DIY guides for everything, written by experts.
Our step by step how to guides aim to help you with your DIY and home improvement projects. You’ll find practical advice on all aspects of Do It Yourself in the different sections – from emergency plumbing repairs and fixing central heating problems to plastering, painting, tiling and wallpapering. We have helpful hints and tips as well as product and material reviews plus notes on safety and regulations.
Expert building guides
Guides and advice to help you tackle a huge range of building projects, from fitting kitchens to diy plastering. Whether you need to fix a squeaky floorboard or damp proof your basement, our building advice centre has you covered.
Decorating ideas and guides
Take the headache out of decorating and easily transform your home with decorating advice from seasoned professionals.
Tool reviews
Good, reliable tools that don’t break the bank make DIY much easier. Get the lowdown on the best tools.
Latest from the magazine
Cutting Tarmac/Asphalt
I recently needed to cut a 10m length of tarmac at the entrance to our drive because it was in the way of laying some new cobble setts. The previous drive must have been laid 2 or 3 inches from the public path and over time, work has been done which meant fresh tarmac had…
Worcester Boiler Reset
How to reset your Worcester boiler correctly The occasional need to reset your Worcester boiler may arise to overcome glitches, power cuts or error codes. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to reset your Worcester boiler. But remember, always prioritise safety and, when in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s manual or call in a qualified technician.…
How to reset Bosch Serie 8 washing machine
If you’re looking to reset a Bosch Serie 8 washing machine, follow the steps below. Keep in mind that specific instructions may vary depending on the exact model, so it’s always a good idea to refer to your user manual for any unique guidelines or clarifications. Power Off: Turn off the washing machine using the…
How to reset Bosch washing machine Serie 6
Resetting your Bosch Serie 6 washing machine can help troubleshoot minor issues that you might be experiencing. Here’s a simple way to reset most Bosch washing machines, including the Serie 6: Turn Off the Machine: Turn off your washing machine by turning the dial to the “Off” position or pressing the “On/Off” button, depending on…
How to reset Beko fridge freezer
Resetting a Beko fridge freezer is generally straightforward, although the specific steps may vary based on the model. Below is a general guide on how to reset most Beko fridge freezers: Power OffTurn off the fridge freezer by unplugging it from the wall socket.WaitWait for about 10 minutes to allow any capacitors inside the fridge…
How to reset Beko washing machine
Resetting a Beko washing machine can help troubleshoot or solve certain issues you may be facing with your appliance. The steps are relatively straightforward and will not take much time. Here’s a detailed 700-word guide to walk you through the process. Safety first Before proceeding with the reset, ensure that the machine is switched off…
Why does my Ford Focus keep locking itself?
If your Ford Focus is spontaneously locking itself, it can be a source of considerable annoyance and inconvenience. There are several reasons why this might be happening, and understanding the root cause will help you solve the problem. One common reason is an issue with the key fob. The buttons on the fob can become…
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Hawksmoor Mower Not Starting?
Hawksmoor lawn mowers are renowned for their dependability and durability. However, like all mechanical devices, they can sometimes fail to start.. Here are some potential reasons your Hawksmoor mower isn’t starting, along with some solutions. 1. Empty or Contaminated Fuel Tank Before anything else, check the fuel level in your mower. It may seem simple,…
What to do if you get gypsum plaster in your eye
Immediate steps and recommendations for dealing with gypsum plaster exposure in the eye Gypsum plaster, a common construction material, can pose hazards to your eyes if not handled properly. Although relatively harmless in small amounts, prolonged or high-intensity exposure to the eye can lead to serious discomfort, irritation, and even eye injury. Below is a…
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Why is Seat Ibiza EPC warning light on?
The Electronic Power Control (EPC) light in a Seat Ibiza is a warning sign that indicates potential issues with the vehicle’s engine management system. This is specifically linked to the throttle pedal, throttle body, traction control, or cruise control. This yellow or red dashboard warning light isn’t specific to just one problem and can illuminate…
Why is my rainwater diverter not working?
Rainwater diverters are essential parts of the rainwater harvesting system. Their function is to direct water from the roof gutters into the water tank, thereby conservatively managing the water resource. However, like any other piece of equipment, they may malfunction or fail to operate as expected due to several reasons. This article seeks to explore…
Does regular mowing kill couch grass?
Couch grass, also known as quack grass, twitch grass, or Elymus repens, is a perennial weed characterized by its strong and aggressive growth. It is notorious among gardeners and landscapers for its persistent nature and ability to invade lawns and gardens. This is due to its extensive underground rhizome system that allows it to regenerate…
Jeyes Fluid for Vine Weevil
Vine weevils are common pests that can cause significant damage to a wide range of plants. Adults chew notches in the leaf margins and the grubs eat the roots of plants, which can lead to plant death. Jeyes Fluid is a type of disinfectant, primarily designed for cleaning and disinfecting in and around the home,…
Carpet in the Garden
Old carpet may seem like its ready for the tip but it’s actually a valuable resource for avid gardeners. Here are a few ways in which you can reuse your old carpets in the garden: Weed Suppression A simple and common use of old carpet is to lay it over garden areas as a form…
Plip Battery
Plip battery refers to the battery in a car’s key fob or remote. “Plip” is often used to describe the sound or action of the key fob when it locks or unlocks the car. If the “plip battery” is running out or has run out, it means the battery in the car’s key fob or…
Vauxhall Meriva Code 24
Code 24 on a Vauxhall Meriva is a code related to the number plate lighting, it could indicate a fault or malfunction with the number plate light system. The number plate lights are designed to illuminate the license plate of the vehicle for visibility and legal compliance. It’s important to give this the necessary attention…
Nissan Qashqai Boot Keeps Opening
The Nissan Qashqai, like many other cars, relies on electronic systems to control various aspects of its operation, including the boot. If your Qashqai’s boot keeps opening on its own, this could be due to several possible causes. Here are some of them, along with possible solutions. Faulty Boot Release SwitchPossible Cause: If your boot…
Honda Civic Alarm Keeps Going Off
Troubleshooting Honda Civic Alarm System IssuesIt’s not uncommon for Civic owners to experience issues with the car’s alarm system. If your Honda Civic’s alarm keeps going off unexpectedly, there are several possible causes and solutions to consider. Here are the most common reasons behind alarm malfunctions and troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the problem.…
Volvo XC40 Alarm Keeps Going Off
There are several reasons why the alarm on your Volvo XC40 might be consistently going off. A malfunctioning alarm system can not only be disruptive, but it could also indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed. Faulty Door Sensors: One of the most common causes of the XC40 car alarm constantly going off is…
Should You Try To Refinish Wood Flooring Yourself?
https://unsplash.com/photos/F84XvXyEYk4 Refinishing your wooden flooring can revitalise their appearance, adding value and charm to your home. This process involves sanding off the old finish and then applying a new one to the bare wood. But should you take on this project yourself, or is it better to hire a professional? This article will explore both…
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Creative Ways To Make Your Home Look Rich
Photo credit: Evelyn Paris The above photo depicts a lovely home on a lake with trees. Achieving the look of a luxury home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, according to professional interior designers, many of the top ‘luxury upgrades’ for homes are affordable DIY projects. Below we will share ideas to help…
