The Cost Of Asbestos Removal And Is It Worth It

Asbestos came into use as a building material in the 1930s, but, the health risks were not identified early. By 1999, this substance was outlawed because of the dangers and health risks involved.

Asbestos was and is used primarily for


  • Piping

  • Roofing

  • Cavity wall, boards, and attic insulation

  • Flooring

  • Cement walls

  • Gutters 


This material need not panic anyone as long as it is suitable in condition. The risks arise with damaged, broken, and deteriorated asbestos material. This is because of the fibres that become airborne by releasing into the atmosphere. Through care, proper identification, and proper attention, the risk can be prevented.


Dangers of Asbestos Deposits


asbestos caution

Asbestos fibres are harmful when swallowed or inhaled. The fibres get embedded in tissues and linings. These fibres result in cancers and respiratory illnesses, primarily.


Some of the health risks associated with asbestos are mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer. Whilst diseases associated with asbestos include pleural plaques and pleural thickening. Exposure to any amount of asbestos fibres, short or long term, is risky to health. If this is something that has affected you, seek out compassionate legal guidance for mesothelioma patients as legal professionals have the negotiation skills and experience required to get the best compensation for their clients.

Should Asbestos be removed?

Several homes have considerable asbestos amounts within their building. You do not need to bring down the whole house to remove it as long as the asbestos is in a suitable condition. It should not be damaged accidentally as it can pose a health risk. This is when you should use a company that has undergone asbestos training. Any damage to asbestos can release harmful dust and result in risking your health. This is why asbestos removal has to be removed effectively. 

Can I do Asbestos removal myself?

It is best to understand that asbestos removal is no DIY program. It is not only against the law but very risky to your health. This is because the fibres are released to the environment instantly, and this can pose a risk not only to you but to almost anyone around the region.

A professional only can handle total security by donning safety gear. By hiring a professional, you and your area will be safe and the job is done right.

Costs of Asbestos Removal

Asbestos quantity is the primary aspect when the costs of asbestos removal are calculated. Asbestos removal is measurable per square meter. Job complexity drives the costs involved.

Some primary factors taken under cost consideration are:


  • Amount of removal of asbestos

  • Access difficulty, for instance, asbestos roofing removal costs comparatively more than other jobs.

  • Asbestos condition, for instance, damaged asbestos tends to price more than others.

  • Time is taken for travel also is included in the costs.


A professional can assess the quantity, presence, and dangers associated with the removal process. This phase is a must and the average cost is around 50 pounds plus for a basic material appraisal and 200 pounds plus for an extensive survey.

Asbestos sample removal kits are available with the best companies which offer high-quality kits to deal with asbestos removal.

In the kit is the following


  • Filtered Mask- FFP3: To test and develop against dust and fibres from asbestos. This will shield you from breathing any fibres during sampling.

  • P3-filtered respirator

  • Waste Bag for RED Asbestos- Waste bags are standard and for disposing of the PPE post sampling. The red bag is for waste disposal, and this has to be kept in a clear bag.

  • Antibacterial Wipes- Wipes are meant to dampen the PPE before disposal and to avoid any release of fibre from the device.

  • Waste Bag- CLEAR Asbestos

  • Gloves free of Nitrile Powder- Meant for sampling and avoided any asbestos contamination.

  • 24-hr Lab Test 

  • CAT 5/6 - Coveralls- Coveralls to shield against fibres during asbestos sampling.

  • Instruction manual- Steps to follow for the sampling process.

  • Sampling request form

  • Sampling kit


You can choose any of the options below to get extensive survey information:

room in house


Asbestos Encapsulation

In this step, the protective adhesive is applied to all the asbestos material. It avoids the release of dangerous asbestos fibres and dust. It is estimated to be about 8 (plus) pounds per square meter.

Asbestos Removal

This option is best when encapsulation is not viable. For total asbestos removal, this step is considered and carried out by licensed professionals. Get price quotes. It is estimated to be around 50 (plus) pounds per square meter.

Asbestos removal costs are higher than Asbestos encapsulation. Removal will eliminate the threat-totally and will help you to live in a safer environment. It also raises the home value in the future.

Variables

The costs are affected by different variables such as required resources, location, and project scale.

Re-boarding

Post asbestos material removal, re-boarding may be needed. Finishing the re-boarding and decorating costs may also be considered, but it is optional for each. The estimated costs for basis re-boarding can be around 400 (plus) pounds.

Keeping all the above aspects, the average asbestos removal prices can be evaluated.

Average costs


  • Small areas will be lower than 1000 pounds overall.

  • For more significant areas, the price can go up to over 2500 pounds.


Costs involved in eliminating asbestos in garage sections


asbestos sign

The garage asbestos removal costs shall be seen by breaking it down by sections and size. The price quoted below is the starting price.


  • The cost of asbestos removal of the garage roof is about 380 pounds and with sides is about 680 pounds.

  • The cost of asbestos removal of double garage roofing is about 750 pounds, and with sides, it is about 1800 pounds.

  • The cost of asbestos removal of garage insulation boards for a ceiling is about 1350 pounds.


Is it worth it?

Though the costs may be appearing alarming to you, it is essential to remember that health is wealth. The investment is worth it when compared to the long-term risks involved to you and your family.

Conclusion

Owing to the health hazards associated with asbestos, its removal becomes necessary in the construction. Asbestos removal has to be done correctly to ensure there's no release of its fibres into the environment. An asbestos sampling kit will help you to detect the presence of asbestos in the construction. A professional can do this job appropriately without any harm done to the people in and around the area.


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Antique And Vintage Jewellery From Kit Clayton Jewellery

I do have a love of antique jewellery, and as I get older, I appreciate it more and more. There are so many reasons to buy antique and vintage jewellery. The history and heritage of a beautiful antique jewellery piece are incredibly interesting and the workmanship is often outstanding. So when Kit Clayton Jewellery approached me to review their website, I was excited to see what delights I would come across. This post is in conjunction with Kit Clayton Jewellery, but as ever, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Kit Clayton Jewellery is run by Abigail and is named after her grandmother Kit.

Kit Clayton jewellery

Abigail found that when she started working in the jewellery industry in 2014 that she had a real passion for gemstones, vintage and antique jewellery and thus Kit Clayton Jewellery was born. Since starting the company, which is now a family affair, Abigail has increased her knowledge of gems by studying for various jewellery qualifications. She sources her jewellery far and wide and runs the jewellery company between Hatton Garden in London and Cheltenham in Gloucestershire.

box

She also strongly feels that buying pre-owned antique and vintage jewellery is an ethical choice, and the packaging is also sourced from recycled materials wherever possible. 

So now we know about the company, let's have a look at some of the beautiful jewellery they sell.

platinum and sapphire ring

 Platinum, Sapphire and Diamond Lozenge Ring, £1,325.00

My first choice from the Kit Clayton website is this stunning and unusual platinum, sapphire and diamond ring. Although not antique, the ring is made in the Art Deco style and is very striking with an emerald cut sapphire, approx 1 carat in weight as the centre stone. 

Set in a platinum shank and surrounded with small round brilliant cut diamonds approx 0.2 ct in weight, this ring really is a show stopper.

art deco ring

Art Deco 14ct Gold & Old Cut Diamond Shield Ring £575.00

My second choice is this Art Deco 14 ct diamond and gold ring, most likely dating from the 1920s or 1930s.  What is special about this ring is the unique design, set in white gold with a detailed precious mill grain finish. It also has an old European cut diamond at the centre of the ring with an approx weight of 0.15 ct and two small rose-cut diamonds at opposite corners.

This ring is different from everything you will see on the high street and you know that you will probably never see a design like this again. A statement ring you can cherish forever.

violin necklace

Art Deco Platinum Diamond & Pearl Pendant Necklace £1,285.00

My third choice is this platinum, 18ct gold, diamond and pearl necklace in the design of a violin. Estimated to be made around the 1920s or 1930s the delicate necklace has mill-grain platinum work around the edge, making i
t stand out as something special as well as being embellished with white pearls of a gorgeous lustre.

On a 17.5 inch platinum chain, with a box clasp and catch, this exquisite design is perfect as a gift for someone musical and again is a precious and unusual design you won't find elsewhere, that's for sure! The workmanship is something else too, they really don't make jewellery like this any more.

vintage bangle

Vintage 9ct Gold Sapphire & Diamond Bangle £1,495.00

This incredible vintage 9ct gold, sapphire and diamond bangle is my last choice from the Kit Clayton Jewellery website. Made in the late 1980s, the sapphires and diamonds in this bangle really sparkle in the light. Between each sapphire sit two small round brilliant cut diamonds, adding brightness and shine to the piece.

Fully hallmarked and with a solid clasp in excellent working order, this bangle would make a special gift for the loved one in your life or to celebrate a 45th wedding anniversary where sapphires are traditionally the gift.

engagement rings

As you can see, Kit Clayton Jewellery have some very special antique and vintage jewellery items. With free UK delivery via Royal Mail special delivery, you know that your item is insured in the post and will get to you quickly too, and they also have free returns as well.

Check out the antique diamond engagement rings at Kit Clayton Jewellery for more treasure for your very eyes, and read more about my reasons to buy antique and vintage jewellery here. 

Let me know what do you think of the exquisite jewellery? Do you have a favourite precious item from Kit Clayton Jewellery?

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Top 13 Inspiring Creative Fashion Ideas for Autumn

The autumn season is upon us and we are enjoying nature’s riot of colours. Now is the time to look for stylish outfits that match the mood of the season. However, the dilemma is - what to wear when the weather is cold in the morning and evening while super-hot in the afternoons? The trick behind pulling together creative fashion ideas for autumn is to start with the basics. Use chic statement pieces to get your style right for the purpose.

Stylish and fashionable ideas to inspire this autumn season

sweaters

The basics of an autumn fashion wardrobe

The key to getting the best fashion ideas for the season is to start with the basics. Thus, if you have a solid wardrobe of the last year's essentials, be ready for mixing and matching the same with the newer outfits and accessories. Here are some other essential aspects that you need to add to your closets this season. 

Accessories that speak to you

Use bright autumn colours to bring freshness to your outfit.  Natural gemstone silver jewellery in topaz in untreated shades of yellow and brown or fire opals in red, orange and yellow can be used to accessorise your outfit. Statement chandelier earrings are also back and are strikingly beautiful. 

The elevated t-shirt 

For a piece that captures the effortless style and is a great wardrobe essential, t-shirts in cashmere can elevate your wardrobe, keeping you warm when needed. For winter layer a cashmere t-shirt with a cashmere cardigan for some much-needed warmth.

A lightweight jacket or shrug

A lightweight jacket or shrug is a useful item for the chilly morning and can be an excellent addition to your autumn wardrobe. For extremely chilly evenings, consider a bomber jacket, a denim jacket or a lined trenchcoat to keep the cold out.

The easy and simple shift dress

A shift dress is a great addition to your autumn wardrobe. Accessorise with some new jewellery, look for fashionable silver earrings online to make your outfit this seasons, with a classic handbag from your wardrobe. A shift dress is easy to wear, just throw it in the morning and you are sorted for the day.

The cropped pants

Cropped pants were once office staples but today work well for an evening or Sunday brunch with friends. For a fashionable look,  go for a pair that sits perfectly on the mid-waist and is cropped above the ankle area. For the ultimate look, pair your autumn season outfit with high heels to up the glamour. 

The white trainers

If you are planning to rock the weekend, then forget the gym shoes or boots. It is time to get white trainers for a more casual look.  Opt for canvas material but protect them with a waterproof spray for the autumn weather.

Classic Chelsea boots

Classic Chelsea boots never go out of fashion. Wear them with jeans, trousers, even dresses. Vogue magazine thinks Chelsea boots never really go out of fashion and I agree with them!

A denim jacket

Say hello to denim and suede, these are wardrobe classics that are perfect for the autumn season and help to add an edge to any outfit. Bring in a crisp white shirt that works best with jeans and cropped pants. 

Sweaters and midi skirts

Another fashionable wardrobe staple this autumn season is knitwear. 
 Pop on a cotton sweater or a light wool sweater for the cool evenings. Pair with midi skirts or statement trousers to keep you warm. Use preppy style clothing and accessories for an American college look.

Denim meets denim

The combination in the past was off-limits but if you have the right vintage denim jacket then double denim can certainly be worn. Look for silver earrings online to accessorise this outfit. 

Off-shoulder top

Similarly, use an off-shoulder top alongside jeans to dress up for a girl's night out. The look is feminine, sharp and sophisticated and a classic black off-shoulder top is always a great look.

A stylish watch

Always a classic, a stylish watch can add that up to date look to an outfit. Did you know that Apple watch straps can be easily changed? Why not have a few different straps to change with your outfit. 

So here are 13 fashion ideas for autumn. What is your favourite? 

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Skiing or Snowboarding? Check out Protest Clothing

If you are a skier or snowboarded or even if you love chilly winter destinations with a light dusting of snow or perhaps you a good Christmas market, you know the importance of having warm, cosy clothing to keep the cold out.  So let you tell you about a quality brand that recently contacted me - Protest. This is an advertorial for Protest.

Protest hoody

Protest is a design-led sportswear company based in Holland, founded by a group of snowboarders, and yes you heard that right, snowboard enthusiasts from Holland! The clothes are made of the best functional materials that keep you warm and dry, both on the slopes and off.  


It's all in the detail with Protest clothing. They really care about the detail like the materials, the zippers, the stitchings, the fabrics, the finishes, and the washes. 


Materials like softshell fabric, that's windproof, waterproof and warm. as well as flexible for the slopes or walking around picture-postcard snow-dusted towns. 


Zippers on trousers that make it easier to get them into your boot, whether you are snowboarding or walking to the cute apres-ski bar.  


The breathability of jackets that keep you warm on the slopes or doing that Christmas shopping, as well as allowing moisture to escape keeping you fresh. These are the details that matter. So let's have a look at some of the ski and snowboarding favourites from Protest this autumn/winter season.

Fleeces


The fleeces that Protest sell are top quality. The mens fleeces and womens fleeces are stretchy, in a breathable fabric and super insulating. The fall/winter collection 20/21 focuses on sustainability, colours and prints that you would see on the high street.  

Whether you want to go snowboarding or skiing and using a fleece as a layer to keep the warmth in, or popping to the shops or a cafe for some delicious refreshments, then a fleece is a great autumn/winter stand by. 

Ski Jackets


The ski jackets that Protest sell are in a range of colours, from simple neutral tones to fashion-led designs. The mens ski jackets and womens ski jackets are made of multi-functioning materials as well, making them waterproof and warm too with ventilation zips.

Of course, a ski or snowboarding jacket can also be used as a great winter jacket, as they are made to withstand almost all weather conditions. A high K-Factor which is noted on their ski jackets shows how breathable and waterproof the jacket is. So go for the highest rating for a jacket that will keep the rain out.

Thermals

Thermal tops and thermal trousers are a winter must-have. No one likes to be cold and whether you are actively snowboarding, skiing or hiking, or visiting family or friends and the Christmas markets, you still want to be cosy. 

The selection of thermals from Protest are great, with patterns and prints that are fashion-led as well as basic block colours with turtle necks or a hood to keep your ears warm.


As you can see Protest have lots of great items that combine fashion with functionality for winter and whether you are on the slopes or not, it's worth checking out their website for your winter clothing choices. 

Green credentials

Protest are also focusing on sustainability this year, so are using recycled materials such as recycled PET, recycled nylon and recycled rubber in their jackets. They are also working to eliminate PFC from their supply chain (the material that makes jackets waterproof) so have to be applauded for that.

To get 10% off your order use the code diary10 at checkout. This coupon is valid until February 28, 2021. 

Let me know, what do you think of the Protest skiing and snowboarding collection from AW 20/21? Do you have any favourites from the designs featured?

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Keeping Your Sparkler Safe: What You Should Know About Insuring Your Jewellery

#AD. In the interest of disclosure and transparency, the syndication of this article has been provided and paid for by FBD Insurance

You’ve popped the champagne, toasted with family and friends and you can’t stop staring at your left hand. You’re engaged! The next step – before you even say yes to the dress – is to make sure you protect that glittering diamond and keep it safe for many happy years to come.

For most people, an engagement ring is the single most valuable piece of jewellery they own. So, like your home and car, it’s vital to make sure it’s insured and stored safely. Not sure where to start? We’ve outlined a couple of simple steps to help you on your way.

Call your insurer

engagement ring

Many couples insure an engagement ring under their household insurance, such as the Home, Apartment or Renters' policies with FBD. Most contents cover will include jewellery, but depending on its value, the ring might need to be added as a specified item. It’s important to take the time to go through the details and arrange the right cover for you and your lifestyle. It might also be a good time to evaluate your overall home insurance, especially if you’ve recently renovated, built an extension or purchased new additions for the home. If you’re lucky enough to receive high-value gifts for your engagement or wedding, you’ll want to make sure that these are protected as well, especially if you’re planning on heading off for an exotic honeymoon overseas.

Valuation

GIA diamonds

In the event of a claim, insurance companies will usually ask for supporting documentation, such as the receipt or an original valuation. The jeweller you or your beloved purchased the ring from will often provide a valuation without charge. If not, the price depends on the value of the ring, and can usually be negotiated. You should choose a reputable jeweller with proper accreditations for this task, as you want to ensure you get an accurate valuation you can rely on. It’s important also to keep the original document safe, sending it to the insurance company by registered post and asking for it to be returned when they’re finished their inspection. Some insurers require you to get the ring valued every couple of years, as the value of jewellery, especially diamonds, can fluctuate. You don’t want to be under or over-insured.

Check the fine print

reading

When it comes to special high-value items such as engagement rings, most insurance policies have certain requirements regarding valuation, maintenance and storage. It’s always a good idea to read through the paperwork and ensure you’re covered for all eventualities including loss, destruction or theft. For most people, it makes sense to get cover for outside the home, as well as inside. Rings can sometimes go missing on holidays - they can easily slip off fingers slick with suncream - so you should probably check that it’s insured overseas before you fly. Depending on the value of your ring, you may be required to keep it in a locked safe when not wearing it. Be careful to take note of these little details so that you’re fully covered should the worst happen.

Keeping it safe

ring

We’ve all seen those social media posts about rings lost in swimming pools, shopping centres and even down a lift shaft. You don’t want that to be you, so have a think about how you can keep your beautiful new ring safe as you go about your daily life. There are small changes you can make that’ll help protect your ring, such as using hotel safes on holidays and secure lockers in the gym. Make sure you don’t leave it out on display at home, and it might be a good idea to leave it on while washing your hands - you certainly don’t want to leave it behind, or worse, watch it disappear down the sink! It can be tricky too to make sure it fits properly, depending on how warm or cool your hands are - if it’s a little loose, you should get it resized or even get a ring-guard fitted. Weddingbee has a handy guide to making sure it sits just right on your finger.

Maintenance

exam ring

Depending on your contents cover or your specified item policy, you might find that you need to get a professional jeweller to check the ring’s settings every two years or so: nobody wants that precious diamond to come loose. That’s often a good time to get it cleaned, too, as hand sanitiser, creams and washing-up liquid can build up on jewellery, dulling the sparkling effect of a precious jewel. It’s important you bring your ring to a professional, well-recognised and fully insured jeweller to be cleaned or checked, though, so that it’s in safe hands.

Making sure your engagement ring is protected and insured will help give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy this special time of your life - all you have to do now is send out the invitations, organise the party, and show up on the big day!

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Blinds, Curtains, Shutters - Which Are Best?

Have you been considering whether to have blinds, curtains or shutters on your windows? It can be tough to decide exactly which one is best for your needs. This is as Ad.

I’ve put together a guide to help you choose which is best. There are various reasons why you should choose any of the three options depending on your window style, so hopefully, this guide will help you make up your mind.

Blinds

blinds

You can get all different types of blinds including roller blinds, wooden venetian blinds and Roman blinds. It is important you know which one you want and which will suit your house best.

You can even get wooden Venetian blinds made to measure. So why should you consider blinds? They have many advantages, one being that they allow you to control the exact amount of light entering that particular too.

They are also a great option when it comes to privacy - passers-by are unable to see into your home. You can even get Blinds Central Coast (or wherever you are located) to match your decor - perfect if you like things to match.

Blinds tend to give a home a cleaner and cooler feel whereas other options tend to give a cosier feel. They also tend to be one of the cheaper solutions, depending on the type of blind you choose.

If you know what fit you want and what type, then you will soon be good to go.

Curtains

curtains

Curtains are great as they are so simple. You can open and tie them back and can choose from a variety of colours to best suit your home’s decor. These are definitely the cosiest of the three options and can easily be picked up from a variety of places, both online and offline, in the length you need. You can also choose for them to be custom made but this will be more expensive.

Curtains are a fantastic choice for dressing a child’s bedroom especially as you can get different cartoon characters on them. These can be as costly or as affordable as you let them be - you can buy them from a variety of different places, even on the high street.

Shutters

shutters

With shutters offering different degrees of privacy and light control, shutters are a stylish way of dressing your windows. They can really create a wow factor in a room. They are versatile and can be custom-built. They’re probably the most expensive option due to usually being custom built but they are a great choice.

Shutters also allow you to ventilate your room when it's hot and dark outside and help prevent insects from entering your home. They have wonderful sound insulation too.

venetian blinds

So now you know the differences between the three and which one is best suited to your needs. Which one is the perfect choice for your home?


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