self storage Archives

Home Renovations: Where to Start and How Self Storage Can Help

Posted on January 28, 2025January 28, 2025 by Jaime Watkins

So, you’re thinking about renovating your home? Or maybe we’re too late on the draw and you’re reading this in the middle of a kitchen that looks a little like a demolition site. Either way, this blog has golden nuggets of advice to guide you through preparing for the beginning or next stage of your home renovation.

We’ll also take you through the benefits of using self storage units during this transformative (but stressful) time.

Whether you’ve decided to outsource the wall-smashing to the experts, or are a die-hard “Grand Designs” fan, there are several common questions that come up during any home renovation.

Let’s tackle things one question at a time. Best we start with the most pressing one.

How Much Do Home Renovations Cost?

Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer to this one, but we can help work your way towards one. Home renovations can set you back anywhere between £1,000 to £500,000.

Factors such as the scope of the project, materials, labour and location all play a part in determining the final price.

Okay yes, we know all of that and it’s all very well and good, but how do you work out the cost of your own home renovation?

Break It Down into Elements:

Location, Location, Location

If you’re in London or the Southeast of England, your home renovation is typically going to be more expensive than in other regions. Keep that in mind when you’re putting your budget together.

Labour Costs

Is your home reno more of a DIY situation? Or are you hiring skilled tradespeople to do the heavy lifting? If you’re hiring extra hands, you’re looking at about £150-£250 a day, but this range will vary across professions and locations.

Material Choice

Your choice of materials makes a very big difference when it comes to the overall cost of your home remodel. Premium items like granite countertops or oak flooring are going to cost you a pretty penny. Enter every homeowner’s worst nightmare: compromise.

Planning Permissions and Building Regulations

Fees associated with council planning permissions in the UK can range from £200-£500 while inspections may cost an additional £500-£1000.

Unexpected Costs

A fundamental part of life, surprises lurk around every corner. Especially when it comes to home renovations. Under an old sitting-room carpet one might find mould, or maybe damp in the upstairs bedroom.

They’re not things anyone wants to think about, but it’s important you add some padding to your budget for unexpected costs.

How Much Home Renovation Can I Afford?

Considering each of these elements in as much detail as possible will help you build both a great budget and a beautiful home. This exercise will also help you determine how much you can actually afford to spend on your home renovation.

With so many moving parts and time-sensitive decisions to make, it’s understandable that emotions tend to run high. That’s why it’s also important to ask yourself how high of an emotional cost you’re willing to endure.

Daily Mantras During a Home Renovation:

Not everything on your wish list must be ticked off now

If something doesn’t go according to plan, it’s okay, you’ll pivot

Don’t let the finish line distract from the details, they’ll what you’ll remember

Are Home Renovation Shows Real? No, but Self Storage Is…

Netflix really does make just about everything look easy these days. From blowing glass to building your dream tree house home, is there anything you can’t learn to do?

Reality-check incoming…

Renovating a home means your living space is going to be considerably disrupted. And the project may very well go on longer than you think. Dust will settle in places you didn’t know existed and your belongings? They’re vulnerable to paint splatters, dents and worse.

That’s why self storage can be your secret weapon.

Why Use Self Storage During a Home Renovation?

Here are some compelling reasons why renting a self storage unit during your remodel can save your sanity (and your stuff).

1. Protect Your Belongings (And Your Peace)

Keep furniture, appliances and valuables safe from dust, paint, accidental bumps and anything else in-between by tucking them away in a secure storage unit. With a variety of unit sizes available, Wigwam has space for every type of home renovation.

2. Maximise Your Workspace

Clearing furniture and other items from rooms will give contractors or yourself more room to work efficiently. The more efficient the work, the sooner you’ll have your home back.

3. Enhanced Safety and Security

Moving items out of your workspace and into storage during your home or renovation space and into a storage unit also removes potential trip hazards. This importantly reduces the risk of injury during construction.

4. Stress Reduction

Remodelling any home, even in small stages, is a stressful process. But, ensuring that your belongings are safe, and your workspace is optimised and hazard-free will make the entire journey far less stressful.

Tips for Choosing the Right Self Storage Unit

When selecting a self storage facility consider the following:

Size Options

Look for a facility that offers a range of unit sizes so that you’re not paying for unnecessary space. Not quite how much space you need? Try out our easy-to-use Storage Space Calculator.

Accessibility

Make sure that you can access your items when needed, especially if the renovation is a long-term project. At Wigwam Self Storage you’ll have access to your conveniently located unit, seven days a week.

Security

Choose a facility with modern security measures like CCTV, individual unit locks and 24/7 monitoring. These aren’t nice-to-haves anymore, they’re the industry standard.

Home Renovations Made Easy With Wigwam

Renovating your home can be a whirlwind of decisions, dust and dreams being actualised. With careful planning and the right tools, you’ll have no trouble jumping over any hurdle that comes your way.

Using self storage during this time ensures that your belongings are protected, your workspace is ideal, and your stress levels are kept in check.

Ready to smash your renovation out of the park? Your dream home awaits, get in touch with our team today.

Relocating? Here’s How Self Storage Can Help

Posted on October 24, 2023October 24, 2023 by Amaan Salie

Relocating can signify exciting times ahead, but the experience itself is almost always a stressful one. Whether you’re moving to a new city or downsizing your home, a self storage facility can offer valuable support. Renting a unit provides a secure and convenient solution to store your belongings while you sort out the challenges of moving. Here’s how self storage can make your relocation smoother and more manageable.

7 Ways Self Storage Can Help When Relocating

Space Optimisation

One of the main benefits of self storage during relocation is space optimisation. When you’re in the process of moving, you may find that you have more belongings than you initially thought. Self storage units come in various sizes, allowing you to choose one that best suits your needs. By temporarily storing items you don’t immediately need in a storage unit, you can free up valuable space in your new home, making it easier to organise and settle in.

Decluttering

If you’re in the process of moving to a new place, staging your old home can help it sell faster and at a better price. Before selling your current home, it’s important to declutter and depersonalise the space to attract potential buyers. This creates a ‘blank canvas’ that allows new buyers to more easily envision themselves living there.

Self storage provides an ideal solution for this. You can store excess furniture, seasonal decorations, and personal items in a storage unit, creating a clean and appealing environment for potential buyers.

Flexible Timelines

Relocations often come with unpredictable timelines. Sometimes, there are delays in closing on a new property or unexpected changes in your moving plans. Self storage offers flexible rental terms, allowing you to adjust your storage needs according to your situation. Whether you need storage space for a few weeks or several months, you can adapt your rental agreement to your ever-changing plans.

Security

When relocating, it’s only natural to worry about the safety of your belongings. Self storage facilities prioritise security, offering features such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and individually locked units. This extra layer of protection can give you some breathing room to focus on the rest of your move knowing your possessions are secure.

During Difficult Transitions Between Locations

In some cases, you may need to vacate your current residence before you can move into your new one. This gap in housing can be challenging, but self storage can bridge the transition. You can store your belongings safely until you’re ready to move into your new home, allowing for a smooth transition without the need for temporary housing or inconvenient commutes during an already unstable time.

Also, if you need help transporting your things, a self storage facility will know all the decent moving companies around town. They might even be able to get you a good deal or offer moving services of their own.

Downsizing

Relocating during a downsize will prompt you to reassess your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. Self storage can serve as a temporary holding space for items you’re unsure about, giving you time to make thoughtful choices. It’s also beneficial for keeping cherished belongings without overcrowding your new home.

Getting Packaging Supplies

A good self storage facility will usually have a packaging shop available to help you with all the supplies you might need for transit and storage. With this added benefit, you won’t need to run all over town to find the items you need.

What To Look Out For In a Self Storage Unit

Accessibility: Does the facility offer 24-hour access and weekend availability? Check if you can get to your belongings whenever you need them.
Security: The minimum safety features should be the padlocks, CCTV cameras, and on-site personnel.
Location:. It’s ideal to get a facility located near you, but self storage costs can vary widely with location, so you’ll have to weigh up the costs versus convenience. Facilities in urban areas tend to be more expensive, so you might want to opt for a less central facility and invest in better features instead.
Reviews: Study the previous interactions of other customers to weed out low-quality self storage facilities. Lazy staff, unanswered complaints, and one-star reviews should place that self storage facility on your no-go list.
Cleanliness: Ask for a tour of the facility, and check whether they keep their offices and self storage units in pristine condition. Run at the first sign of rat droppings and mildew.

Why Choose Wigwam Self Storage To Help With Relocating?

Wigwam Self Storage is an excellent choice for your storage needs and stands out for several reasons, including:

Variety of Unit Sizes: Wigwam Self Storage offers a wide range of unit sizes to accommodate your specific needs. Whether you need a small unit for only a few items during the move or a larger one for bulky furniture and appliances, Wigwam will have the perfect size for your needs.
Security: Our self storage facilities are equipped with advanced security measures, including surveillance cameras, access control, and secure locks on each unit.
Convenient Locations: We have locations in Chipping Norton and Bromsgrove for your convenience.

How To Book Your Self Storage Unit With Wigwam Self Storage

Assess your storage needs. Take an inventory of the items you plan to store and estimate the amount of space you’ll need. If you’re unsure, our friendly staff can assist you in determining the appropriate unit size.

Choose the location to view more details about that facility, such as address, contact information, and available unit sizes.

Browse through the available unit sizes and types. Click on each option to learn more about its features and pricing. Select the unit that best suits your needs and budget.

Once you’ve chosen a unit, click the ‘Reserve Now’ button. You’ll be prompted to fill in your details. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your reservation. During this process, you’ll have the opportunity to review the rental terms and policies.

After reserving your unit, you’ll need to make a payment to secure your booking. Wigwam Self Storage accepts debit and credit cards.

You’re ready to move in with your reservation confirmed and payment made! Visit the chosen self storage branch on your scheduled move-in date, and our friendly staff will assist with moving your belongings into your unit.

Using self storage facilities can make your relocation smoother, less stressful, and more efficient, ultimately helping you settle into your new home more easily. When you’re preparing for your relocating adventure, remember that Wigwam Self Storage can be your rock in this journey.

Is Bromsgrove a Good Place To Live? Guide to the Best of Bromsgrove

Posted on September 12, 2023May 21, 2024 by Amaan Salie

Wedged between the picturesque landscapes of Worcestershire, the town of Bromsgrove is full of character and charm. From stunning historic architecture to lively cultural scenes, Bromsgrove has captured the hearts of residents and visitors alike. Read on to discover the best of Bromsgrove and why this quaint town is (or isn’t) a good place to call home.

Why Do People Want To Live in Bromsgrove?

Rich History

There are many reasons why people move to Bromsgrove. One of the most captivating aspects of Bromsgrove is its rich history. In the Middle Ages, Bromsgrove was a thriving hub of the wool trade. The village’s roots date back even further to Roman times, evident in its charming architecture and landmarks.

Stroll through the town centre, and you’ll be transported to another era, encircled by Tudor-style buildings, cobbled streets, and ancient churches. The Bromsgrove Museum displays artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s past, allowing residents to connect with their heritage and visitors to appreciate the significance of their surroundings.

Natural Splendour

Bromsgrove is a haven for nature lovers. The town is shrouded by lush countryside, rolling hills, and tranquil waterways that offer ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Lickey Hills Country Park, with its panoramic views and winding trails, is a popular destination for residents seeking fresh air and a slice of serenity. The canal paths that crisscross the town provide a peaceful backdrop for leisurely walks and bike rides, allowing residents to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Tip: Check out Bromsgrove’s top golf courses boasting some of the most picturesque natural surroundings.

Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Despite its small town appeal, Bromsgrove has a vibrant arts and culture scene that rivals larger cities. The Artrix Arts Centre stands as a testament to the town’s commitment to creativity, hosting a diverse range of performances, exhibitions, and workshops. From live music and theatre productions to art galleries showcasing local talent, Bromsgrove offers an outlet for artistic expression like nowhere else.

Strong Community Spirit

Neighbours greet each other with smiles, and local businesses are more than just commercial establishments; they’re integral parts of the town’s identity. Farmers’ markets, fairs, and community events like the annual Bromsgrove Carnival, provide plenty of opportunities for residents to come together, share stories, and forge lasting friendships.

Must-See Attractions Around Bromsgrove

Whether you’re a visitor passing through or a long-time resident, Bromsgrove has a myriad of sublime spots to enjoy the day away.

The Town Market

The town market is an absolute must-see event that has been taking place here since 1200. It still remains a lively event, and is held in the Town Centre on High Street every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings

Step back in time at the Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, a unique open-air museum that preserves and displays a fascinating collection of historical buildings from various periods. From timber-framed cottages to a fully furnished Victorian prefab, the museum provides an immersive experience of British history and architecture. Visitors can explore the charming buildings and gardens, and learn about the stories that shaped the region.

Lickey Hills Country Park

Lickey Hills Country Park is a haven of natural beauty. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a variety of walking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The hills are covered in woodlands and grasslands, making it a picturesque escape for hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts.

Hanbury Hall and Gardens

Just a short drive six miles out of town, you’ll find Hanbury Hall and Gardens. History and horticulture hold hands at Hanbury Hall, a superb National Trust property where meticulously landscaped gardens surround elegant Georgian houses.

Stroll through the walled garden, orchards, and wilderness area, or explore the historic rooms inside the hall. Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions make it a lively destination year round.

Sanders Park

A favourite among locals and visitors alike, Sanders Park is a charming urban oasis offering a range of recreational facilities. With lush green spaces, a lake, children’s play areas, and sports facilities, it’s an excellent spot for a walk, family picnic, or friendly football game. The park also hosts community events and concerts during the warmer months.

Jinney Ring Craft Centre

Experience the creativity and craftsmanship of the region at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre. This unique destination showcases local artisans’ work in a charming courtyard setting. Here, you can shop for handcrafted goods, observe artisans at work, and enjoy delicious homemade food at the on-site restaurant.

The Best Places To Eat and Drink in Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove has plenty of country pubs, canal restaurants, and eateries to choose from. Here are some of the best:

Little Ale House

Bromsgrove’s first micro pub, the Little Ale House has seven rotating ales from various breweries. Real cider and perries are also available for those who aren’t big lovers of ale.

Casa Med

Stop by this tapas bar and lounge for a shared meal with friends. Their most prominent dishes include marinated pork belly, fried Iberico chorizo, and aubergine fritters. Don’t overindulge before you’ve had the chance to try their famous churros for dessert!

The Nailers Arms

Enjoy some fantastic hearty pub grub at the Nailers Arms! Tuck into steak or lasagne, or take your pick of the carvery, which is available seven days a week. Their specialty pudding is the treacle sponge pudding.

How Do People Travel Around Bromsgrove?

While Bromsgrove’s countryside charm might make it seem worlds away from the rush of urban life, it’s surprisingly well-connected. The town’s railway station offers direct links to Birmingham, making it a feasible option for commuters who work in the city but seek the tranquillity of a smaller community to return to at the end of the day.

Bromsgrove is a mosaic of history, natural beauty, artistic expression, and a neighbourly spirit that comes together to create a truly wonderful place to live. Are you looking for a cost-effective self storage facility in Bromsgrove or convenient moving services? Look no further than Wigwam self storage; our wide range of Bromsgrove self storage units cater to both personal and business needs, providing the perfect space for your valuables.

Tips for living with dorm mates

Posted on September 29, 2022September 29, 2022 by Imraan

Sharing your space with another, whether they are a long-time friend or a new one, can be difficult at times. However, the foundation of successful cohabitation is all about merging personalities, cultures, and upbringings to create a new way that works for everyone.

If you’re having a little trouble adapting to a new way of living, try these tips for living with dorm mates.

Set rules early on

Everyone has their bad habits, whether it’s leaving wet towels on the floor or dishes in the sink. By establishing house ground rules early on and nipping bad habits in the bud, you can avoid conflict and have a much more pleasant living experience from the start.

Get to know each other

Your dorm mate is someone that you’ll be sharing a living space with for the next several months at least, so getting to know them should be a priority. Not only can it make living in tight quarters more bearable, but you may end up with a lifelong friend.

Respect each other’s belongings

Respecting your dorm mate’s belongings will go a long way in creating a positive living environment and is the easiest way to avoid unnecessary conflict. So next time you’re tempted to borrow their clothes, laptop or toothpaste, remember to ask first!

Compromise where you can

You can’t have it your way all the time. This may be a tough pill to swallow, especially if you’re a neat freak and your dorm mate definitely is not, but learning to compromise on minor issues is vital to building a healthy living environment. Learning to compromise can also help you build strong personal and professional relationships down the line.

Although you can’t use Wigwam’s student self storage solutions to store a messy dorm mate, you can use it to create more space for easier living. If you’re ready to store your excess dorm room items, give us a call on 01608 656 300 or request an obligation-free quote online.