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Securing your property is one of growing domestic issues in UK today. Some research suggests that at least one home is broken into every minute. Therefore, protecting homes and properties has become a priority and advent of Closed Circuit Televisions or CCTVs is timely to say least and can be employed for this purpose.

What is CCTV exactly ? CCTV is a surveillance technology used initially to monitor commercial properties and public places, but has been adapted to residential property to help home security. It is basically a camera, or a network of linked cameras, that produce viewable and recordable images. It would be quite unusual for a comprehensive security system to be without CCTV. The cameras can interface with other systems such as alarms i.e. cameras can start recording when an alarm is triggered either automatically or by human intervention. Nowadays, wireless CCTVs systems are gaining popularity as they obviously do away with wiring systems and they are also easier to operate and maintain. They are also easier to protect from being compromised. The wireless cameras also allow for more flexibility and mobility, as it is much easier to install wireless cameras, even in most inaccessible areas.

Another important development is that CCTV also facilitate remote monitoring i.e. you do not have to be on site to view images. So it is possible to view real time images of what is happening back home from your work place or on holiday, you need to type in URL of server that controls wireless cameras from any browser. You can see these images just as easily on your mobile phone. Some security companies will also provide a service that monitors premises for you, so you effectively are renting equipment. That way you can keep up with any major technical advances.

Last week, I explained how to remove your old steel casement windows as you prepare each opening for new Vinyl windows. In most of country, you are limited to a replacement style frame, which is a new construction frame with nail fin removed. Remember, when you removed old casement window, you left perimeter frame in place. So, you have a lip protruding into opening that is approximately 1/2" wide. You need to order your replacement style frame to fit inside of this old frame. Measure width from lip to lip and deduct 1/4 to 3/8". Measure height and deduct 1/4". When you install new window, rest new frame on bottom lip of old frame. Leave front of new frame further outside than old frame lip. How far out depends on you, and how much inside sill space you want. A quality vinyl replacement window will measure 3 1/4" deep. Drive a screw in top center to hold it in place. Then, make sure window is perfectly upright before installing a screw in bottom center. Now you can secure rest of window with screws.