This blog is the result of over 20 years of working in building and renovations and a growing career in writing guides, columns and books.
Posted in 'How-to' Guides, Doors and Door Security on January 12th, 2011 by Julian Cassell – Be the first to comment
Five-lever locks are used for entrance, and back doors – five levers approved to BS3621 is the minimum requirement for entrance doors. Mortice lever-locks can have between 2 and 7 levers. The more levers there are, the more difficult the lock is to pick. Fitting a mortice lock from new requires drilling into the edge of the door in order to accommodate the lock (using a similar technique to that shown for fitting a latch in the guide ‘Fitting internal doors’). read more »
Posted in 'How-to' Guides, Shelving, Curtain Poles, Pictures and Mirrors on December 16th, 2010 by Julian Cassell – Be the first to comment
As an alternative to the many flatpack or adjustable shelving systems on the market, you can of course construct your own shelving system to create a more fitted look. A custom made system like this can follow a number of different designs, with one of the most straightforward options being a batten shelving system such as the one shown below – this type of shelf is normally constructed in an alcove. read more »
Posted in 'How-to' Guides, Shelving, Curtain Poles, Pictures and Mirrors on December 15th, 2010 by Julian Cassell – Be the first to comment
Twin-slot shelving provides an excellent storage system that is both robust and adjustable. Always take great care when fixing into walls, being sure to avoid any buried cables or pipes. A cable, pipe and stud detector will always help you find suitable fixing points. The wall structure will determine the type of wall plugs and fixings you use. The strongest shelving is achieved when read more »
Posted in 'How-to' Guides, Doors and Door Security on December 14th, 2010 by Julian Cassell – Be the first to comment
Cylinder locks generally require changing when you move house, or another common situation is if you lose your keys. A typical variety of cylinder lock is the Yale lock shown below. These locks may literally be changed in a few minutes – its really not necessary to hire a locksmith or carpenter, and unless there is a problem with the lock body itself, you literally just replace the cylinder part as shown below. read more »
Posted in Buying Guides, Decorating Tool and Material Reviews on December 9th, 2010 by Julian Cassell – Be the first to comment
Buying paint brushes will almost certainly be an undertaking for every DIY enthusiast, and choosing the right options can often be a little tricky because of the vast array of options on the market. Pure bristle or synthetic? Are cheap brushes OK? Do I need loads of sizes? These are just some of the questions I get asked about the nation’s favourite DIY tool, and to be honest, my advice is fairly straightforward. Below are what I consider to be the most important points when buying paint brushes. read more »
