Julian Cassell's DIY Blog

Building a shed is now a project that can be completed in a weekend, or even a few hours if you’ve done your research and are well prepared. Unless you want to do something bespoke, sheds are now basically kit items, they come with all the components you require, and a set of instructions for assembly. These instructions will vary between manufacturers, but below are a few general issues that can help in your chosen shed construction. read more »

The security bolts and locks you use for a sash window are different in design to those used for a casement or hinged window. Common designs include the screw lock or screw bolt, which is effectively a bar that is inserted through both sashes holding them together. A second common option is provided by press bolts, and the technique for fitting a sash window press bolt is shown below. read more »

UPVC fasteners do break and so replacement may sometimes be necessary, or you may simply want a different style. It’s worth checking your window sales guaranty before carrying out the work, as such replacement may invalidate a guaranty. When choosing new fasteners, you do need to check that they will be compatible with your window type. For example the screw positions and distance between them will often indicate whether you have a suitable option. read more »

If you need to add some security to your wooden casement windows, the quickest and easiest way is simply by fitting casement stay locks. All it involves is replacing the existing stay pins with new locking ones. Clearly you need to try and get stay locks that match the colour and style of your existing window furniture. They are commonly supplied in brass or chrome effect, but you’ll need a specialist supplier for a larger range of stay lock colours and styles. read more »

Casement window locks are an excellent form of window security and can be fitted to most wooden windows, which have hinged opening sections (casements). Small windows may be fitted with one casement lock, but with larger ones it is best to use two – one near the top and one close to the bottom of the opening casement(s). Casement window locks are commonly supplied white but you can try a specialist supplier if you need to match the finish of your other window furniture. read more »