Latest articles by Pete Wise
Do you know when to use dry sanding or wet sanding when doing DIY? Our expert explains
You can't always use wet sanding in DIY projects, but it sometimes makes a difference to the finish.
10 ways to make your sanding less dusty for a safer home and a smoother finish
From attaching sanding sheets correctly to using a proper dust extraction vacuum, these tips will minimise the mess from sanding.
How to sand floors with a belt sander — and when to use a different tool instead
They’re not as powerful as a pro-grade floor sander, but DIY belt sanders have their uses when you’re sanding wood floors.
The costs of sanding a wood floor — from professional rates to DIY sander tools
We break down the costs of sanding a wood floor, including tools, materials and professional sanding or equipment hire.
Which brickwork pointing styles are best for historic or contemporary buildings?
Many different styles of pointing can be used to create the mortar joint between bricks. We asked bricklayers about the unique history, appearance and uses of six styles.
How to avoid drilling into wires: Know your electrics and use a wire detector
We asked a tool brand and an electrician for their best tips on ensuring you do not drill into hidden wires in your walls, from using a wire detector to assessing your household circuitry.
I'm a heritage bricklayer and this is how to avoid common mistakes when repointing brickwork
A third-generation bricklayer and a property expert discuss the most common repointing mistakes and how to avoid them. Find out the right way to prepare your brickwork and apply fresh mortar.
Struggling to get items up into your loft? Here's how to make a loft hatch bigger, including the essential safety steps you need to consider
Loft experts explain how to enlarge a loft hatch, from planning the perfect position between ceiling joists to choosing the right style of hatch for your home.
Why the right driveway length matters to the look of a property and your finances
We interviewed an installer, a paving specialist and a property agent to learn how a longer driveway affects a property's accessibility, installation costs and curb appeal.
Why a heated driveway might be the luxury upgrade that takes your home up a notch
Heated driveways are most commonly seen in prosperous North American, Japanese and Scandinavian homes. Experts explain why the trend is now catching on it the UK.
Read this advice before installing electric driveway gates
Everything you need to know before going ahead with electric gate installation, from the mechanism and materials to smart automations.
Does a pergola attached to a house have special requirements?
Everything you need to know about attaching a wall-mounted pergola to a house, from the installation process to planning permission.
Rotating driveways: What are they and do I really need one?
An installer and property expert discuss the pros, cons and planning implications of installing a car turntable on your driveway.
How to anchor a pergola and prevent it from sustaining wind damage
A landscaper and outdoor furniture expert talk through the key considerations and steps when anchoring a pergola outside your home.
Installing a kitchen island: 5 steps from planning to finishing
Experts explain the process to follow and factors to consider when installing a kitchen island in your home, including integrated sinks and appliances.
I'm a kitchen fitter and this is how to join kitchen worktops
A professional carpenter explains his process for joining kitchen worktop sections smoothly and evenly.
Replacing a kitchen extractor fan: Can you use old ducts with a new unit?
Everything you need to know about replacing a kitchen extractor fan, including installation and selecting a new extractor.
How to avoid these common mistakes when replacing your kitchen worktops
We explain the process of kitchen worktop replacement. Is it possible for DIYers, and what are the key mistakes to avoid?
Before you replace a bathtub with a shower, consider this expert advice
A plumber and kitchen expert explain how to replace a bathtub with a shower, including the plumbing requirements and common mistakes.
What is the cost of replacing kitchen worktops? Our expert explains
These are the material and labour costs of repacing kitchen unit cupboard doors and worktops, DIY or with professional help.
How much do replacement kitchen unit doors cost? What you can expect to pay
Replacement kitchen unit door costs are not easy to work out. Here we reveal the factors and costs to help you determine how much you’ll need to budget
Installing a kitchen extractor fan: A step-by-step guide and expert tips
A construction expert talks through how to install a kitchen extractor fan in our step-by-step guide
Wood burning stove problems and solutions — our troubleshooting guide
Got a burning question about your stove? We asked experts to explain some of the most widespread problems affecting wood burners – and how to fix them
