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How To Add Value To Your Home

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Whether you have a brand new home, investment property, or are thinking of selling  your family home, adding extra value where you can is always beneficial. While this may conjure up visions of expensive renovations, this doesn’t have to be the case. Regardless of your budget, adding extra value to your property is always possible. 

Our home improvement guide lists budget-friendly options along with some more expensive options that will help take your home to the next level and help improve sale price should you wish to sell. 

 

Budget-Friendly Options

1. PAINTING ROOMS

Simply enough, adding a new colour to the walls of a room can make the most dramatic change and add significant value to your home. It is quite simply the most effortless renovation you can make with the greatest return on investment. Colours have the power to influence moods and enhance wellbeing. Think of the vibe you want for your home and develop a colour scheme to match. This will provide your home with the makeover it deserves and bring out the traits of your personality. Painting your home can really refresh your house and make it more appealing. However, keep in mind if you are looking to sell your property that sticking to neutral colours will appeal to a broader audience.Roller Shutters to Increase Home Value

2. LIGHT FIXTURES

Another area of home improvements often overlooked by homeowners, which can provide an impressive return on investment is lighting. Old-fashioned and outdated light fixtures can be detrimental to your home’s appearance. Using energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures will help to minimise energy consumption throughout your home. By replacing your less-appealing light fixture with a small modern chandelier, you can well and truly bring your home to life. Chandeliers bring forth elegance and beauty to any room. Fortunately, many lighting stores and even some hardware stores offer a large range of lighting options at affordable prices. You can also add other lighting fixtures such as wall-mounted lights to your bathroom to further enhance your home’s new vibe or use lighting to enhance and show off artworks throughout the home.

 

3. LANDSCAPING

Investing time into your front and backyard can be just as beneficial, if not more, than your interior. Having a landscaped garden can immediately add significant value as it majorly contributes to the external appearance of your home. No matter the extent of your budget, simple steps such as planting native trees or laying fresh turf can greatly improve your home’s appearance. You may also decide to invest in building a patio, creating the ideal area for outdoor entertainment with the potential to increase your homes overall value. Patios are estimated to generate approximately 100% ROI.

4. ENTRANCE UPDATES

The entrance to your home is crucial, and potentially one of the first areas you should consider updating in order to increase value to your home. While every home is different, the entrance is most commonly the first area people see and first impressions are vital, especially if you are considering selling. You can start by ensuring your front yard is well-maintained and neat, then observe other areas which may need attendance. Your fence may need replacing or repainting, perhaps your letterbox is a little outdated, or your driveway may need repairing. By ensuring the entrance to your home is kept neat and modern, you can instantly increase the worth of your home.

More Labour Intensive Options:

1. ROOF RESTORATION

Your roof is a critical section of your home, which can undoubtedly make or break your home’s external appearance. Most homeowners often overlook the significance of their roof and how one tiny crack could quite quickly lead to bigger problems and potentially put your safety at risk. As we are all well aware, Australia is known for beautiful yet dramatic weather. As such, roofs act as a shield protecting your home from storms and heatwaves. Perhaps all your roof needs is a few tiles replaced, a pressure wash and a repaint. By having a roof restoration, you can prolong the life of your entire house and prepare your home for all weather conditions, saving yourself from future headaches.  

2. WINDOW FURNISHINGS

Installing window furnishings such as roller shutters, plantation shutters, and louvre shutters are an affordable way to add value to your home. Depending on your choice of style, window furnishings can provide a timeless elegance and modern look for your home. Owning a home with shutters provides a sense of security and protection, so homeowners feel at ease knowing their families are provided with an extra element of safety. Shutters also assist in keeping your house cooler during hotter periods and warmer during colder periods, significantly reducing your electricity bills. Sleep peacefully at night with window furnishings which blur out any unnecessary noise or light which may interrupt your sleep. Window Finishings to Improve Home Value

3. ADD A BALCONY

Installing a balcony in your home brings forth a number of benefits. Balconies are the ideal touch of sophistication in a home. Adding character, style, and providing access to beautiful views of your surrounding areas. Having a balcony in your home can also increase the value of your home if and when you decide to sell, as they are believed to acquire aesthetic value. You may even notice by having a balcony, the size of your home will appear significantly larger and provide an additional area to entertain guests. Balconies also offer a great source of natural lighting to brighten your entire home.

4. UPDATED KITCHEN

Investing time into updating your kitchen will certainly boost the value of your home. Whether you plan on hiring a professional to remodel your kitchen or you prefer to take on more of a D.I.Y. approach, kitchen upgrades are a high return on investment. If you do not have the finances to take on an entire kitchen makeover, simple steps can lead to big outcomes. Sometimes painting your cabinets and replacing outdated kitchen hardware can make an impressive impact on your kitchen’s overall appearance. 

5. BATHROOM MAKEOVER

A bathroom makeover or addition can significantly add value to your home. A clean and modern bathroom is always aesthetically pleasing to any potential home buyer or owner. Most bathrooms only require minor changes such as a fresh coat of paint, new showerheads, taps or faucets or perhaps a modern vanity. You can easily make most of these changes yourself without the need for an experienced plumber. Also, if you have the room and the finances, you could also consider installing an additional bathroom. The more bathrooms a property has, the greater the home is worth. 

 

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU SPEND?

When updating your home to add value, it is crucial to create a budget and plan prior to making any changes.  You should create a budget based upon the market value of your home. Do not spend more than 10% of your homes market value on updates in order to obtain ROI.  Create a list of areas needing improvement in your home, then further define this list by indicating what is urgent and what is not so critical. Many home improvements can now be completed without the requirement of experienced tradespeople However, there are always some instances where it pays to bring in the experts. 

Speak to your local home improvement specialists to learn more about how they can help you add value to your home or investment property.  

 

Plantation Shutters: Wood vs. Plastic vs. Insulite

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What are Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters were originally designed for stately homes in the southern states of America, where winters are mild, but summers are extremely hot and humid. Traditional window furnishings, like curtains, became far too stifling in the subtropical climate, and so the plantation-style shutter was developed.

With signature wide slats, plantation shutters allow for more airflow. The permanence as wall fixtures also removes any need to swap in seasonal window covers. Overall, the simplicity of the design is not only timeless; it goes with any style of interior, from contemporary to industrial.

The Benefits of Installing Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters aren’t just universally charming. They have a lot of other attractive selling points that go far beyond being stylish.

Insulating and environmentally friendly

The shutters were initially designed to keep the sun’s harsh rays and subtropical heat out of colonial-era American homes. Plantation shutters, with their large slats, allow for greater airflow when they are open, but when they are closed, are excellent insulators and can help homeowners save money on heating and cooling expenses by helping to regulate the interior temperature of the house.
Many shutters are also made from non-toxic and recyclable materials that help you reduce your carbon footprint.Plantation Shutters on New House

Durable and low-maintenance

Plantation shutters are built to last and become permanent fixtures on windows. Many are made with wood, PvC (plastic) or Insulite and are meant to stand the test of time. The shutters wide slats and simple materials also make cleaning a breeze. A quick dust or a wipe-down with a damp cloth is often all that is needed to keep the shutters looking fresh and new over time.

Style

The simple design of plantation shutters remains timeless. Plantation shutters are sleek and unassuming. They don’t fight for attention with other design elements and are rather neutral in appearance. Plantation shutters can fuse easily with modern, industrial, vintage, or shabby chic designs. They also remove the need to constantly update your window furnishings. A plantation shutter doesn’t need constant re-modeling or re-styling, saving you time and money during renovations, room updates, or seasonal interior design changes.

Increases your home value

Since most window coverings are temporary and easily removable, they don’t end up adding any value to your home. Plantation shutters, however, are permanent fixtures. The shutters are created specifically to fit your windows and improve the overall design of your home. They add curb appeal as well as energy savings that can boost the resale value of your home when you’re ready to sell.

Improves lighting

Plantation shutters offer an efficient way to shield your rooms from direct sunlight. You can control the amount of light you let in by adjusting the angle of the slats. This makes it easier to protect indoor possessions and furniture from the damage of extreme sun exposure over time.

Cost

The cost of your plantation shutters will vary.Three main factors usually determine the pricing: :

  • The material of the shutters. Plantation shutters can be made out of different types of wood, including basswood and poplar. However, they can also be constructed of plastic (such as PvC) of varying qualities, or Insulite, a premium dense polymer that looks and feels like real timber.
  • The size and amount of windows. The amount of windows, as well as their size, will affect pricing as well. Plantation shutters are all typically customised to the size of the window and made to fit perfectly, so the size and quantity will determine how many materials and hours are needed to complete the job.
  • The quality of shutters. While PvC and plastic shutters are less expensive, wood shutters can get costly fast. Alternatively, insulite gives the impression of real wood while not costing quite so much.

Plantation Shutter Types

Different types of plantation windows have a variety of pros and cons. They also may require different maintenance techniques. Each has their specific look and feel that should be considered. Once again, the least expensive isn’t necessarily the best. Plantation shutters are meant to stand the test of time – if you invest in quality at the outset.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from the three main types of plantation shutter materials:

Wood

The Benefits

  • Naturally beautiful. There’s something about natural wood and its grain that makes for a beautiful plantation shutter.
  • Countless colour variations. Wood shutters offer unlimited colour variations to match any interior. Many clients choose to paint their shutters to match their interior trim to help them fit seamlessly with the existing decor.
  • The option to use a stain. If you prefer to stain your shutter, rather than painting them, to help bring out the natural beauty of the material, you can do so with wood. Stains can also be matched to your home’s trim, cabinets, or furniture.
  • Strong and lightweight. Wood is stronger than poly, yet it weighs less. It’s extremely durable and allows for larger panel sizes – whereas plastic can sag under its weight if the panel size is made too large.Single Hinge Plantation Shutters in Bedroom

The Downsides

  • It’s expensive. Wood is typically more expensive than plastic options. It is by and large a more expensive option, and if you have large windows or many windows in general, you are looking at a bigger price tag.
  • May need occasional repainting. Like any other painted surface in your home, the painted finish will age over time. Expect to have to repaint or restain your shutters every 10-15 years.
  • Wood doesn’t like moisture. Under severely moist conditions or high humidity, wood can warp over time.
  • It’s inconsistent. Due to the natural gradations in the wood, you may get an inconsistent colour application or quality.
  • Not as safe or environmentally friendly. There are issues surrounding illegal logging when it comes to sourcing the wood used in wooden plantation shutters. Wood also isn’t great for insulation and poses a fire hazard.

Cost
In terms of price, wood is far and above more expensive than either plastic and Insulite. What’s more, due to the fact that wood needs to be repainted or restained over its lifetime, there’s an added cost of maintaining the wood itself.

Maintenance
The shutters may need a fresh stain or coat of paint every ten years or so. To keep your shutters well maintained ensure they are free from dust. Wipe them over with mild detergent and water to help keep them clean and looking their best. Wood is prone to warp due to the effects of moisture, so be sure to watch for signs of excess water near the shutters that can affect the wood over time.

Plastic

The Benefits

  • Durability. Plastic is very tough and durable. It will hold its colour for the lifetime of the product, and never needs to be repainted or refinished.
  • Less expensive. Plastic is often less costly than wood. If you are on a budget, you may want to look at plastic options.
  • Impervious to moisture. Some areas are more prone to moisture. Plastic is a smart choice if you are concerned about moisture or humidity, as it will not warp in the way wood can under similar conditions.

The Downsides

  • It’s heavy. Plastics have a considerable amount of weight in comparison to wood. The weight can put pressure on frames and hinges, and, if the window is extremely large, may lead to sagging of the panels.
  • Limited colours. Unlike wood, which can be stained or painted to any colour under the sun, plastics are pre-manufactured in specific shades, leaving you with a set palette to choose from. Typically, plastic shutters are white or off-white. While these are acceptable in most situations, homeowners that want to perfectly match the colour of their shutters to their trim or other furniture will find these options difficult to work with.
  • Limited panel sizes. Once again, because of the weight of the plastic itself, a plastic shutter’s maximum size will be much smaller than a wood shutter. This means you may need more shutter panels to cover a window opening if you decide to go with plastic.

Cost
Plastic is the least costly option when it comes to installing plantation shutters. However, not all plastics are made equal, and quality can vary widely. If the price is too good to be true, it probably means your shutters are not likely to stand the test of time.

Maintenance
Any mild detergent will easily clean your plastic plantation shutters. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best.

Insulite

The Benefits

  • Has the look of wood. Insulite plantation shutters are constructed of dense polymer foam. This foam looks and feels like wood. The difference? Better quality.
  • Affordable. While your plantation shutter will look like real wood, they won’t come with the hefty price tag of wood.
  • Fire Resistant. Insulite needs 3 times the amount of heat to ignite compared to wood or plastic.
  • Suitable for inside and outside. Insulite isn’t just for interiors. The dense polymer is safe for all environments – even exterior surfaces – meaning it’s water-resistant and won’t warp in heat or humidity.
  • Made with 100% fully recyclable material. Choosing Insulite means you are lowering your carbon footprint. The shutters are 100% recyclable and made of environmentally friendly non-toxic materials.

The Downsides

  • They look like wood…but they’re not. Some people prefer the slight variations you can only get from natural materials like wood. Although Insulite looks like wood, it’s not quite the same.
  • The cost is still high. While not as expensive as wood, Insulite is still more costly than plastic alternatives, especially if those alternatives are low-quality.
  • Limited colour options. Much like plastic and PvC, your options for Insulite colours are simply white and off-white. Luckily, these classic colours will go with any interior design imaginable.

Cost
Insulite is a good middle ground between wood and plastic. Due to its longevity and its environmental friendliness, the investment holds its own over time. The up-front costs aren’t as high as wood, and you are getting a more quality product than you would with even the highest quality plastic option.

Maintenance
Insulite shutters have some of the longest shelf life in the industry, meaning your shutters are built to last.

Insulite is very easy to clean. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth or a quick wash with a mild detergent will keep your shutters looking like new.

 

Insulite Plantation Shutter Locations

Insulite plantation shutters are perfect for all locations around Australia. Their ability to withstand all Australian climates makes them perfect for cooler climates like Victoria and Tasmania while also withstanding hotter more tropical climates like Queensland.

Insulite Planation Shutters are available in:

NSW: Sydney, Newcastle and Central Coast
VIC: Melbourne
TAS:Tasmania
QLD: Brisbane

SA: Adelaide
WA: Perth

 

Download our guide to learn more  Or Contact the team at Modern to find out about our unique Insulite plantation shutters.

Factors To Consider If You Are Planning To Replace Your Roof

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As the structure covering the top of your house, the roof protects the entirety of the building against rain, sunlight and the extremes of temperatures. A cosy and leak-free home is highly dependent on the state of the roof, which is why the maintenance of this structure is very crucial for your well-being.

Many variables can affect the durability and dependability of your roof. Most of the time, repairs are needed for its preservation, but you might also wonder if you need a complete overhaul and a roof replacement. This can be tricky; luckily, there are some factors that you should consider if you are planning to replace your roof:

Age of the Roof

If your roof hasn’t been touched in quite a number of years, a roof replacement service might be the right choice. A roof may have hidden issues even if it looks good. Speaking to a roofing expert will be able to determine if your roof is in need of a complete replacement or if other options are available to you.

Shingles

Sometimes entire shingles can go missing from your roof. Though inevitable, this can be easily solved by patching up the roof. It’s more difficult to find shingles that would match the colour of an old one. When too many have been missing and your roof looks more like a disoriented checkerboard, you might want to consider a roof replacement.

The condition of the shingles should also be checked. Older roofs may have shingles that start curling or cupping (when the edges turn up or when the middle section rises up), or simply start to crack. This could also be due to extreme weather or other roofing issues but are all signs that it’s time to seek some expert advice.

Sunlight and Water Leaks

If sunlight can pass through parts of the roof, so can rain, cold air, and snow. Even a small hole or gap can weaken the whole structural integrity of the roofing system as it can dampen the underlying decking of the roof when the rain comes. These small leaks can be patched, but larger structural damages may need a professional roofing services provider. It’s also important to keep in mind that these small patch jobs can be expensive and add up over time, so in some cases, a full roof replacement would be a better alternative.

Another sign of a leak is the appearance of dark stains on the ceiling and walls. Mysterious dripping sounds coming from the ceiling is also a sign of damage. Lastly, it is worth taking note that animals such as birds, bats, and possums may take advantage of the gaps in your roof.

Flashing

Flashing is an unsung hero of your roof. Most commonly found around the base of your chimney and other corners that might need it, this keeps your roof water-tight. Cement or tar flashing is more vulnerable to water damage, which is why a metal flashing system might be more applicable for you.

Sagging

A depression in the form of the roof is usually a bad sign. Not only can it cause more trouble when left ignored, but it may also spike up costs of repair. Usually beams in the roof cause this problem, but this may also indicate problems with the supports in the foundation. Remember that this kind of problem is better to take care of as soon as possible.

How Modern Can Help

Modern has been a leader in the home improvement industry for over 40 years, offering relentless high-quality services to Australian homes. Your roof will be no exception. Our glorified team of experts are available for the roofing needs you might have. To learn more about Modern’s roof replacement services, call us today!

3 Things You Need To Know About Modern Shutters

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Everything about a home should be for the supreme well-being of the people who live there. With that said, windows and doors can play a very important role in your welfare and sense of safety but can also help to improve the look and feel of your home. Most Australians now opt for shutters for their windows and doors for various important reasons.

Installing shutters for your home may seem like a long, daunting process, with a number of factors to consider. If you are looking for your very own window or door shutters, The Modern Group has you covered. Here are 3 things that you need to know about Modern shutters:

  1.    Roller shutters offer maximum security and protection

Roller shutters are mounted above a window or door, and have the ability to roll up or down. Above is a headbox which tucks in the slats of the shutter when it is not required, which can then be rolled down for protection or cover when needed. This convenient design allows homeowners to have maximum security without blocking the natural aesthetic of the windows and doors all the time.

We offer three types of roller shutter operating systems. Manual roller shutters require some minimal physical labour. The manual winder handle can be controlled to raise or lower the shutters according to your needs. Electric roller shutters, on the other hand, provide convenience and are available in a range of remote control options. Better yet, Modern’s battery-operated roller shutters give you full control of your window shutters at the simple touch of a button for the ultimate ease and comfort.

  1.    Plantation shutters offer both practicality and functionality

Plantation shutters are composed of slats that can be tilted according to your needs – whether you need to let sunlight in or cover your windows from the eyes of passersby. Not only does this style of shutter make your privacy a priority, but plantation shutters also add to the beauty of the house. As if that’s not enough, plantation shutters can provide insulation through winter and summer months.

Ideal for standard windows, fixed plantations offer cost-effective light and privacy control with adjustable blades, while sliding plantations allow for a panel to slide over a fixed panel on the other side of your door or window. Bi-fold plantations allow panels to fold back on themselves for less obstruction of the beautiful outdoors. One of the most popular types of plantation shutters are hinged plantations, which have panels that can be fully opened with the help of the hinges on the sides.

  1.    Louvre shutters make the outdoors appealing and secure

Our louvre shutters are made of exquisite aluminium material, providing shade, protection from the elements, and privacy from those nosey neighbours. They can be used on alfresco areas, balcony enclosures and privacy screens.

Just like with our indoor plantation shutters, you can also opt for fixed panel louvres, bi-fold louvres, sliding louvres or hinged louvres. Additionally, there are also stacking louvres, almost like the sliding model, but with an H-section at the end of the louvre track to provide the option of completely opening and stacking the louvres.

Make Modern your choice for shutters!

Modern shutters are made of the highest quality materials and can add value, functionality and aesthetic appeal to your beloved property. Create the atmosphere you desire indoors or outdoors with our state-of-the-art products. The Modern Group has the best team of experts that can answer any of your questions and help you choose what shutter option is most suitable for the needs of you and your family.  

Still not sure what shutters are best for you? Contact the Modern team to organise a free consultation today!  

Top Tips for Choosing Outdoor Blinds for Your Home

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When living in a beautiful climate like the one that Australia has to offer, most homeowners will find themselves spending more and more time relaxing outdoors. With outdoor blinds, there is no reason to shut yourself inside, as you can make spending time in your outdoor space more enjoyable.

Creating your own outdoor haven can give you the best of both worlds – the comfort of home and a fresh breeze. With the right ornamental plants, lighting and outdoor furniture, you can have a beautiful themed space to relax and unwind in. Depending on your tastes, you can also add in a few outdoor cooking solutions, from a standard BBQ to woodfired ovens, and create the perfect entertaining area for your family and friends.

What are outdoor blinds?

Outdoor blinds can help shield your outdoor living space from the sun’s harmful rays, wind, rain, insects, dust and debris. No longer do you have to worry about packing everything in when the wind begins to blow or finishing your coffee in a hurry before the hot afternoon sun strikes. Outdoor blinds create a barrier between your outdoor space and the elements.

Yet, more than that, outdoor blinds maintain an open feel and highlight your natural surroundings. You would be amazed at how much flexibility they offer, helping to give your outdoor living space an element of privacy, protection from chilly winters, and shade from extreme summer heat.

Choosing the right outdoor blinds for your needs

Purchasing outdoor blinds should be a one-time investment that can have substantial benefits for you and your home. Yet, how do you know which style will suit your home and lifestyle?

Here are a few tips when choosing outdoor blinds:

    • Put your needs first – First and foremost, ask yourself: why am I buying outdoor blinds? Consider your motivations, your priorities, as well as your preferences.
    • Research your options – There are numerous types of outdoor blinds available: external blinds, alfresco blinds, patio blinds – the list goes on and on. Take the time to research your options and seek professional advice. Modern’s consultants can assist you in identifying what types of outdoor blinds may be suitable for the specific needs of your location, site, and climate. Their knowledge and guidance will be a big help during the research and decision-making process.
    • Consider ease of operation – During the cooler months, you will probably want to take advantage of the sun’s natural light and warmth. Similarly, during those hot summer months, you may want to close the blinds for protection against the harsh Aussie sun. This is why you should consider the ease of operation of your outdoor blind options. Working with ropes and pulleys can be frustrating, but the good news is that a majority of blinds can be motorised to work at the click of a button.

Optimising and enhancing your outdoor oasis

If you need the ultimate guide on buying outdoor blinds, look no further! At The Modern Group, our new DUX Outdoor Blinds are designed to give you the freedom to enjoy the fresh air in timeless comfort and radiant style. We offer:

Café blinds – Modern’s Café/PVC blinds are great for creating a cozy, yet warm and comfortable setting. They help to control airflow and provide an extension of your outdoor living space, all the while offering protection against harmful elements. They are especially popular among homeowners with larger properties that offer an abundant amount of space and privacy. This style of blind is available from Modern in a clear or tinted option.

Envirotex blinds – Made with high-quality materials, our Envirotex fabrics provide you with a premium choice for your outdoor living space and they come in a variety of colours to suit many home styles or applications. Our most popular choice, Envirotex PLUS, provides the ideal balance between excellent vision and weather protection.

Australian designed and made, our DUX Outdoor Blinds offer many benefits, including exceptional shade and privacy, durability, functionality, ease of operation, as well as a wide selection of styles and colours. Likewise, we provide you with the opportunity to turn your outdoors into an area you can make the most of!  To learn more about Modern’s outdoor blinds, contact our friendly team today!

Increase Your Home’s Value with Roller Shutters

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Window treatments can add warmth and character to your home. One of the best window treatment ideas that you should consider turning into a reality is the addition of roller shutters.

If you are contemplating how roller shutters can help your home, here is what you need to know:

  • Roller shutters provide an added level of safety and security – New home buyers, or any homeowner for that matter, are always vigilant of safety and security. Roller shutters do an excellent job of keeping your home secure by acting as deterrents and ensuring peace of mind. Modern’s Roller Shutters are manufactured from high-grade, architectural quality extruded aluminium.
  • Roller shutters increase the privacy of your home – Roller shutters allow you to create a peaceful space in your own home, away from nosy neighbours and prying passersby. The versatility may also appeal to potential buyers when it comes time to sell, as perforation holes can be kept open to allow you to see outside without others seeing in.
  • Roller shutters offer seasonal protection from harmful elements – Australia is well known for its extremely hot summers, harsh winters, as well as periods of intense storms. During these times, windows can easily shatter or get broken and homes are more susceptible to damages. Roller shutters create an insulation barrier between the outside world and your windows, thereby maintaining comfortable temperatures during times of unpredictable or severe weather conditions.
  • Roller shutters reduce the amount of noise and light pollution – If you live in a busy area, roller shutters can help to reduce the amount of noise pollution that enters your home. They can also filter light, offering shade during sweltering weather and can keep your home more comfortable.
  • Roller shutters reduce overall energy costs – With the addition of roller shutters, you can avoid over-relying on heating and air-conditioning systems. In turn, you will notice a difference in your energy bills and the overall feel of your home.
  • Roller shutters add curb appeal to your home – Roller shutters can come in a variety of different designs and colours. By matching the ones most suitable to the style of your home you will add curb appeal to the external structures.

Whether you wish to enhance the style, security or privacy of your home (or even save money on your energy bills), roller shutters offer a number of benefits appropriate for all lifestyles.

Why choose Modern roller shutters?
The Modern Group has been in the home improvement industry for over 40 years, during which time we have been able to create products and provide services that Australians love.

Secure, functional, sleek and stylish, our Modern roller shutters are made using the highest quality materials, so it is nearly impossible to bend or break them. They provide an element of privacy, superior protection from unpredictable climate changes, as well as prevention from home break-ins. Moreover, they cut down on your energy bills with improved thermal insulation, saving you money in the long run.

With various colours and designs to choose from, our Modern roller shutters also come in a range of operating systems which include:

Manual – Our manual roller shutters can be opened and closed through a smooth and effortless motion by using the handles provided, then locking into place.

Electric – Our electric roller shutters are available in a range of remote-control options, providing both convenience and efficiency for the whole family.

Battery-operated – Modern’s SmartDrive System gives you complete control at just the click of a button, and at a price comparable to a manual winder system.

Regardless of whether you are looking to sell or simply make some lasting improvements to your home, our Modern roller shutters are the perfect solution.

Contact the friendly team at Modern to learn more about roller shutters and the other products in our range.

10 Ways to Modernise Your Kitchen

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Whether you are thinking of investing in a full kitchen remodel or simple and quick changes, there are a couple of things you can do to make your kitchen modern. One of the main reasons you may want to do this is if you are planning to sell your home. Modernising the kitchen helps you to have a strong selling point and can help increase the value of your home.

However, you do not need to be selling your home to want to modernise your kitchen. If for example, you have become tired of seeing the same features over and over, a few changes can make your kitchen feel and look new. You can also opt to modernise if you realise that things are crammed up. That way, you will be able to create space and to re-arrange your kitchenware in a way that not only looks good but is also space-effective.

Finally, modernising can help you to match the décor with the rest of your house. For instance, if your kitchen was made decades ago, you can upgrade outdated pieces to fit the style that you are after. Here are ten ways you can go about it:

 

Get new pulls and handles

One of the easiest ways to freshen up your kitchen is to change the cabinetry hardware. You can make this hardware look like your modern window furnishings if you are going for a seamless look. As a pro tip, pick options that are colourful. For example, a nickel finish can be brushed to give a sprinkle of colour. Resist from getting things that are too personal or things that will get old fast; it will only make your work more difficult.

 

Paint your cabinets

Rather than replacing the hardware, you can paint the cabinets to give them a different look. One of the benefits of this is that you will not have to do a complete overhaul, saving you money. You might change a black countertop to light grey, or just introduce strips in the uppers to brighten things up. Like with the cabinet hardware, look for bright colours.

Change the cabinets altogether

If one of the reasons you chose to modernise your kitchen was to create space, replacing your cabinets is an excellent option. You can get newer ones that are designed to accommodate more items. With this option, you can also change the shelves to make them display-worthy. That way, you can show off your favourite bowls and dishes to make the room more interesting.

 

Change textures

One cheap way to make your kitchen more interesting is to mix different materials and textures. The beautiful thing about this option is that you can work with whatever you have. For example, if your cabinets are cream in colour, you can contrast them with a steel stove.

 

Show off your collectables

If you have extra space that you have been wondering what to do with, you can use it to cleverly display your collectables. This option is excellent because you can do the same with above window shelving. Whether it is a painting, a plate collection or a cooking book, you can add warmth to the kitchen and make use of the extra space.

 

Experiment with wood

If you want to add a rustic feel to your home, you can play around with wood. A custom island, for example, can be topped with metal to add drama. Besides wooden overheads, you can add on any countertop to make it suitable for prepping ingredients for cooking.

 

Cover the countertops

If you do not have the countertops of your dreams and you do not have the budget to do full-on replacements, a quick way to modernise your kitchen would be to cover them. You can use cutting boards or marble slabs for this. This idea works perfectly if you want to camouflage damage or stains without having to redo the countertop.

 

Use Plantation Shutters

Plantation Shutters have been known to make a room look elegant. They help to soften the room and to give it cohesiveness. Not only do plantation shutters look great but they also allow you to easily control your home’s exposure to light. If your kitchen is prone to getting the morning or afternoon sun, then shutters are a great addition.

 

Install new flooring

If your kitchen floor looks old, new flooring is the way to go. You can buy it in square feet, sheets or linear feet so be sure to compare the prices. Be creative with this step and mix colours.

 

Take down the walls

Another way to create space in your kitchen is by taking down a wall. That way, you will no longer have the boxed-in feeling you get with old kitchens. You can also replace the wall with plantation shutters to divide the room and create a separate space when needed.

As a rule of thumb, whatever options you go for, make sure that they fit with your budget and lifestyle. Contact Modern today to see how we can help you modernise your kitchen with internal plantation shutters!

Turn Your Home Green – 6 Ways to Become More Environmentally Friendly

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There are many important reasons why you should want to go green. As it is today, there are limited resources and the number of people using them is increasing. Anyone who is conscious about the future of the planet would want their descendants to be able to enjoy the same or better quality of life than they are currently experiencing.

Going green is an excellent place to start and can lead to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.  In turning your home green, you are helping to protect the environment. Choosing to implement practices that reduce waste, improve the quality of water and air, as well as conserve natural resources will work towards protecting biodiversity and keeping the future safe.  

See below 6 ways you can turn your home green:

Conserve water
Most homeowners tend to imagine sustainability to just be about the consumption of energy.  However, it takes a holistic approach to be truly green. In turning your lifestyle green, you will need to consider how you can save water in your home. Water can be saved in many simple ways. For example, fix any leaks that there might be in the house or make easy lifestyle changes that will save water, such as not leaving taps running as you brush your teeth. Overtime these simple changes can save lots of water that would otherwise be lost and wasted.

Install smart meters
Heating is one way you use energy in the home that can lead to waste if unregulated. It can be easy to leave heaters on all day especially in the cold seasons, or overuse air-conditioning in the hot Australian summer months. One good way to save energy in your home is to install smart meters. They are programmed to record energy consumption and can help reduce your carbon footprint through the feedback they give.

Choose energy efficient light bulbs
Energy efficient bulbs have been on the market for a while, but some people have been hesitant to get behind the idea. In adopting a green approach, it would be wise that you make the switch. Not only do those bulbs use less electricity, but they also tend to last longer than their counterparts. This means that you will be saving money that would otherwise go to replacing the parts, also your contribution of landfill is reduced.

Install solar panels
Solar panels have fast become essential to an eco-friendly home. They can supply you with clean electricity and sometimes you may be able to make enough energy to even sell it back to the grid. Solar panels are an investment for the future. You may take a couple of years to break-even, but you can rely on the results in the days to come. Solar panels can also add value to your home if you ever think about selling it.

Clean with natural products
One way to care for the immediate environment is in your choice of cleaning materials. When you wash, you are introducing your products into your water supply. If you want your purification system to be faster and more energy efficient, natural cleaning products are the way to go. You can use things like vinegar and citrus for most of your cleaning operations which are safer for the environment.

Insulate your home
It is not enough to just make sure that you are using as little energy as possible. You must also ensure that no energy is being lost in the home. Insulation is always a good place to start. Insulation acts as a barrier for your home and helps it stay cool in summer and warm in winter months. Modern Roller Shutters provide a thick wall of insulation and can help cut energy costs all-year round and significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Roller shutters also have additional benefits such as providing security protection, blocking out unwanted noises and filtering out harmful UV rays. Roller shutters are perfect for shift workers and those with small children who need total environmental control, as well as those who want to go green and reduce their energy consumption.

Modern can help to make your home greener! Contact us to find out more and book your free expert consultation today.

Nursery and Kids Interior Design and Window Covering Ideas

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A child’s bedroom is one of the places where they spend most of their time. It follows then that you want the space to reflect the personality of your child. Decorating your child’s room also opens up a world of creativity and has the potential to be one of the most fun and colourful projects you’ll come across. A lot of parents make the mistake of just throwing things together but taking the time to style the room is very important.

As a start, you should factor in safety and functionality. Some items like furniture need to be baby proofed. Secondly, styling the space allows you to merge it with the rest of the house. Lastly, you can control your budget as you style the room. Admittedly, the experience can become daunting if you are not sure what you are going for. One important thing to consider is window coverings. Do you use plantation shutters or not? Curtains or blinds? To get you started, here are three reasons window coverings are important for styling the room:

  1. Safety

Whenever you want to buy a new cot, for example, you must meet standards for whether the cot is deep enough, or whether the bars are the right distance apart. The same goes for window treatments. Do not get caught up in the rush to make everything flawless in one day that you forget to consider the safety of your child.

Can your pick incorporate window guards? What about safety devices? Will the child be under direct sunlight? Can your pick be child-proofed? You need to be able to answer these questions adequately before you can pick child and baby room window furnishings. In this article, you will find a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to the safety of your child.

  1. Window coverings help to balance function and form

Plantation shutters can be a great window furnishing to pick for your baby’s room. They will work to filter out light should your baby need to sleep during the day. That way, you get the ultimate balance of privacy and reducing glare. At the same time, the difficulty of making sure that something is practical, easy to use and aesthetic is sorted. You can use the these designs to help fit the space to your other needs.

Child and baby room plantation shutters also help in the fact that they are they can be fitted to many window shapes. As a rule, always choose tranquil colours for your baby’s room. They have a nurturing and calming effect. You can find some ideas here.

  1. Window coverings will affect space

Whatever you choose to install on your windows will form an important part of the design and space. Plantation shutters are lightweight and can be customised for the size of your window.

Note that as soon as you get your window covering right, you will then have to consider the other parts of the room. At best, plantation shutters are a starting point. You will need to consider other things like how to design the nursery so that the baby can grow there or how to choose storage options that suit your needs.

How Modern can help to transform your child’s bedroom              

The team at Modern can help you to pick the best child and baby room plantation shutters. They can install them and ensure that they are baby safe. The team at Modern can help turn your child’s bedroom into a beautiful, elegant yet functional living space. Protected from prying eyes while also sheltering your baby from the harsh Australian sun, plantation shutters will be the perfect addition to any bedroom. Contact us today to learn more.

Get a Free Consultation for Modern Plantation Shutters today.

If you feel your house needs a bit more protection from the sun, let Modern help.
Our team have been helping Australian’s stay cool for over 40 years! Call 13 11 78 today to arrange a consultation!

Request a Free Shutter Consultation or Call 13 11 78

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Create the Ultimate Outdoor BBQ Area in Time for Christmas

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Nothing beats a good old barbecue in Australia. In the warmer months, you get the opportunity to enjoy your outdoor space more frequently. With an outdoor barbecue, you can enjoy a relaxed weekend or afternoon with your family. You get to bond and catch up on each other’s lives while enjoying the privacy of your backyard.

If you are the kind of person who likes to entertain guests, a good barbecue space will serve your friends well. You can accommodate where they will stand or sit and the activities that you like to do. For example, people who like to play board games can have a fun time designing the space to suit that purpose.

Lastly, should you decide to sell your home, you can rely on the space to add value to your property. However, you will need to make sure that the design is pleasing and practical. To help you create the perfect outdoor area, here are five points to consider:

  1. Decide on the design and the location

The design of your outdoor space for barbecuing will need to integrate seamlessly with the style and décor of your home. It is important to remember that your outdoor space is not an independent entity. While at it, make sure that the design complements your landscape design. You want to have the outdoor space workable in every season one way you can go about it is to consider using louvre shutters. They help to protect the space all year round from harsh weather conditions.

Part of how well the design turns out will depend on the location. Consider where in your outdoor space you will want to have the barbecue area. At the very least, you may have to lay down flooring that is suitable. Consider how close the place is to the house. Choosing a central location is always important as you do not want to have to trek back and forth to get what you need.

  1. Will you need an outdoor kitchen?

A great addition to add to your barbecue area is installing an outdoor kitchen, making it easier to prepare food while you BBQ and socialise. Even if your space is limited, make sure you find a place that allows room for a fridge and a sink that caters to your needs. An under-bench fridge can work well to keep your beverages cold while not taking away from your counter space.

If the plan is that you have over a couple of guests, you will want to think about an outdoor space alongside your barbecue. That way, you will not need to make countless trips in and out of the house. You can install built-in bench tops and cupboards to function as serving and prepping stations. You can furnish them with utensil holders to make every hangout simple enough and make important items easy to find.

  1. Build a deck

You can opt to build a deck in your barbecue area. To do this, you will need to pick the right materials and the proper size. Before building ensure that you check if it meets the standards of safety in your area. A decking professional can help with the perfect design.

Regardless of the type of barbecue unit you choose, you will want to consider things like flooring. Timber decking is an excellent option for a classic look. If you want a less demanding option, you can go for pavers, which work well on lawns. A third option would be pebbles as they will require little maintenance and cleaning to take care of things like spills.

Another important thing when building the deck is to think about shading. Some people opt for ceilings and roofs and then they get ceiling fans and downlights to provide airflow and light. For others, the better option is to have shade sails and pergola roofing. Whatever the case, your option needs to suit your needs and the weather.

When building the deck, you can have aluminium louvre shutters installed to provide privacy and security. Louvre shutters are an appealing choice because they make sure the space does not feel enclosed and stuffy, providing air flow and allowing great views of your backyard.  

  1. Choosing your barbecue

The most fun part about having the perfect outdoor barbecue area has to be making it fit your dream. Do you want a trolley barbecue or a kettle one? Maybe a small grill would be a better option if your space is small? What about a gas barbecue that is portable? Choosing the proper unit will depend on how big your space is, how you plan to entertain your guests and what your budget is.

  1. Consider your options for entertaining

An outdoor set of chairs and a table might be a good place to start. Make sure that your picks are not just comfortable but are also all-weather proof. You can also include an outdoor spa or bar depending on the kind of entertainment you want to offer.

Creating the perfect outdoor area in time for Christmas is achievable. A few changes to your current outdoor set up will make the area seem fresh and new. Louvre shutters are a great way to close in your BBQ area while still feeling like you are “outside”.

Contact the team at Modern today to see how we can help you create an amazing BBQ area.

louvre shutters for outdoor areas
Louvre shutters for outdoor areas
louvre shutters
Increase privacy , light control and security with Louvre Shutters

Get a Free Consultation for Modern Louvre Shutters today.

If you feel your house needs a bit more protection from the sun, let Modern help.
Our team have been helping Australian’s stay cool for over 40 years! Call 13 11 78 today to arrange a consultation!

Request a Free Shutter Consultation or Call 13 11 78

From the Blog

A Brief Look at a Modern History

28 May 2021

What Exactly Is A Roof Restoration?

7 May 2021

Keep Enjoying your Backyard This Winter!

23 April 2021

Warm up your home this Winter

16 April 2021