Expert building guides

This section covers a range of general building how to guides. Carpentry articles show how to repair and hang doors, sliding wardrobe doors and windows, fit locks and latches as well as fitting shelves and repairing rotten wood. From advice on creaking stairs to stripping varnishing and repairing floors as well as laying hardboard, laminate flooring and vinyl floor coverings.

There’s a complete guide to plastering and skimming plasterboard plus repairs to old plaster as well as advice for drilling and plugging walls. There are hints and tips on glazing and insulation plus guides on chisels, planes, power drills and saws. Other articles cover patio building, loft ladders and attic conversions plus roof repairs, rising damp, and sealants.

Latest Building Guides

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  Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels in the UK?
  No, you do not require planning permission when adding solar panels to your home, unlike something like loft conversions or an extension over the garage which would certainly require planning permission. Installing solar panels on your home is an excellent way to reduce energy bills and decrease your carbon footprint. With the growing popularity of… Read more: Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels in the UK?
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  How to clear blocked drains
  Everything you need to know about clearing blocked drains Blocked drains are unpleasant. But they are also very expensive to get cleared professionally, so it pays to know how to do the job yourself. How drainage systems work Before you attempt to unblock main drains, make absolutely certain what system you have and get to… Read more: How to clear blocked drains
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  M Class Dust Extractor
  M Class Dust Extractor As a reminder, there are three classes of dust extractor in the UK; L Class, M Class and H Class. Broadly speaking, M Class dust extractors are suitable for dust created from hard woods, sheet materials, brick and and concrete dust. Dust extraction is often a secondary consideration, especially for DIY… Read more: M Class Dust Extractor
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  Laying chipboard flooring
  The chipboard flooring sheets should be stored flat in the room for a couple of days before laying them to allow them to acclimatise to differences in temperature and humidity. Whilst chipboard flooring can be nailed, it is notorious for working loose and squeaking so screwing them down is the preferred method of fixing and… Read more: Laying chipboard flooring