Homes & Gardens

Effective Approaches to Household Infestations

Household infestations can be a stressful and overwhelming problem, often leaving homeowners feeling helpless as pests infiltrate their homes. Whether it’s termites, cockroaches or rodents, addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the safety and comfort of your living space. In this blog, we will explore fresh and practical strategies for tackling household infestations and keeping pests at bay.

Understanding Pest Behaviour

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why pests invade our homes. Most pests are driven by basic...

Full story

Val Watson

Val Watson

Posted:

Topsham’s Cream of the Crop: The Ideal Place to Call Home.

Topsham’s Cream of the Crop: The Ideal Place to Call Home

A charming period property, on the market for the first time in over 10 years.

11 Follett Road is nestled in the heart of Topsham, a town frequently named one of the best places to live in the UK. This property blends period charm with modern conveniences, offering prospective homeowners an unparalleled opportunity.

Described by Luke Jones, the property agent representing the home, as “a piece of local history,” this delightful house boasts original features including fireplaces in every room, high ceilings typical of its Victorian-era heritage, and a private raised garden...

Read more

The Rise of Smart Homes in the UK

Authored by Liv Butler
Posted: Wed, 03/12/2025 - 6:11am

Smart technology isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s a part of daily life. From controlling home temperatures to answering the door remotely, smart devices are making UK homes more efficient. In 2024, around 7.2 million UK households—roughly 24.4% of all homes—are classified as smart homes. This growth is a massive jump from 2023, when 5.3 million households (19.7%) were using smart products. With smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Nest now found in 54% of homes, the shift toward automation is clearer than ever.

But smart tech isn’t just about convenience—it’s about...

Read more

Rising Rents in Exeter Amidst Growing Demand

Authored by Simon Wells
Posted: Tue, 03/11/2025 - 1:47pm

According to the latest report from the Office for National Statistics , the average monthly private rent in Exeter rose by 6.5 per cent between 2024 and 2025. This highlights the growing demand for housing in the city, with various factors playing a part in that.

For property owners in Exeter, there’s a huge opportunity to benefit from this growth. Along with becoming a potential renter to the influx of people moving here, some homeowners may want to sell their homes to landlords.

What’s Driving the Increase?

The spike in average monthly rent in Exeter to around £1,268...

Read more

Key Materials for Building Sturdy and Stylish Furniture

Authored by Val Watson
Posted: Wed, 03/05/2025 - 9:57am

Creating furniture that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing requires choosing the right materials. Whether you're crafting a bespoke dining table, a modern wardrobe, or a classic wooden cabinet, the quality of materials directly impacts longevity and appearance. From traditional hardwoods to contemporary composite materials, selecting the best option depends on your design goals, budget, and intended use.

Below, we explore some of the best materials for building sturdy and stylish furniture.

1. Solid Wood Hardwood vs Softwood

Solid wood remains one of the most...

Read more

Edenstone and LiveWest start work on £30million housing scheme in Exeter

Authored by News Desk
Posted: Sun, 03/02/2025 - 6:44am

WORK is underway to create 93 new homes in Exeter which will bring more than £1.5 million in vital community investment.

Under a joint venture, Edenstone Group and the largest housing association in the South West, LiveWest , will build 61 private sale properties and 32 affordable homes across circa 10 acres of a 32-acre site off Spruce Close and Celia Crescent, Beacon Heath.

Vision of the future for Exeter

Edenstone Group operations director Chris Edge said: “There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes since we secured reserved matters approval to redevelop...

Read more

Unlocking Creativity: Can Granny Flat Designs Be Made Custom for You?

Authored by Liv Butler
Posted: Wed, 02/26/2025 - 10:36am

As housing needs evolve, more homeowners are exploring the potential of granny flats as flexible, functional living spaces. A common question that arises is: Can granny flat designs be made custom? At Granny Flat Solutions , we believe the answer is a resounding yes. Customizing your granny flat allows you to unlock creativity and tailor the space to your specific needs and aesthetic preferences.

The Benefits of Custom Granny Flat Designs

Opting for a custom granny flat design offers numerous advantages that go beyond standard layouts:

1. Personalized Space...

Read more

Hiring Cheap Skip Bins: Top Providers & Tips

Authored by Val Watson
Posted: Wed, 02/26/2025 - 8:56am

Hiring a skip bin is one of the easiest ways to manage waste, whether for a home clean-up, renovation, or construction project. But finding an affordable skip bin provider that offers quality service can be challenging. If you’re searching for a cost-effective option, Skip Bin Finder provides a simple way to compare prices and find the best deals in your area. But where to hire cheap skip bins without compromising on service? This guide will help you identify the top providers and share expert tips for saving money.

Top Providers for Cheap Skip Bin Hire

Several providers offer...

Read more

How to Prevent Mould Growth in Homes: Tips for a Healthier Living Space

Authored by Liv Butler
Posted: Mon, 02/17/2025 - 6:39am

Mould growth is a common problem in many households, often leading to health issues and structural damage. Preventing mould in your home not only protects your living environment but also ensures the safety and well-being of your family. If you're dealing with mould issues, a professional mould removal service can help eliminate and prevent further infestations. In this guide, we’ll cover effective strategies to keep mould at bay and maintain a healthier home.

Understanding Mould Growth

Mould thrives in damp and poorly ventilated areas. It spreads through tiny spores that float...

Read more

Home DIY jobs to take on during winter

Authored by Liv Butler
Posted: Fri, 02/14/2025 - 3:22pm

Winter is the perfect time to turn your attention to indoor DIY projects and home improvements. Life is always a bit slower in the colder, darker months, giving you time to focus on jobs that often get overlooked. Why not try some of our suggestions?

Odd interior jobs

Winter can uncover those little issues that are all too easy to ignore throughout the year. A creaky floorboard, a misaligned cupboard door, or a dripping tap becomes harder to tolerate when you’re inside more often. Use this season to sort them out.

For squeaky floorboards, a small amount of powdered...

Read more

Top video

Selco Builders Warehouse | England Rugby star Jack Nowell visits Exeter Saracens junior teams

England ace Jack delivers tips to Saracens

Exeter Weather