FEATURE


a quality acrylic latex interior paint. Also, remember not to use oil-based or alkyd paint over latex paint as this can also lead to paint bubbles and blisters.


5. What is the white substance on bricks and is there any way to remove it?


Expert Advice: The white substance is a cause of efflorescence, which is salt inside the mortar and brickwork. A quick and easy way to remove the salt deposits is by spraying distilled vinegar on the affected bricks and then waiting up to 10 minutes for the efflorescence to absorb the vinegar. Once this is done, use a dry and stiff bristle brush to scrub away the salt deposits.


6.


Should I use water resistance paint in bathrooms?


Expert Advice: The simple answer is yes. As water resistant paint will protect the bathroom walls and ceiling from humidity and moisture that can lead to chipping, staining and peeling.


7.


Which is better to use - UPVC or composite doors?


Expert Advice: UPVC doors are made entirely from plastic, whilst composite doors are made from several different materials compressed together in high pressure conditions.


Composite doors are typically made from a combination of plastic, wood, streel and fiberglass. In terms of security, composite doors are much stronger than UPVC doors. Likewise, composite doors are more aesthetically pleasing.


8.


Can you paint over mould/mildew?


Expert Advice: Don’t simply paint over mould/mildew – there is a process that needs to be undertaken beforehand. The first step is to wash the infected areas with a bleach based cleaner to kill off any mould growth or damp spores. After letting it dry, apply a primer, damp paint or anti-mould paint as an undercoat and then paint the wall with the colour of your choice.


Other resources to resolve any DIY struggles


- The internet


With the internet providing a plethora of information, read relevant blog posts to find the solution to your DIY problem – there are various reputable publications which address a ton of different DIY jobs.


- Video assistance


Simply type in the DIY task you are experiencing issues with on Youtube. In turn, this will bring up multiple ‘how to’ videos, which are likely to have the answers you are


looking for. With a lot of the videos being conducted by professionals, their advice is sure to be reliable.


- Process information


Before you use any electrical tools, read the manufacturers manual to ensure you fully understand how to use it and are competent enough to deal with any safety issues that may arise. The same applies to any building materials.


Lisa Evans, a spokesperson from MyJobQuote.co.uk commented: “It’s fantastic to see that lockdown has inspired so many Brits to take up DIY.


"DIY is an invaluable part of achieving one’s ideal home environment. Some DIY tasks are more complex than others. Like with anything, there will be mistakes and Brits should not be discouraged by making them.


"Every so-called DIY fail is an opportunity to learn and by the frequency as well as range of questions we have received in the last few months, it certainly shows that Brits are trying to actively improve and become more DIY savvy.”


15

Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35