Category: DIY
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How to waterproof plywood to protect against moisture and rot
Plywood is a versatile material that can be used almost anywhere in the home. However, waterproofing plywood takes it to the next level, making it ideal for both moisture-laden interiors and exteriors. It is made from layers bonded together, so any water that gets between the layers can weaken the wood. Introducing a sealant will…
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How to repair sink cracks yourself in these easy steps
When a hairline crack appears in your sink, you don’t want to leave it untreated. Fine cracks in porcelain or ceramic will soon allow water to seep through, causing damage to cabinets and flooring. If left unaddressed, the problem will only worsen, leading to costly repairs and ultimately necessitating the replacement of the sink. Even…
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Tiling on wood: Our guide to getting it right
You might think that tiling on wooden floors is as simple as sticking tiles straight onto the timber. But we can assure it isn’t that straightforward. Wood expands and contracts, so it needs to be prepared properly, using the right materials, for a successful and long-lasting finish. If you don’t prepare a wooden floor or…
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9 common grouting mistakes that could be ruining your tiling projects
Grouting mistakes are common, especially for novice DIY enthusiasts. Although it may seem like a simple finishing task, errors can lead to poor appearance and, more importantly, water ingress, which can cause costly and unwanted problems. Knowing how to grout tiles correctly is a skill that doesn’t take long to learn, but one crucial element…
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Sanding metal: Our guide with expert tips from the pros
Sanding metal is a crucial part of the preparation process when restoring radiators, preparing garden furniture for painting, and freshening up a front gate. It’s also a great way to remove rust by cleaning affected surfaces. However, when sanding metal, it’s essential to select the right tools, choose the appropriate sandpaper grits, and employ the…
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Planning on skirting over skirting? How and why to do it
Skirting boards are made to protect the bottom of walls from knocks and kicks. Which means they endure a lot of wear and tear. You can clean and paint them regularly, but eventually they will need replacing, which is a messy and time-consuming task. A sweet alternative to replacing or painting skirting boards is to…
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Planning on skirting over skirting? How and why to do it
Skirting boards are made to protect the bottom of walls from knocks and kicks. Which means they endure a lot of wear and tear. You can clean and paint them regularly, but eventually they will need replacing, which is a messy and time-consuming task. A sweet alternative to replacing or painting skirting boards is to…
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Painting varnished wood: Tips for a smooth, long-lasting finish
Painting over varnished wood is a quick, simple and cost-effective way to restore wood. It can bring a new aesthetic, hide unwanted imperfections and give it a new lease of life. A new splash of colour can make it blend with your latest design ideas without spending big. However, you need to ensure you get…
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Can you paint a log burner? They don’t always have to be black
It’s a straightforward question: ‘Can you paint a log burner?’ and one you’re probably asking yourself if your log burner looks tired and needs a refresh. The quick answer is yes, but there are essential steps and materials you need to get it right. Once finished, not only will you achieve a smart new look…
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How to clean rust off metal and say hello to clean, shiny surfaces
Rust is unsightly, damaging, and weakens the metal it affects, eventually destroying the surface. Knowing how to remove rust from metal is a useful skill that helps restore tools, furniture, and any other surfaces affected by rust. Whether you’re painting a garage door, cleaning garden tools, or removing heavy-duty rust, you only need a few…