Sliding Lock This type of lock is designed for sliding metal framed windows, such as patio doors. It has to be carefully fitted to the window channel to allow for a perfect fit when locking. The lock operates by depressing the button, and can only be released using a key. This is a useful security […]
Repositioning a slate The course of slates above the removed slate does not allow access to the batten needed to nail the slate back into position. There are two methods available to allow the re-fixing of the slate: Using a “tingle” A bent metal strip of lead, zinc or aluminium is known as a “tingle”
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Caution Electricity is dangerous and can be hazardous. In doubt? Call a qualified electrician. Introduction Replacing a one way light switch with 2 two way light switches allows one light to be switched on and off independently of the other switch. An example of such a system is in a hallway where the lights in
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Caution Electricity is dangerous and can be hazardous. In doubt? Call a qualified electrician. Replacing a one-way light switch with a dimmer switch SWITCH OFF ELECTRICITY AT THE MAINS First switch off the mains supply at the consumer unit and remove the fuse for the circuit you are working on. Undo the two fixing screws
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Preparation First the water supply to the tap has to be cut. This can be done either by a stopcock near the tap or if all else fails switching off the water supply to the house (see Cutting off the water supply). Once the water supply has been cut, turn the tap on as far
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A plain tile Use wooden wedges to lift the two tiles immediately above the tile to be repositioned. Use a trowel to lay the tile on and slip under the wedged tiles, checking that the nibs hook over the batten. If you are successful, there is no need to nail it into position, take out
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Using L brackets L shaped brackets are available to help make a corner joint. The metal strips have holes drilled in them so that once correctly positioned, they can be screwed securely. Mark where the L shaped bracket fits into the corner. Cut recesses in the wood on the top and the bottom. Glue the
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Power tools Power saws allow you to cut through wood faster and more accurately than cutting with a handsaw. Power saws will allow different blades to be fitted for a variety of jobs. There are a number of power saws on the market and it is important to choose the correct tool for the job
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Solution Screw down warped boards and check for noise by listening while walking round the room. Boards creak because wood is rubbing on wood somewhere in the room. The boards are laid across the joists and the nails should be secured where they cross. If a board is in a poor condition, replace the board
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Different kinds of floor covering When considering a different floor covering apart from carpet, it is useful to bear in mind the durability and maintenance involved with the different types available. Dry lay some tiles to get the effect of the design. Tiles are available in various colours, designs and sizes, for example ceramic floor
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