If you love well-designed, quality furniture, and have spent time and money filling your home with it, the last thing you want to do if you need to move house is to risk it being damaged or broken in transit when you move house. The trouble is that moving house for anyone with more than one room in a share-house to pack up will always involved help from other people. And those people may well mess up, even if they are seasoned professionals with experience of packing up and moving many other people’s homes. When that happens, it can be distressing and expensive. If that precious piece that you saved so hard for, and admire so much, is damaged in a move, it is hard to feel much charity towards those who caused it. So, what can you do to prevent this from happening? And if it does happen, what can you do to get some compensation for your loss?
Choosing a Removal Firm
The first thing to think about is where you get your moving quotes from. If you have any particularly expensive or delicate items to be moved, then you may find some firms which specialise in doing so. Remember to get quotes from a few different firms, rather than just settling for the first one you call. It is important to look at more than just the financial part of the quote. The price is, naturally, important, and you know what budget you need to stick to. However, you also need to look at exactly what the removal firms you get quotes from are prepared to offer. Ask them for their policy (in writing) on damage to your items. Also ask them if their staff have training in how to move fragile items, and what precautions they take to ensure that such items survive the journey intact. Such questions should be fairly revealing about how they will treat your favourite pieces.
Ensure Insurance
If the worst does happen, and even with the best care in the world, it may do, what can you do? Any reputable firm will have public liability insurance which should cover any such eventuality. In order ensure that you will be able to get back the cost of your furniture, check before booking any firm that they do have such insurance. If they don’t, do not even consider using them. Apart from the actual problem that you’ll have if they do cause damage, it is likely such a firm will be cutting corners elsewhere too (regard any particularly low quotes with a degree of healthy suspicion for this reason). If you need to make a claim on their insurance, then you’ll need to liaise with the removal company to do so. It’s best in these situations to keep calm and be reasonable. Of course, you won’t get your antique dresser or designer mirror back, but as long as the company (and you) have taken all reasonable steps to ensure that they were protected, you have to accept the breakage. Human error will always occur. The aim of making an insurance claim is to get compensation for your loss with which you will be able to at replace it with something similar, even if it’s not the same.
You could also consider taking out your own insurance. If you have a really valuable item to transport, then it might be worth thinking about doing so. Sometimes, your home insurance policy will allow you to insure particular items as an extra even when they are out of your home (although of course, if you are moving home you will need to make sure the insurance applies to your new home too). Generally, a removal firm’s insurance should be all you need to cover your goods, but your own insurance might give you extra peace of mind.
The Last Resort
If the worst comes to the worst, and you have booked a removal firm who don’t have insurance, and they have then broken or damaged your prize possessions, then the best option available to you is to pursue them through the small claims court. Remember, they are in the wrong, and should have had insurance, so you have a reasonable claim to make. Of course, if your broken item is more of sentimental value than financial, it may be best just to lick your wounds and learn your lesson, but otherwise? Make sure you get your money and buy something even more fabulous!
Author: Izzy A. Woods
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Good interior design is about matching form with functionality. No-where is that more true than in the living-room. The kitchen may have been the ‘heart of the home’ in days gone by, but today it is the living-room that is the centre of most homes. Despite this, it can be something of an after-thought in terms of design. Many people will spend considerable time and money getting just the right look in their bathroom or kitchen, but fail to come up with anything much for the living-room.
Seating, in particular, is often relatively un-stylish. Partly that is practical: people want a comfortable sofa more than one that is nice to look at (and that is more than fair enough – coming home after a hard day’s work to an uncomfortable sofa is not much fun). It is also partly because of a lack of options: it can be difficult to find exciting, well-designed living-room furniture that also meets the needs of a busy family. It’s difficult, but not impossible. There are a few ways to make sure your living-room is as stylish as the rest of your home.
Whole-room design
Putting in a new kitchen generally means ripping everything out and starting again. Very often, that’s not so in the living-room. Sofas and chairs in particular are expensive, so many people tend to make-do with what they already have, even if what they have doesn’t fit their ideas for the rest of the room. If you can’t afford to replace your seating, then try and update it with new covers, or pick out elements in the design of them which you can link to other things in the room (for example, if they have chrome feet, make that part of your theme by bringing in chrome picture frames or a chrome fire surround).
Statement pieces
Living-room seating can be a great way of making a statement, so if you are able to bring in new seating, do. Be brave with the designs you choose and make them the centrepiece of the room. The key to finding something that will really act as a focal point of your living-room is to be imaginative. Look a little further than the high street chains: there are many online suppliers and small ‘boutique’ furniture shops which may be able to help supply something that meets your practical needs and looks great.
Think carefully about the configuration of seating and how it fits the room and space you have. You don’t need to go for a traditional three-piece-suite. A corner sofa or modular system that you can adjust according to how you want to use it can work really well, for example. Another option is to have one large sofa for general family use, and one or two statement chairs which don’t match, but contrast.
Use your imagination
As with any kind of design, let your imagination run riot initially. Then consider whether what you want is practical. If it isn’t, then work out ways to compromise. Everyone has their own style, but if you’re struggling to put a living-room seating design together, perhaps these ideas will give you a kick-start:
- For sophisticated urban homes limited on space, a leather loveseat combined with a couple of leather chairs can be attractive and flexible.
- For a retro, sixties look try to get hold of a second-hand Eames chair or a modern copy. This design classic adds instant style to a room.
Go for a luxury look with something more old-fashioned. How about an elegant chaise longue? Or a high-backed wing chair? Both can be either understated, or indulgent, with metallic decoration on the feet and patterned fabric.
- See if you can make your own seating, or hire a professional to do it. With the requisite carpentry skills and some wood un-used space in a bay window can be turned into a comfortable window seat (make the seat hinged, and you also have some useful storage).
There are, of course, countless other options. Good interior design is about matching up your lifestyle, aspirations and interests to create something that feels like yours. If you love design, don’t allow your living –room to let you down – put some thought into it and make it somewhere you love to relax in.
Author: Izzy A. Woods
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The question “which central heating radiators are most efficient?” is not straight forward, as in this context the word “efficient” means different things to different customers. 
An official definition of the word “efficient” is:
“Acting or producing effectively with a minimum of waste, expense, or unnecessary effort.
It can be argued that all central heating radiators are equally efficient insofar as the energy put into a radiator will equal the amount of heat it gives out. In other words, all properly functioning radiators with same heat output capacity, will give out the same amount of heat as one another and will use the same amount of energy to do so.
Radiators are just vessels designed to release energy in the form of heat. The amount of heat they release will depend on the amount of energy put into them.
In asking “Which central heating radiators are the most efficient?”, customers could mean:
1. Which radiator gives out the most heat for its size?
2. Which radiator is the cheapest to run?
3. Which radiator wastes the least fuel?
4. Which radiator heats up the quickest?
Relevant factors to consider in answering the above questions and ensuring you get the right radiator(s) for your specific needs are considered below.
Size and surface area
Its surface area determines the maximum heat output capacity of a radiator. The larger the surface area, the higher the potential heat output.
Surface area will be greatly increased by convectors, fins, or double or triple panels. So for example, the heat output capacity of a flat single panel radiator will be considerably less than a radiator of the same size (height x width) with double panels, and/or convectors or fins.
When considering one model of radiator, then generally, the bigger the radiator, the bigger the heat output. However this is not necessarily the case when comparing one model of radiator against another.
Water content
In theory, the less water a radiator holds, the less time it takes to heat up, and the less fuel is would require to reach full temperature. Consequently, the lower the water content of a radiator, the more “efficient” it could be considered to be. However, in reality, there is little difference in the level of water content across radiator models, although over an entire system the slight variation would multiply.
Design
The shape of a radiator and its design does have an effect on the amount of heat it radiates, but again this is due to the particular surface area of the model. For example, a tubular radiator with hollow tubes offers a lot more surface area than a flat panel design without fins as the heat can be emitted from both the outside and the inside of the tubes. So the design of a radiator does have a direct effect on its maximum heat output.
Material
A radiator’s material of manufacture does not have a direct impact on the amount of heat it gives out. However, the material will be a determining factor in the speed in which the radiator heats up and cools down. For instance, aluminium heats up quickly and cools down quickly, whereas cast iron heats up at a slower rate and cools down at a slower rate.
Finish
Science proves that the finish of a radiator affects its heat output in varying degrees.
There is a principal known as “emissivity” that enables experts to measure the ability for heat to leave (or radiate from) the surface of an object.
Levels of emissivity vary between finishes of radiators. Painted radiators have a higher level of emissivity than bare metal radiators, meaning that painted finishes absorb and release heat more than bare metal finishes. Matt finishes have a higher level of emissivity than gloss radiators. Even the colour of the finish can affect the level of emissivity. For instance, black paint has a higher level of emissivity than white paint. However, the difference in the emissivity of radiators is negligible and would only be realised in laboratory conditions.
Only a chrome finish has a noticeable affect on the heat output of a radiator as chrome has a very low level of emissivity. The chrome coating works on the same principal as the space blankets (the silver insulation blankets) used to keep athletes warm. The chrome coating, whilst looking beautiful, does reduce the ability of the radiator to radiate heat. Chrome (chromium plated) radiators are proven to emit approximately 20% less heat than the equivalent sized radiators in a painted finish.
In theory, the optimum radiator when looking for high heat output and rapid heat up time, taking all factors into account (no matter how minimal their impact) would be a matt black aluminium radiator with the greatest surface area for its size.
In practice, there are many other aspects that will determine the best radiator(s) for your project, including, aesthetics, dimensions to fit your space, budget and availability. Your choice will be governed by which factors take priority.
For more advice on choosing the right radiator(s) speak to a radiator specialist such as Feature Radiators. Contact their expert team directly on 01274 567789, meet them at their large West Yorkshire showroom, where they have over 160 radiators on display or visit their website.
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Beautifully made, and sturdy and strong, this Hahn ceiling rack is perfect for showing off your pots and pans, even herbs or vegetables.
It’s made from 18/10 stainless steel, the highest quality grade, and given a shiny chromed finish. All the fixings are included, along with 6 x swivel hooks, 6 x pan hooks, 12 x S hooks, 32 x hanging links and 4 x ceiling hooks, so there’s plenty of space for your saucepans.
Why not hang salami, onions, paprika or bunches of herbs from it as well for added colour?
Available now from Proleno, on the web at www.proleno.com, on the phone on 0844 357 985
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Posted by Andy in News, tags: Zack
 We were surprised and delighted to see that celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, from Marlow’s outstanding Hand & Flowers, made innovative use of our Zack Mobilo Soap Dispenser whilst competing for his place on BBC Two’s Great British Menu last night.
Tom’s fish course was the most amazing lobster burger and in our opinion was the dish of the day. Of course we are slightly biased I guess as his alternative use of the Mobilo Soap Dispenser as a thermidor mayonnaise dispenser was a stroke of genius.
Of course it’s designed to dispense liquid soap, but why not mayonnaise instead?  And this got us thinking. Do you have a Zack product that you use for something other than it’s original design? Let us know. You never know, if the idea is good enough and it works, it could be the next big thing!
See Tom and his fellow competitors, Phil Thompson and Tom Aikens, in action on the BBC iPlayer.
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The UK government said recently that households may receive up to £10,000 each to spend on “green” improvements, in an effort to encourage eco-friendly housing.
Energy saving and cost effective additions such as double glazing, eco-friendly radiators and roof insulation will be promoted, as well as other forms of home improvement such as underfloor heating, draught proofing and water efficient tap systems.
To qualify, householders must prove that their energy usage can save money, saving on bills in order to qualify for a share of the £10,000 sum. Anyone hoping to benefit from this should ensure that their boiler and radiators are up to scratch, and that they have ideas for further improvements.
Ministers claim that the scheme could boost the economy by up to £2.5 billion and create up to 70,000 jobs. The initial costs are to be covered by retailers and utility providers, with the idea being that the home-owner repays the cost of the improvements over a 25-year period, with small additions to their utility bills.
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Original, solid and silky smooth, the Stainless Steel Zack Sfera Vase is the perfect table top accessory. Made from stainless steel and uniquely shaped, this vase is perfect for minimalist style and when you want to make an impression. Ideal for a single stem or small flower display; show people that you take nothing for granted when it comes to style.
This vase has Zack’s exceptional quality stamped all over it and there will be no mistaking that you clearly know your designers when it comes to home style. It makes a great gift for any occasion and is available gift boxed.
Available now from Proleno, on the web at www.proleno.com, on the phone on 0844 357 985
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A coat hook is often an invaluable accessory that is rarely given due consideration. If you do not require a whole coat stand, a coat hook is the next best option. Available singularly so that you can buy as many or as few as you want; the stainless steel design of this coat hook is typical of Zack and will blend in wonderfully with the modern home.
Practicality meets elegance when it comes to the Stainless Steel Zack Ganzio Coat Hook. Available in a gift box, it is a perfect housewarming present and even makes a unique birthday/Christmas gift. It is heavy and solid and there is no mistaking its exceptional quality.
Available now from Proleno, on the web at www.proleno.com, on the phone on 0844 357 985
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Another work of art in the Atacio range, this Stainless Steel Zack Atacio Clothes Butler is the perfect accessory for the modern bedroom. With a hint of ‘macho’ about it, the Stainless Steel Zack Atacio Clothes Butler makes a great gift for the man in your life and will be the perfect solution to the problem of bedroom clutter.
Stainless steel is the material of the 21st Century and will ensure that even something as traditional as a clothes stand will stand out and hold its own in modern interior design. Even the messiest of people will find it a lot easier to throw clothes on the clothes butler, which is designed to hold any item of clothing, rather than on the floor.
Available now from Proleno, on the web at www.proleno.com, on the phone on 0844 357 985
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Funky and modern, this popular Stainless Steel Zack Atacio Umbrella Stand is perfect for work or home. It is the unique design that makes it stand out from the rest, and it doubles up as both a holder and a place for umbrellas to dry out. It is also the ultimate accessory for bars, restaurants, waiting rooms and virtually anywhere people might visit.
If you are keeping the stand for personal use, it will fit in very nicely with any modern home. It will complement contemporary decor perfectly and will be an eye-catching accessory to place in the hallway.
Available now from Proleno, on the web at www.proleno.com, on the phone on 0844 357 985
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