Decorating

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. […]

Sealers and primers Apart from cleaning and restoring walls if necessary, it is essential to use the correct sealers and primers to guarantee the best finish. Most surfaces, both interior and exterior require sealing or priming before applying the paint. New surfaces also require the use of correct sealers and primers to take care of

Replacing a tile Use a pointed tool to scrape out the grout surrounding the damaged tile. Starting at the centre of the tile use a hammer and chisel to chip out the tile slowly and carefully. By taking care and working slowly, the surrounding tiles should remain securely fixed. Once removed, scrape out the old

Introduction When papering a length including a rose, always turn the electricity supply off at the mains. Position the length of paper in a similar way to any other length. Feel for the rose through the paper. From the centre of the rose, make a small hole with the scissors followed by diagonal / star-like

Method A more flexible filler is required when sealing two different materials such as plaster and wood. An ordinary interior filler will lead to the gap re-opening, as it cannot tolerate any kind of movement. A frame sealant, applied with an applicator gun will seal and resist further cracking. The sealant needs to touch both

Grouting Grout is available in a variety of colours, but the standard colours are white, grey or brown. If you are unsure of the colour to use, mix pigments of colours with dry powdered grout and attempt to match the colour before adding the water. Use a plastic scraper or a rubber-bladed squeegee to push

Light fittings If possible, turn off the electricity supply at the mains and loosen the cover of the rose. Use a knife to slit the paper around the rose, allowing the paper to just fit under the cover when it is replaced. Brush any bubble toward the cut out section. Wipe away any excess paste

Papering The corners are often out of line, which makes it unlikely to take one length around a bend. Measure the distance from the corner, at the top and bottom of the last length. Add an extra inch to the widest top / bottom measurement and mark a new length with a pencil, the required

Planning Always plan the design and layout on paper first, especially if you are going to mix shapes and designs. Take account of the fixtures and fittings in the room as the design will have to work alongside these features. Try to avoid patterned tiles at internal corners where they will have to be cut

Method Use a wood filler to fill any visible cracks or imperfections – fine surface filler for interior work, waterproof or epoxy-based wood filler for exterior use. If the wood has been treated with creosote use an aluminium sealer before applying a standard wood primer. Fill any cracks or holes with interior or exterior wood