Before you head out to your lampshade store or place your order online for a replacement shade, be sure to take a look at your current lampshade. Lampshades come in a variety of different sizes (usually measured around circumference of shade) and mounting styles. Some shades mount directly to base lamps while others mount to a support bracket that surrounds bulb, while others still clip directly onto light bulb.

Be brave and daring with your choice of lampshades. They are easy to replace if you hate your choice, but a simple lampshade can add that punch of drama to a room.

Do your research

Research windows and styles, certainly, but also check into companies that you choose to do business with. Ask around to friends who've replaced windows about their experience with particular suppliers and contractors.

Invite three to four companies to your home to get an estimate

Don't make a choice based on one double glazing price quote. After you've checked around, choose three or four companies that have a good reputation and have been in business for some time and make an appointment for them to come to your home. They'll need to see scope of job to give you a reasonable estimate of price to do it.

Always have your windows measured by a professional

Don't order based on your own measurements, no matter how reliable you think they are. Choose a company that will take measurements themselves, if for no other reason that it then becomes THEIR responsibility if any of windows ordered don't fit space for them.

Finally, don't assume that you're stuck with same look you've got. Replacement windows can make a spectacular difference in your home's appearance and value. Barring prohibition for historical or council reasons, you can have that picture or bay window you've always wanted. It's all a matter of finding it.