Damaged flaunching Flaunching is the mortar base holding the chimney pot in position on top of the chimney stack. If there are minor cracks in the mortar, these are easily repaired with mastic applied with a gun or pressed into the cracks. Replacing the flaunching If there are more serious cracks evident, then the flaunching […]
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Door chain By installing a door chain, you are allowing the door to be partially opened to see who is calling at the door. This allows protection against unwanted callers who may try to enter your premises. A chain attached to the door hooks into a slot on the doorframe when the door is closed.
Cast iron gutters Most old houses have cast iron gutters and downpipes. They are very long lasting if painted regularly. The insides should be primed with zinc chromate paint. The finishing coat should be a bituminous paint. They are heavy and their fastenings should be maintained and checked at regular intervals. Today other materials are
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Method Gullies are a common source of blockages. If the blockage is in the trap, it is quite easy to clear from the gully. If the trap is clear, try pushing a rod up the inlet of the inspection chamber in the direction of the gully. If the gully is very deep, try plunging. The
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Caution Electricity is dangerous and can be hazardous. In doubt? Call a qualified electrician. Adding a spur to a ring circuit from a junction box The easiest way to fit an extra socket to an existing ring circuit is by adding a spur. A spur comes off the ring circuit via a junction box, or
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Ceramic floor tiles Cold to stand on, but durable, water-resistant and resistant to stains and spillages. They are available in numerous colours, patterns and shapes and are made of natural clay, decorated on one side with coloured glaze. The surfaces are normally glazed, but are not as highly polished as wall tiles, while others are
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Selecting the correct paint In order to provide a protective surface, more than one coat is required. Successive layers applied build up to a good coloured surface finish. The number of coats of paint depends on the type of paint being applied and the colour and condition of the surface to be covered. The surface
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Introduction In order to select the most economical type of shower it is important to recognise certain factors that can determine which shower is best for you. A mixer for example, would be the best choice in a household where both hot and cold water are supplied at equal pressure from the main storage system.
Room thermostat control The room thermostat provides a simple but effective control of the air temperature by switching off the heating at a set level. By switching your heating down by 1° you can save money and energy. Experiment with various settings to find the temperature you feel comfortable living in. Generally, 18°C (65°F) is
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Checking the condition of a chimney stack From inside Mortar or flashing can deteriorate with age and be in need of repair or replacement. It is useful to inspect the ceiling after a long period of rain, as the source of a leak is easier to trace. If stains are found, try tracing the source
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