All posts by Jannaire Faulkner

Frequently Asked Questions: Bees & Wasps

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There are a number of pests in which are generally more active during different parts of the year. From fleas, bees and wasps in the summer months, to rodents and cockroaches in the winter, it is important to be able to correctly identify a pest in order for it to be treated effectively. That’s why we have answered some of your frequently asked questions below.

wasp control

1. What are the differences between bees and wasps?

In regards to their appearance, there are many ways to physically tell bees and wasps apart from one another. Bees are generally large and fluffy insects, with their hairy bodies making it ideal for holding on to pollen as it is carried from one area to another. Wasps bodies in comparison are sleeker and more streamlined for hunting, as although they still feed on nectar and pollen, they additionally hunt in21sects, flies and even caterpillars in order to feed their young. One of the main differences between bees and wasps is that wasps can become aggressive or agitated when they feel their nest may be under threat. However in comparison, honey bees are generally gentle creatures, in which are too busy working to worry about harming others.

2. How can I tell if I have a problem with bees or wasps?

There are a few ways to tell if you have bees or wasps lurking in your home, from checking your attic or loft for a wasps nest, in the dark and dry corners of your property, as wasps prefer to build their nests here (although bees able to build their nests anywhere). Alternatively, if you notice structural damage to your property such as holes in the walls and damaged mortar between bricks, it is likely that you are suffering from a masonry bee infestation. These bees drill into the brick work to create cavities in order to build their nests.

3. How are bees and wasps treated?

Wasps can be treated by a fully certified pest controller with a powder based insecticide. The powder is initially ‘fogged’ into the entrance of the nest, in turn causing the wasps to then transfer this treatment deep into the nest and feeding it to the queen; this will kill the entire nest. Generally treatment is not given to honey or bumble bees, as the preferred method of dealing with these bees is via the local Bee Keeping Association. However, treatment may be given to masonry bees without any prior contact, as they can potentially cause structural damage such as holes in the walls or damaged mortar between bricks, therefore should be dealt with immediately.

Treatment of bees and wasps can however be dependent on:

  • The environment they are inhabiting
  • If the local Bee Keeping Association has been contacted prior to the treatment
  • Being able to destroy the queen in order to kill the entire nest
  • Treatment requiring more than one visit

4. What are the different types of bees?

There are three different species of bees that may prompt the need for a pest control company:

• Honey bees have a fluffy head with a smooth body. They are black and yellow-orange in colour and may build their nests anywhere.

• Bumble bees are the largest of the bee species. Fluffy all over, black with yellow bands and may their build nests anywhere.

• Masonry bees are the smallest of the bee species and are black and orange in colour. These bees drill into brick work to create cavities to build nests, potentially causing structural damage and considered to be a pest to your property.

5. Are wasps nests dangerous?

The wasps nest itself is not dangerous, however, if a wasp feels that its nest may be under threat, they will more than likely to try and warn you off by stinging you. It is suggested that if you do come into contact with a wasp, you should never try and harm them, especially if you are allergic to a wasps sting, as the results could be fatal. The temper of the wasp nest is determined by the queen. If she is particularly aggressive, this behaviour will be passed onto her offspring and the entire nest in turn will become very aggressive and will sting any ‘intruder’ multiple times if needed, simply to protect their nest.

6. Why do I need to contact my local bee keeping association before I can have wasps or bees removed?

The local Bee Keeping Association should be contacted prior to any treatment as they may be able to remove the pest whilst preserving its life.

7. What is the British Beekeepers Association and what do they do?

The British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) was founded in 1874, representing the interests of 24,000 amateur beekeeper members and the 3 billion honey bees they care for when pollination activity reaches its peak. Throughout England, there are over 66 local area associations who serve their local community with support and education in the importance of bee preservation.
The British Bee Keeping Association can also offer help and advice for dealing with both bees and wasps. However, beekeepers are unable to remove any of the following:

• Wasps
• Bumble Bees
• Solitary Bees
• Hornets

If you suspect you may have a swarm of honey bees, The British Bee Keeping Association provide further information on their website to determine if it is a honey bee problem in particular. This is because there are many insects which look remotely similar to honey bees, often not causing any problems and unable to be treated by the swarm collectors; beekeepers are only able to provide assistance in the case of honey bee swarms. After confirming that you have a honey bee swarm, simply enter your postcode and the most local swarm collectors will be sourced to resolve your problem.

8. Why is it necessary to wait at least 24 hours after discovering a bees or wasps nest to have it treated?

It is normally suggested that the customer should wait at least 24 hours before contacting a pest controller about a bees or wasps nest as generally they tend to move on during this time period. If they are still prominent after 24 hours, then it is suggested that the customer contacts the British Bee Keeping Association first, and then a pest controller after this.

It is important to make sure all pest problems are treated by a professional and reputable pest control company to ensure pests are treated safely and efficiently. We recommend nationwide pest control company, TDC Pest Control. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Rodents

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There are a number of pests in which are more active during different parts of the year. Rodents are a common problem in the colder months, and it is important to spot the signs of an infestation quickly in order to treat them effectively. That’s why we have answered some frequently asked questions on rodents and how to spot them below.

Kitchen Raty

1. What are rodents?

Rodents are mammals that are commonly characterised by their continuously growing incisors. There are three types of rodent that are subject to pest control:

  • Mice
  • Rats
  • Squirrels

 2. How can I tell if I have a mice or rat problem?

Rats thrive on familiarity, and once they have moved into your home it won’t be long until their friends turn up uninvited to join them. The thought of rats or mice living in your kitchen for instance can be unbearable. There are a few ways to tell if you have mice or rats lurking in your home, including:

  • Signs of infestation including droppings (around the size of a grain of rice)
  • Shredded paper/material
  • Strong smell of urine
  • Noises at night
  • Smear marks on skirting boards

3. What is the difference between mice and rats?

Rats are much larger than mice, averaging at approximately 9-11 inches long, with their thick tail shorter than their bodies, as opposed to mice which have thinner tails the same length if not longer than the size of their body. Rats also weigh a lot more than mice due to the difference in size. For example, at around just 6 weeks, a rat already weighs approximately 100 grams, over double the weight of an adult mouse.

4. What types of mice are there?

There are commonly two different types of mice:

House Mouse – Dusty grey in colour, these mice have a small head and slender body and are known to have excellent vision, smell, hearing and touch. These pests are highly adaptable to homes and indoor buildings, needing the smallest of spaces to be able to enter a building, therefore they often have access to many places and infest in large volumes.

Deer Mouse – Also referred to as a field mouse, these mice are reddish to golden brown in colour with white feet and chest. These pests have a small head and body, yet are larger in size than a house mouse. Deer mouse feast on seeds, grains and fruit and often aggravate farmers as a result of them infiltrating storage grains. These rodents are well-known carriers of the deadly Hantavirus which has been known to cause numerous deaths, therefore pose serious health threats for humans and household pets.

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5. What types of rats are there?

There are commonly three different types of rats:

Norway Rats – These rats can also be named brown or sewer rats, and can be identified by their grey-brown bodies. Norway rats have small ears and eyes and their tales are shorter than their body length. These rats are a lot larger than other rat species; they burrow in gardens and fields, beneath rubbish or building foundations. Shredded paper and cloth is used to line their nests as they prefer fibrous materials.

Roof Rats – Also referred to as black rats, these rats are superb climbers that tend to live above ground. Wild roof rats inhabit shrubs and trees, yet in a domestic environment will seek secure, elevated places such as an attic or cabinet. Roof rats can enter homes through trees that are close to windows and prefer warmer climates.

Woodrats – These types of rodent are known to be fond of shiny objects, and are often referred to as ’packrats.’ Woodrats gnaw on trees, furniture, paper and even mattress bedding. Because of this, they are known to cause serious problems for homeowners and farmers.

6. When are rats most active?

Rats are nocturnal creatures, meaning that they are most active at night. Because of this, an infestation can develop some time before a rat is even seen. If crucial resources such as food and water are scare however, they will become more active during the day.

7. How can rodents be treated?

Rodents can be treated with numerous techniques, although this is largely dependent on:

  • The environment in which they are inhabiting
  • Domestic circumstances, such as any children or domestic pets on site
  • The size or extent of the infestation

Rats are intelligent creatures, and quickly wise up to any traps or poisons being used. Not only this, but rats circumvent many traps through communicating with one another. It will take two visits from a professional pest controller to treat rodent infestations, as initially the pest controller will need to attend site to access the work required, trapping squirrels or, in the case of rats and mice, using bait or sticky boards. Our controllers will also make sure to give tips on combating further infestation, making sure your pest problem is a thing of the past. Our controllers will return afterwards to remove any remaining baits, boards or traps, and any dead bodies.

 8. How can I prevent mice and rats from infesting in my home?

To prevent your home from rodent infestation, you will firstly need to survey your garden, noting the following:

  • Making sure all shrubbery and trees are cut to ensure they are a good distance from your home.
  • Removing any plants or trees in which grow fruit or vegetables.
  • Ceasing any food put out for birds or pet food.
  • Checking your vents, windows and roof, noticing any areas in your home where a gap may feasibly widen.

9. Do rats only live in unclean environments?

Rats are often associated with living in dirty, poor conditions such as sewers, although this doesn’t necessarily mean your garden isn’t an ideal environment, or even your home. Rats can find shelter underneath your shed and even bury themselves in compost heaps. Rats themselves are far from dirty, as they spend a lot of time trying to keep themselves clean, washing themselves regularly and incessantly.

10. What diseases do rodents carry and are they dangerous?

Mice and rats carry different diseases, depending on the environment in which they are exposed. Some of these diseases are dangerous and can lead to serious health hazards.

Some of the diseases mice are known to carry include:

Salmonella bacteria: The Salmonella bacteria (Salmonellosis) causes a gastrointestinal infection and can infect both animals and humans. Usually the infection will last 4-7 days and in some more serious cases, those infected may need to be hospitalised. In extreme cases, Salmonella has been known to lead to death, though generally this is in patients subject to a higher risk such as the elderly, infants and those with low immunity.

Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCMV): Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis is a virus caused by rodents, and creates neurological disease in humans. Those infected can become symptomatic from 8-14 days. Symptoms have two phases, the first phase is less serious and can range from: fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, headache, nausea, malaise, vomiting, joint and testicular pain.

It is important to make sure all pest problems are treated by a professional and reputable pest control company to ensure pests are treated safely and efficiently. We recommend nationwide pest control company, TDC Pest Control. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions: Bed Bugs & Fleas

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Do you suspect you may have a bed bug infestation in your home? Or is your pet suffering from fleas and you would like more information about these pests and how they can be treated? Then read on for our helpful answers to some frequently asked questions about bed bugs and fleas.

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1. What are bed bugs and what do they do?

Bed bugs are small, oval parasites that feed on human blood. Aptly named, bed bugs live around the seams of mattresses and headboards. However, these pests can also live in small, dark spaces; this includes the back of furniture, a chest of drawers and even a crack in the wall. The reddish-brown insect measures at around 5mm in length and can leave bites all over the body, in which can cause great irritation, escalating when scratched.

2. How can I tell if I have a bed bug infestation?

There are a few indications that you may have an infestation of bed bugs in your home, including the following:

Bites – If you are regularly finding yourself covered with small, red marks and they swell or itch when scratched, it is likely you have a bed bug infestation, as these pests feed on sedentary or sleeping humans.

Checking your mattress and headboard – It is important to check your mattress, headboard and bed frames thoroughly for signs of both the small, black bugs and their eggs. Bed bugs often leave behind small, black traces in which can be identified as faeces, or sometimes rust-coloured stains are left on mattress tags and seams.

Sweet odours – When there is a large colony of bed bugs, they will tend to emit a sickly sweet almond smell. Bed bugs produce these chemicals in which help them to communicate, thus leaving an odour. It is important to note however, that not everyone will be able to notice the smell, and a sweet odour is dependent on a particularly large infestation present.

Eggs and exoskeletons – Bed bugs have an outer shell that they shed and leave behind. If you see shell-like remains on your mattress, this can be a strong indication you are suffering from a bed bug infestation. There can also be eggs present in which female bed bugs lay in small crevices. These appear to be white and oval shaped, and can be difficult to spot considering bed bugs measure at approximately 5-7 millimetres.

Black marks around your home – If you have noticed the appearance of black marks and dirt on skirting boards, flooring, walls, and around the seams of mattresses and headboards in your property, this is a sure sign that you may have a bed bug infestation that needs the attention of an expert pest controller.

3. How can bed bugs be treated?

It is advised that bed bugs are to be treated by a trained pest controller. This is because vacuuming alone will not remove the pests. Initially, a pest controller will assess the severity of the bed bug infestation, noting the areas in the household or commercial property that will need to be treated. After this, a water-based insecticide spray will be used to eradicate the infestation, bed bugs can contaminate an entire property so it is important that as much of the area possible is treated.

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4. Why is it important to treat bed bugs immediately?

It is important when a bed bug infestation is discovered in a household or commercial property, that they are treated as soon as possible. This is because bed bugs can spread throughout your home rapidly, and what may initially have been an infestation in one room can potentially spread throughout the entire premises, proving to be more costly and difficult to eliminate.

5. How long will the premises need to be vacated for after treatment?

It is important that the treated premises is vacated for at least four hours after the treatment. This is because bed bugs can contaminate an entire property, therefore it is very important that as much of the area as possible is treated. Those that are pregnant, have babies or young children or even those with breathing difficulties such as asthma, will be at a greater risk from the treatment, although the pest controller will advise these customers on how long they should vacate the premises for.

6. What are fleas and what do they do?

Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on blood. Measuring at approximately 1-3mm in length and reddish brown to black in colour; they have six long legs which enable them to jump great distances, leaving bites on humans and other mammals, including household pets. Their bodies are flat without wings and completely covered in hair, allowing for quick movement and the ability to root themselves to the host with ease.

7. What is the life cycle of a flea?

Measuring at just 0.5mm, fleas start their life as eggs living on your pets hair coat, hatching within just 2-5 days. After hatching, these eggs then begin to form a larvae, beginning life at around 1-2mm long. Larvae feed off flea dirt and debris in the environment, and are hardly seen. Larvae eventually spin cocoons within the carpet fibres for pupation. Pupae can lie dormant for up to 12 months before re-emerging and infesting your household pet. They are stimulated to emerge as adult fleas from components such as vibration, an increase in temperature or carbon dioxide. Most commonly, fleas emerge from 1-4 weeks, and can begin feeding within hours of finding a cat or dog. However, the flea can only survive a short time without feeding if it is dislodged from its host.                                              

8. How can I tell if I have a flea infestation?

Some of the most effective ways to identify a flea infestation in your home or commercial property can include:

  • Experiencing numerous flea bites. These are generally below the waist but in severe circumstances can be all over the body.
  • Checking your pets for any flea bites on the skin and noticing any eggs present.
  • Identifying small, reddish-black bugs around your household or commercial property.

9. Why is it important that a professional pest controller is used to treat an infestation?

It is important that a pest controller treats an infestation to ensure that the pest problem is fully eradicated, and to prevent any further infestation. A fully trained, professional pest controller will have full training and expertise in the handling of pesticides and extermination of pests, and will be able to assess the infested property, to ensure the best steps are taken for the pest problem to be completely resolved quickly and efficiently.

10. How do I know if my household pet is carrying fleas?

It is important to regularly check your household pets for fleas to avoid an infestation. A strong indication that your pet is carrying fleas can include spotting any flea bites or eggs on the skin, additionally if your pet seems to be scratching more than usual, this can be a sign they are suffering from fleas. Household pets can carry these pests even in the most spotless of homes, therefore it is important to notice the signs and apply flea medication regularly.

11. What diseases can fleas transmit to my household pet?

There are a number of diseases in which fleas can transmit to your household pet, with many causing serious health issues. Just some of the diseases fleas can cause include:

  • Haemobartonellosis – This is a disease that affects the red blood cells in household pets, causing anemia in cats. Other symptoms of this disease include a loss of appetite and dramatic weight loss.
  • Plague – If a flea has previously bitten an infected animal, and proceeds to bite your pet, this can spread the plague and result in symptoms such as a fever and even sudden death.
  • Tapeworms – Tapeworms can be spread to your pet if a flea that is carrying tapeworm eggs is eaten. The tapeworm eggs will then hatch and attach itself to your pets intestines, resulting in great irritation, vomiting and weight loss.
  • Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) – Owners in particular can be at risk from this type of disease, as fleas transmit CSD from one cat to another. Humans can get CSD when infected flea faeces is transmitted from the pet to the owner through a bite, lick or scratch.

12. How can I prepare the premises to ensure the fleas are treated effectively?

In order for the flea infestation to be treated completely and effectively, it is firstly important to consider if you own any household pets and ensure they are treated with a flea medication prior to the pest controller tending to the infestation. This is to eliminate any possibilities of further infestation and to ensure your household pet is not carrying and spreading fleas in your home. It is additionally important that the infested rooms are cleared of any clutter such as furniture, as well as other soft furnishings being removed and washed at the highest possible temperature in order to kill any remaining pests.

If you have a pest infestation in your home or commercial business, always be sure to use a reputable pest control company to ensure pests are treated safely and effectively. We recommend TDC Pest Control, a nationwide pest control company operating 24 hours* a day, 365 days* a year.

Frequently Asked Questions: Drainage

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Drainage is an important part of ensuring your home functions correctly, although there are many that are unable to correctly determine signs of drainage problems. That’s why we have answered some frequently asked drainage questions below.

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1. What drains are the property owners responsibility?

If you have a blocked drain and it is on your property, then it is your responsibility to have this cleared. However, once the drain system leaves the customers property and enters the public sewers it is then the responsibility of the Local Water Authority. Therefore, if it is not on your boundary it is then the council’s problem to resolve.

2. What are the different methods of drain clearing?

  • Rodding: This technique involves passing rods through the drainage system. The rods have brushes affixed at the end of the rod. The rod then passes through the system, dislodging the blockage which is dispersed throughout the system, so the flow of water is restored.
  • Jetting: All able group drainage vehicles are fitted with high pressure water jetting equipment. When jetting, highly pressurised water passes through the jetting hose and through the drainage system, dislodging any obstructions and restoring the flow of water.
  • Chemicals: Corrosive chemicals are flushed through the drainage system, breaking down that can then be flushed with the normal flow of water.

3. What does a CCTV Survey consist of?

During a CCTV Survey a camera is passed down the drain, recording the results onto a portable recording unit. A DVD copy of these results will then be supplied to the customer, with a full report of recommendations, including:

  • Where there is a recurring blockage
  • The condition of the drains or pipework within a property
  • Any underlying problems within the drainage system
  • Any collapsed, cracked or displaced joints
  • If tree roots are growing into the drainage system

4. What is Drain Realignment?

A CCTV Survey may show various underlying problems that can only be dealt with by excavating the drainage system – this is drain realignment. The only way to identify if a drain realignment is necessary is to carry out a CCTV Survey beforehand.

5. What is a Septic Tank/Cess Pit?

Both Septic Tanks and Cess Pits are waste storage systems used for properties that are not plumbed into the sewage network. These systems store waste products that would normally be flushed into large tanks, which are then pumped into tankers and collected for disposal.

6. What are Soak Aways?

This is applied to properties with poor drainage. Areas of earth are dug up and filled with rubble. This creates a system whereby rain water will drain away more easily. Unfortunately, because of the nature of soak aways, there is very little that can be done to deal with any related problem.

It is always important to note that you should always use a reputable drainage engineer for any drainage problem, big or small.

Frequently Asked Questions: Locks & Locksmiths

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Are you thinking about updating the security in your home? Or would you like to know the different types of locks available and their uses? Then we have included some answers to your frequently asked questions below.

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1. My insurance company has advised that I have a five-lever mortice deadlock; what is this and how can I get one fitted?

‘Mortice’ means that the lock is fitted within the door itself. This is generally a rectangular hole in a piece of wood, rather than being screwed onto the front or rim of the door. ‘Deadlock’ means that the lock-bolt is not held in the keep by a spring, instead is extended manually by a key. The term ‘five-lever’ refers to the tumblers that prevent the lock opening in the absence of the true key. A typical five-lever lock has five levers, in which can provide a much higher level of security than a standard single lock. Insurance companies usually request that you have a five-lever mortice deadlock as they need to make sure the property is up to date on home security.

2. What locks should I have in order to comply with my insurance policy?

These can vary from one insurance policy to the next, so it is always important to check your individual policy. On external doors however, it is generally expected for you to have one of the following, depending on the type of door:

  • Five lever mortice deadlock
  • Multi point locking system (usually found on a UPVC door)
  • Rim automatic night latch

3. Are wooden front doors safe?

Depending on the quality, thickness and age of the wood used for your front door, wooden doors are generally a lot safer than uPVC doors due to their ability to have various locking systems applied for different purposes, some of which include:

  • Night Latch and Rim Cylinder
  • 5 Lever British Standard Insurance Approved Mortice Lock
  • Sash Jammer

4. How can I make my uPVC door more secure?

Due to the structure of uPVC doors, there are not many additional security measures available in comparison to wooden doors. Although, with the door itself holding weak properties, you could attempt to apply various lock types and sash jammers with no prevail. There are a few precautions that can be made when considering the security of your front or back door, including:

  • Upgrading your euro cylinder lock to a high security dimple key lock – aptly named, these keys appear with dimples as the locks have ball bearings inside. Banham are the most commonly known retailer that sell these locks.
  • Installing an anti-snap lock – this is to prevent unwanted visitors from attempting to snap the lock internally.
  • Letterbox cage – this fits to the back of the letterbox and needs a padlock in order to keep it secured.

5. Can I improve my home security without changing the locks?

There are a few security measures that can be carried out in order to improve your home security. These are all very simple, yet many often forget to implement them in everyday life:

  • Do not leave keys hanging inside the letterbox or under doormats, as these are the first places a burglar will check.
  • If additional security measures are being undertaken, firstly it is important to ensure that the doors any locks are fitted to are secure and any rotting woodwork is replaced.
  • If you are taking measures to apply additional security, be wary of how this may affect your ability to exit the property in an emergency.

6. What are the most common types of locks that are available?

The most common types of locks include:

5 lever BS insurance approved Mortice Dead lock – This can be fitted to a wooden door at waist height. The key appears as a flag shape, although there is no handle attached to this type of lock.

5 lever BS insurance approved Mortice Sash lock – Similar to the dead lock, this is also fitted to a wooden door at waist height with the same flag key shape, although a handle will be attached to this type of lock.

Rim Cylinder – Attached to a wooden door at shoulder height, the Rim Cylinder comes with a jagged edge key and can automatically lock behind you when the door is closed. This type of lock is teamed up with a night latch. If a locksmith is needed, where applicable, non-destructive methods can be used to open this type of lock.

Night Latch – Attached to a wooden door, this is the back part in which a rim cylinder fits.

Euro – This type of lock is fitted to a UPVC door and comes with a flat key. This lock can function in multiple ways. For example, the handle can be lifted, it can automatically be locked behind you and the key can be turned multiple times in order to engage the lock. Non-destructive methods can also be used to open this style of lock, where applicable. However, if you have lost your keys for example, gain entry and replace applies.

Multi point locking system – This is a brass strip in which runs the entire length of the UPVC door. However, if there are any problems with the lock such as a non-working handle, replacement mechanisms need to be ordered.

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7. What kind of door is best for home security?

In terms of which doors are best for home security, quality locks are only as effective and secure as the door they are attached to. The door should be at least 44mm thick in order to support the mortice lock and three strong hinges. Wooden doors are generally stronger than uPVC doors, and can support a broader variety of lock types. The ideal front door would be a wooden door measuring 44mm thick with a five lever mortice deadlock, a spyhole and door chain or rim cylinder and night latch. All hinges should be secure and long screws and hinge bolts should be used.

8. If my lock is broken does it have to be replaced or can it be repaired?

Not necessarily. If your lock has broken and you can still gain access to your property but not lock it, it is possible that a professional locksmith will be able to repair this to keep costs down, as replacement locks are usually higher in price.

9. What types of additional security is available on my wooden front door?

Aside from the standard rim cylinder and night latch that many wooden doors have, there are a number of locks that can be added to improve security, including:

  • Sash Jammer
  • Banham Lock
  • Door Chains
  • 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock

10. My wooden door is quite old, can I still have additional locks fitted to improve security? 

The age of the door isn’t necessarily the important aspect. The focus is more on the quality of the door in which the locks are being applied to, as you could have the highest form of security measures, yet if the door itself is rotting or the hinges are loose and not secure, then additional security is not being utilised.

11. Any important security measures that can be undertaken in order to prevent an intruder entering my home?

There are numerous precautions that can be taken in order to prevent an unwanted intruder from entering your property. Most of which are simple things that many forget to implement, including:

  • Refrain from leaving keys hanging inside of your letterbox or under doormats and plant pots, as these are the first places a burglar will check.
  • If you are taking measures to apply additional security to your home or business, it is important to be wary of how this may affect your ability to exit the property in an emergency.
  • Consider if the door you are fitting additional security to is secure and any rotting woodwork is replaced beforehand.

12. What services can a professional locksmiths provide?

A professional locksmith company should be able to provide the following services:

  • Gain Entry – To windows, doors, cabinets & safes.
  • Repair or Replacement – Of handles, hinges or locking systems.
  • Fresh Fit – Of new locks to wooden doors & windows.
  • Installation – Of additional security.
  • Fresh Keys – When changing or installing a new locking mechanism.
  • Adjustment – Of doors that need to be re-aligned.

If you are thinking about updating the security in your domestic or commercial property, always be sure to use a reputable locksmith company, to ensure all work is carried out effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions: Plumbing

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From heating up your home, to the constant supply of water available, plumbing is such an important aspect of ensuring our homes function as they should do. We have included some frequently asked questions and answers to give you a little bit more information about plumbing, and why it is so important to ensure you maintain the plumbing in your home.

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1. Do I need a plumber if I have more than one blockage in my property?

No, if it is a single blockage in a domestic property it would be a plumbing job, however if there is more than one blockage, you will need to consult one of our drainage experts. The only exemption to this is a commercial property, as all blockages will have to be dealt with by a drainage expert.

 2. How do I know if I have more than one blockage in my domestic property?

If you are unsure, check if everything else in the property is free flowing. If it is, then you only have one blockage which our expert plumbers will be able to resolve both quickly and efficiently.

3. My radiator is cold at the bottom – what does this mean?

If you have noticed that your radiator feels cold at the bottom and is not emitting heat when the central heating itself is turned on, this can suggest that you have a build-up within the radiator, which will often require a power flush.

4. What is a power flush and how can it improve my central heating system?

Power flushing the radiators in a property can take up to 20 minutes per radiator, depending of the size. Power flushing consists of flushing through the whole central heating system with water mixed with a cleaning agent at high velocity, but at a low pressure.

5. What are the two main types of taps?

There are two main types of taps in which can commonly be seen in homes and commercial properties:

  • Conventional Tap

A conventional tap is the more traditional out of the two, and functions by being turned multiple times to either increase or decrease the flow of the water.

  • Quarter Turn Tap

The quarter turn tap functions by the handle turning round on a quarter basis. This either open or closes the discs which will increase of decrease the flow of water.

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6. What are the differences between single taps and mixer taps?

A single tap will consist of one tap, either conventional or quarter turn. Mixer taps however, consist of two taps, both either quarter turn or conventional.

7. What is a stopcock and what does it do?

A stopcock is a valve used to restrict or isolate the flow of a liquid or gas. In a property there are usually two that can be found. One outside to isolate the water supply, and one inside where the supply enters the property. These provide access to maintenance and can prevent flooding if the domestic water system is pierced.

 8. What are the different types of boilers available?

There are two main types of boilers that are available, both have different functions and uses depending on the property and how the customer wishes to control their hot water.

  • Combination Boiler: Also referred to as a Combi boiler, a combination boiler supplies both the hot water and heating, however the main difference is that the hot water for the taps is directly fed from the mains, rather than being stored in a tank.
  • Conventional Boiler: A conventional boiler heats either hot water or heating, and will have an immersion tank.

9. What is an immersion tank?

An immersion tank contains and heats water in which has been fed from a conventional boiler. Combi boilers do not need an additional tank, therefore this only applies to conventional boilers.

10. What are unvented cylinders and what do they do?

Unvented cylinders work directly from the mains supply of water and are essentially a hot water storage cylinder. As unvented cylinders are fed directly from the mains supply of water, the water pressure and flow will be much stronger, providing hot water at mains pressure to all outlets within the home. This means that you do not have to rely on a pump to maintain the strength of the flow when using hot water outlets or heating systems and high water pressure is a huge benefit for homes with more than one bathroom. Unvented cylinders are usually white in colour and very large.

If you need a plumber, always be sure to use a reputable and professional company such as East London Plumbers to ensure all work is carried out safely and effectively.