
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

Are ugly streaks and faded finishes ruining your beautiful timber cladding? Find out why it's happening and what you can do to restore it to its best
By Steve Jenkins published
Are ugly streaks and faded finishes ruining your beautiful timber cladding? Find out why it's happening and what you can do to restore it to its best

What is the minimum water pressure you should have in a house? Plus, how to increase it
By Steve Jenkins published
A lack of water pressure in the home is annoying and needs to be sorted out. Experts reveal how to test, resolve the issue and when its time to call in your water company

Why are my radiators cold at the bottom? Experts reveal the reasons and what you need to do to fix them
By Steve Jenkins published
If your radiators are cold at the bottom, they need to be sorted as soon as possible

Do you need to change your locks? How much you can expect to pay
By Steve Jenkins published
Need a locksmith? Discover change lock costs for doors, windows and how much extra for an emergency call out

Thinking about laminate worktops? Why they could be ideal for a kitchen renovation
By Steve Jenkins published
Laminate worktops have a lot to offer, but do they fit your with design needs? We reveal the pros, cons and costs to help you decide

Get rid of wallpaper stains without damage with these expert cleaning tips
By Steve Jenkins published
Find a stain removal solution that will leave your wallpaper clean and intact

Thinking of installing a loft ladder? Find out how much you can expect to pay
By Steve Jenkins published
Loft ladder installation costs can vary. Discover what factors make a difference and what you will typically pay

There’s more than one way to build a partition wall. Discover the options for dividing up a space
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Our guide explains how to build a partition wall, along with the various methods you can use if you are looking for an alternative to a traditional stud wall

Using a blunt drill bit means more work and less control. Find out how to sharpen a drill bit for quick, clean drilling
By Steve Jenkins published
Learn how to keep your wood, metal and masonry drill bits sharp and ready for action

If you're going to paint your stairs, you need to follow these expert tips and paint recommendations for a professional finish
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Make painting your stairs an integral part of a hallway makeover. Follow our step-by-step guide for success

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
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