Average fixed mortgage rate rises to 5.58% with some lenders pulling deals while pricing plans are reconsidered
The average rate is not quite at April's levels of 5.9% but the hike is a disappointing rise after months of falling
Advice
12 August gardening jobs to keep your garden thriving for the rest of summer
While your garden may be in full bloom, taking care of it now will help it stay looking good for longer, and help you prepare for the arrival of autumn
Not sure what to expect from an EV charger installation? It's probably simpler than you think
If you're thinking loss of power, heavy drilling and electrical issues, then don't. Installing an EV charger isn't necessarily a difficult job, as experts explain
8 home gym questions every self-builder or renovator should answer before they start
A home gym sounds simple until you factor in flooring, ventilation, heating and costs. Here's what to ask before you build one
Leaky conservatory roof? The 6 most common causes and how to fix them
From cracked roof panels to damaged vents, we'll help you get to the bottom of your conservatory problem and find the best repair method
Your Projects
'The changes have transformed our lives' – step inside this extended bungalow, redesigned to maximise its coastal plot
Adding a double-height glazed extension to a tired bungalow on the Suffolk coast took seaside living to a new level for Jo and Richard
‘It’s been future-proofed in lots of ways’ – step inside this oak frame self-build with stunning views and zero electricity bills
Having found the plot that was right for them, Jo and David built a home with one eye on their future needs
‘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
How To
This simple £5 decorating tool may be old-fashioned, but it can help keep you on the straight and narrow
It may have been around for years, but understanding how to use a plumb bob and line can make your tiling, wallpapering and measurements more accurate
Fed up with the constant whirr of your washing machine? Here's how to soundproof a utility room for a quieter life
Noisy utility rooms aren't great, but there are solutions. From walls, ceilings, floors, and doors, to choosing appliances well, here's what experts recommend
How do you clean a roof lantern without calling in the professionals? I really want one but am worried it'll always look dirty
Experts reveal the secrets behind keeping a roof lantern sparkling clean yourself so you don't always have to pay for a window cleaner
Water pouring out of your washing machine's detergent tray? Don't panic — here’s how I fixed mine
Before you pay expensive call-out charges, find out how I restored my washing machine when it was leaking from the tray. It’s easier than you might expect
Avoid mistakes and having to start again with our expert guide to wallpapering around sockets
Getting neat edges when cutting wallpaper around sockets requires the right tools and tricks. We explain how to get a professional-looking result
How I pulled up my old vinyl kitchen floor planks and replaced them, plus the secret weapons I use to ensure a professional result
Replacing your old flooring with new self-adhesive vinyl planks is a quick, cost-effective and DIY-friendly update. Find out how to do it and the tools you'll need
Ideas
Forget the dated conservatory stereotype – these 11 ideas are modern, sleek and full of style
Turn your glass extension into the most stylish room in the house with our round-up of modern conservatory ideas
11 pool decking ideas that instantly make your outdoor space feel more luxurious
Ideas From sleek modern designs to rustic timber finishes, these stylish decking ideas can completely transform the area around your pool
Buying Guides
We tested the best cooling fans to beat the heatwave – and they're selling out fast
These tried-and-tested cooling fans impressed us the most when temperatures soared
We've found the 6 best paint sprayers that will give you a smooth, even finish every time
Want a professional-quality finish at a fraction of the cost? You'll want to get your hands on one of the best paint sprayers
Goodbye condensation and grimy glass! We've tested the 5 best window vacs for banishing moisture and keeping windows crystal clear
Whether you're battling condensation, cleaning shower screens or freshening up windows, these are the five window vacs that impressed us most in our hands-on tests
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
