Template - Front page: Plan A Day Out: National Botanic Garden of Wales

Celebrating almost 20 years since it opened to the public the award-winning National Botanic Garden of Wales is a great day out whatever your age and interests.

Opened in May 2000 near Llanarthe, Carmarthenshire, the most visited garden in Wales has welcomed more than 2.5million people and is recognised as the most influential landscape scheme in Wales over the last 75 years.

Set on land that was once a magnificent Regency water park, the garden has the perfect blend of both modern and historic attractions including lakes, ponds, woods and a licensed restaurant.

You will find an inspiring range of themed gardens, including the Tropical Butterfly House and Aqualab which are ideal for children along with a zip wire in the adventure play park and the fairy wood, complete with pint-sized residents!

You can also learn about the geology of Wales with a history lesson going back 300 million years.

The garden is also a centre for botanical research and conservation, and features the world’s largest single-span glasshouse.

Designed by Foster and Partners, the structure is 95 m (312 ft) long and 55 m (180 ft) wide, with a roof containing 785 panes of glass and houses plants from Childe, Western Australia, South Africa, California, Canary Islands and the Mediterranean.

A double walled garden houses a wide variety of plants, including a modern interpretation of a kitchen garden.

Meanwhile, the hot and steamy Tropical House is now home to a kaleidoscope of hundreds of exotic and colourful butterflies from around the world.

The Garden is host to the British Bird of Prey Centre, offering amazing encounters where you can see eagles fly every day.

Already at home there are 20 native birds of prey including hawks, falcons kites and buzzards, as well as eagles. Owl and red kite taster sessions take place daily, allowing you the opportunity to have these birds fly to your glove.

For further details visit: www.botanicgarden.wales

 

Template - Front page: Matthew’s House – Securahome’s charity of the year

It’s our 25th year and to celebrate we wanted to find a local charity to support that meant a lot to our customers and community.

At the start of the year we set about asking you what we should support and we had a lot of great nominations. We put the front runners to the public vote on our Facebook page and are delighted to say that Matthew’s House in Swansea was selected.

This homeless charity carries out truly inspiring work in Swansea city centre, providing support and a fantastic ‘pay what you can’ café that is open to all (do visit, the food is fantastic and you will be supporting a very good cause).

To kick-start our year-long support, from now until January 31, 2020, Securahome will donate £25 to Matthew’s House for every order over £1,000.

In spring, we are planning a sponsored bike ride and staff also hope to take part in a fundraising “sleep out” in Swansea to support for the charity in February.

Manager Thom Lynch of Matthew’s House is a complete dynamo and full of ideas about how the charity can reach more people who need help. He explained the Matthew’s House ethos of being ‘a place of unconditional hospitality and hope for those who are most vulnerable’.

Thom said: “We could not do any of our work without the support of so many people. This is a special place, with a simple ethos, big vision and an incredible group of volunteers who want to make a difference.

“But we won’t thrive and support those people who need it the most in our society without financial backing.

“We cannot thank Securahome and its customers enough for choosing us as their designated charity and want to assure them that their endeavours will benefit a lot of people who desperately need their help and support.”

For those of you who haven’t come across Matthew’s House, it is based in a former Grade II listed church near the station on High Street.

It is run by volunteers and its facilities include showers, laundry room, lounge, meeting rooms, auditorium and a full-fitted kitchen.

Its café – Matt’s Café – takes food donated by local supermarkets and businesses, and turns them in to delicious ‘home-cooked’ style meals on a pay-as-you-feel basis.

Within a year of its 2017 launch Matthew’s House had a team of more than 70 volunteers and had served 8,000 meals. Now the charity continues to build on its current success with plans to expand its facilities so that it can help even more vulnerable people, but it needs fundraising events and donations to carry out this vital work.

All of us at Securahome look forward to working with Matthew’s House and hope that over this silver anniversary year we can make a lasting difference to those people who use it and need our support.

Template - Front page: Long-lasting timber windows from Securahome

Timber windows offer a timeless appeal that is ideal for traditional period homes and conversions.

Traditionally, wooden windows are seen as high-maintenance, but modern technology is changing that.

Securahome timber windows come from engineered timber. Made up of sustainable, knot-free European Redwood that is multi-layered to make it moisture resistant.

The range is warp and twist resistant and coated in micro-porous paint. These come in a range of RAL colours and offer added protection.

Securahome offers a range of three popular timber windows styles:

  • Timber storm-proof windows

    This range comes with a protective lip over the frame, when closed, to protect against draughts. Coupled with highly efficient double-glazing units, they are ideal for homes that need extra protection from the elements, such as on hillsides or near the sea. Behind the traditional appearance the windows have modern security measures.  This includes internal beading which prevents panes of glass being removed from the outside and multi-point locking mechanisms.

  • Timber flush windows

    Wooden, flush, casement windows have a classic appeal making them suitable for conservation areas and period homes. To ensure you get a look that suits your home, these timber windows can be finished with micro-porous stain or painted in any colour from the 200+ RAL range. There is also a range of traditional ironmongery to choose from for that all-important finishing touch.

  • Timber sash windows

    Following Victorian and Georgian designs, Securahome’s sash windows are thermally-efficient offering a smooth and rattle-free opening action and excellent security. Customer can choose Astragals, (or glazing bars) to enhance the look of these traditional sash windows. They also come in two variations, the hidden spring sash window and the traditional box sash window.

To find out more about the range of colours, handles and accessories available in our timber window range, give our design team a call on 0800 808 3224 or drop into our Swansea showroom, to see the range in full.

Template - Front page: Llancaiach Fawr: Step back in time for a great family day out

If you’re looking for to a great day out this spring, there’s nowhere more atmospheric, fun-filled and spooky than a tourist attraction like Llancaiach Fawr Manor.
The living history museum near Caerphilly stands proudly as it has done for over 450 years and welcomes hundreds of families every year.
This superbly restored gentry manor house is no ordinary heritage attraction.
The costumed servants of the house, whose footsteps echo through the halls, welcome you on arrival and are living and working in 1645.
They can’t wait to tell you about all the gossip about the area, the master himself and of course any events that may be happening in the area.
Fires crackle, candles flicker and the sounds and smells of domestic life make your visit a memorable experience of the past as you become immersed in the time of the Civil Wars and the cares and concerns of ordinary people living in extraordinary times.
Time stands still at Llancaiach Fawr which has been restored and furnished as it would have been in 1645.
All the furnishings are accurate reproductions of items from the time of the Colonel Edward Prichard who changed his allegiance in 1645 from the Royalist to the Parliamentarian cause and completely redecorated the interior of the manor.
Originally built in 1530 on the site of an earlier medieval castle, the Manor was designed to be easily defended during the turbulent reigns of Tudors and is one of the finest examples of a semi-fortified manor in Wales today.
When Civil War broke out Colonel Prichard was appointed Commissioner of Array to the King, raising men and money for the Royalist cause in Glamorganshire.
By the middle of 1645 support was waning and King Charles I visited Llancaiach Fawr for lunch on 5th August.
Unimpressed by the King, the Prichard’s and many other Glamorgan gentry changed sides to support Parliament.
Visitors today are overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and smells of a bygone age as they wander from room to room, up the grand staircase and through the panelled hallways and bedrooms.
However, once darkness falls, the real residents of Llancaiach Fawr Manor make their appearance.
Touring in search of the ghosts that remain here is a popular tourist attraction during the winter months.
Paranormal investigators consider Llancaiach Fawr Manor as one of the most atmospheric and haunted buildings in Wales.
Visit https://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr

Template - Front page: Succulent Welsh lamb makes an ideal spring Sunday meal

At this time of year there’s nothing more reassuring that a hot, tasty meal to see you through the coldest days of spring.

Traditional roast Welsh lamb with roast potatoes and gravy is an all-time classic that ignites the taste buds with its juicy flavours and tenderness.

INGREDIENTS

Serves 8

1 Leg of Welsh lamb or best end or rump

1 onion

1 carrot

1 stick of celery

1 leek

Sprig thyme

Bay leaf

Clove of garlic

Sprig of rosemary

Lamb stock


For the potatoes

500g old potatoes

100g onions

500ml chicken or vegetable stock

30g butter, melted

Seasoning – salt & pepper

 

Method

  • Pre-heat the oven to 200°C
  • Roughly chop the vegetables and place in a roasting tin with the herbs, garlic and leg of lamb – if using a rack or rump, seal the outer surface in hot oil before placing in the roasting tray.
  • Baste the leg with a little oil and season well with salt and cracked black pepper, place in the hot oven for 40 minutes until well coloured.
  • Meanwhile peel and finely slice the potatoes and onion. Do not place in water or wash the potatoes after slicing. In a large bowl add salt and pepper. Place into a casserole dish arranging the top layer decoratively and barely cover with the stock, brush with the melted butter.
  • Turn down the heat to 160°C. Place the leg onto the potatoes to finish roasting for a further 60 minutes or so depending on the size of the leg, allow 20 minutes per ½ kilo as a guide.
  • By cooking the lamb on top of the potatoes the juices provide extra flavour and it becomes a one pot dish. If using the rump or rack adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the lamb is kept pink and moist. In all cases remove from the oven and wrap in foil and keep warm for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow the joint to rest.
  • The roasting tray with the vegetables can be de-glazed with a little lamb stock, re-boiled and strained to give a nice roast gravy to accompany the lamb.

Template - Front page: Securahome is Which? Trusted Trader

Securahome’s customers can continue to rely of our high-quality products.  Especially as the UK’s largest consumer association Which? awards us a ‘Trusted Trader’ mark.

The endorsement scheme recognises reputable traders who successfully pass an assessment process. Above all, the whole process is audited by trading standards professionals.

Securahome’s MD Jason Jenkins said: “This year we celebrate our 25th anniversary.  Hence, this title is the icing on the cake of our enduring success.  We work hard to ensure that the products we provide are always of the very best quality.  Similarly, we also strive to ensure our services are equally of the highest standard.

“To are proud to be recognised as a company that consumers can rely on.  It is testament to a quarter of a century of hard work and commitment.”

Which? allow businesses like Securahome to apply for the quality standard by going through a range of assessments. These includes examining the financial health of the business, checking customer satisfaction reports, examining and a face-to-face visits and interviews.

Jason Jenkins adds: “We’ve worked tirelessly for this “trusted trader” accreditation which not all businesses that apply successfully attain.

As a result, “The feedback from assessors is invaluable.  It shows we have met their high standards before allowing us to join the Trusted Trader scheme.”

Template - Front page: Transform your conservatory with a solid roof

If your conservatory or orangery extension is more than a few years old, chances are that you are just considering opening the doors on it again.

A traditional conservatory, with an old-style glass or polycarbonate roof, often sees the mercury plummet in winter, meaning the room is little warmer than outdoors. Heat in any room rises and if the roof isn’t insulated, then not only is it difficult to keep warm but energy bills increase. As the sun comes out, solar gain means that the temperatures rise again, but in the middle of summer this can make a conservatory uncomfortably hot. There is a solution that doesn’t mean tearing down your conservatory, and it’s a replacement solid or thermally-efficient glass roof. The solid roofs are well-insulated, making them comparable to one of traditional slate or tile construction. They are also relatively quick to install, making them a great alternative to a full rebuild. There are two options available:
  • The first is to install a traditional tile-effect roof made from lightweight aluminium panels that are super-insulated and come in a range of finishes, designed to match the roof of your home.
  • The second is the contemporary LivinRoof, a hybrid solid and glass roof, that allows you to ‘zone’ part of your room where you would like more light or shade. This roof has a stunning, modern appearance.
A solid roof will also change the interior of your conservatory, the ceiling will be plaster-boarded, and you can add lighting, such as down-lights, wherever you feel it would work best. As the thermal efficiency of your conservatory is improved, you may have the option of removing any doors between it and the main living areas of your home, meaning it really will become a year-round room.  

Template - Front page: Choose Heritage windows for a classic design with modern benefits

In 1994, windows tended to be white UPVC. Some were under the optionon what was gained in low-maintenance was lost in aesthetic appeal.

Well, times have moved on and we can now offer windows in strong, engineered timber, aluminium or UPVC.  The Heritage range is becoming increasingly popular, ideal for those who want the best of both worlds. This range is perfect for those with a period home or conversion.  Especially if you want windows with a traditional look. Heritage windows offer excellent thermal efficiency and low maintenance. They are made with an exacting eye for detail.  This follows the key principles, shapes and dimensions of classic joinery. In fact, the range adheres so strongly to traditional joinery that windows can in some area be installed in line with Article 4 conservation regulations.  This is because it conforms to historical design guidelines (this varies between local authorities, so always check with your conservation office). As well as looking good, the Heritage range is created using cutting edge technology hence, making them A+ rated for thermal efficiency. Belying their traditional charm, the Heritage range of windows are also designed with stringent security and acoustic measures to reduce noise. As you would expect from a UPVC window, the Heritage range doesn’t warp, swell or flake, and there no need for re-sanding or re-painting. It really is the best of both worlds.

Template - Front page: Doors: The new threshold for style and design

Whether you want a grand entrance, a stable door to the garden or bi-folding doors to bring more light into your favourite room. Style and design are likely to be at the top of your list.

For a front or back door, composite styles offer classic and contemporary designs that can sit as well on a period property as a modern home. Offering excellent security and A++ rated thermal efficiency. Securahome’s composite doors come in no fewer than 25 styles. From ultra-modern to urban classics and the country charm of a stable door. There are also 13 different colours to choose from. Are you looking for low-maintenance? These doors can handle the heaviest of storms and the hottest of summers, without warping, swelling or cracking. When it comes to traditional appeal, engineered timber is a good choice thanks to its strength (they use it to build bridges after-all!) At Securahome, our timber doors are made using strong multi-layer European Redwood timber.  This ensures they are resistant to warping and swelling. Micro-porous paint or wood-stain finishes the surface, to keep it in top condition for many years. All doors have multi-point locking mechanisms and come with a wide variety of classic door hardware options including letter-plates, knockers and security chains. Bi-folding doors are one of those improvements that can truly transform a room. They bring in light providing an almost seamless connection with the outdoors to your home. Perfect for summer, when they can be folded back to welcome in fresh air.  Alternatively,  in winter the expanse of glass brings more light into your home on even the gloomiest of days. To maximise light, opt for aluminium bi-folding doors as the strength of the material means we can create slim frames and a 90 per cent clear opening. If you want to find out more about all of the Securahome door ranges? Including UPVC, stable, patio and French doors, give our design team a call on 0800 808 3224.

Template - Front page: From chilly conservatory to cosy family room

Why not add warmth to your old conservatory?

Are you chilly? Do you want to add warmth to your old conservatory?  A South Wales couple transform their old, underused, conservatory into a versatile family room.  This is thanks to a stylish new solid roof and A rated glazing from Securahome.

Claire and Nigel Childs’ conservatory was built 12 years-ago on the back of their detached Llantrisant home.

However, the couple soon became aware that the polycarbonate roof and older style glazing was not efficient.  During the winter it was too cold to make it comfortable, let alone cosy and in the height of summer, even with all of the windows and doors open, it was too hot.

Basically they could not use this part of the house which opened up onto the garden.  This should have been a perfect extra family room not a chilly conservatory.

Solution?

Hearing how modern solid roof extensions are far more thermally efficient than old-style conservatories they start to investigate further.  “Solid roofs hold a more comfortable temperature all-year-round,” explains Nigel. put simply “they adds warmth to your old conservatory.”

“We picked up the phone to Securahome and their design team came to the property to discuss all available options. They chatted to us on how a solid roof extension could solve their problems.”

“They discussed all of the modern materials and contemporary designs and went back to create a 3D drawing of the space available.  This was a great help for us to visualise the end result.

“It was important for us to have a room built to fit our needs and the Securahome team managed to capture the design we had in mind.

“They were fantastic from the moment they walked into our home.  They to into plan the extension we had in mind. Within a few weeks they were on site and work was underway.”

What is involved?

Nigel and wife Claire kept the original conservatory frame.  They just install a part-glazed roof and replaced all of the surrounding glass with new A+ grade, energy-efficient windows.

The outcome of installing a solid room extension

this creates a bright room for the family to enjoy every day of the year, whatever the Welsh weather.

The conservatory is now an extension to the kitchen and used on occasions as a dining room or an extra family lounge for entertaining friends.

Nigel explains: “The transformation of the conservatory is really incredible and we now have an extra room that we can use all year round.

“The Securahome team were efficient and here on time. Nothing was too much trouble for them and I wouldn’t hesitate recommending them to others.”

To find out more about how Securahome could transform your home, speak to one of our design team on 0800 808 3224.