
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

Painting over lime plaster: The do’s and don'ts you need to know
By Steve Jenkins published
The process for painting over lime plaster is similar to painting any other plaster, but with some subtle, must-know differences that we reveal here

How long does tile adhesive take to dry? We answer 7 common queries related to drying times
By Steve Jenkins published
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

What is a shadow gap? How to use this design feature in your project
By Steve Jenkins published
Want to know the answer to what is a shadow gap? We reveal how this minimalist design feature can be incorporated into your latest home design project

Scaffolding costs: what you can expect to pay in 2024
By Steve Jenkins published
Scaffolding costs are not easy to quantify, as every job is different. But here we give you the lowdown on the average costs for common scenarios

What is a weep vent, what does it do and why do you need one? We answer your questions
By Steve Jenkins published
Designed to let out moisture, weep vents can be a useful addition to your brickwork. We reveal everything you need to know about these handy devices

How to retrofit fly screens to sliding and bifold doors — to keep bugs out
By Steve Jenkins published
Retrofit fly screens to your windows and doors and you can say goodbye to unwanted flies and insects invading your home

Triple glazing costs: How much can you expect to pay for extra insulation?
By Steve Jenkins published
Triple glazing costs more than double glazing but it has a host of benefits. Here we look at what they are and how much you will need to budget for an upgrade

Decking alternatives: 7 options to use instead of wood
By Steve Jenkins published
Wooden decking is a popular choice, but what decking alternatives can take its place? Here we look at direct replacements, popular alternatives and options for those on a budget

How to use a circular saw: 14 tips and tricks for great cuts
By Steve Jenkins published
Get expert tips on how to use a circular saw the right way to get straight neat cuts and avoid kickback and unwanted injuries

Painting a conservatory: How to get a factory like finish
By Steve Jenkins published
Painting a conservatory can refresh and transform your old one so it looks like new. Here we tell you what tools, paint and techniques you need to use

How to fit tile trim to get neat, clean, good-looking edges
By Steve Jenkins published
Learn how to fit tile trim with our quick and easy-to-follow guide to give your tiles not just a smart finish, but also added edge protection

Shower installation costs: How much you can expect to pay
By Steve Jenkins published
Wondering how much to budget for shower installation costs? From product costs to plumbing charges, we look at how much you can expect to pay for replacing or installing a new shower in your bathroom renovation

How to paint decking in 3 simple steps
By Teresa Conway last updated
Painting decking the right way means it will look good and last for years

Painting exterior window sills: 4 easy steps to success
By Steve Jenkins published
Painting exterior window sills can help transform the outside of your home, adding style and kerb appeal. We reveal 4 steps to a smooth, long-lasting finish

How to remove skirting boards quickly and easily with the right tools
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Knowing how to remove skirting boards properly means you can reuse or replace them and leave the plaster on the wall undamaged. Here we tell you how it’s done

How to paint a room: Pro tips and techniques for every DIYer
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Learn how to paint a room properly to get a professional finish. Here we reveal the right order to paint, what tools you’ll need and how to get the best results

How to paint skirting boards with carpet and keep them clean
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Discover how to paint skirting boards with carpet already laid on your floor to get a professional paint-free finish

What is the diamond on a tape measure used for? Our DIY expert explains all
By Steve Jenkins published
Ever wondered what is the diamond on a tape measure used for? DIY expert, Steve Jenkins explains why it's on there and how you can benefit from using it

Painting new plaster: Why you have to apply a mist coat and how to do it
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

Painting over water stains: Pro tips on how to stop them and get the perfect painted finish
By Steve Jenkins last updated
Painting over water stains is a quick and easy solution to help get rid of unwanted marks on walls and ceilings. But it's not as simple as you might think

How to get rid of black mould in bathrooms
By Steve Jenkins published
Black mould in bathrooms is ugly and unhealthy. Here we get expert advice on the causes, how you can get rid of it, and stop it coming back

Spray painting kitchen cabinets: A DIY guide to get a factory like finish
By Steve Jenkins published
Spray painting kitchen cabinets will give them a professional new look, help save the planet and save you some serious money

Painting a hallway: A DIY guide to transform your entrance space
By Steve Jenkins published
Painting a hallway isn’t the easiest paint project to tackle. Here we reveal expert help on how to choose the right colours, prepare and paint, and how to tackle hard to reach walls and ceilings
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