|
|
Guide to using a demolition hammer or breaker to break up an old concrete slab. The breaker delivers hammer blows to the point or chisel enabling it to be driven into the slab with minimal force breaking up the concrete into manageable pieces whic ...
|
|
|
Guide to builders talk and understanding words and terms used particularly in relation to loft conversions
|
|
|
A guide to choosing and finding the right door handles - we look at fitting them with your colour scheme, furniture and other fittings as well as deciding on material and choosing styles - lever or knob, backplates, and locks
|
|
|
Diy how-to on fitting and dressing sheet lead apron to the chimney creating a weatherproof seal to prevent rain water penetrating the brickwork.
|
|
|
Diy how-to on fitting sheet lead dpc damp proof course to the chimney creating a weatherproof course to prevent rain water penetrating the brickwork.
|
|
|
Guide showing how to set out, cut and fix tongue and groove chipboard floor boards to timber joists. Boards are laid square to the joists, packed at the edges to allow an expansion gap, and glued and screwed with lubricated board screws.
|
|
|
Diy advice for buying and keeping chisels sharp and how to use it correctly.
|
|
|
Once the foundation trenches have been excavated and passed by the District Surveyor, shuttering may be required before pouring the concrete. This may be mixed on site in a concrete mixer or delivered by a ready mix lorry
|
|
|
Diy instructions for putting up cornice or coving, fixing to ceiling, cutting angles and supporting while the adhesive sets as well as advice on repair of old plaster cornicing.
|
|
|
Guide to cupboard handles and bolts and choosing either magnetic or ball catches.
|
|
|
Guide to hinge types and use. Butt flush piano cranked and concealed hinges.
|
|
|
A simple guide to measuring for curtain poles - armed with a tape measure, pen and paper, this guide will show you how to get the measurements you need when buying curtain poles
|
|
|
Buying a suitable mortice, measuring and fitting in a new or existing door. Details for cutting out the mortice and ensuring the new lock fits correctly
|
|
|
Guide to damp proofing a basement detailing how to prevent water and moisture penetrating the walls and ceiling using a waterproofing slurry and studded membrane thereby allowing the area to be used as living space.
|
|
|
Demolishing an old brick wall to make way for new building work should be a planned and organised project. Inspect for safety hazards such as services and plan what will be done with the resulting rubble before starting work.
|
|
|
Diy guide to changing the hinges and hanging of a door to open in the opposite direction.
|
|
|
Diy guide to changing hinges and hanging of a door to reverse the opening direction.
|
|
|
Help for diy repair of loose door or window frame joints explaining how to tighten and glue them.
|
|
|
Choosing a new wood door and how to measure, mark and trim with a saw or plane to fit the frame opening.
|
|
|
How to cut out for hinges on a new wood door including how to measure and mark the rebates to set the hinge flush with the door edge.
|
|
|
Marking and fixing the hinge screws for a new wood door and how to measure and mark the frame ready for hanging the door.
|
|
|
Instructions for fitting or replacing the latch / mortice latch in a wooden door. Details for drilling the door to fit the handle and cutting the recess for the latch and strike plate
|
|
|
Details for fitting the strike plate on the door frame when replacing the latch in a wooden door. Instructions for cutting the recess and adjusting the lock.
|
|
|
Instructions for fitting or replacing a rim lock in a wooden door. Details for drilling the door and cutting the recess to fit the lock.
|
|
|
Instructions for fitting or replacing a mortice lock in a wooden door. Details for drilling the door and cutting the recess to fit the lock.
|
|
|
Details for fitting the strike plate on the door frame when replacing a lock in a wooden door. Instructions for cutting the recess and adjusting the strike plate.
|
|
|
Formation of the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme aims to clean up the industry and protect home owners from rogue traders
|
|
|
How to contain dust when drilling holes in plaster tiles plastic and wood and make cleaning up really easy
|
|
|
Advice on types of hand and electric power drills and how to use them correctly for diy. Details of drill stops and using a clamp to hold the wood or metal when drilling.
|
|
|
Advice on types of hand and electric power drills and how to use them correctly for diy. Details of drill stands, brace and bit and drill attachments.
|
|
|
In this article we explain how to cut and fix taper edge plasterboard to timber stud walls ready for taping and jointing so that they can be painted without the need for a top coat of plaster. This guide includes all you need to know - from measur ...
|
|
|
Tapered edge plasterboard can be taped the joints filled with jointing compound to create a smooth wall ready to receive decorations without the need for finish plaster. This method known as dry lining is simple to do and overcomes the need to dev ...
|
|
|
This guide details the process involved in setting out the deep strip foundations for a new extension as well as the method of excavation which may be carried out with a mechanical digger or by hand. Depth of foundation trenches will be influenced ...
|
|
|
Guide to excavating an area of ground for a new concrete slab forming a base for a new building, extension or shed. A mini digger may be used to excavate the soil to the required depth as detailed on the Architect's drawings. Particular attention ...
|
|
|
Guide to setting out and fitting a new curtain track including instructions for cutting the track to length and fixing to the wall with the supplied brackets.
|
|
|
Guide to fitting a roller blind including details on how to mount the brackets as well as trim the fabric and roller to length.
|
|
|
DIY guide to fixing heavy items and frames to plasterboard and hollow walls by mounting a suitable timber between the studs, or by using anchor bolts or frame fixings on solid walls.
|
|
|
DIY guide for drilling fixing and screwing to hollow walls / stud walls / partition walls with plugs or rawlplugs to fit shelves, cupboards and other fixtures
|
|
|
Drilling fixing and screwing to solid walls with plugs or rawlplugs to fit shelves, cupboards and other fixtures
|
|
|
Guide to removing an old flat roof which needs replacing. The felt, roof boards and joists are removed methodically and a suitable working platform is used where the roof is weak or has rotted due to damp penetration
|
|
|
Diy fault finding instructions for leaks and damp in a flat roof covered with asphalt bitumen or roofing felt.
|
|
|
Diy repair instructions for leaks, blisters and damp in a flat roof covered with asphalt bitumen or roofing felt, including patching kits.
|
|
|
Diy repair instructions for leaks and damp from defects in flat roof flashing, including patching kits.
|
|
|
How to lift floorboards for access to pipes and wiring with a guide to lifting tongue and groove boards or chipboard flooring as well as replacing them.
|
|
|
Diy repairs to cure noisy loose or sqeaking floorboards with details for boards without support.
|
|
|
Diy step by step guide to stripping paint varnish or polish and wax from old floor boards.
|
|
|
Diy step by step guide to sanding old floor boards ready for varnish or wax coatings.
|
|
|
Diy step by step guide to scrubbing and cleaning old floor boards and applying varnish for a beautiful natural finish.
|
|
|
A drain run traversing the line of a new foundation can be bridged using steel beams encased in concrete so that the load from the building is transferred to the foundation either side and then to the load bearing ground.
|
|
|
How to re-glazing a door or window frame. Showing how to apply the putty and fix the pane of glass in the rebate with brads as well as instructions for shaping and trimming the putty.
|
|
|
DIY how-to guide to removing a broken or cracked pane of glass from a window or door with details for preparing the frame for glazing.
|
|
|
DIY guide explaining the repair methods for gutters and rain pipes using spray on asphalt or epxoy putty.
|
|
|
Laying hardboard over floor boards for an even surface suitable for laying carpets, vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl or laminate flooring.
|
|
|
Cutting and trimming hardboard laid over floor boards around pipes door frames and skirting edges.
|
|
|
A simple guide to measuring for wooden shutters. Measuring for window treatments can be a difficult task, especially if you don’t have experience with the window treatment in question. There are variations on techniques and some window treatment ...
|
|
|
Modular attenuation cells are set in the ground to form a soakaway for surface water drainage. The cells are covered with a permeable fabric and the surround is backfilled with gravel before making up the ground level with previously excavated mat ...
|
|
|
Instructions for laying laminate floors. Details for acclimatising boards preparing the surafce and covering uneven floorboards with hardboard.
|
|
|
Instructions for laying laminate and wood floors. Details for installing and how to scribe cut and fix the flooring as well replacing skirting boards or using mouldings.
|
|
|
Guide to repairing minor damage to lathe and plaster walls and ceilings using undercoat plaster.
|
|
|
How to repair a sagging or bulging lathe and plaster ceiling.
|
|
|
DIY guide to removing an old lathe and plaster ceiling leaving the joists ready for plasterboard and skimming.
|
|
|
Guide to fitting a loft ladder and installing roof windows for daylight in your loft conversion.
|
|
|
Guide to frequently asked questions about loft conversions and loft ladders.
|
|
|
Guide to loft conversions and choosing loft conversion specialists.
|
|
|
Guide to insulating the loft to prevent heat loss and to protect from the cold. Details on measuring for the insulation and providing light to carry out the work.
|
|
|
Guide to insulating the loft to prevent heat loss and to protect from the cold. Details on laying blanket type insulation often referred to as fibreglass, lagging or glass fibre, rock or mineral wool.
|
|
|
Guide to insulating the loft to prevent heat loss and to protect from the cold. Details on laying loose or granule type insulation often referred to as lagging rock or mineral wool.
|
|
|
Guide to insulating the pipes and water tanks in the loft to prevent heat loss and to protect from freezing. Details on lagging the pipes with insulation and covering the tank with an insulating jacket.
|
|
|
Advice for loft ladder fitting to give access to attic space, covering metal folding ladders and insulation of the hatch.
|
|
|
Guide to installing or fitting a loft ladder to provide access to an attic space.
|
|
|
Guide to the new planning regulations for loft and attic conversions.
|
|
|
Mixing concrete with a mixer is quicker than mixing by hand. This guide shows how to measure the sand, cement and aggregate, and add the right amount of water for the correct consistency.
|
|
|
Nails and how to choose and use different types. Making strong nail joints and removing nails.
|
|
|
Nail choices and different types used for strong joints. And nail removal.
|
|
|
Choosing a decent spirit level with tips on what to look for plus testing a level for accuracy
|
|
|
Explanation of the party wall etc act 1996 and meeting the requirements avoiding disputes with neighbours.
|
|
|
Making a patio by laying concrete or stone slabs. Preparing the ground, planning and setting out the site levels.
|
|
|
Making a patio by laying concrete or stone slabs. Digging out the ground, building the foundation and laying slabs or flagstones. Pointing with dry sand cement mortar.
|
|
|
Advice and know how for choosing paving slabs to meet your budget and suit the style of your house. From budget concrete slabs to quality natural stone replica slabs , there's plenty of choice.
|
|
|
Expansion to the Permitted Development Order 1995 guidelines covering detached houses, semi-detached and terraced homes.
|
|
|
Advice on types of power planes and how to use them correctly for diy. Guide to planing wide boards for a smooth finish.
|
|
|
Advice on types of hand and electric planes and how to use them correctly for diy. Details of techniques for smoothing and planing wood to make timber square and the use of a surform.
|
|
|
Plastering techniques showing how to choose the right plaster and tools for the job - and how to prepare the wall or ceiling.
|
|
|
Plastering techniques showing how to apply the plaster or render using the tools correctly and diy guide to angle beads, corners and patching lathe and plaster walls and ceilings.
|
|
|
plasterboard guide showing how to use, cut and fix to wood battens or studs on walls and ceilings ready for plaster or taped joints.
|
|
|
How to apply a skim or top coat of plaster to plasterboard. Tools required, covering the joints with tape and preparing the area for plastering.
|
|
|
How to apply a skim or top coat of plaster to plasterboard. Mixing the plaster in a bucket, loading the float from the hawk sealing or skimming the joint tape, applying the plaster and polishing or trowelling off.
|
|
|
Preparation is key when installing a concrete garage - In this how to guide we explain the steps needed to ensure the base is level, sound, and square so you can avoid costly problems
|
|
|
Looking at the difference between a basic and a top quailty saw and how it makes work easier
|
|
|
How to fit an alcove shelf between a chimney breast and return wall using timber battens to support the back edge and end of the shelf
|
|
|
How to put up a fixed shelf supported on metal brackets plugged and screwed to the wall.
|
|
|
How to remove old gutters and rain pipes and replace with a new plastic rainwater system.
|
|
|
How to replace old gutters and rain pipes with new plastic rainwater system. Diy guide to fixing the outlet and guttering and connecting at the gulley.
|
|
|
Guide to salvaging old bricks and cleaning the lime or sand and cement mortar off using a brick hammer or bolster. Reclaimed bricks have a weathered and aged look and can be blended to match new brick work with original walls
|
|
|
When fitting a new kitchen, you may be able to sell the old units, doors, worktops and appliances. In this guide we explain how to get the services including water electricity and gas disconnected, and how to dismantle the old kitchen carefully so ...
|
|
|
Removing old plasterboard from walls and ceilings needs to be done methodically. In this guide we explain how to take down the old plasterboard as well as building paper, polystyrene insulation and timber battens.
|
|
|
Guide to repairing a damaged door which has been kicked open. The lock and handle are removed, the damaged area cleaned, and the split glued and clamped. The lock and handle are refitted, filler used to make good small defects, and the door repain ...
|
|
|
Guide to repairing a small hole in a plasterboard ceiling by cutting out the damaged area, fitting a timber support, fixing a new piece of board and patching in the plaster before making good the paint work
|
|
|
Simple guide to identifying and curing rising damp and how to resolve problems with moisture penetration of walls.
|
|
|
Guide to roof domes and sun tunnels allowing more daylight into the room.
|
|
|
Guide to installing domes and upstands.
|
|
|
Guide to roof lights and MOE (Means Of Escape).
|
|
|
Guide to fitting roof vents for kitchen and bathroom extractors.
|
|
|
Guide to installing or fitting a new roof window to provide daylight for an attic or loft conversion.
|
|
|
DIY information on maintenance and prevention of wood rot, cutting away decay, fitting new wood and making good the repairs to doors and window frames.
|
|
|
Guide to the multi purpose saw from Magic Tools which can cut almost all materials easily
|
|
|
Diy guide to the types and use of hand saws. Cutting wood with a tenon saw, looking after saws and tip for making straight cuts on pipes.
|
|
|
Diy guide to the types and use of power saws. Circular saws and jigsaws. Making straight or curved cuts in wood and choosing the correct type of blade for the material.
|
|
|
Identify screw types and their uses. Details for slotted crosshead and round head screws as well as raised head and mirror screws.
|
|
|
Identify screw types and their uses. Details for chipboard twin thread and self tapping screws as well as clutch, dry wall and coach screws.
|
|
|
Identify screw types and their uses. Details for pilot holes, using brass screws and help with small screws.
|
|
|
How to choose the right type of screw, drilling pilot holes and countersink methods for recessed screws.
|
|
|
Types of mastic and sealant for bathrooms. Preparing the bath or basin edges, setting up the sealant gun and masking for perfect results.
|
|
|
Types of mastic and sealant for bathrooms. Applying sealant around the bath or basin edges, using the sealant gun and cleaning for a professional finish.
|
|
|
Used for many applications in DIY and home improvement, there are many different sealants available. This user guide explains how to choose the correct sealant for the job
|
|
|
Guide to self storage which can be a convenient and cost effective way to store belongings – when moving house, renovating your home, travelling or de-cluttering. Plus, helpful tips to help you choose the right storage facility and get the best ...
|
|
|
How to put up shelves, planning and designing as well as materials to use. Box shelving, edging and fixing methods for track and brackets.
|
|
|
Guide to cutting and fixing new skirting boards detailing how to cut internal corners and external mitres as well as screwing to timber stud walls or solid plaster walls using plugs and screws.
|
|
|
Guide to sliding wardrobe door and track systems. Measuring cutting and fixing the tracks and doors.
|
|
|
Diy repairs for curing problems with noisy creaking stairs and loose riser and tread joints on staircase.
|
|
|
Repair guide for damaged or worn stair tread nose. How to cut out the worn timber and fit new section to the staircase.
|
|
|
Guide to traditional and spiral stairs for loft access.
|
|
|
Advice and know how for building a stone balustrade. Includes details of building regulation requirements, solid base construction, laying stone, jointing and pedestals
|
|
|
For a nation of home improvement enthusiasts, we are largely unaware of who does what when it comes to building trades. We take a look at the role of the Handyman and when to get a specialist tradesman
|
|
|
Diy guide to stud or partition walls usually constructed with timber studs, noggins and plasterboard. This article shows you how to build a simple non load bearing wall and how to finish the joints with tape and caulk
|
|
|
Buying a house can be a drawn out and painful process, so follow these tips and pointers to help make sure you find a place that’s right for you
|
|
|
Guide to choosing and laying vinyl floor covering. Measuring the room and marking the vinyl ready for cutting and fitting.
|
|
|
DIY guide to laying vinyl floor covering. Fitting the sheet vinyl in the room and cutting, trimming and fitting around door frames. Then finishing the edges neatly.
|
|
|
DIY guide to fitting window locks for security of casement windows.
|
|
|
DIY guide to fitting window locks for security of sliding sash windows.
|
|
|
How to cure problems with windows, maintain the hinges and ease binding sashes or frames that are stuck.
|
|
|
Guide to replacing broken cords on sash windows. How to remove the sash, beads and cord. Fitting new sash cords and refitting the window so that it runs smoothly.
|
|
|
How-to on choosing wood sheets and board materials. Diy guide to buying, storage and use.
|
|
|
How-to on choosing wood sheet and board materials. Diy guide to marine or exterior plywood, melamine faced chipboard, hardboard and MDF.
|
|
|
Wood flooring guide looking at the choices which include solid wood flooring, engineered wooden floors and laminate flooring which is most popular as a diy home improvement project
|
