
Pete Wise
Pete Wise is a freelance writer and keen DIYer from Leeds. Pete's tool reviews have featured in titles including Homebuilding & Renovating, Ideal Home and The Independent. He also writes features and news articles for publications such as The Guardian, BBC Good Food and T3. When he isn't busy writing, Pete can often be found at libraries, pubs and live music venues. He finds tile-cutting strangely zen.
Latest articles by Pete Wise

What is a stove fan and how does one work?
By Pete Wise published
They're the must-have log burner accessory making homes warmer this winter – but how do stove fans work, and where should you place yours?

Wood burner vents open or closed? We explain how to use log burner vents
By Pete Wise published
These air controls are key to mastering your wood-burning stove

How to get maximum heat from a wood burner
By Pete Wise published
A wood burning stove can make your home much warmer over winter. Here’s how to raise the temperature

Can you turn a chimney breast into a bookcase? Yes, says a DIY expert, and here's how
By Pete Wise published
DIY expert, Pete Wise, shares the 7 steps you need to follow when turning an unused chimney breast into a bookcase to add valuable built-in storage to your home

Black + Decker BCD700S1K-GB combi drill review: A great budget drill for beginners
By Pete Wise published
The Black + Decker BCD700S1K-GB combi drill offers cordless drilling at a budget price but can this low-priced bundle handle our home improvement testing?

I renovated our wooden window sill and the budget-friendly result looks great
By Pete Wise published
Experienced DIYer Pete Wise takes you step-by-step through a low-budget window sill renovation project, from sanding and filling to adding decorative beading

Impact driver vs impact wrench: Two similar tools for totally different tasks
By Pete Wise published
Impact driver vs. impact wrench — which is which and when might one be better than the other? Here we explain the difference between the two and advise on which you are likely to need for your project

Impact driver vs drill: When to use each of these tools
By Pete Wise published
Our DIY writer Pete Wise explains the differences between cordless drills and impact drivers – and what you can do with each type of tool

I test the performance of the Ryobi R18MT Multitool with a variety of DIY tasks
By Pete Wise published
The Ryobi R18MT Multitool promises a great mix of sanding, cutting and grinding functions – but how effectively does it perform when put to a variety of practical DIY tests?

How to make a Roman blind from a kit — see how our DIY expert got on
By Pete Wise published
DIY expert Pete Wise shows you how to make a Roman blind from a kit with his step-by-step guide to brighten up a home

I achieved a flawless, swirl-free finish with the Makita BO5041 random orbit sander
By Pete Wise published
The Makita BO5041 random orbit sander promises a superior and faster sanding experience, but does it have the grit to make the grade? I put it to the test with hands-on DIY tasks

Types of drill and when to use each one
By Pete Wise published
With so many types of drill available it can be hard to know which to use for what project. Learn the differences between combi drills, hammer drills and drill-drivers with our guide

Our guide to sanding wood floors — from tools to sandpaper grits
By Pete Wise published
Get to grips with sanding wood floors to ensure your project is a complete success. Our guide explains which tools you will need and how to go about achieving the best results

How to lay parquet flooring: Our DIY step-by-step guide to laying a herringbone floor
By Pete Wise published
Pete Wise demonstrates how to lay parquet flooring on a DIY basis, including what tools to use, how to stick it down, and how to finish a parquet floor with wax oil

Stoves Richmond 100PYR Pyramid Chimney review
By Pete Wise published
Is the Stoves Richmond 100PYR Pyramid Chimney a kitchen essential? Seasoned DIYer Pete Wise puts this recirculating cooker hood to the test.

What is a rotary multi-tool — and what can you do with one?
By Pete Wise published
This is the all-in-one tool you need in your toolbox to finely sand, drill, cut and embellish your DIY and craft projects. Pete Wise explains all

How to fit a recirculating cooker hood: Our expert guide with pictures
By Pete Wise published
A fume-free kitchen is only a few short DIY steps away if you follow Pete Wise's tips for fitting a recirculating cooker hood

Black + Decker BDCROS18 18V Cordless Random Orbital Sander Review
By Pete Wise published
This neat cordless sander is just right for smaller sanding jobs where a smooth, swirl-free finish is needed
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