Nearly a quarter of homeowners at risk of electrical problems warns industry survey
From failing to get the recommended inspections to ignoring faults, it seems many of us are rolling the dice when it comes to our home's electrical systems
Advice
Considering solar panels? Make sure you read this expert-led guide first to help you decide
Solar panels could help you reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, but what does having them involve? Energy expert David Hilton explains
Bamboo overrunning your garden? 5 ways to remove it and stop it damaging your home
Bamboo is attractive to look at and hardy, but can quickly overwhelm an unprepared gardener. Follow these five easy steps to keep it under control or kill it off entirely
I'm a planning consultant and these hidden hurdles can catch out corner plot homeowners
While corner plots have obvious advantages, getting approval to build or extend on one isn't always as simple. Planning consultant Simon Rix explains why
Cheap and quick to install, is polymeric sand the easiest way to upgrade your driveway or patio?
Polymeric sand is a popular choice for driveways and patios – here’s what you need to know about this affordable jointing material
Your Projects
‘We love the light and views we get to enjoy through all the glazing’ – explore this barn-style self-build in the heart of Kent's countryside
Adrian and Amy Mole employed architectural innovation, sustainable construction and a personal touch to create a home with the triple effect
Boasting immersive garden views and ‘flexible, connected’ living, this extended home is ideal for family life
When a London couple took on a house of multiple occupancy, their priority was turning it back into a stylish home fit for a family of five
'I couldn’t have chosen anything more complicated' – step inside this converted Victorian chapel, now a contemporary home
Tim Brown rescued a decaying city centre chapel and transformed it into an exceptional modern home packed with unique features
This 'ugly duckling' home got a modern makeover with two timber-clad side extensions
Blending modern style with Arts and Crafts charm, this renovated period home proves what’s possible with the right vision
How To
Don't miss this fundamental step if you want to avoid a DIY disaster when wallpapering over new plaster
Not prepping new plaster before wallpapering will almost always lead to problems. Find out what you need to do for a smart, smooth finish
What's the best technique for painting plywood? Experts reveal the tricks of the trade for getting the perfect result
Painting plywood needs to be done in the right way. Experts reveal the correct prep and paint techniques for a top-class finish
Want to add a lustrous new sheen to your old woodwork? Discover the steps for refreshing your old gloss paint
Painting over gloss isn’t difficult, but it’s essential you get your prep right. Here we tell you how to get the best results
I was sick of limescale on my shower head, but this simple hack fixed it fast
Limescale can be tricky to remove, but I’ve just found the easiest way to get rid of it on a shower head – and you probably already have it in your kitchen cupboard
Ideas
Garden screening doesn't have to mean a tall fence – these 17 ideas offer a more stylish way to create privacy
Our garden screening ideas are perfect for concealing parts of your plot, providing shelter and keeping out prying eyes
10 privacy upgrades to make an ordinary hot tub feel like a boutique spa
From contemporary screening to lush planting schemes, these designer-approved solutions bring privacy and style to any hot tub area
Buying Guides
Lightweight, low maintenance and easy to use – we found the 6 best cordless strimmers for a neat and tidy garden
The best cordless strimmers can tackle an overgrown garden while neatening lawn edges and hard-to-reach areas
The 6 best vacuum cleaners to get rid of builder's dust – say goodbye to dirt and debris with our trusted favourites
Our pick of the best vacuum cleaners for builder's dust will keep your space free of debris during a house renovation or DIY project
Looking for the best bathroom extractor fan? We've found 6 top options to keep damp, condensation and steam at bay
These top-rated extractor fans will keep your bathroom fresh, dry and free from unwanted odours
6 tried-and-tested pressure washers that make outdoor cleaning a breeze
Say goodbye to grime with the best pressure washers and easily blast away dirt from your patio or driveway
