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How to build a home for
HOW TO BUILD A HOME FOR UK WILDLIFE ACCORDING TO LEADING MERSEYSIDE HOUSEBUILDER AND THE RSPB
With the warm weather set to continue, now is the perfect time to get busy in the garden. Inspired by their national partnership with the RSPB, Barratt and David Wilson Homes has shared some tips on how to create the very best garden for UK wildlife.
Philippa Stewart, Sales Director for Barratt and David Wilson Homes North West, said: “We are committed to ensuring our developments are as wildlife friendly as they can be and now with lockdown in full swing we’re sharing some guidance in order to give people some fun activities to do and lend a hand to wildlife in the process”
Charlotte Ambrose, RSPB Wildlife Advisor said: “Gardens and the wildlife they attract can be a source of joy and comfort even in the most difficult times. Right now, we need to take that joy and comfort where we find it, and nature provides it in bucket (trowel) loads. “ The RSPB has comprised the following easy tips to utilise your garden space:
1. Get to know your garden birds
With many of us spending more time at home, attracting birds into your garden with feeders or a source of fresh, clean water will help you get to know your garden birds. Only feed selected foods at this time of year, such as sunflower seeds, pinhead oatmeal or special mixes for birds that feed mainly on insects.
Remember, good hygiene is vital, or feeding may do more harm than good. Find out more about feeding your garden birds at Join in with the RSPB’s #BreakfastBirdwatch to share your sightings.
2. Sow some seeds for bees
It’s not too late to start growing flowering plants from seeds such as cornflowers, marigolds and poppies to help provide bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects with a much needed food source – and your garden with an extra splash of colour. When the bees and butterflies started buzzing and fluttering around the flowers they will help bring the whole place to life.
3. Let it grow
Now is the time when people usually start venturing into the garden after the winter and start tidying up – the gardeners equivalent of spring cleaning. Of course we like our gardens to look beautiful, but if you can leave bits undisturbed and wild, you will be rewarded with wildlife that might not otherwise find a place to stay. That unkempt hedge could well have birds nesting in it by now, and the pile of leaves in the corner is perfect for visiting hedgehogs.
Philippa added: “We at Barratt and David Wilson Homes often provide wild seed packs to our residents to grow a slice of UK countryside in their otherwise modern gardens. Our feedback is great and residents soon begin to see an increase in all kinds of wildlife.”
4. Breathe
Whether you just have a window box planted with lavender or a garden full of trees, shrubs and flowers, take some time to breathe it in. Sit back, relax, watch and listen to the wildlife you have invited to share your little patch of greenery with you.
Philippa added: “Making small adjustments to gardens in urban or suburban environments creates extremely valuable wild spaces. Our properties often have versatile gardens that can host more friendly residents than meets the eye.”
For more information on how you can make your garden as wildlife friendly as possible visit rspb.org.uk/wildlifegardening
For more information on Barratt and David Wilson Homes, please visit www.barratthomes.co.uk or www.dwh.co.uk
CREATE A USEABLE LIVING SPACE BELOW YOUR DECK WITH REVOLUTIONARY TREX RAINESCAPE ®
The new Trex RainEscape® system allows homeowners and developers to maximise outdoor living environments and create the dream space. Trex RainEscape deck drainage system manages water to allow for a dry, useable space beneath an elevated deck.
Installed above the joists of the substructure, this innovative system features a trough and downspout construction that drains water away from a deck and protects the area below from rain, sun, snow melt and other elements. As a result, homeowners gain bonus space for storage or added living area. With Trex RainEscape, homeowners can safely outfit the area under a deck with outdoor furnishings, lighting, ceiling fans and entertainment components. “Trex RainEscape is ideally suited to the often wet UK climate,” noted Adam Zambanini, vice president of marketing for Trex Company. “With this simple system, homeowners can create a useable patio area below their deck where they can enjoy their gardens in all seasons and weather.”
Unlike competitive products – which make use of “under joist” technology – Trex RainEscape is installed above the joists, protecting them from moisture, water damage and deterioration that may occur over time and ensuring the structural integrity of the deck. The system is easy and efficient to install on both new and existing decks – making it an ideal solution for both contractors and do-it-yourselfers. The Trex RainEscape system is an easy and inexpensive addition to any elevated deck. Components include a 3.66m and 4.88m drainage trough sheet, a down spout, butyl waterproof caulk, 102mm x 15.24m butyl waterproof tape, 102mm x 102mm post flash, and 3.2mm x 25.4mm x 7.6m wall flash. Furthermore, only three tools – scissors or a utility knife, a staple gun hammer and a caulk gun – are required for installation. For even more peace of mind, Trex RainEscape is backed by a 20-year Limited Warranty.
