
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

Should decking grooves face up or down? Experts explain which way they should go and why
By Steve Jenkins published
If you’re laying a deck, you’ll probably be wondering decking grooves should face up or down? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think

Decking vs paving: Which is going to work best for your next garden project?
By Steve Jenkins published
Choosing between decking and paving is a common dilemma when planning to build an outdoor space. Here we look at the pros and cons for both options

When do you need planning permission for decking? Experts reveal when you do and when you don't
By Amy Reeves last updated
Check if you need planning permission for decking before you begin building a new outdoor area with this helpful advice guide

Experts reveal why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck — but also when you can
By Steve Jenkins published
There are a few reasons why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck. But used correctly, it can do a good job. Here, the pros tell you how

Wood decking vs composite: Which should you choose for your next garden project?
By Rob Keal last updated
Choosing between wood decking vs composite will impact the look, cost and maintenance of your decking. Our guide explores the pros and cons to help you decide

Want to know how to repair decking to keep it looking good? Experts share their tips
By Steve Jenkins published
Learn how to repair decking and say goodbye to rotting timbers and cracked and scratched composite

Learn how to wallpaper corners for a professional-looking finish
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Learning how to wallpaper corners will give your inner and outer corners neat, straight edges for a professional-looking finish. Here's how to get it right

Can you wallpaper over wallpaper? Find the answers here
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Need to know if can you wallpaper over wallpaper? Then you’ve come to the right place. Here we give you a how to guide and alternative options

Can you lay decking straight on concrete? When you shouldn't and when you can
By Steve Jenkins published
Can you lay decking straight on concrete? Experts reveal essential tips for decking success

How much will new decking cost? Find out what you can expect to pay for decking and essential extras
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Want to know how much new decking costs? We give you the lowdown on the popular choices – wood and composite – and reveal how much the pros charge

PIV unit types: What are they and which will you need to ventilate your home?
By Steve Jenkins published
PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) unit types help take control of mould and damp. Here the experts reveal which type you will need for your home

How to clean decking in this DIY step-by-step guide
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
Want to know how to clean decking? We've got it covered with this handy step by step guide for both timber and composite styles

How to remove scratches from a bathtub to restore it to its former glory
By Steve Jenkins published
Knowing how to remove these blemishes on your tub is a quick and cost effective way to get it looking back to its best

Why testing for mould is good for your home and your health
By Steve Jenkins published
Testing for mould will help identify unwanted issues. Here the experts reveal the signs to look out, how to test and how to get rid of mould

Corian vs granite: Which one should you choose for your next kitchen remodel?
By Steve Jenkins published
When it comes to Corian v granite it's not an easy choice. Here the experts weigh up the differences to help you make the right decision for you

Learn how to re-enamel a bath with this DIY guide
By Steve Jenkins published
We explain how to restore your bath tub to its former glory rather than splashing out for a new one

How to get Rawl plugs out of a wall without causing any damage
By Steve Jenkins published
Knowing how to get Rawl plugs out of a wall smoothly and cleanly will leave you with a quick DIY patch up job rather than an unwanted replaster

What are walk-in shower costs? How much you can expect to pay for materials and installation
By Steve Jenkins published
Here we take a closer look at walk in shower costs and delve into what you’ll need to budget for different parts of the process

Learn how to build pantry shelves in this DIY guide
By Steve Jenkins published
Discover the know-how to build pantry shelves. Here we reveal the techniques and tools you need to install a frame or floating shelves

Replacing a kitchen tap is a DIY skill you need to know. Here an expert tells you how
By Steve Jenkins published
If you’re thinking of replacing a kitchen tap you’re in the right place. Here we tell you how and what tools you’ll need to make it happen

Replacing a kitchen sink: Discover the tools and techniques you need to know
By Steve Jenkins published
Replacing a kitchen sink is a task that you can DIY. Here the professionals give you the insight and know-how to make it happen

Thinking of fitting a kitchen sink waste? Then follow this DIY step-by-step guide
By Steve Jenkins published
Fitting a kitchen sink waste is a plumbing job that you can tackle yourself. Here the pros tell you the steps you need to follow and what tools you’ll need

How to choose a shower: What you need to know to get the best for your bathroom
By Claire Lloyd last updated
Plan well if you want your shower to be a luxury experience — there’s certainly a lot to think about, from the type of shower to the shower tray, shower head and type of enclosure
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.