Julian Cassell's DIY Blog

Space solves

Getting bath water into the garden

The Guardian, Saturday 27 June 2009

I water my veg patch with a hose, but at the same time my young daughter’s nightly bath water goes straight down the plughole. There is no room for a water butt to be attached to the downpipe. Can you suggest a diverter to attach to the waste pipe to collect water in watering cans? It would need to have some kind of on/off mechanism. read more »

Space solves

Our shower leaks and we don’t know why

The Guardian, Saturday 13 June 2009

Our shower has leaked ever since we installed it three years ago, even behind our lovely wall tiles. Are plastic wall panels the only answer? read more »

Space Solves

How to give kitchen units a facelift

The Guardian, Saturday 6 June 2009

My kitchen units are made out of some sort of composite material that resembles laminate flooring. If I painted it with an appropriate paint, would it stand up to the wear and tear of a busy kitchen? Or would replacing the doors and drawers be a better idea? read more »

Space solves

What’s the best oil to varnish hardwood?

The Guardian, Saturday 30 May 2009

I’m replacing some of my hardwood windows and don’t want to varnish or paint them – I was thinking of treating them with oil. However, I have received differing advice about which oil to use – Danish or linseed. Which would you advise? read more »

Space Solves

Non-toxic woodworm treatment

The Guardian, Saturday 23 May 2009

I am wondering if there is a safer, less toxic treatment for woodworm. I need to treat a small amount in a desk, but am concerned at the warnings and dangers connected with the standard liquids. read more »