Category: structure
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What is salt banding? How to treat damp walls properly
The first time you encounter salt banding on a damp wall, it’s easy to mistake it for mould – and in fairness, mould often follows soon after if the issue isn’t addressed. But salt banding is actually the result of salts being drawn up through the wall and deposited in a neat, horizontal line as…
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Drainage problems? Know the warning signs and possible fixes
Whether your drains are blocked, overflowing or simply running slowly, the words ‘drainage problems’ are ones. most homeowners would rather avoid hearing. Messy, costly and potentially disruptive, finding the root of them isn’t always an easy task. As with most problems, prevention is always better than cure, but if drainage problems do occur, knowing the…
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Could your home still have lead pipes for your drinking water? How to find out and what to do
Mention lead pipes and my first thought is of the Cluedo murder weapon – something from a bygone era when guests wandered through grand country houses with billiard rooms and libraries, plotting the demise of poor Dr Black. In other words, lead piping feels like a relic of centuries past – hardly something you’d expect…
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How to limewash walls: Step-by-step guide
With textured wall finishes on the rise, more and more people are wondering how to limewash their walls – and whether it’s really possible to achieve a professional look by doing it yourself. While it does require a fair amount of prep to avoid streakiness and around four coats to achieve full coverage, the good…
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What is insulated plasterboard? How it can make your home warmer
If you’re looking for the answer to what is insulated plasterboard you’re in the right place. In easy-to-understand terms, it’s a smart, dual-purpose material that combines plasterboard and insulation into one neat package. It’s ideal for retrofits, renovations and conversions. Once fitted, you can select any type of plaster to finish, ready for painting or…
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The UK cities most at risk from leaky gutters this autumn
As autumn weather sweeps across the UK, keeping gutters clean has never been more important. Homes with blocked or poorly maintained gutters are at higher risk of leaks, damp, and water damage, and new data shows that where you live can make a big difference in how vulnerable your property is this season. The latest…
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What is the 50p gutter hack and is it one to try or avoid?
Blocked gutters can be the cause of untold damage in the autumn and winter with blocked leaves and debris quickly preventing them from doing their job. And as well as causing problems in your home, they can also affect your neighbour’s property too. But, could there be a relatively quick, easy and cheap DIY gutter…
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Roll-on plaster for walls: When it works and when it fails
Roll-on plaster for walls has become a popular choice for DIYers and professionals seeking a faster way to achieve a smooth, even finish. While it can save time and reduce mess compared with traditional skimming, it is not suitable for every wall or condition. Knowing when it works well, and the common mistakes that can…
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What is Approved Document K? How your windows, balcony and stairs must comply with these regulations
If you’ve ever stood at the top of a staircase or leaned over a balcony, then you’ve already encountered the sort of situations that Approved Document K, or Part K of the building regulations, is designed to address. Its purpose is to help reduce the risk of injury from falls, collisions and impacts – particularly…
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Mammoet Relocates Historic Kiruna Church in One Piece
Mammoet has completed the safe and successful relocation of the iconic Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most treasured architectural landmarks. The operation, which took place over two days, marks a historic moment for the town of Kiruna and showcases the power of precision engineering and collaboration.Built in the early 20th century and once voted Sweden’s…