Softwood

Softwood Cedar, Deal, Hemlock, Larch, Pine, Redwood, Spruce, Whitewood, Yew. Softwoods are cheaper than hardwood. They deteriorate faster, especially when used for external projects. They need to be treated with wood preservers or paints to protect the wood from the elements. When softwood is used in a loft space, for rafters or joists, the wood […]

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Drainage Systems

In the bathroom Planning the route of the waste pipe: The key factors to consider when planning the route of the waste pipe are to keep the route as straight and short as you can and to avoid making it too steep. The run should be made up of 32mm (1.25 in) diameter pipes, efficiently

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Papering by plugs and switches

Plugs and switches When papering a length including a plug or switch, always turn the electricity supply off at the mains. Then unscrew and loosen the plastic covering. It is unnecessary to remove the cover completely. Position the length of paper in a similar way to any other length. Feel for the switch / plug

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Chocolate

Washable Fabrics Put plastic bag containing ice cubes on chocolate to set. Scrape off as much as possible. Pour a few drops of ammonia into warm soapy water, testing from the back, sponge stain, then rinse with cold water. Wash as normal. Non Washable Fabrics Put plastic bag containing ice cubes on chocolate to set.

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Scorch Marks

Washable Fabrics Gently rub scorch mark under cold running water then soak in a solution of 5 ml (one teaspoon) of borax to half a litre (one pint) of warm water. Wash as normal. Stains remaining on cotton and linen articles can be carefully bleached out if the scorched surface is not too severe. Non

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Letterbox

Letterbox Some door knockers incorporate a letter box, known as postal knockers. There are horizontal and vertical postal knockers available. Decide whether to use a postal knocker or a letter plate, which uses an inner flap to stop draughts and give a more attractive finish to the inside of the door. Fitting a letterbox Decide

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Cellulose Paint

Washable Fabrics Rayon fabrics must be dry-cleaned. From the back of the fabric, apply cellulose thinner. Ensure stain does not spread when treating with thinner. Wash as normal. Non Washable Fabrics Dry clean at once. Carpets and Furnishings Use cellulose thinners to remove from carpets or upholstery, followed by shampoo.

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Perfume

Washable Fabrics Immediately rinse thoroughly in lukewarm water, then wash as normal as soon as possible. Persistant stains can be dabbed with neat ammonia, then washed at once in the usual way. Old dried stains can be removed using a commercial stain remover followed by a normal wash. Non Washable Fabrics Carefully sponge with lukewarm

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Resetting Chimney Pots

Resetting Chimney Pots It is important to support the chimney pot before removing the flaunching, especially if you are resetting rather than replacing the pot. Flaunching is the mortar base holding the chimney pot in position on top of the chimney stack. Tie a length of rope around the top of the pot (A) and

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