Decorating

Lining paper Lining paper is a cheap method of covering an uneven wall prior to hanging heavy textured or expensive papers. It is also a useful method of providing an even surface to emulsion over. Hang the lining paper horizontally or vertically, taking care to match the seams edge to edge, not overlapping. Paper can […]

Method Try to clean the area of surface dirt by brushing or spraying with a power hose. Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying paint. Cover any furnishing or fittings and use a dust sheet to cover the floor. If interior brick walls are being covered (conservatories, garages or cellars) use emulsion paint

Method Holes and cracks are fairly common on a plaster surface. The main reason is due to movement in the structure or busy areas cracking corners or dented areas caused by moving furniture. Use a scraper to cut into the crack to allow the filler to bond. Use an interior filler, mix as a paste

Method Cover furniture and fittings before starting. Look for a loose tile, or a tile in a central position. Lever the tile carefully using a scraper. This should now give access to the surface under the tiling. Gently push the scraper under each tile and remove one by one. The tiles will probably break as

Re-grouting Firstly decide upon the type of grout required when replacing old grouting (see Grouting for further details). Use a pointed tool to scrape out the old grout. Clean the area with a damp cloth and check the area looks evenly de-grouted. Use a plastic scraper or a rubber-bladed squeegee to push the fresh grout

Tiling Keep checking the horizontal level of each row by placing a stick on top and checking with a spirit level. Choose the correct ceramic tile adhesive. Most are sold ready mixed, but a few others have to be mixed with water. Check the side of the container for the approximate area the adhesive will

Papering angles When papering around a bend, door or window frame use the same technique for tackling a corner and trimming the top and bottom ends of a length. Rub the edge that needs trimming with the back of the scissors to mark where it needs to be cut. Peel back the edge and trim,

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

Polystyrene tiles Polystyrene tiles, often used to cover ceilings can be covered with emulsion paint once the surface has been cleaned with sugar soap and water and dried. Often this kind of tile is removed and the complete surface redecorated with either paper, paint or a different tiling. See Removing polystyrene tiles for more details.

Method If the surface is already covered with emulsion, clean the surface with sugar soap and water. If the surface is uneven and worn in places, it may be advisable to remove the paper and redecorate first. Refer to Removing wallpaper for more details. It may be possible to wipe the surfaces with a damp