Fiona Chapman

Fiona Chapman is a copywriter and lifestyle blogger. With a keen interest in property and home decor, she’s passionate about keeping costs down. When not writing you’ll find her working on her latest craft, or chasing her unruly children

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how to tell the difference between cellulose and asbestos insulation

How To Tell the Difference Between Cellulose and Asbestos Insulation (UK Guide)

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Asbestos was a popular building material for decades in the UK. Its excellent insulating and fire-proof qualities meant that builders used it throughout houses and commercial buildings.  Unfortunately, these qualities came at a steep price.  Later on, scientists found that asbestos is highly hazardous to human health, and since then, builders have used cellulose insulation …

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upvc door handles types a or b difference

uPVC Door Handles — Important Differences Between Type A and Type B (DIY Guide)

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uPVC door handles are common in British front doors, and their replacement is a simple task for most DIYers. Annoyingly, uPVC door handles are not a universal type.  This guide will show you how to identify your existing uPVC door handle type and the differences between Type A and Type B.  What are the Differences …

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do i need planning permission

Do I Need Planning Permission? 23 Projects You Can Start Now in 2023 (UK Guide)

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Apart from the obvious lick of quality emulsion paint or new carpet, have you ever wondered what home improvements you can carry out without going through the expensive and timely process of planning permission?  We reckon there’s probably more than you might think! We’ve researched and uncovered 23 home renovation projects you can tackle without …

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best folding workbench in the UK

Best Folding Workbench in the UK – 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide (The Top 7)

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Choosing the best folding workbench in the UK is complicated. With so many factors to consider, including worksurface size, max load, adjustable features, construction, and cost, it can be hard to pick the best model for you. To help you choose the best folding workbench, we’ve spent hours separating the good from the bad to …

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best washable paint

Best Washable Paint in 2023 (Reviews & Buying Guide) – The UK’s Top 3

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Washable paints are essential for households with muddy paws, small sticky hands, or high-traffic areas that require frequent wipe-downs (e.g. kitchens and bathrooms). As their name suggests, washable paints should clean effortlessly with just water and soap. However, with so many options available, how do you find the best washable paint for you? In this guide, …

Best Washable Paint in 2023 (Reviews & Buying Guide) – The UK’s Top 3 Read More »

how to smooth walls without plastering

How to Smooth Walls Without Plastering (6 Methods to Follow) – DIY UK Guide

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For many of us, plastering walls is a daunting task. It’s messy, difficult to apply and time-consuming. In fact, ‘wet’ plastering is a skilled job that takes plenty of practice. Thankfully, we will show you how to smooth walls without plastering or hiring a professional. Several options are available for smooth, ready-to-decorate walls, depending on …

How to Smooth Walls Without Plastering (6 Methods to Follow) – DIY UK Guide Read More »

does emulsion paint go off

Does Emulsion Paint Go Off? (and how to prevent foul-smelling paint) – UK DIY Guide

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Eventually, emulsion paint does go off. But how do you know it’s gone off and what’s the best way to extend its shelf life? In this guide, we’ll address these common questions and provide some top storage tips that will maximise the lifespan of your unfinished tins of emulsion paint. Yes, emulsion paint does go …

Does Emulsion Paint Go Off? (and how to prevent foul-smelling paint) – UK DIY Guide Read More »

floor sanding cost per m2 uk

Floor Sanding Cost per m2 UK – 2023 Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips (Updated)

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Wooden flooring is a popular choice with minimalists. It’s great for allergy sufferers too, and it’s often favoured by period property renovators. But whether you’re looking to restore an old wooden floor or apply a new finish to an existing one, knowing the potential price is a good place to start. Considering some typical scenarios, …

Floor Sanding Cost per m2 UK – 2023 Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips (Updated) Read More »

staircase refurbishment costs

Staircase Refurbishment Cost UK – 2023 Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips (Updated)

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Whether your staircase is falling into disrepair, or you just want to bring it into the 21st century, you’ll need to know what costs you’ll be looking at. You’ll also want to know whether it’s something you can do yourself or if it’s best left to the professionals. Here we look at the common scenarios, …

Staircase Refurbishment Cost UK – 2023 Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips (Updated) Read More »

how much to wallpaper a room

How Much to Wallpaper a Room in 2023? (UK Cost Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated

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There’s more to wallpapering a room than simply applying your favourite print to the walls. You first need to assess the current condition of your walls and whether any prep work needs to be done. These factors will help answer the question; ‘how much to wallpaper a room?’. The cost will heavily depend on whether …

How Much to Wallpaper a Room in 2023? (UK Cost Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated Read More »

how much to paint a house exterior uk

How Much to Paint a House Exterior in the UK? (2023 Cost Guide and Money-Saving Tips)

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Kerb appeal is everything, especially for homeowners looking to attract potential buyers. However, the cost of painting your external walls depends on several factors, including; wall type, whether it’s been painted before, and most importantly, your decision to do it yourself or hire a professional. In this UK cost guide, we look at all these factors …

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how much to board a loft

How Much to Board a Loft in 2023? (UK Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated

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Without proper measures in place, your loft is not a safe storage location. Its primary purpose isn’t for storing stuff, and there’s the risk you – or heavy items – could fall through the ceiling. So, putting some solid flooring down for safety and practical reasons makes sense, but how much does it cost to …

How Much to Board a Loft in 2023? (UK Price Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated Read More »

how much to tile a bathroom

How Much to Tile a Bathroom in 2023? (UK Cost Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated

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Whether it’s a facelift or a full renovation of the busiest rooms in your home, tiling is a popular go-to option for bathrooms But how much is it likely to cost, and is it something you can do yourself? This cost guide explains what you must consider when determining how much to tile a bathroom …

How Much to Tile a Bathroom in 2023? (UK Cost Guide & Money-Saving Tips) – Updated Read More »

laminate flooring fitting cost

Laminate Flooring Fitting Cost in 2023 – UK Price Guide and Money-Saving Tips (Updated)

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Laminate is a popular option among UK homeowners due to its appearance, relatively low cost and durability. Unlike vinyl flooring, laminate can withstand items dropped from a great height and take a hammering from children and pets. But how much does laminate cost? Can you do it yourself? We answer all these questions and more …

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cost of removing pebbledash

Cost of Removing Pebbledash in 2023 – UK Price Guide and Top Money-Saving Tips (Updated)

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The mere phrase ‘pebbledash‘ conjures ghastly images of grey, boring houses. But in addition to being used to knock up cheap housing, pebbledash — or rough-cast render — was also a big part of the Arts and Crafts movement.  On the other hand, if your home’s original features have been covered with post-war pebbledash, you …

Cost of Removing Pebbledash in 2023 – UK Price Guide and Top Money-Saving Tips (Updated) Read More »

vinyl flooring installation cost uk

Vinyl Flooring Installation Cost UK – 2023 Price Guide (Plus Top Money-Saving Tips)

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If your carpet has seen better days, or your kitchen floor desperately needs updating, you might be pining for a new surface underfoot. Vinyl flooring is easy to maintain and hard-wearing – great for high-traffic areas. But how much does vinyl flooring installation cost in the UK, and is it something you could easily do …

Vinyl Flooring Installation Cost UK – 2023 Price Guide (Plus Top Money-Saving Tips) Read More »

how to box in pipes

How To Box in Pipes — Step-by-Step DIY Guide (and top tips)

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Unsightly pipes can ruin your home’s decor. Well, unless you’re opting for a trendy industrial vibe! Pipes covered in layers of thick paint or messy pipework sprawling across a wall can become eye-sore. Fortunately, if you want to hide your pipework, you don’t need a plumber to relocate them. There’s a much simpler, DIY-friendly solution. …

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how to fit acrylic splashback

How to Fit Acrylic Splashback – Step-by-Step DIY Guide (UK Edition)

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Practical and visually pleasing, acrylic splashbacks are hugely popular in kitchens. They provide an inexpensive backdrop against the wall, are durable, easy to maintain, and protect walls from grease and grime. This guide will show you how to fit acrylic splashback step-by-step. In a Hurry? Find top-rated kitchen tilers in your area by clicking the …

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how to use scrim tape

How to Use Scrim Tape on Plasterboard (DIY Guide and Top Tips) – UK Edition

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Scrim tape seals the joints between plasterboard panels to prevent cracking in the outer layer of wet plaster. Scrim tape is easy to apply, inexpensive, and essential for a smooth finish. This guide will show you how to use scrim tape effectively and provide some top pro tips. In a Hurry? Find top-rated plasterers in …

How to Use Scrim Tape on Plasterboard (DIY Guide and Top Tips) – UK Edition Read More »

how to replace bathroom sealant

How to Replace Bathroom Sealant in 2023 (Complete DIY Guide) – UK Edition

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If you need to remove and replace silicone sealant within your home, we’ve created this step-by-step guide. We’ll show you how to replace bathroom sealant like a professional but without the cost. Don’t worry if you’re not an expert DIYer either; this is a straightforward tutorial that anyone can accomplish. What is Silicone Sealant? Silicone …

How to Replace Bathroom Sealant in 2023 (Complete DIY Guide) – UK Edition Read More »

how to strip paint off wood

How To Strip Paint Off Wood and Other Materials (Complete DIY Guide)

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Over time, many homes build layers of paint on their walls, ceilings, floors and furniture. These built-up layers become messy and difficult to remove. In this guide, we’ll show you how to strip paint off wood, and other common surfaces, such as masonry, metal and glass. Let’s get stripping! In a Hurry? Find top-rated painters …

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how to use a wallpaper steamer

How To Use a Wallpaper Steamer in 5 Easy Steps (Complete DIY guide) – UK Edition

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Whether you’re looking to refurbish an old and tired interior, or you’ve just moved into a property with some shocking wall-coverings, you may need to strip away old wallpaper. Fortunately, with the help of hot steam and this handy guide on how to use a wallpaper steamer, you’ll be stripping those ugly walls in no …

How To Use a Wallpaper Steamer in 5 Easy Steps (Complete DIY guide) – UK Edition Read More »

how to wallpaper around a window

How to Wallpaper around a Window in 2023 (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) – UK Edition

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Let’s face it; some areas are difficult to hang wallpaper, especially windows and door frames. That’s why I’ve put together this tutorial on how to wallpaper around a window.  Tools & Materials Tools: A damp cloth for cleaning walls Rosin paper or drop cloth to protect floors Tape measure Paste brush Scissors Pencil Putty knife …

How to Wallpaper around a Window in 2023 (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) – UK Edition Read More »

how to plaster a ceiling

How to Plaster a Ceiling in 2023 (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) – UK Edition

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Plastering is messy and requires a lot of work and skill. This guide shows you how to plaster a ceiling like a professional. Tools & Materials Make sure you have the following tools and materials before you get started. Tools Step Ladder Trowel Hawk Small Tool Sanding Block Hammer  Screwdriver Utility Knife Putty Knife Canvas …

How to Plaster a Ceiling in 2023 (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) – UK Edition Read More »

patching plaster

Patching Plaster — How to Repair Walls and Ceilings in 7 Easy Steps (DIY Guide)

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Patching plaster may sound intimidating, but it’s not as complicated as you think. If you have the time and patience to follow the seven steps below, you shouldn’t need to hire a professional plasterer to fix small to medium-sized cracks or holes. Tools & Materials Below is a list of recommended tools and materials to …

Patching Plaster — How to Repair Walls and Ceilings in 7 Easy Steps (DIY Guide) Read More »