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The real cost of using an electric fan this summer

Sam Allcock
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The real cost of using an electric fan this summer

Families across the UK are once again sweltering in some unprecedented heat as health officials issues a warning of danger to life as temperatures reach 35C.

The Met Office said another heatwave is due from Friday with hot weather running into next week.

It’s the type of weather that has us all setting off for Aldi to buy an electric fan… if they haven’t already sold out.

But what does it actually cost to keep a fan on through the night if you just can’t get any relief?

Many worry that keeping one on all night will rack up those already-ramped up energy bills.

Cost of running a fan

According to Uswitch, a standard 120W pedestal fan costs about 34p to run per hour. Running it between 10pm and 8am would cost about 33 pence. Doing that for a week costs £2.35 – 75 pence more than last summer.

However, this is much cheaper to run than an air conditioning unit. A portable one can cost 28p per hour – or almost £20 if used every night of the week.

Keep your cool

Other ways to get cooler in the summer nights include sleeping near an open window and without covers, filling a hot water bottle with ice cold water and wearing lighter pyjamas.

One handy tip is to place bed sheets and pillows into the freezer ready for bedtime!

Energy prices

The latest prediction is the energy price cap will rise by 82% in October (to £3,582/year on typical use).

The energy price cap limits what firms can charge in England, Scotland and Wales for their default standard variable tariffs. It currently changes every six months – soon every three. More than 70% of homes are now on it – pretty much everyone who isn’t on a fix.

Michael Zetser: Start-Up Mistakes to Avoid

Claire James
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Michael Zetser: Start-Up Mistakes to Avoid

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Michael Zetser has unique insights into what it takes to launch and grow a business. This article will explore a selection of common startup mistakes, sharing strategies to avoid them.

According to a report published by Statista, the main reasons why startups fail are:

  • Running out of funds (38%)
  • Lack of market need (35%)

Other common startup mistakes include:

  • Lack of focus
  • Poor hiring choices
  • Failure to execute marketing and sales
  • A flawed pricing model
  • Focusing on investors rather than customers
  • Lack of the right co-founders or team
  • Spending too much, too soon
  • Failure to ask for help
  • Failing to invest in social media marketing

Many fledgling founders fail to conduct adequate research into products or services they plan to build. Rather than spending time conducting careful research, many entrepreneurs skip straight from idea to implementation without conducting due diligence into the industry and the competitive landscape they are venturing into.

In terms of mitigating the risk of failure and boosting their chances of business success, there are some very effective steps available to entrepreneurs. First, it is important for entrepreneurs to adjust their mindset. Nobody likes the idea of failure, but it is impossible to create a successful business without taking calculated risks.

Financial expert and founder Deacon Hayes highlights the importance of entrepreneurs making a business plan, pointing out that too many enterprises start out without even a basic plan. Hayes advocates founders mapping out a basic plan (even if it is just one page) that identifies how much the business will cost to operate, how much they anticipate selling, and who would buy their products and why.

It is crucial for business owners to have strong organizational skills too. With dozens of things happening simultaneously, it is important to maintain daily task lists to eliminate the risk of important duties being overlooked.

Entrepreneurs need to know their market inside out, recognizing the target customer they are building for. For entrepreneurs with a technical background, writing code may come a great deal easier than dealing with members of the public. However, without human feedback, it is impossible for the founder to gauge whether or not they are on the right track. It is important to appreciate that a great product does not necessarily translate to a successful business, with many companies falling into the trap of focusing on markets that are simply too small to sustain a big business.

Another common mistake made by entrepreneurs is trying to do everything themselves. It can be challenging for business leaders to relinquish responsibilities and control over a business built with their blood, sweat, and tears. However, the key to scaling any enterprise, and ultimately achieving business success, is building strong teams of talented, incentivized individuals who can be trusted with tasks. Founders need to cover a variety of different skillsets and backgrounds as their business expands, recognizing where open roles require candidates with specialist skills.

In conclusion, by avoiding these common mistakes, start-ups can get off to the best start possible and will have the greatest chance of success.

What kind of mental health support do employees expect?

Sam Allcock
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What kind of mental health support do employees expect?

What kind of mental health support do employees expect?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different employees will have different expectations when it comes to mental health support. However, some common expectations may include access to mental health resources (such as wellbeing apps, counselling or therapy), support from managers and co-workers, and a workplace culture that values mental health. Additionally, employees may appreciate employers who are proactive about addressing mental health issues and promoting wellness in the workplace. Offering mental health support is a must for a modern business.

What can a business do to help employees’ mental health?

There are many steps that businesses can take to help improve employee mental health. Some actionable items include providing access to mental health resources, fostering a supportive workplace culture, and implementing wellness initiatives. Additionally, businesses can train managers and employees on how to identify and address mental health issues. By taking these steps, businesses can create a mentally healthy environment for all employees.

What is a wellness initiative?

A wellness initiative is a program or policy that promotes healthy lifestyle choices. Wellness initiatives can include activities such as fitness classes, health screenings, and stress-reduction programs. These initiatives are designed to improve employees’ physical and mental health. By promoting wellness in the workplace, businesses can create a healthier environment for all employees.

Benefits of a wellness program?

There are many benefits of implementing a wellness program in the workplace. Some of these benefits include reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and improved morale. Incorporating stress-relief activities like relaxing online games can offer employees an enjoyable way to decompress during breaks, boosting overall satisfaction. Additionally, wellness programs can help to reduce health care costs and promote a healthier lifestyle for employees. Wellness programs that focus on mental health can also help to address common mental health issues, such as stress and anxiety.

10 ways to reduce stress in the office?

There are many ways to reduce stress in the workplace. Some tips include taking breaks throughout the day, setting realistic goals, and communicating with co-workers and managers. Additionally, employees can try to establish a work-life balance, exercise regularly, and eat healthy meals. By reducing stress in the workplace, employees can improve their mental health and overall well-being.

1) Take breaks throughout the day: It’s important to take breaks during the workday to clear your head and relax. Try to step away from your desk for a few minutes every hour.

2) Set realistic goals: Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to ask for help.

3) Communicate with co-workers and managers: Open communication is key to reducing stress at work. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or undervalued, talk to your manager about your concerns.

4) Establish a work-life balance: Don’t let your work consume your life. Make time for your hobbies, friends, and family.

5) Exercise regularly: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. Even if you can’t make it to the gym, try to get some exercise by taking a walk during your lunch break.

6) Eat healthy meals: Eating healthy food will help you feel better and have more energy. Try to pack your own lunch or snacks so you can avoid unhealthy vending machine options.

7) Get enough sleep: It’s important to get enough sleep to reduce stress and improve your overall health.

8) Take annual leave days: Don’t feel guilty about taking a vacation day. Unplugging from work will help you come back feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

9) Practise mental health exercises regularly: Mental health and mindfulness can help you focus on the present moment and reduce stress. There are many apps and websites (including Koa Foundations) that offer mental health and well-being exercises.

10) Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to cope with stress, it’s okay to seek professional help. A therapist can help you identify and manage your stressors.

How to spot employee burnout?

There are many signs of employee burnout. Some common indicators include excessive absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased conflict with co-workers. Additionally, employees who are experiencing burnout may seem disengaged or disinterested in their work. If you notice these signs in an employee, it’s important to talk to them about their well-being.

What are some tips for preventing employee burnout?

There are many ways to prevent employee burnout. Some tips include promoting a healthy work-life balance, encouraging holidays and days off, and providing employees with opportunities for growth and development. Additionally, employers can try to create a supportive and positive work environment. By taking these steps, employers can help to reduce the risk of employee burnout.

How to offer better support for staff?

There are many ways to offer better support for staff. Some tips include providing employees with clear expectations, offering regular feedback, and promoting a healthy work-life balance. By taking these steps, employers can help to reduce the risk of employee burnout.

When it comes to mental health, what do employers need to know?

Employers need to be aware of the signs of mental health problems and how to provide support for employees who are struggling. Additionally, employers should promote a healthy work-life balance and create a supportive work environment.

What are some tips for talking to employees about mental health?

Some tips for talking to employees about mental health include being open and honest, listening without judgement, and offering support and resources. Additionally, employers should try to create a safe and supportive environment where employees feel comfortable talking about their mental health. By taking these steps, employers can help to reduce the stigma around mental health and promote a healthy workplace.

If an employee discloses a mental health problem, what should you do?

If an employee discloses a mental health problem, it’s important to offer support and resources. Additionally, employers should try to create a safe and supportive environment where employees feel comfortable talking about their mental health.

Here Is All You Need To Know About Foundation And Basement Damp Proofing

Sam Allcock
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Here Is All You Need To Know About Foundation And Basement Damp Proofing

As a homeowner, one of the major concerns you should have is protecting your home from any moisture and moisture damage. In addition to health reasons,  protecting your property from moisture is an excellent way to maintain its structural integrity. This is why damp proofing is very important and in this article, we have highlighted everything you need to know about damp proofing your home’s foundation and basement.

Why damp proofing?

By damp proofing the walls of your foundation or basement (i.e., below ground level), you are essentially preventing moisture (soil moisture) from entering your property.

Although most homes built after the 1950s will typically have a damp proof course (DPC) already installed, it can begin to fail after several years and will need to be replaced. A mixture containing either asphalt or tar is commonly used for foundation damp proofing. The mixture which is applied to the outside walls of the foundation, bonds to the walls and forms a seal that prevents any moisture from entering.

When should you damp proof your foundation and basement?

Damp proofing is first done during the construction of a new home as a way of preventing any moisture-related structural damage for several years. However, because of the temporary nature of the various forms of damp proofing, it is possible for them to fail after several years. This means that new damp proofing will be required. 

What are the different methods of foundation and basement damp proofing?

Damp proof membranes

This is one best ways to damp proof your foundation and basement walls. During the installation, a water repellent membrane is placed between the area of the foundation that is susceptible to soil moisture and the area adjacent to it. Depending on individual needs, the water repellent membrane can be vertically or horizontally applied to the susceptible area of the foundation. This membrane can also be applied to a basement or crawl space in a process known as tanking.

Bituminous damp proofing

Another way to maintain the integrity of your property’s foundation is bituminous damp proofing. This involves using a mixture of moisture repellent and any substance, including asphalt and bitumen that is extremely sticky. Its adhesive nature makes it a popular foundation damp proofing method since it can easily stick to any foundation.

Foundation tar

This method is mostly used for damp proofing the exterior part of a foundation wall. It creates a damp proof coating that is impermeable to moisture. Foundation tar tends to add a dark appearance to the foundation, so it is more suited for uninhabitable areas like a crawl space.

Should damp proofing be done on the inside or outside of the foundation?

Damp proofing can be done on either side of a foundation. However, damp proofing from the outside of the foundation is much easier and better as it quickly stops the moisture before it can get to the basement floor.

Before you begin damp proofing from the outside, ensure that any existing damage to the foundation wall is properly repaired. The best method you can use for damp proofing the exterior is a damp proof membrane or course, as it forms an impenetrable barrier, preventing any moisture from reaching your property’s floors.

Damp proofing the interior wall of your basement is also highly effective in sealing up any faults or cracks in the foundation, thus, preventing moisture from getting in. A damp proof membrane or foundation tar is often used for damp proofing the interior. This is because of their ability to stick to surfaces and the fact that they can effectively plug up any cracks that may compromise the foundation.

How often will foundation damp proofing be done?

Since none of the various methods of damp proofing stays on permanently,  your home will most likely require damp proofing every 20-25 years.

The cost of foundation damp proofing

Certain factors such as; the square footage of your property, the damp proofing method you choose, timing and the presence of existing damage to the foundation can affect the total cost of having your foundation and basement damp proofed. Reputable damp specialists London will be able to advise on costs for damp repairs.

Who should carry out foundation damp proofing?

Although some home owners choose to DIY their home’s damp proofing, it is not recommended. Foundation damp proofing is very crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home, so hiring a licensed contractor or foundation specialist is always the best option.

Conclusion:

Without a doubt, foundation and basement damp proofing is a building requirement that simply cannot be ignored. In addition to protecting your home’s structural integrity, it ensures that your walls and floors do not develop damp, mould and the health issues that come with it.

Common Reasons Why Dentures Break

Sam Allcock
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Common Reasons Why Dentures Break

Dentures are an excellent treatment option for users with lost or missing teeth because of the host of benefits they offer compared to other alternatives. These benefits include comfort, easy maintenance and flexibility in the sense that they can be removable, temporary or permanent. While your dentures will ultimately require replacement, they should last between an average of 7 to 10 years with proper care. Fracturing your replacement teeth can be an extremely troublesome situation since you rely on dentures not only for eating, but you also require them to smile, talk and generally live life the way you’ve grown familiar with. So keeping them safe often takes precedence in the minds of its wearers. Occasionally, we can be negligent with the items we depend on most, causing accidents to happen. A simple search for denture repairs near me should provide you with some good options.

With that thought, here are some common reasons why dentures break

Wear and Tear

This is probably the most typical reason why aged dentures break down. Since your dentures undergo stress as much as your natural teeth would, it is reasonable that wear and tear also affect them over time. The portion of the denture’s framework most likely to break off is its pink acrylic component. As the acrylic portion weakens, chewing increases its flexibility which can cause small chips, cracks or a full break. Depending on the extent of the crack, your dentures may require a simple repair or complete restoration if completely broken.

Accidents

Dropping or banging your dentures on a hard surface like the ground or sink can break them. A tip for reducing the severity caused by accidental dropping is to lay down towels on the sink or bathroom counter so as to provide a less harsh landing spot for them or simply placing them in protective coverings when not in use. This helps to keep your dentures intact and reduce the frequency of cracks.

Improper Fit

Your replacement teeth can break if they are too loose or tight. Excessively loose dentures can change positions frequently, which can cause breaks or cracks. Conversely, dentures that are extremely tight can break or crack from unnecessary pressure. If you observe little changes in the fit of your false teeth, contact your denturist immediately to address the issue. You may also opt to switch to permanent dental implants because they do not slip, do not have odors, and do not cause sores or rubbing the way dentures do.

Isolated Teeth

Isolated teeth are more likely to break off the acrylic base of your dentures. Although dentures are designed to hold your teeth, constant chewing or the strength of your bite can exert great pressure on your denture or its framework and cause it to snap off or break in half.

Clasps Breaking:

Clasps are generally made from gold or SS (stainless steel) and designed to hold your dentures firmly to your natural teeth. Although the clasps can be modified by an orthodontist, their design doesn’t support bending or any form of distortion. Constant inserting and removing can add pressure onto the clasp of your dentures. Carefully and slowly take out or put in dentures with clasps to avoid breaks. Visit your dentist immediately to ensure that broken clasps have been properly fixed.

Conclusion

Since you use your dentures for everyday activities, breaking them might be inevitable. When your dentures do break, remove and assess the severity of the damage, store them in a bag or container to avoid further breaks, and immediately have them repaired by an expert or professional.

Advantages Of Hiring Professional Spray Painting Services For Your Home’s Interior

Sam Allcock
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Advantages Of Hiring Professional Spray Painting Services For Your Home’s Interior

Looking to carry out some home improvements? Maybe you’ve grown tired of the painting of your house walls, or you just want your home’s interior to look and feel different. Spray painting your interior walls with a new coat of paint can serve as a way to breathe new life into them while also creating the type of atmosphere you want inside your home. Unfortunately, the process of repainting your whole house can be very time-consuming and requires a level of skill that you most likely don’t have.

So, why not leave it to the experts? Hiring a professional spray painting service is a surefire way to ensure that you get the best quality output. You can even remove radiators for radiator spraying Keep reading to see some of the advantages of hiring professional spray painting services for your home’s interior.

Proper  experience

Professional spray painters are experts who have made careers out of painting which means they have spent years honing their skills and investing in the right kind of training in order to give their clients only the best quality. Also, thanks to their years of experience, they will be familiar with trending patterns and colours among homeowners.

This means that they can always chip in and guide you towards achieving the vision you have for your home. This may be in the form of suggesting innovative patterns and colours that complement the overall look of your home. They can also recommend brands of high-quality paints that will last long without peeling, fading, or cracking.

They use the right tools and equipment

Professional spray painters know the right type of equipment and tools to use in order to get the best quality finish. They know the right tools needed for surface preparation and paint application. Paints are not created the same, and professional spray painters know this. They will know the right paint components that fit different surfaces and areas of your home.

Effective time management

Spray painting your home’s interior by yourself is entirely possible, but if you want to get things done in a timely manner, hiring a professional spray painting service is your best bet. Professional spray painters will place their focus on getting the painting project done within a set timeframe.

Quality work

When it comes to spray painting, achieving the best-quality outcome depends on a number of requirements such as skill and technical know-how, the right kind of equipment, and the best quality of paint. All of these requirements are met by reputable professional spray painting services, which means that their work quality is top-tier, and there won’t be a need to repeat the work.

They are insured

Although the experience and expertise of professional spray painters rarely make them commit painting mistakes, accidents do happen. Most reputable professional spray painting companies offer insurance coverage and this is for your protection in case an accident happens during the job.

Convenience

Having your home spray painted requires a lot of planning to ensure that the process runs smoothly. Professional spray painters can help you map out the entire project before they even begin. This way, you can rest easy while knowing that your project will be carried out the way you want.

Conclusion:

Spray painting is a great way to give your home’s interior a makeover but achieving the vision you have in mind isn’t so easy. The right kind of skill and experience is needed to achieve the best outcome. For this reason, hiring a professional spray painting service is the best option.

Trying To Decide Whether To Paint Or Refinish Your Old Furniture? Read This

Sam Allcock
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Trying To Decide Whether To Paint Or Refinish Your Old Furniture? Read This

One thing many furniture experts and enthusiasts can agree on is that renewing (painting or refinishing) your old furniture is always a better investment than a total replacement, especially when the piece of furniture is still functional. However, this doesn’t negate the fact that there are times when getting rid of old furniture is the best option. So before you drag that old and scarred table out the door, consider some of the following;

Evaluation of current condition

This is the first thing you should do when trying to decide between refinishing or painting. Carefully evaluate the current condition of the piece of furniture to determine its functionality and the best option that can be used to fix any current damages. For example, a piece of furniture that has suffered mild water damage can still be recoverable. However, situations, where there is extensive damage from water or fire, are irreversible, and a replacement is the only option. Also, any furniture with loose screws, cracks, and peeling paint can be easily repaired and restored with the help of a professional furniture restoration company.

Look out for the signs

There are some specific signs that you may notice which indicate either a need for furniture repainting or refinishing. Some of these signs are based on personal preference, while others may leave your furniture susceptible to more potentially irreversible damage. Some of these signs include; flaking or peeling paint (repainting), visible rings and water marks, the uneven wearing of the wood stain (refinishing), uneven or sticky surface, exposed wood, and, of course, a change in preference. Regardless of the sign you first notice, you will need to hire the services of a professional antique furniture restoration company to revive the furniture and prevent further damage.

Professional opinion or personal preference?

Although the decision to either refinish or paint your old furniture should be driven by personal preference, seeking the opinion of an expert can help make your decision-making easier. Certain items like antique furniture require a bit of research in order to avoid making decisions that could end up diminishing their sentimental and monetary value. This is why it is important to always get the opinion of a professional before proceeding to either refinish or paint over any piece.

While refinishing a piece of wooden furniture tends to show off the natural beauty of the wood itself, painting focuses more on showing off a decorative style and colour choice. It also helps to cover up any imperfections present and allows for more versatility in decorating. Painting your furniture can be a way for it to make a statement or blend in. 

DIY or Don’t DIY

Workmanship is something you need to consider once you’ve made your decision to either paint or refinish. If you choose to take it on as a DIY project, then you should ensure that you have the right tools and technical know-how, as both the painting and refinishing process can be challenging especially if you have no experience with furniture restoration. We recommend letting the professionals handle the painting/refinishing of any furniture piece that you intend to display prominently in either your home or business. 

If you still want to take on a fun DIY project, opt for painting/refinishing a furniture piece of lower quality.

Conclusion:

Deciding between painting or refinishing old furniture can be a tiring process, especially when you have no experience with furniture restoration. Thankfully by knowing the right signs to look for and by properly evaluating the condition of the furniture and enlisting the help of an expert, your decision-making can be made significantly easier.

Life After Invisalign. What To Expect Once Your Invisalign Treatment Is Completed

Sam Allcock
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Life After Invisalign. What To Expect Once Your Invisalign Treatment Is Completed

Congratulations! You’ve made it to your last Invisalign aligner, which means that the active part of your treatment is coming to an end, and you can unveil your new smile soon. However, as your active treatment phase is finishing, you’ll be moving on to the next phase of your treatment which is the retention or maintenance stage.

So what exactly do you need to know about this maintenance stage? Keep reading to find out.

What is after-Invisalign maintenance?

Just like many other orthodontic treatments, once the active phase of your Invisalign journey is completed, you will need a form of maintenance in order to ensure that your newly aligned teeth retain their desired position. If adequate maintenance isn’t carried out, your teeth may start to move back to their original misaligned/crooked positions, basically undoing all the hard work that you’ve put in for the treatment.

To enable your teeth to stay in place, you will need to wear a retainer at the end of your Invisalign treatment. Depending on the factors relating to your treatment, your orthodontist may decide to fit you with either a fixed wire retainer, removable clear retainer, or a combination of both (most patients usually require a combination of both).  

How often will you need to wear your retainer?

Your orthodontist will give you clear instructions on how to properly wear your retainer. Local Invisalign Surrey providers, Sherwood Park Dental will also advise you on how long the retainers need to be worn. You may need to wear your retainers for 22 hours per day until your orthodontist tells you it’s safe to reduce the number of hours.

As for how long you will need to wear the retainers, there is no simple timeframe. You will need to continue wearing them until your orthodontist tells you otherwise.

Will you need new retainers?

Unlike your aligner trays that had to be changed every few weeks, if you follow your orthodontist’s instructions on how to properly wear your retainer, they should continue to fit and require no replacement. However, if you fail to wear them as directed or don’t wear them at all, chances are one or more teeth will shift and the retainers won’t fit, which could indicate a problem.

Caring for your retainers

With proper care, your retainers should last for many years. Here are some helpful tips for caring for your retainers.

Removable retainers-  both sides of your removable retainers should be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush every day. You can also soak them in retainer-cleaning solution on a weekly basis to give them a deeper clean. Ensure to always take out your removable retainers every time you eat or drink beverages like tea or coffee, as they can warp or stain the retainer. Your retainer should be removed and stored in its case whenever you’re playing sports or not wearing them.

Permanent retainers- permanent retainers should be brushed twice a day. Ensure to brush around the wire well as food particles can easily get trapped, leading to bacteria build-up. Flossing at least once a day is also important. Since permanent retainers are not removable, always wear a mouth guard to protect them from impact while playing sports. 

Ensure that you do not try to adjust your retainers by yourself. If they require adjustments, take them to your orthodontist.

Basic oral hygiene

In addition to wearing a retainer after your treatment, a good oral hygiene routine is essential for post-Invisalign maintenance. Ensure that you should brush and floss twice a day and schedule regular checkups with your dentist.

Conclusion:

Post-Invisalign maintenance is an important component of the treatment process. The retainer you wear ensures that your newly aligned teeth stay in place, and it keeps your smile healthy for a long period of time. Continue your basic oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for the best results.

Looking To Renew Your Resin-Bound Driveway? Read This

Sam Allcock
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Looking To Renew Your Resin-Bound Driveway? Read This

Resin-bound driveways are highly durable and low maintenance, with the potential to last up to 20 years. However, there are certain situations where homeowners look to repair or renew their existing resin-bound driveways either because the installation has become cracked, faded or tired. In situations like this, there are a number of ways in which the surface of the resin-bound driveway can be renewed, and it all boils down to the option that best suits your needs.

Fixing cracks

A resin-bound surface material is highly porous and flexible, which means that it has the capacity to withstand movement to a certain level (this is why using a tarmac sub-base is always advised). What this means is that this particular system is less prone to cracks because it can cope better with movement within its base. So on the rare occasion that cracks do form within the resin-bound surface, repairs can be easily carried out by any reputable resin-bound driveway company. In many cases, the company that carried out the initial installation of the driveway will come back and carry out the repairs for you at little to no cost.

Cleaning

One of the benefits of a grey resin driveway is that it requires minimal maintenance. This means that many times, all that is needed to renew your resin-bound surface is a little TLC. A good recommendation will be to sweep the surface with a hard bristled brush (not metal) every 6-12 weeks. This maintains the fresh look of the surface by preventing excess dirt from building up. Another alternative is to use a mixture of regular household detergent and water to scrub the surface before brushing it away. A power-washer can also be used; just ensure to set the fan at least 200mm above the surface and use cold water only.

For surfaces with tyre marks, specialist products like a heavy duty de-greaser and a pressure washer may be required to make removing the marks easier.

Re-sealing

This is done in a series of straightforward steps, which starts with the vacuuming of the surface to de-clog any ingress of dirt from the gaps. The surface is then de-greased, and jet washed with appropriate chemicals to get it clean before a thin coating of resin is applied using a roller. 

In addition to restoring the original fresh and shiny appearance of the surface, re-sealing a resin-bound surface can also improve its anti-slipping properties.

Patch Repairs

This type of repair is usually done on much older resin-bound driveway installations. It can also be done on surfaces that have suffered from damages beyond just cracks. Although this option is ideal for restoring functionality and preventing further crumbling of the surface at a lower cost, it has a downside and the downside is the fact that the patches will be noticeable. So while it is cost-effective, it might not be aesthetically pleasing.

Overlay

This is a more preferable option to patch repairs. It is also effective for renewing a resin-bound surface that has failed. The process simply involves chiselling out around the edges of the current resin-bound surface and scraping back the surface. Once this is done, a new layer of resin-bound material is trowelled onto the base and feathered down to the edges while ensuring that the new surface remains flush with the trim. Although many homeowners tend to shy away from this option for fear of the costs, it is important to bear in mind that an overlay does not necessarily mean starting totally afresh, and in certain cases, it is the more cost-effective option for renewing your resin-bound surface.

Conclusion:

Renewing a faded-looking or cracked resin-bound driveway is always a more cost-effective option than a total replacement. From cleaning and re-sealing to fixing cracks and overlay, there are different ways to give your tired resin-bound driveway a fresh and renewed appearance.

Business communication strategies and why you need one

Sam Allcock
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Business communication strategies and why you need one

1. What is a business communication strategy? 

If you want your business to communicate effectively, you need a strategy. 

But what exactly is a communication strategy? 

In a nutshell, it’s a plan that outlines how you’ll share information with your target audience — whether that’s customers, employees, partners or investors. 

When crafting your strategy, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, consider what you want to achieve — whether boosting sales, improving customer satisfaction or increasing employee retention. 

Once you have your goal, you can start thinking about the best way to achieve it. That might involve creating specific content (like blog posts or infographics), using particular channels (like email or social media) or reaching out to certain audiences (like prospects or current customers). 

The bottom line is that a well-thought-out communication strategy will help ensure your message is heard loud and clear. So if you’re serious about making your business communication goals a reality, it’s time to start planning.

2. The different types of communication strategies

External Communication

This refers to all communication that takes place outside of the business. For example, it might be how you communicate to your customers, users or clients. 

This kind of communication could include advertising, blogs, brochures, events, podcasts, email marketing and much more. An external communication strategy should look at the different audience types and ensure that the company’s principles and ideas are communicated clearly. Most importantly, you should ask yourself what you want this audience to do and ensure that all of your communications are targeted toward this objective. 

Internal Communication

If retaining great staff and improving their productivity and satisfaction is important to you, then you should have an internal communication strategy. 

Just like an external strategy, it’s likely that you’ll have different things you want to communicate to different team members, and your strategy should break this down into objectives that relate to your wider mission. 

Examples of internal communications can be employee newsletters, video announcements, one-to-ones or appraisals, podcasts or even instant messaging. 

3. How to develop a communication strategy for your business

Establish goals based on your mission 

It’s pointless to develop a communication strategy without first understanding what you wish to achieve. 

Start with your mission statement. As a business, what is your overarching purpose? Is it to get the world to care about vegan food, or is it to ensure all cars on the road are safer thanks to better tyres? Once you understand this, you can break it down into smaller goals that relate directly to your mission statement. 

Identify the audience 

Not all communication is to your customers or users. In fact, a lot of communication should be to your employees. Most businesses have different audiences among their employees. Are you speaking to the leadership team, new starters or the entire company?

Identify the channels 

The type of channel you use depends on the audience and what you hope to accomplish. A newsletter is a great way to communicate information about an event or news to a large group of people, but this will likely be one-way communication, and you shouldn’t expect much response. 

Posting a video announcement on an employee communication platform is likely to inspire more two-way communication and allow you to understand the thoughts and opinions of your employees quickly and efficiently.

You should record data, adjust accordingly and constantly monitor the responses to your communications. You might use Google Analytics, your content management system or a customer relationship management system. It could also be through an employee communication platform such as Workvivo that lets you understand employee insights across channels with ease. 

4. Tips for effective communication in the workplace

Effective communication is a learned skill, but there are some helpful pointers you can take to ensure your communication is always on point:

  • Be clear about what you want to achieve 
  • Always aim to resolve conflicts rather than create them
  • Choose your channel with care — a sensitive conversation isn’t suitable for instant messenger, but equally, a short question doesn’t need a 30-minute video call
  • Listen and practice listening
  • Be as factual as possible. If you do need to give an opinion, make sure it’s backed up with evidence
  • Ensure you’re speaking to the right person at the start of a conversation
  • Ask for feedback — which doesn’t need to be formal. It could be as simple as asking the other person if there’s anything you’ve missed or anything else they need to know. 

To sum up, business communication strategies are a great way to go if you’re looking for a way to create better connections with both your team and your client base. 

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