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 […]
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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
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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
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Locks and latches There are various types of locks and latches to fit to both windows and doors: Casement Window Lock – suitable for wooden or metal framed casement windows. Click here for more information about Casement Window Locks. Cockspur Lock – a handled window lock for use on hinged windows. Click here for more
Anchoring fence posts There are three ways of anchoring the posts in the ground: Metal spikes can be used Bolt-down fence bases The posts can be bedded in concrete Whether you erect all the posts first or one at a time depends on the material used for the fencing. If chain link fencing is used,
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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
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Spy hole viewer The fitting of a spy hole allows the home occupier to look out without the person outside looking in. The fitting incorporates a simple lens system, which offers a wide angled view of the surrounding outside area. It is particularly useful in conjunction with a porch light, to enable clearer vision when
Security lighting Security lighting comes in many designs and can be used in conjunction with most light fittings. The lights are fitted with integral sensors, so that when a movement is detected, the light switches on. Halogen bulbs are more suitable for particularly dark areas, as the light is brighter. If you intend to fit
Home Safe There are different types of home safe available for different locations in the house. The safe that fits behind a power point is a steel box whose front resembles a power socket on the wall. There is no electrical wiring connected and the drawer is accessed via a key, which is inserted in
