DIYnot

Screw Sizes

Screw Sizes Explained

What do screw sizes mean? Screws are listed in a couple of different ways depending on when and where they were produced. In the UK and Europe, screws are listed in a metric format. Most suppliers will only list the screw sizes in metric, for example, 5 x 70mm. Imperial units used to be used […]

Screw Sizes Explained Read More »

Using a steam stripper

Steam stripper Heavy duty wall coverings can prove difficult to remove. By using a steam stripper, the job can often be completed more efficiently. Strippers can be bought or hired. Steam cleaners also have attachments which supply a plate for the same purpose. The tank of the machine is filled with water and sealed. After

Using a steam stripper Read More »

Pointing

Pointing The mortar between bricks may break away and become uneven – this leaves the brickwork more porous as water collects in the damaged joints. The visible edge is called pointing and keeps a wall both weather-resistant and attractive. If pointing is necessary, use a narrow cold chisel and a club hammer to chop out

Pointing Read More »

Rendering

Rendering It is essential to remove any dirt or grime from the wall. The most efficient way of doing this is hosing the area with a strong jet of water or pressure washer. If there is evidence of mould growth, use a fungicidal wash over the area before starting the repair. If the brickwork still

Rendering Read More »

Preparing wooden surfaces

Introduction When painting doors or windows, where possible remove handles and other “furnishings” first. If the old paint surface is in a good condition it can be left as a sound base for painting over. Clean the surface with sugar soap and water, then lightly sandpaper, this will provide a key for the new paint.

Preparing wooden surfaces Read More »

Cork Tiling

Introduction Cork tiles are warm to stand on, comfortable and quiet to walk over, but not suitable for areas where there will be heavy usage. They are made from bark of the cork oak tree that is ground, compressed to increase their density and heated. They are available as either natural or ready sealed by

Cork Tiling Read More »

The Dewalt DC100KA 18V 1.3Ah Ni-Cd Cordless Combi Drill

First impressions of this kit is that it all seems very durable without being to heavy. The drill has a rubberised handle which aids the grip and is well balanced and comfortable when in use. The DC100 comes with a keyless chuck which makes bit changes easy and speedy.

The DC100 has 17 torque settings as well as a hammer mode, it also has 2 speed range settings but the speed can also be controlled via the trigger, making it a powerful drill. 

The Dewalt DC100KA 18V 1.3Ah Ni-Cd Cordless Combi Drill Read More »

Creating a new look for your hall

The hallway is one of the most important areas of your home. The first impressions of your home are made as someone enters the hallway. All too often halls are used for storage of items to be transported upstairs at a later date, as an overflow for coats and shoes or the walls are used for pictures/shelves/ ornaments no longer required in any of the main rooms of the house. In other words, many halls are filled with clutter.

Creating a new look for your hall Read More »