
Steve Jenkins
Steve Jenkins is a freelance content creator with over two decades of experience working in digital and print and was previously the DIY content editor for Homebuilding & Renovating.
He is a keen DIYer with over 20 years of experience in transforming and renovating the many homes he has lived in. He specialises in painting and decorating, but has a wide range of skills gleaned from working in the building trade for around 10 years and spending time at night school learning how to plaster and plumb.
He has fitted kitchens, tiled bathrooms and kitchens, laid many floors, built partition walls, plastered walls, plumbed in bathrooms, worked on loft conversions and much more. And when he's not sure how to tackle a DIY project he has a wide network of friends – including plumbers, gas engineers, tilers, carpenters, painters and decorators, electricians and builders – in the trade to call upon.
Latest articles by Steve Jenkins

Ceramic vs induction hobs: Which one is right for your kitchen, budget, and cooking habits?
By Amy Reeves last updated
Weigh up the benefits of ceramic vs induction hobs with this handy guide including expert insights, pros, cons, costs and energy use comparisons

Removing wallpaper? Follow our step-by-step guide for flawless results
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Removing wallpaper can be tedious, but our expert advice will help you tackle the task quickly and effectively

Is a quartz worktop the durable, stylish solution you want for your kitchen? Experts reveal the pros and cons
By Steve Jenkins published
New kitchen means new worktops. Discover what quartz worktops have to offer and if they're the ideal choice for your needs

Is installing an outdoor plug socket a job for a DIYer? Find out what the experts say and what’s needed
By Steve Jenkins published
Installing an outdoor socket must be done correctly and certified by a professional. Discover what’s involved in the process

Got a toilet that won't flush? Experts reveal three fixes that will get your toilet flushing again on no time
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Knowing how to fix a toilet that won't flush means you won't have to get out the buckets to flush away your waste, and you'll save on the cost of calling out a professional

Tired of the never-ending flush? Discover simple ways to fix a toilet that keeps running
By Steve Jenkins last updated
If you’ve got a toilet that won't stop running, you’ll know how annoying it is. Find out how to fix it quickly

No need to call out an electrician. Discover how to change a light switch cover yourself and safely
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Is it time to replace your old light switch covers? Find out how easy it is to swap out your old with new yourself rather than paying out for a professional

If you’re drilling into concrete, there are a few things you need to know. Experts reveal the tools you’ll need and tips for success
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Discover the art of drilling into concrete safely to make sure you get neat, clean holes that are fit for purpose

Measure twice, install once. Why kitchen island sizes matter when designing the heart of your home
By Rob Keal, Sarah Harley last updated
Kitchen islands come in all shapes and sizes, but picking the right size is essential if you want to make sure it isn't an eyesore or a complete waste of space

32 open plan kitchen ideas to create a seamless cooking, dining, and entertaining space
By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Get inspired with these open plan kitchen ideas that include practical tips, stylish storage and the latest designs

How much does replacing a thermostat cost? Find out what you should expect to pay
By Steve Jenkins published
Wondering what thermostat replacement costs are? Get expert insight on buying and installation costs

Are you having toilet flush problems? Follow these simple fixes to get your toilet working as it should
By Steve Jenkins published
Toilet flush problems are annoying, but follow the expert's tips in this guide, and your toilet will be sorted in no time

Do you know how to replace a kitchen tap? Find out how in this easy-to-follow DIY guide
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Say goodbye to dripping taps, costly installation and say hello to a smart new drip-free tap

How hard is it to fit a kitchen sink waste? Experts reveal it's not as hard as you think
By Steve Jenkins last updated
With this guide and a few basic tools, you can fit a kitchen sink waste yourself without any worries

What should you know before laying kitchen floor tiles? The experts reveal simple secrets for a successful job
By Steve Jenkins published
Find out how to choose the right tiles, tile pattern, prepare the floor and lay kitchen floor tiles

Types of plaster and plastering techniques you need to know when finishing off your home renovation
By Natasha Brinsmead, Steve Jenkins last updated
There are several different types of plaster, each with their own pros and cons –here we take a look at the main options for your internal walls

Replacing a shower screen is a quick way to upgrade your shower space. Find out how to do it yourself
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Installing a new shower screen in a bathroom can add a contemporary new look and stop leaks. Here’s how

If a DIY sink installation is on your to-do list, learn what you need to know to install it yourself
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Say goodbye to costly callouts and learn how to install a kitchen sink yourself with some basic tools and know-how

If you’ve got yellow mould growing on your walls, it's time for action. Find out what it is and how to get rid of it
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Yellow mould on walls is ugly, unhealthy and unwanted. Find out what causes it, what you can do to kill it and what to do if it comes back

What's the best option for heating a kitchen? Check out what the experts say
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
When it comes to heating a kitchen, there's a wide range of options available. This guide explores the pros and cons of the most common kitchen heating systems

Want to know how to cut a hole in wood? Experts reveal there’s more than one way to do it. We help you choose the right one
By Steve Jenkins published
Discover the top tools and techniques for cutting holes of all sizes, from small to large, to achieve your desired finish

How to fit a kitchen worktop: Step-by-step guide plus best tools, measuring and cutting
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Discover the know-how for fitting a kitchen worktop including the tools you’ll need and how to get a clean cut

How to spray paint kitchen cabinets for a factory-like finish
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Spray painting kitchen cabinets will give them a professional new look, help save the planet and save you some serious money

Forget replacing cabinets. We show you how painting over gloss kitchen units creates a fast, stunning refresh
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Learn how painting gloss kitchen cabinets can instantly transform your kitchen and how to tackle this makeover project with our expert DIY guide

Lidl (and Arnold Schwarzenegger) are selling bargain power tools in their middle aisle... but are they any cheaper than Amazon?
By Steve Jenkins published
Will Lidl's power tool range bag you a bargain, or will a trip to Amazon save you even more money? We take a look at what’s available and where the best prices are
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