axfordReviews

Capping the Chimney

Having decided not to replace the open fireplace in our lounge with a real fire, we decided to have a chimney cap fitted. This was mainly to stop rain and birds getting in the top of the chimney, and to avoid hot air escaping during winter. During the capping we also wanted to get the chimney swept to clear out all the old dust and soot that was clogging the inside of the flue.

After doing a bit of research we found you could purchase clay caps for around £50 and chimney sweep brushes for around £15. Since neither of us like heights and we didn't fancy clambering over the roof, we wanted to find someone to fit the cap for us and save us the trouble. We arranged some quotes and selected Chimnney Mechanics (01793 874663) in Swindon. They are a one-man band specialising in chimney work and are due to fit a new cap tomorrow for £75, while he was here I also got him to sweep the chimney to save buying a set of brushes we wouldn't need again (cost an additional £24).

So... to conclude, maybe not the wisest spending ever, as buying the parts and doing it ourselves would have been cheaper, but not a gross waste of money to avoid the hassle. If you're happy parting with your cash I can definately recommend Chimney Mechanics, he was quick, polite, friendly, efficient and clean - what more could you ask for.

.....

well, tomorrow arrived and the cap was fitted as planned (only took about 15 min).... job done

posted by axford @ 6:01 PM 2 comments

Asbestos Removal

Our guttering is currently asbestos, along with the soffit boards (or so it seems), and we've been planning on replacing them since we bought the property. Now we've decided it's about time to at least get some quotes and find out how dangerous it actually is.

I've arranged a visit from The Asbestos Group, who are due to come and take some samples tomorrow, before preparing a quote for the removal. They are doing the sample for free, presumably since they anticipate our business, and assuming the price is reasonable we'll probably take them up on it.

More news to follow....

posted by axford @ 6:12 PM 0 comments

Introducton to axfordReviews

Just like many other people these days, I rarely purchase anything without first researching it using primarily the internet, but also by speaking to friends, ready magazines, etc. I've often felt guilty for not posting my own comments on items that I have purchased, especially those with little detail to be found online.

So....I've created this Blog as a place to post reviews of possesions I own, or have owned, and services I use, or have used. Hopefully it will prove of some use to the wider community.

posted by axford @ 12:40 PM 0 comments