Everything you need to know about clearing blocked drains Blocked drains are unpleasant. But they are also very expensive to get cleared professionally, so it pays to know how to do the job yourself. How drainage systems work Before you attempt to unblock main drains, make absolutely certain what system you have and get to know how it works. Two pipe systems are … [Read more...] about How to clear blocked drains
What is emulsion?
Emulsion -Everything you need to know about the versatile paint. Emulsion paints are invariably the first choice for decorating walls and ceilings. Understanding more about them will help you to achieve a perfect finish every time. Read our tips and tricks to get Paint has come a very long way since man first used it to record scenes from everyday life on the walls … [Read more...] about What is emulsion?
Fitting a wall safe
The wall safe is held in its opening by metal lugs or flanges that are trapped by mortar packing, and some have bolts which are screwed through the sides of the safe into pre-cut recesses. Your first job is to mark out and cut the opening accurately. Don't rush this step to avoid creating much more work for yourself later. 1. Use a drill and large masonry bit to remove as … [Read more...] about Fitting a wall safe
Boiler making hissing noises
Is your boiler making hissing noises? This sound resembles a kettle's sound when boiling water on a stove and can keep you up at night wondering if you are in danger of an explosion or if the boiler is showing signs of old age. Various factors cause this problem, and knowing the root cause is essential to figure out the best solution forward. Causes of Hissing Noises in a … [Read more...] about Boiler making hissing noises
Celotex Vs Rockwool
With ever-increasing energy bills, many of us are looking at improving the insulation of our homes or workplaces. Celotex and Rockwool are two well-established companies with solid reputations in the field. What's the difference between them and which is best for the job that you want to do? Celotex Celotex, based in Hadleigh, Sussex, belongs to Sant-Gobain, a French … [Read more...] about Celotex Vs Rockwool
Mira Advance Shower Reset
Although your Mira advance shower will automatically reset and be ready upon installation, events such as a power outage might mean you need to reset it. When this happens, a reset light often indicates a need for a reset. We'll walk you through the process and give you a few tips on the way. Important: Do not switch on the appliance if there is a possibility that the … [Read more...] about Mira Advance Shower Reset
Who makes Wilko paint?
Wilko paint is manufactured by Wilko and sold exclusively online and in-store at Wilko. Having a store brand of paint has created an affordable paint option for customers frequenting Wilko. The paint brand launched in 1973 and has since become a customer go-to for DIY projects. Where Can I Buy Wilko Paint in the UK? While the chain boasts over 400 stores around the world, … [Read more...] about Who makes Wilko paint?
UK Socket Heights
Various regulations guide the electrical work you can carry out in the UK. These regulations are subject to change, so keeping yourself updated on electrical safety is advisable. These guidelines are often listed as Part M of the building regulations and can also be referred to as British Standard BS 7671. If you want to install electrical connectivity on your property and … [Read more...] about UK Socket Heights
Best Impact Driver
We asked 246 tradesmen and 99 DIYers which they thought was the best impact driver currently on the market and which impact driver they currently use. Here are the results: Most popular DIY Impact Drivers RYOBI 18V ONE+ Impact Driver (1x 2.0Ah)Erbauer EXT 18V 4Ah Li-ion Brushless Cordless Impact driver 1 battery EID18-Li Most popular trade Impact Drivers DeWalt … [Read more...] about Best Impact Driver
Fitting an outside tap
DIY Difficulty Level 6/10 An outside tap has a number of practical uses and can make life much easier when doing gardening jobs, cleaning the car and filling the kids paddling pool. For the outside tap to be compliant with Water Regulations, a double-seal non return valve must be included as part of the installation. This will ensure that you do not send any dirty water … [Read more...] about Fitting an outside tap
Render Paint
Render can completely transform the exterior look of your property in a matter of days and can add significant value and curb appeal. One of the biggest benefits of render is that it can be used on both new and existing homes to completely transform them and it can also be used to protect your home from weather damage and fading. Render can be painted in a variety of colours … [Read more...] about Render Paint
Best Sander for Skirting Boards
What's The Best Sander for Skirting Boards? Electric sanders are designed to make light work of tasks such as sanding and polishing. But, while they might be effective for other areas, we've found the best electric sander for skirting boards is a powerful but compact corded model. Using an electric sander on skirting boards can save you time and effort over using a … [Read more...] about Best Sander for Skirting Boards
Erbauer Power Tools
Erbauer manufacture a range of power tools and accessories designed for trade use and professional applications. Tools such as circular saws, drills and power screwdrivers are available in a range of specifications to produce high quality results on site or at home. Erbauer manufactures over 50 products under the Erbauer brand name including drill drivers, grinders, angle … [Read more...] about Erbauer Power Tools
Painting Breeze Blocks
Breeze blocks have a very rough surface which means they chew up roller sleeves very quickly and you'll need a good supply of them on hand if this is the method you choose. Thankfully there's an easier way to paint breeze blocks and I've outlined my process here. The easiest way to paint breeze blocks (and only way in my opinion) is by first using a spray gun and then power … [Read more...] about Painting Breeze Blocks
M Class Dust Extractor
M Class Dust Extractor As a reminder, there are three classes of dust extractor in the UK; L Class, M Class and H Class. Broadly speaking, M Class dust extractors are suitable for dust created from hard woods, sheet materials, brick and and concrete dust. Dust extraction is often a secondary consideration, especially for DIY enthusiasts, but it's of paramount importance … [Read more...] about M Class Dust Extractor
Laying chipboard flooring
Tools required Pencils >>>Cordless driver >>>Plastic shims >>> Wood glue >>>Steel straightedge >>>Hand saw >>> Chipboard flooring with tongue and groove joints is commonly available for flooring applications. They are relatively cheap and quick to lay. Standard size sheets are 2400mm x 600mm and available in two … [Read more...] about Laying chipboard flooring
DIY Kitchens Reviews
Pros >> Potentially huge savings to be made compared to well known rivals>> Easy to use online planner >> Extremely helpful and friendly customer support>> Showroom demonstrating all designs and units>> Wide selection of colours and designs & quality units>> Quick turnaround times and range of delivery options Cons>> … [Read more...] about DIY Kitchens Reviews
Pain Free Picture Hanging with Takker
“Takker - The ingeniously simple wall hanging kit”. Following a successful appearance on the Irish Dragons Den Takker is now launching in the UK Diyfixit was invited to take a look at the new device for hanging pictures called the Takker. We tried it out and were pretty impressed. The device itself looks a bit like a staple gun and came with a selection of special … [Read more...] about Pain Free Picture Hanging with Takker
Read these tips before employing tradesmen
Finding a decent tradesman to work on your house can be a big headache if you don't know anyone. That horrible feeling of "will I get ripped off" or "I don't have a clue where I'm going to find a reliable plumber, electrician, plasterer etc" is no fun. Most of us have been there at some point - maybe you just moved to a new area or you just haven't needed anyone before. It … [Read more...] about Read these tips before employing tradesmen
Influences on house prices
It has been revealed in The Telegraph that parents are willing pay an extra £8,670 on buying a new property in order to get in the catchment area for a good primary school. The figures come from research conducted by Nationwide Building Society who say that simply living near a school where pupils get 10% better results, can mean a 4.6% increase on a house value. The … [Read more...] about Influences on house prices