Recent content by mikegc

The pipework was going to have to move anyway as it would be too close to the wall for a modern type22 radiator. I couldn't get a radiator the exact same length either.

Yeah, I think you are right. I've never done any soldering pipework, so need to buy all the equipment which is a bit of a pain too. Ive attached a diagram of the pipework, all using right angles. Does this look about right?

Hi, I have a new radiator which is a different size to the old as it was a very old radiator and also very close to the wall as it had no fins. In the photo X marks the new location. I was planning on making a channel in the concrete floor and connect using plastic pipes and fittings, but...

It's called a spur socket and should be relatively simple to wire. Google for instructions :) As for the lights, you'll probably want to use a lighting circuit and have a switch (or use an existing one) to turn them on and off.

What do I do with the unused neutral cable ends? Just terminated them in a block? I might get the single sheaved cable just to keep it neat though!

Hi, I recently replaced and moved a light fitting. Whilst looking at the setup, I noticed the the live cable coming from the 3 gang light switch is just a single cable with no outer sheath (i.e just a live cable has been removed from a t&e). this doesn't seem very protective. The light switch...

Great, thanks for your answers. I'll just make sure its up to the level of the ceiling joists, and I can always lop up later if I want to spent more money. Will also make sure any gaps are sealed to stop draughts!

Hi, My loft has very little insulation (about 30mm), so want to top it up but also keep it as 70% boarded storage space. Should I: a) Add loft legs and wool insulation b) use wool insulation to 100mm, then foam board insulation (50-100mm) on top where I want to board for storage (270mm wool...

Thanks for the advice, I have asked the roofer to use 1:1:6 mix. He has mentioned spraying it with water repellant once finished. We don't have any problems at the moment, so wonder if it is a good idea or just leave old 1880's bricks alone!

hi, I am looking to get my chimney stack re-pointed. It looks like it is lime mortar. The rest of the house has previously been repointed using cement, as I can see a few places where it is now failing and is a white crumbly mortar underneath. Does it matter on the chimney if it is pointed in...

Hi, I am looking at installing a stove myself (with build reg notice of course) as I will be getting scaffolding put up to get the chimney re-pointed. I want to get the Stovax Stockton 7 as I had it installed in our old house, but I'm trying to find a nice air vent of 40mm (or there abouts)...

Hi, I have recently moved into a new house which has electric underfloor heating in the bathroom. The thermostat is pretty awful and difficult to use, with poor instructions, however it was working ok at first - BTSKY Room Programmable Heating Thermostat I changed some settings for the timing...

There is cold air getting in from between the window and the bricks which would be going into the cavity wall. I was thinking of using some expanding foam to plug up the gap, but worried about the expansion of the upvc in the summer.

Hi, Our downstairs bathroom used to have laminate flooring over a concrete base. We are putting tiles down, but I am worried this will make the room colder as the old laminate and underlay would have been a bit of a barrier to the concrete. Can I use Warmup Insulating Board 6mm as it says it...

Would it be possible to use some wood battens to help secure the bath?