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.
Space Solves
Exposed Brickwork
The Guardian, Saturday 3 July 2010
My living room has a white painted wall, but I’d dearly love exposed bricks instead. Do I just start ripping off the plaster in the hope I have nice bricks underneath? If so, how do I go about doing this? read more »
How do you find good tradesmen, and how much do you need them? Well, even if you are a keen DIY enthusiast, there will always be some jobs where you need professional assistance. For example, you may need a builder for something large scale like constructing your new extension or on a much smaller scale you might need an electrician to move a few sockets. In all cases, the rules of engagement should always be the same. read more »
Space solves
Sash windows:Â replace or repair?
The Guardian, Saturday 29 May 2010
My house has 12 large, original and rather draughty sash windows, many in poor condition. Should IÂ repair them, or put in new double-glazed ones (I don’t want uPVC)? read more »
Space solves
Tarmac repair
The Guardian, Saturday 22 May 2010
The car park tarmac at our block of flats is in need of repair, and we’d like to be more environmentally friendly. Can you suggest a different surface that doesn’t cost the earth? read more »
Space solves
Peeling bathroom paint
The Guardian, Saturday 24 April 2010
We recently repainted the bathroom using a good base coat and three coats of bathroom-quality ceiling paint. Despite our efforts, six months later the paint over the shower enclosure is already peeling. read more »