boilers while larger houses use heat-only boilers, regardless of the name, they are both condensing boilers that are the most energy-efficient. Being 25% more efficient than non-condensing boilers (Which?).

Converting to a condensing boiler could save you around £45 to £300 as suggested by the Energy Savings Trust.

Having a gas boiler compared to an electric boiler is cheaper to run and you get more for your money.

Windows & Doors

windows

The effect uPVC double glazing windows have on heating and cooling costs are impressive. Homeowners save up to 40% just by replacing their windows and doors with new double glazed ones.

How Does It Work?

Double glazing allows your house to retain its heat, in fact, it can reduce heat escaping by 50%. A huge change that not only makes your house energy efficient but is a huge factor with potential buyers if you look to sell/let this house.

If you’re worried about the process of changing your windows and doors you don’t need to.

Our friendly expert team have decades of experience between them and will make sure the process goes without a hitch. This means you’ll be stress-free and toasty warm before you know it.

Whatever Takes Your Fancy

doors

We have a huge range of windows and doors in both uPVC and composite. Stocking big name brands such as DoorStop & Pilkingtons in a wide range of colours and designs.

If you need a bespoke size or look for your property we’ve got you covered. We can create glass cut to size in our factory in Blackpool.

You can browse our range of Windows & Doors and download our brochures here… https://www.abelglass.co.uk/

How To Clean Shower Glass – Top Tips

Follow our top tips on how to clean shower glass for a sparkling bathroom. There is no better feeling than walking into a beautiful clean bath or shower room and keeping the glass clean and streak-free is key.

There’s no doubt that a glass shower screen or enclosure is easier to keep clean than an old-fashioned shower curtain.

“Forget the Toilet Seat – Shower Curtains Have The Most Germs in Your Bathroom”

 According to Healthline after testing shower curtains and surveying more than 500 people they detected more than 60 times more microbial life on shower curtains than toilet seats. Meaning shower curtains are the dirtiest surfaces in the bathroom.

The Causes Of Bacteria In The Shower

Studies show that many of us are doing more in the shower than washing. Other ‘activities’ include; urinating (81% of men and 73% of women), having sex (61% of people), shaving (65% of people) and brushing teeth (33% of people).

After these germs collect on your shower curtain, they multiply in the hot and humid environment of your shower.

cleaning shower

Shower Screens & Enclosures

The transparent nature of shower glass will make your bathroom look bigger and brighter and show off your tiles and suite. You can also choose from a variety of finishes including frosted and etched patterns. All of our shower screens and enclosures are heat and impact-resistant and can be made precisely to order. Glass enclosures also prevent water from getting on the bathroom floor and can be made in any size or shape.

Whilst shower curtains are cheaper upfront, shower glass is easy to clean, stylish and more cost-effective in the long term.

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How To Clean Shower Glass

Shower glass very easy to clean if you know how. Your main tool is a squeegee which when used every day keeps the glass clean. It’s not time-consuming and if you do it once you’ve finished your shower it stops water from sitting on the glass and causing stains.

Start from one of the top corners and drag the squeegee down the glass using slight pressure. The water will run down the glass as you pull. Repeat this until you’ve removed all the water droplets on your shower glass.

You might want to dry the rubber blade in between each pull if the squeegee is leaving streaks.

how to clean shower glass

Glass Cleaning Tips

Whilst using a squeegee daily will keep your shower streak free you will still need to clean it to eliminate any leftover germs. There are a few tips and tricks to do this, here are our favourites.

Natural Cleaners

They are inexpensive and environmentally-friendly ways to clean your shower Here’s how:

Vinegar and Water

  • Mix one part white vinegar with three parts distilled water
  • Put the mixture into a spray bottle
  • Spray the water and vinegar onto the glass and let it sit for up to five minutes
  • Spray more solution if it appears to be drying
  • Rinse the solution with warm, distilled water
  • Wipe it off with a lint-free towel, rag or paper towel.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

  • Mix about half a cup of baking soda with enough white vinegar to form a paste
  • Apply the paste onto the shower glass and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes
  • Rinse the solution with warm, distilled water
  • Wipe it off with a gentle cloth or lint-free paper towel

Chemical Cleaners

There are many chemically-based glass cleaners on the market that can clean tough stains. As with all chemical cleaners make sure the room is well ventilated and consider wearing gloves to protect your skin.

how to clean shower glass

Here are the best rated according to The Best Reviews Guide

Vistal 300g Long Lasting Eco Friendly

A multi-purpose natural, eco-friendly cleaner and restorer for your kitchen and bathroom and all-around your home. It removes grease, light limescale, soap scum, water spots and scuffs.

Astonish Daily Shower Shine

This is a cruelty-free and vegan-friendly versatile cleaner which quickly eliminate germs and bugs. It’s also great as a refreshing deodoriser in sinks and drains.

Mr Muscle Advanced Power Shower Shine Spray

This spray intended for daily use prevents limescale build-up in your shower and leaves the shower sparkling clean.

When using any of these cleaning sprays scrub lightly and avoid scouring pads or sharp instruments. Rinse using warm, distilled water and use a lint-free towel, rag or paper towel to dry and prevent streaks.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Why Does Shower Glass Get Dirty?

When water mixes with soap it leaves stains on glass called soap scum. This can be made worse in areas with hard water as it is high in minerals and can leave chalk deposits.

Soap scum looks unsightly and can also cause corrosion and water spots. Therefore, keeping it clean is the best way to keep your shower looking good.

Apart from soap scum mildew is another problem in bathrooms and grows in areas like the edge of your shower screen. Unlike soap scum, mildew can be harmful and it is best to get rid of it as soon as possible by cleaning regularly and ventilating the room.

how to clean shower glass

Leave The Door Open

To avoid excess moisture and the build-up of mildew it’s best to make sure that your shower is well ventilated. By leaving the bathroom door open after a shower you will allow the damp air to circulate. If your shower has a vent it’s best to turn it on before starting your shower. If not then keep your shower door open when it’s not in use.

We hope you enjoyed our tips on how to clean shower glass and you enjoy a streak-free bathroom.

If you would like more information about shower doors and enclosures you can take a look at our range or call 01253 893355 and speak to our experienced team.

Deposit protection from INSTALLsure

Deposit protection

At Abelglass we want our customers to feel confident and secure in their purchases. That’s why we provide deposit protection as a member of the Installsure glass and glazing federation deposit scheme.

This means that any deposits paid to us by our customers are automatically covered by a deposit protection policy with Installsure. This policy provides peace of mind and protection up to 25% of the contract value or up to £6250.

deposit protection

Another Reason To Trust Abelglass

We take the top-quality service which we provide to our customers very seriously.  We wanted to add an extra layer of security for ultimate peace of mind, which is why we have added cover via the deposit protection scheme.

A Family Business Focused On Customer Satisfaction

The most important reason that we offer the best service is that we offer the Best Double Glazing!

But that’s not all.
At Abelglass, we promise to deliver the best double glazing, using high-quality products and services at reasonable prices.

Our qualified, friendly staff and installers offer plain-talking, honest advice, guaranteed products and a full range of services

We Won’t…

Offer a Buy One, Get One Free offer or suddenly slash our prices by 50%.  We don’t do gimmicks or flannel, just top-quality windows and doors at fair prices.

You can read what our customers have to say here … All Checked Reviews

Our Products

Windows

We only ever fit the highest quality uPVC windows to keep your property safe and secure, energy-efficient and looking great!

You can choose from our huge range of uPVC windows and aluminium window styles, including Vertical Sliding Sashes, Tilt & Turn and Casements and a vast choice of colours and effects.

We will also accommodate any special requirements, whether it’s a circular window or a window with a specific angle or curve.

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Doors

We offer a wide range of uPVC doors and composite front doors to make sure you can put your own individual style on your home. We also provide interior, folding and sliding doors. Working throughout Blackpool, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding areas for over 30 years.

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Conservatories & Orangeries

You can add space and value to your home with a bespoke Abelglass conservatory. We have over 30 years of experience in manufacturing and building conservatories. With a wealth of conservatory ideas, you can trust us to help you make the right decision for you, your home and your budget.

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Get In Touch

To speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable members of staff you can give us a call on 01253 893355 or email us at enquiries@abelglass.co.uk

A Year We Will Always Remember

year to remember

After passing the anniversary of the pandemic, with a humble reflection on what feels much longer than a year, we want to say a big thank you.

We know that COVID-19 isn’t over and, while we remain vigilant and compliant with government guidelines, we are so humbled by the continuous support shown from our returning customers. And also the welcome displays of confidence shown by our new customers too – thank you.

Glimmers Of Hope

With the news that the vaccine programme is effective and now the plans for lockdown easing, for us and so many others, the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to look closer. And with it, the prospect of life returning to normal is beginning to seem more attainable. Whilst we know that the pandemic is not over yet we want to take this opportunity whilst we are on this ever-evolving journey to share our thanks.

year to remember

Brilliant Customers

Our customers both old and new have been nothing short of fantastic over this time. They have supported us as we changed our processes and procedures and trusted us to perform our services safely. We have worked really hard to ensure that whilst carrying out our work to the high standards we are proud of, both our staff and customers are as safe as they can be

Then there’s our local network of suppliers without whom we’d struggle to deliver our services. Mutual respect for the daily struggles experienced by all and a realisation of just what it is that we’re emerging from has facilitated an even stronger bond between us all. To everyone at our network of local suppliers who have worked so hard over this last year – thank you.

thank you

The Best Team

Our biggest thank you goes to our employees and their families – we thank you for working so hard in what has been a really difficult year with all of the nervously-embraced unknowns & uncertainties.

The whole Abelglass family have worked incredibly hard to carry out their roles whilst navigating the new restrictions and rules, all with a smile on their faces (most of the time).

thanks

A Huge Thank You

We are so proud of the whole Abelglass team who have sanitised and done more risk assessments than they thought possible, all whilst carrying out their work to the same amazing standards.

THANK YOU!

A Year To Remember

year to rememberAs we pass the anniversary of the pandemic, with a humble reflection on what feels much longer than a year, we just want to say thank you.

We know it’s not over and, while we remain vigilant and compliant with government guidelines, we are humbled by the continuous support shown from our returning customers but also the welcome displays of confidence shown by our new customers too – thank you.

Light At The End Of The Tunnel

With news of the successful vaccine programme and now the plans for lockdown easing, for us and so many others, the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to look closer and the prospect of life returning to normal is beginning to seem more attainable. Whilst we know that it’s not over yet we want to take this opportunity whilst we are on this ever-evolving journey to share our thanks.

thank you for your support

Fantastic Customers

Our customers both old and new have been nothing short of fantastic. They have supported us as we changed our processes and procedures and trusted us to perform our services safely. We have worked really hard to ensure that both our staff and customers are as safe as they can be whilst carrying out our work to the high standards we are proud of.

Then there’s our local network of suppliers without whom we’d struggle to deliver the deliverables. With mutual respect for the daily struggles experienced by all and a realisation of just what it is that we’re emerging from, has facilitated an even stronger bond between us all. To all the staff at our network of local suppliers who have worked so hard over this last year – thank you.

the year that we will never forget

The Best Team

Finally, to our employees and their families – we thank you for what has been a really difficult year despite all of the nervously-embraced unknowns & uncertainties.

The whole Abelglass family have worked incredibly hard to carry out their roles whilst navigating the new restrictions and rules, all with a smile on their faces (most of the time).

thank you for your support

A Huge Thank You

We are so proud of our whole team who have sanitised and done more risk assessments than they thought possible, all whilst carrying out their work to the same amazing standards.

THANK YOU!

How Improving Curb Appeal Can Add Value To Your Home

Did you know that improving curb appeal can add value to your home?

A new door of a set of new windows won’t just look good it will also increase the overall value of your home.
As we all know, first impressions count!

By making your property more attractive at first glance, you can not only add curb appeal to your home but raise its value at the same time.

One of the best ways to achieve this is by updating windows and doors that are outdated or show signs of long-term use or damage.

The benefits are more than just cosmetic

Investing in new windows and doors for your property is much more than giving it an attractive face-lift. This is because buyers know that a property with old windows and doors is a risky prospect. 

Transformation of an older uPVC door to a composite in dove grey

Potential problems such as unwanted draughts and broken seals might seem like little more than an inconvenience but these can dramatically reduce energy efficiency and cause your house to be expensive to heat. A good door and double-glazed windows also prevent issues such as the build-up of condensation and mould around your windows. 

 

curb appeal
before

 

curb appeal
after

Additionally, where signs of disrepair and overuse are present, concerns about security may be raised; especially when it comes to your front door. The new types of both composite and uPVC doors which are now available have far superior security measure built-in.

Brands such as Door Stop feature materials that give you the very best in strength, easy maintenance, security, and weather resistance. The composite doors are thick (44mm thick, compared to conventional PVC panel doors which are 28mm). Coupled with a super-strong structural frame and up-to-the-minute hardware you don’t have to worry about security.

The latest technology and design in front doors means that you can enjoy style, strength and security.

curb appeal

Remember what’s important to buyers

It’s very often the very same things that are important to you.

When looking to buy a home, warmth, security and the ability to keep noise outside is at the top of everyone’s priorities.

 

curb appeal
before

 

curb appeal
after

By ensuring the thermal performance of your glazing and the security of your fixtures, you are pro-actively addressing the concerns of the buyer and ultimately increasing the market value of your property.
You can take a look at our huge range of doors here Front Doors

 

Victorian Style Bathroom Ideas – Get The Look

Victorian Style Bathroom Inspiration

The hottest trend in interiors is definitely the victorian style bathroom. Whether you have a period home or a sleek new build this trend will suit your smallest room.

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After staying indoors for most of 2020 we have become a nation obsessed with interior design.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled all of our favourite ways to get the victorian style bathroom look to suit your home.

Get The Look

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From gold or copper accents to freestanding baths and victorian style shower furniture there are lots to choose from. We’ve collected together our favourite trends to give your bathroom the wow factor

Mixing The Old And New 

A really fresh way to incorporate the victorian look in your bathroom is to use traditional style fittings with an updated colour scheme or sleeker look. Choosing black for your shower fittings, taps or bigger bathroom items will give it more of an industrial look. This fits particularly well in newer houses and looks amazing when teamed with fresh white brick style tiles. We love this shower fitting and sink from UK Bathrooms.

Using a classic tap fitting in chrome also looks great when paired with a simple but classic bath, wooden flooring and panelled walls. The simple and modern look really compliments the decorative design of the taps.

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Another great way to mix the old and new is to combine sleek lines with decorative pieces. For example, a glass shower screen and bath with very simple lines look fantastic when paired with a decorative shower fitting. White Victorian style pedestal sinks also look great against sleek white walls and black framed mirrors.

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Antique Mirror – Aged Glass

An emerging trend in bathrooms is the use of a distressed or antique mirror. Many bathrooms are small and lack natural light, therefore using mirrors on the walls really magnifies the light. By using an antique mirror you can amplify the light effect, whilst creating a stylish Victorian look.

We recently installed these bespoke antique mirrors along a full wall in a customers bathroom. Combined with their stunning free-standing bath and made to measure glass shower enclosure, the overall look is really effective.

We can create many different distressed effects on both glass and mirror, as well as etched designs in any size to suit perfectly finished with bevelled edges.

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You can find more inspiration about using mirrors in your home in our blog below.

Using Mirrors In Interior Design

Gold & Rose Gold

Gold is the perfect pop of colour for a victorian style bathroom, it’s both classic and luxurious and looks amazing paired with white porcelain. The beautiful gold freestanding filler tap looks fabulous above a classic freestanding bath, adding a splash of personality to an otherwise sleek bathroom. Another favourite is this stylish Vitra water jewels round bathroom basin with matching gold taps.

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Rose gold is everywhere in homeware and it also looks great in the bathroom. From decorative but modern shower fittings to ornate high-level toilets like this Chatsworth model available from Victorian Plumbing. Rose gold is a trend that looks like it’s here to stay.

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Copper

Another classic when it comes to metallics in bathrooms is copper. Slightly more traditional than rose gold, copper can also add a serious pop of luxury. Like the stunning Belle de Louvain copper and enamel bath from Victoria Plum which is a real statement piece for any bathroom. We also love the simplicity of the VitrA Origin copper shower fitting which looks beautiful against white tiles coupled with a glass shower screen. With any statement shower fitting, you want to show it off. That’s why a glass shower screen or enclosure is the perfect way to finish off your copper shower as it enhances rather than hides it.

Copper also looks fantastic when used for a modern or traditional radiator which combines usability and a focal point.

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High-level Toilets

When you think about victorian style bathrooms a classic high-level toilet always springs to mind. There are some beautiful pieces on the market with many different design features to suit any style. Whether you are going for a more modern look or you want a style which incorporates gold there are many to choose from.

We especially like the Silverdale which is decorated with a blue garden pattern on the cistern, available from Victorian Plumbing.

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Freestanding Baths

There is nothing more synonymous with a victorian style bathroom that a freestanding bath. With their curved lines and ornate feet, they are both beautiful and comfortable to use. There are some really beautiful coloured baths available and the two below which are available in blue really look the part. Teamed with matching tiles or paired with a sleek white bathroom, a traditional freestanding bath will really complete your bathroom.

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If you want to opt for a more modern look there are also some really sleek options available. These beautiful oval-shaped baths sit flush with the floor and don’t have the clawed feet. This means that they have a much more modern look but also look great teamed with traditional fittings. If you are wanting to future-proof your bathroom but want to use the victorian style fittings they are a great option.

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Plan Your Project

Hopefully, we’ve given you lots of ideas and inspiration to plan your bathroom renovation.

If you’re looking for made to measure mirrors, or a shower screen or enclosure to complete the look then get in touch with our friendly staff to chat about your ideas.

Using Mirrors In Interior Design

Make An Entrance

A mirror is the best way to make the most of your entrance space. It’s often a small and dark area which is hard to dress, so making the most of any light by using mirrors is a smart choice.

using mirrors

To make the most of the light you need to hang your mirror opposite where the light enters the space. Extra points for hanging it on the longest wall as this will make the whole area look bigger. A custom made mirror which is the perfect size for your wall will always be the best fit. But, you can choose any size, shape or type of mirror. Just make sure that it fits with the rest of your decor.

Mirrored Bathroom Walls

Another room which is traditionally small is the bathroom or en-suite. Using mirrors will immediately change the perception of space and the room will appear bigger as if by magic.

A large mirror above the sink will look clean and reflect huge amounts of light back into the room. It looks especially good when it fits perfectly to the wall with no spaces around it.

mirrored bathroom

Another option is to completely cover the walls of your bathroom with plate mirrors making the whole room feel bright. Make the most of the effect that the mirrors create by teaming them with light coloured walls and reflective accessories. A down-light at the top of the mirror or a strip light around the edges will help to minimise shadows.

bathroom mirror

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall

Using mirrors as a decorative accessory for the walls in your home means you can get really creative.

using mirrors

For maximum creativity, you can create a ‘mosaic’ of mirrors to create a really interesting piece of art for your wall. Using triangular shapes will create light and depth, magnifying the space.

using mirrors

A simple round mirror can look amazing if you choose an interesting way to hang it. The one above has been mounted using two leather belts and makes a great statement piece. If you have something in mind to hang a mirror why not a piece of mirror made to the exact size that you need to make sure it’s perfect.

Another really interesting way to use mirrors is to hang a variety of complementary mirrors as you would pictures or paintings. Choose mirrors which are similar shapes for a really cohesive look. You could also pick out shapes in your wallpaper or furniture by having mirrors made in those shapes like the ones in the picture below which mimic the artwork and wallpaper.

using mirrors

Mirrored Surfaces

Mirrors aren’t just for the bathroom or living area walls, they look equally amazing in the kitchen.

mirrored splashback

Using a mirror as a splashback in a kitchen looks AMAZING. You can have the mirror cut to the exact size that you need as you would a glass splashback. It reflects the light bouncing it around the room which is perfect for a darker room. The mirrored images also make the room look bigger and the reflective surface looks very contemporary.

glass splashback

A black glass splashback also creates a mirrored effect and creates similar effects by reflecting and magnifying the light making the whole room look larger.

Mirrored Furniture

Placing mirrors on the outside of sliding wardrobe doors is a great way to make the most of the light in your room and is really practical too. You can have pieces of toughened mirror created to the exact dimensions of your doors to give a really clean and seamless look.

mirrored wardrobes

Another trick is to place a mirror on a table and put a lamp on top of it. This will reflect the light coming from the lamp and create a lovely warm glow. Covering the top of a dressing or bedside table is also a great way to introduce light to a bedroom and make the most of your space.

If you are itching to try out these ideas in your home but need a mirror which is just right for your space then give our friendly team a call.

Bespoke Mirrors

We produce mirrors in all shapes and sizes. From simple bathroom pieces, unique pieces to add a focal point for your bedroom, or a large piece to give a more spacious perspective to a living room.

All of our mirrors are made to measure to create the perfect addition to your home. We work with you on all of the fine details, to ensure your design is uniquely yours.

Get in touch with our friendly and experienced team to discuss your perfect mirror.

How To Install Composite Decking

Composite materials have revolutionised home design. From stylish doors to worktops they are versatile and very hardwearing, and the same can be said about composite decking.

If you want an outdoor area that looks good, is anti-slip and doesn’t require lots of maintenance (who’s got time for sanding and re-painting every year) then composite decking is the choice for you.

composite decking

First Of All, What Is Composite Decking?

The reason that composite decking is so durable is that it is made from a mix of wood flour and PVC which creates an extremely strong material. This makes it weatherproof and stain-resistant.

It’s also ecological, very low maintenance and comes in lots of different colours. You can choose a traditional wood colour or a modern shade of grey.

Loads Of Choice

Available in different finishes, thicknesses and widths, composite decking can be used almost anywhere. You can use it to create a flat deck or a raised platform with steps, you can even create a bridge with it or use it for the surrounding area of a pond or pool.

There are a number of really good brands that supply composite decking including DuoFuse.

How To Install Composite Decking

The composite decking which we supply comes in both hollow and solid form that will not rot, swell, splinter or warp. They come as a complete system with all necessary fittings and accessories to make fitting them easy.

Aluminium Substructure

An aluminium substructure forms the foundations of the decking and guarantees an easy and fast assembly of the composite decking boards.

The composite decking boards can be installed either 35 mm or 48,5 mm from the ground. No screws or nails are required thanks to the specially designed clips boards which are fastened to the wood composite beams. The boards come in various finishes from the smooth brushed finish to rough ribbed with matching skirting boards and clips.

This system is proven to be 50% faster to install than traditional wooden decking and has many fantastic features, including:

  • Faster assembly
  • Straight beams
  • Lightweight
  • Dimensionally stable
  • Weatherproof
  • Easy installation
  • 100% recyclable
  • Pre-drilling not necessary
  • Invisible fixing

Now you know the basics here’s a step-by-step guide to fitting your deck.

Basic Fitting Guidelines

fitting composite decking

Step One – The Ground

It’s important to make sure that the ground where you want to install your decking is suitable and prepared. The ground must:

  • Have sufficient ventilation under the boards so that they can dry after a shower.
  • Be flat and stable.
  • Have a slope of 10mm every meter in the direction of the board so that the water can drain and not remain on, in or under the board.

Step Two – Fixing The Beams

  • The decking boards are installed on beams so the next step is to install them.
  • Align all beams, so that the starter clips can be fixed at the front of every beam.
  • The distance between the beams should be a maximum 500mm. ( You must also Install an extra beam 200mm from the first and the last beam at the beginning and the end of the decking.)
  • Beams should be fixed to a concrete foundation or on a supporting structure every 500mm.

ventilate decking

Step Three – Fixing The Boards

  • Boards should be placed in the same direction (there is a mark on the inner side of every board).
  • Boards should be placed 5mm/m apart to allow expansion, with a minimum of 15mm away from every wall.
  • Holes must be pre-drilled before fixing the clips.
  • The first and last board must be fixed using starter and finishing clips. The next board after the first can then be inserted into the previous clips and secured on the beams with standard clips.
  • Butting clips allow the boards to be joined lengthways with spacing between the short sides of 10mm.
  • Once all boards are installed the starter and finishing clips must be installed at the end of all boards.
  • The boards must not overhang the last support beam by more than 50mm..
  • The terrace can be finished with a skirt or L-Profile.

Composite decking is also suitable for higher placement such as on roof terraces. You can use polypropylene pedestals that allow heights of more than 200 mm.

Finishing Touches

Now you’ve installed your decking you’ll need a safe way to finish it off. If you’re decking is raised then it’s especially important to consider safety, particularly if you have small children. The right decking balustrade will finish your decking off, make sure it looks great AND it’s safe.

There are lots of options to choose from for the edges of your decking. You can incorporate seating or raised flower beds or be finished with some edging and left open. However, if your decking is raised from the ground it is sensible to have some form of fencing or a decking balustrade in place. This can be achieved with wood or a composite material, however, this can spoil the view into your garden.

fence for decking

Glass Decking Balustrades

Another option is toughened safety glass which can be installed using hardware which perfectly matches your decking and general outside area. Toughened glass is really low maintenance, strong, weather-proof and won’t rust or rot. This type of safety glass is designed to be heat and impact resistant and is completely safe for use in and out of the home. It can provide the finishing touch to your decking area and won’t interrupt your view of the garden.

outdoor balustrade

What Are You Waiting For

If your patio is crying out for a makeover then composite decking boards are a great solution for an easy to install, low-maintenance but very stylish deck.

Made from extremely durable material and supplied with a complete system of fittings and accessories, they make both fitting and maintaining fast and hassle-free.

If you’re looking for an outdoor glass balustrade to complete your decking then get in touch with our friendly team who will be happy to help you.

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