
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

Find out why plasterboarding is the ideal choice for a DIY project
By Steve Jenkins last updated
We take a look at the pros of plasterboarding with expert advice on why you should consider it over wet plastering

If you don't add a mist coat before painting new plaster, you’ll regret it. Here’s what you need to know
By Steve Jenkins last updated
When painting new plaster you need to seal it before you can add a top coat. Here we reveal the ideal mist coat ratio and how to apply for the perfect finish

Want to know how to paint MDF properly? This expert guide has the answers you need
By Steve Jenkins last updated
If you need to know how to paint MDF, we've got you covered. Follow this step-by-step guide for a perfect finish

Do you know how many tiles you'll need for your next project? Follow these pro tips to make sure you don't buy too little or too many
By Steve Jenkins last updated
How many tiles do I need is the first question asked when taking on a new tiling project. Here we reveal some simple tips to make sure you buy what you need

Knowing how long tile adhesive takes to dry is crucial to project success. Here you'll find out what affects drying times and how to speed them up
By Steve Jenkins last updated
How long does tile adhesive take to dry is a straightforward question with a less simple answer. Here we look at the factors that determine drying times

Having trouble finding the timber studs in a wall? How to use a stud finder like a pro
By Steve Jenkins published
Follow our expert guide on how to use a stud finder to accurately locate studs, pipes, and cables

Making painted stripes part of your latest design ideas will liven up any space, and it's not as hard as you might think
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Want to know how to paint stripes on a wall? We reveal the tools and techniques that every DIYer should know to get sharp, smart stripes

Don't let tiling corners spoil your latest project. Discover the art of tackling inside and outside corners
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Tiling a corner isn't as difficult as you might think. Here we reveal a few trade secrets to get a smooth, good looking finish

Lack of power in your shower? Ways to increase your water pressure
By Gabriella Dyson last updated
Don't let lacklustre showers ruin your morning routine. Learn how to identify the causes of low water pressure in a shower and discover 5 simple steps to combat the issue.

How much tile adhesive do I need? Our expert has the answer
By Steve Jenkins last updated
‘How much tile adhesive do I need?’ is a key question to answer before you start tiling. Here's how to work out the amount you'll need for walls and floors

How much does a skip cost? A breakdown of prices, sizes and restrictions
By Steve Jenkins published
Find out how much you can expect to pay to get rid of your rubbish and waste

If you’re thinking of tiling around a window, then this step-by-step guide will show you how to get it right
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Need the know-how for tiling around a window? Follow our step-by-step guide to discover the best techniques to get a pro looking finish

Before ripping out your old tiles, find out if you can tile over tiles to save you time and money
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Can you tile over tiles doesn't have straightforward answer. Here we take a look at when it's a good and bad idea backed up by some expert insight

This tiling a shower guide tells you what you need to know to create a smart, long-lasting and watertight finish
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Tiling a shower brings with it some subtle differences to standard tiling. Here we reveal what prep you need to do and whether to start with the floor or walls

The 6 best kitchen cabinet paints to refresh tired cupboard doors
By Steve Jenkins last updated
The best kitchen cabinet paints can be an inexpensive and easy way to revitalise your cupboards – browse these editor-approved options

Check out this easy-to-follow tiling a fireplace advice to create a stunning hearth
By Luke Arthur Wells last updated
Tiling a fireplace shouldn't be the biggest challenge for a competent DIYer. We look at the how it's done and the key things you need to know

What are the hidden challenges of tiling onto plasterboard? Pros reveal their techniques for perfect, durable finishes
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Tiling onto plasterboard is similar to tiling onto plaster or tile, but you need to get your prep and process right. A couple of pros reveal their tips

Try these 6 essential gutter cleaning products to help keep your guttering leaf and debris-free
By Michelle Guy last updated
Looking for the best gutter cleaning products to sort your gutters DIY-style? We’ve made it easier to choose with a selection of 5 top tools in our round-up

Ensure you choose the best plasterboard fixings to support shelves, big screen TV’s and radiators to avoid unwanted accidents
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Check out our pick of the best plasterboard fixings to help make sure that your favourite fittings don’t fail and fall

Is a solid wood worktop the perfect partner for your latest kitchen project?
By Steve Jenkins published
Solid wood worktops offer timeless appeal, but are they the best fit for your space? Discover their benefits, limitations and what to consider before choosing

The best reciprocating saws for effortless demolition, fast cuts, and impressive performance
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
The best reciprocating saws are handy tools to have for use around your next build or DIY project. Here are 5 of the best

Is a Corian worktop the ideal choice for your new kitchen? Experts reveal everything you need to know about this stylish surface
By Steve Jenkins published
Looking at different types of worktops and tempted by Corian? Find out what it has to offer and if it works for you

Check out our top-rated best bathroom sealants, perfect for stopping leaks, preventing mould and sealing gaps
By Jack Woodfield last updated
We've rounded up the best bathroom sealants for waterproof protection, flexible sealing and smart professional-quality finishing
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