Posted by Bob Bulmer on Mon 11th August 2008 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Plumbing
I came across the tubular S trap when I was trying to sort out a plumbing problem recently. I wasn’t sure what it was and I’m sure you might be scratching your head right now - so here’s a quick info point on what it is:
Essentially it’s a two piece trap that’s used with a basin or sink for waste egress. The S connotations are obviously derived from the shape….
Usually problems occur at the connections and can be resolved by new rubber o rings or a tightening of the connector points.
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Fri 8th August 2008 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Construction
For me, gravel is one of the most elegant surfaces you can have. It looks good, it’s cheap and it adds security…... a burglar creeping up your driveway in the early hours of the morning will find it difficult not to be heard.
Usually a mix of course sand and small stones works best on a firm surface. Available in various sizes and shades.
You will need approximately 1 ton of gravel to cover 15 square metres. The sub base for a drive or path should be 100mm of compacted hardcore topped by 20 mm of sand.
I would say that the only problems with gravel are that it can be difficult to push things over it and you’ll need to rake it over now again to keep it tidy. Also, have some consideration as to how you’re going to keep the weeds away…
A quick tip off. We spotted this site called Floorell.co.uk which specialises in selling porcelain floor tiles, laminate, timber and stone flooring at wholesale prices.
Bargain if you’re DIYing your kitchen floor or such like….
As an added bonus, Florell offers a 30 year guarantee on all floors, some special offers and a next day delivery.
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Mon 4th August 2008 at 06:00 AM, Filed in DIY News
According to EcoHip, from October all homes for sale and rent in England and Wales will require an energy report.
Landlords will have to provide tenants with an energy certificate and everyone selling a home will need one as part of their HIP (Home Information Pack).
West Midlands based EcoHIP, which produces hundreds of HIPs every month for customers across England and Wales, says it will mean extra cost but the benefits could be significant.
“The certificate will show an A-G rating similar to that seen on white goods, like fridges and washing machines, but importantly it will also provide an estimate for what the tenant or buyer will be paying in energy bills, it will also offer information on reducing bills, such as insulation or through a more efficient heating boiler.”
Said EcoHIP managing director, Patrick Headley.
Via EcoHip.
If you need some professional building assistance or even a gardener, check out uk.servicestart.com .
It’s a new concept site that allows you to select from a list of local tradesmen in your area - contact them and ask for a quote.
There’s also a bit about each members track record - so you can hopefully avoid the cowboys….
