Julian Cassell's DIY Blog

The secret of fixing into tiles is simply making sure that you use the correct drill bits. Always take care as there may be hidden pipes or services below the wall surface so be sure to use a cable, pipe and stud detector to help find safe fixing positions. Also, before proceeding check and double check that the holes you are making are exactly right for whatever the item you are fixing to the wall – tiles aren’t like a wall surface where you can simply fill, sand and paint over any mistakes. read more »

Walls must be in a sound condition for tiling, and quite simply, the flatter the better. Any wallpaper must be removed, but you can tile over old tiles if they are firmly stuck down. If in doubt, it’s always best to remove the old tiles. Wall surfaces must be sealed correctly before tiles are applied – always take directions from the tile and adhesive manufacturer, as sealant type recommendations can vary. read more »

Wallpaper seams and edges tend to lift and peel because the paper was not properly stuck down in the first place. When wallpaper is applied it is essential to check that all the edges have had sufficient paste applied, as even the smallest ‘dry’ patch will soon begin to lift or curl away from the wall. Lifting also commonly occurs on overlaps. read more »

Oil provides a natural finish to bare wood, and is similar to wax in that it is a deep penetrating option that can be buffed up to a smooth mid sheen finish. Wood must be totally stripped of any previous coatings before application. Unlike wax, oil can be used outside if specified by the manufacturer, but it does need regular re-coating in order to maintain the colour of the wood. Oil is most commonly used on hardwoods. read more »

Wax provides another option for finishing bare wood in the home. The products available range from the natural waxes through to synthetic varieties, and there are also a number of different colours to suit different tastes. Traditionally, wax is applied with a cloth, but it is now possible to buy types designed to be applied by brush. Wood surfaces must be completely stripped of all other coatings before wax is applied. read more »