Oil based paint Solvent based paint, often known as oil based paint is made from a mixture of resins and oils. Covering woodwork or metalwork requires the use of different paint types used in conjunction with each other. The surface is prepared, suitably primed and sealed before one or two undercoats and the top coat […]
Sizing walls Size a plaster wall to prevent loss of adhesion by absorbing of water from the paste. It also makes the wall slippery, which helps when positioning each length. It is important to follow the manufacturer”s instruction when mixing the proportions together prior to sizing. Size is an adhesive (see Choosing the wallpaper adhesive)
Draughts from overflow pipes Use a lightweight metal, such as aluminium or zinc, to make a cover flap. These metals will not rust. Attach a small pivot, made of the same material, to a pipe clip and attach the flap to the end of the tube. Ensure that the flap can open easily under the
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Washable Fabrics Remove excess and scrape off as much as possible. Soak in warm water containing biological detergent rinse out, then wash as normal. Non Washable Fabrics Remove excess and scrape off as much as possible. Use a grease solvent to remove stain. If stain persists take to dry-cleaners. Carpets and Furnishings Treat furnishings the
Safety with tools DOING JOBS YOURSELF AROUND THE HOME CAN BE FUN AND SAVE MONEY. BUT TRAGICALLY, 70 PEOPLE ARE KILLED AND A QUARTER OF A MILLION ARE INJURED DOING DIY EVERY YEAR. IT”S EASY TO AVOID ACCIDENTS. It”s not just about having the right tools, but knowing how to use them correctly. Here you
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Caution Electricity is dangerous and can be hazardous. In doubt? Call a qualified electrician. Introduction N.B. This method is now excluded from the IEE Wiring regulations, but remains for reference. There are two ways of extending a ring circuit, either extending it by adding junction boxes or by using existing sockets. When extending a ring
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Caution Electricity is dangerous and can be hazardous. In doubt? Call a qualified electrician. Identifying a faulty circuit To identify a faulty circuit causing fuses to blow or MCBs to reset, can be a tricky process. Initially try to remember what appliance was switched on, or what happened at the time the fault first occurred.
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Burglar Alarms There are various systems available at a range of prices, offering total security with easy installation and the facility to expand at a later stage if you wish. The sighting of a siren or bell prominently displayed on a wall of the premises is an immediate deterrent to the majority of burglars. A
Washable Fabrics Mop up immediately Dissolve one part distilled white vinegar with five parts lukewarm water, sponge on fabric, and then rinse with cold water. Soak in biological detergent, then rinse again. Wash at the highest temperature the fabric can take. DO NOT USE VINEGAR ON ACETATE FABRICS. Non Washable Fabrics Mop up as much
Mortar flashing Triangular fillets of cement mortar can crumble and allow water to penetrate. Gaps may appear where the flashing has come away from the brickwork. Use a cold chisel and club hammer to remove the old mortar. Repair the defective area with a 1 : 3, cement ; sand mix, adding a little PVA
