Plumbing Repairs
Top Ways To Save Water At Home
Knowing your usage is important because understanding how much water you are using can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact.
Why Does My Plumbing Make Strange Noises?
Why does my home plumbing make strange noises, such as dogs howling or whimpering, an orchestra in the toilet, or pipes that bang?
What Causes Slow Water Flow From Taps?
If the water flow from your taps has slowed down or is weaker than it should be, it's time to investigate the drop in water pressure and what could be causing this.
Make Sure It's Safe Before Drilling Into Tiled Walls
If you want to avoid hitting water pipes and electrical conduits concealed behind tiles, make sure to check before you drill.
Seal Around Your Bath Or Shower Without Using Silicone Sealer
Silicone sealer is messy, time-consuming and doesn't last long before it needs to be replaced, so use sealing tape instead.
It's Never A Good Idea To Ignore Leaks In Your Home!
Any type of leak can, in the long term, cause a lot of damage and, no matter how small, if not repaired asap it could result in mould and expensive repairs down the line.
Troubleshooting tips for blocked drains and other plumbing problems
Because of the somewhat delicate nature of plumbing issues, it is really important that these are home maintenance issues that should be taken care of as quickly as possible.
Dealing with Black Mould in the Bathroom
Quite a few years back, I converted the downstairs bathtub into a bath / shower combination but now see black mould starting to appear in some areas.
How to Clean Drains Without Chemicals
There are various other options to cope with clogged drains without risking protection and hurting the climate with toxic chemicals.
What's That Smell?
Your plumbing installation does not just focus on the supply of water to your home or office, it also deals with the discarding of waste.
3 Signs Your Geyser Is About To Burst
The last thing you need right now is a burst geyser, so we have 3 signs to keep in mind that are an indication that a geyser is about to burst.
What To Do if a Water pipe Bursts
A burst water pipe is not something anyone expects, but it does happen. But what do you do if a water pipe does burst?
What to do if your Geyser Bursts
Being housebound means that you might be on your own should any emergency happen, but here's what to do if your geyser bursts.
How to Unclog Bathtub Drain Full of Hair
Here are some tricks that will help you fix that clogged drain in a bathtub yourself.
4 Common Plumbing Problems and Solutions for Parents
Here are four common problems that parents of kids under 6 face and how to handle them.
Facts and Myths About Using Drain Cleaners
It’s important to know the facts when using a drain cleaner, in order to avoid ruining the pipes.
Home Repair and Upgrades that YOU CAN DO!
There comes a time when every home needs essential repairs or upgrades, and here are some of the things any DIY enthusiasts with the basic skills can do.
5 Tips to Avoid Plumbing Problems
Many people overlook their home sanitary system, but it can cause trouble in terms of both money and health.
Upgrading your Old Oil Fuel Tank
This Old House plumbing and heating professional talk about what type of system to install.
Before You Call a Plumber...
If the water flow from a tap has dwindled to a trickle, you might want to check the filter before you call a plumber.
Convert a Toilet to Dual-Flush
By converting your toilet to dual-flush you can save a lot of water and it's an easy project to do.
What is Plumbers Tape and where do I use it?
Every home should have a roll of plumbers tape - but what is it and what do you use for?
Keeping Your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter
One of the dangers of frozen pipes is that they can explode and burst. This happens because the water inside the pipes expands as it freezes.
How to replace a tap washer
A leaky tap is a wanton waste of our precious resources, and one that can be easily fixed in under 10 minutes, at a cost of less than R10. Visit your local Builders to purchase a new tap washer - take the old one with you if in any doubt as to the correct size.
Quick Tip: Blocked drains
Sooner or later every homeowner will need to attend to a plumbing fix or two, whether it is dealing with a blocked drain in a kitchen sink, or a shower drain that will not let water drain away.
Water Pipes make loud banging noises?
Water pipes that make a loud banging noise when you turn off the taps are a sign of water hammer or hydraulic shock.
Home Plumbing Tips
Plumbing Emergencies. There are bound to be times when you need to fix up minor plumbing problems.
Repair chips in toilets or basins
Here's an easy and inexpensive way to repair chips in a toilet or basin that lasts and will be almost invisible.
Water flow won't stop in toilet
I have had a problem where the water flow into the cistern wouldn't stop. If you have experienced the same problem you may find this article useful.
Geyser Tips
In an average household, the geyser is the most energy-consuming appliance - taking up almost 40 percent of your monthly electrical bill. Here are some tips on getting the most out of your geyser.
Replace shower tap washer
There's more than a few homes that have leaky taps or taps that drip, and yet it's so easy and inexpensive to replace a tap washer. This video shows how to replace a shower tap washer.
Underground water leaks
Water leaks can be frustrating and hard on the wallet. Luckily, many household leaks can be fixed relatively easily.
What is a Compliance Certificate?
At a recent DIY Divas workshop it came to light that not every homeowner knows what a Compliance Certificate is, and the importance of this certificate when buying or selling a property.
Tangit PVC-U Weld adhesive for PVC pipes
When you are using PVC pipes for installing a water feature, repairing a swimming pool, or for any craft or DIY project that uses PVC pipes, you need an adhesive that sticks fast and sticks strong. Tangit PVC-U Weld is the product you need.
Banging pipes or water hammer
Do you have banging pipes - or water hammer? A banging noise in the water pipes normally occurs when the water is turned off too quickly, especially on valve-type taps and fittings.
Stop leaks immediately
Rust-Oleum Leak Seal is an easy-to-use, rubberized protective utility coating designed to fill and seal leaks and cracks. It provides a water-tight, flexible seal that prevents moisture penetration, rust and corrosion.
Repair a leaky garden tap
Catastrophe at my home this morning upon discovering that my main stopcock tap was leaking, and not in a small way.
Find a professional plumber
Research shows that consumers worry about the quality of plumbers in South Africa. So how do we know if the plumber we hire is qualified and registered or not?
Understand your home plumbing
Unless you can afford to fork out every time something goes wrong in your home, it pays to know a few plumbing basics just in case ...
Repair chipped basin, toilet or tub
Repairing chips and gouges in a porcelain or enamelled bath or basin is fairly easy if you use the right products for the job.
Banging or vibrating water pipes
Where banging noises seem to be in the walls or ceiling, this is commonly referred to as Water Hammer and is caused by a lack of air in the pipes and occurs whenever taps with valves are closed quickly.
How to fix a leaking toilet
If there are brown stains or water is dripping from the back of the toilet - where it connects to the outlet pipe - you need to replace the seal. It's a quick and easy job - although a bit messy - that takes about five minutes!
How to seal around bath or basin
It is essential to have a seal around basins and bath tubs to prevent moisture access to furniture, walls and floors.
How to unblock a toilet
You don't have to get into a panic or call a plumber if the toilet blocks up. All you need to do it don a pair of rubber gloves and grab a plunger.
Do you have damp or mould?
Damp can affect any home and, with the obvious health and comfort issues, it is always wise to spot any problems early and remedy them quickly. Bathroom can be prone to damp, so here's what to keep a look out for...
Understand how a toilet works
Most homes have at least two, so it pays to have some understanding of how your toilet works. If you have a basic knowledge you could save yourself hundreds of rands on minor repairs. Here are a few things that it helps to know...
Why do drains block up?
Most blockages are due to poor maintenance and bad habits, and while a twice yearly inspection may not stop blockages entirely, it will prevent a big build up that could cause flooding.
Quick fixes for a home
There are certain jobs in and around the home that can be tackled easily and quickly. Here's a quick round up of DIY products that are helpful to have at home in case of an emergency DIY fix up - and you'll find everything you need at your local Builders Warehouse!
Why do drains block?
Imagine standing in the shower with water up to your ankles, or spending essential 'reading' time on the toilet and then it won't flush!
Adjust or replace a toilet seat
Every time I sit on the toilet seat I feel like I'm going for a roller coaster ride! Over time the screws that hold the seat can work loose and simply need to be tightened, but should they break off, you will need to replace the entire seat.
Remove and replace bathroom basin or sink
You don't have to live with ugly fittings when they are so easy to replace. Simply pull out and remove the old hand basin to install a new, modern hand basin to update a bathroom.
Install a new shower head
There are two main categories of showerheads to choose from: fixed or handheld. But within these categories is a wealth of options - from rainshowers to multi-setting versions.
Home Plumbing Tips that Everyone Should Know
Everyone should have a basic knowledge of how to perform plumbing tasks and how the plumbing in their home works.
5 Critical Plumbing Issues You Should Leave to The Pros
While you may be able to fix some simple issues like a clogged toilet, some problems are better left to a professional.
Top Home Plumbings Tips
Having the skills to assess and fix plumbing problems will save you money on costly repairs and prevent minor problems from getting worse.
Check 5 Tips To Find An Emergency Plumber In Your City?
Whether you own a home, business, or property, there will come a timewhen you need a reliable plumber.
What Can You Expect From a Top Furnace Repair Company?
Consider the following points when you need a furnace repair company.
Easy Step-By-Step Guide on How To Install a Boiler
If you're thinking of installing a boiler, here is a step-by-step guide for you to help.
7 Things to Keep in Mind Before Hiring a Plumber
There are several things you need to be aware of before you hire a plumber to work on your home.
8 Crucial Things to Check When Moving into a New House
In this post, we look the 8 crucial things you need to check before moving into your new house.
8 Crucial Things to Check When Reasons To Replace A Faulty Boiler
Below are warning signs that you need to replace your boiler.
Top 7 Common Plumbing Concerns For Home Owners
We take a look at some of the most common types of plumbing problems you may experience as a homeowner.
What to Do During Plumbing Emergencies
Here is a list of plumbing emergencies and what you can do to deal with these emergencies.
Plumbing 101: How To Protect Your Home
There are measures that you can take to prevent you from repairing your foundation or slab flooring later on.
4 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a New Boiler
When purchasing a new boiler it requires research, general knowledge of heating systems, and you need to stay within your budget.
How To Properly Maintain Your Plumbing System
Follow the tips below to ensure that you are doing the right thing in maintaining your home plumbing system.
Fix Your Clogged Toilet
Don’t panic if your toilet gets terribly clogged. You can fix it by yourself with some tools and effort.
Plumbing 101: How Do Plumbing Vents Work?
There are a few things you should know about plumbing vents in your home especially since vents are necessary, and there are various types that you can have fitted.
Electrical
How Much Does An Electrician Cost?
How much can you expect to pay if you need an electrician for emergency repairs or fixes around the home?
How to Service and Maintain A Portable Generator
Portable generators are becoming essential in light of power outages across the country and you need to service and maintain a generator.
How To Replace A Light Fitting
Still have some old light fittings in your home that need replacing? Here's a simple way to swap them out for new light fittings.
When Should You Look At Rewiring Your House Electrical System?
If you have been living in your house for more than 30 years or are buying an older property, you should think about having the electrical system inspected and/or rewired.
2021 With A Very Expensive Bang!
This year, my family got to see 2021 in with a bang when our outside electrical box (where the meter is) literally exploded!
Protect Appliances and Electronics from Power Surges
Power surges are not something many of us think about, but they can damage appliances and electronic equipment unless they are protected.
Expert Advice: Never DIY Electrical Work And Repairs
Experts warn not to undertake electrical works as a DIY project for many reasons, such as the following..
The Specifics of the Hook-Up Wire
When you are seeking the correct type of wire for electronic devices that are enclosed, the wire needed is likely a hook-up wire.
Remove and replace a built-in oven
If you want to replace your old built-in oven with a brand new oven, it only requires a few simple steps - no electrician required!
Change light switch or plug covers
If your home still have dated metal light switch or plug covers, perhaps it's time to update these to modern light switch or plug covers.
Quick Tip: Cool or warm lighting
When buying CFL or LED lamps you have the option to choose between cool or warm light.
Get the ARB Electrical app
This useful, feature-packed Toolkit from ARB Electrical Wholesalers is the ideal utility application for electrical engineers, electricians and technicians and offers a wide range of electronic reference material.
What home electrical repairs can I do?
On Home-Dzine, and when hosting a DIY Divas Basic Electrical workshop, we receive lots of enquiries as to what a homeowner can and cannot do themselves. Here are some guidelines for what electrical repairs you can do at home.
Safe fitting of lights and fans to ceilings
When fitting new lights fixtures, smoke detectors, security alarms or fans to a ceiling, it is safer to use the proper fixings to ensure fittings are secure and won't fall down.
What is a Compliance Certificate?
At a recent DIY Divas workshop it came to light that not every homeowner knows what a Compliance Certificate is, and the importance of this certificate when buying or selling a property.
Replace incandescent fittings with CFL
As and when budget allows I am systematically going from room to room and replacing my old incandescent lights with light fittings that use CFL globes.
Convert single power socket to double or fit modern cover plate
There are some modern plug outlet and light switch covers available at your local Builders Warehouse. As part of my kitchen revamp I switched all the single power outlets to double, and replaced the old metal double plug outlets with new modern covers.
Install ceiling lights
Some rooms in my home have light fittings that were installed when the house was built - way back when. I thought it was about time I took my own advice - and installed more modern fittings!
How to wire a 3-pin plug
Although you can strip almost any wire or cable with nothing more than a craft knife, for safety reasons it is better to use a wire stripper.
How to connect wires
Most electrical problems - some of which can be extremely dangerous - can be prevented with a properly applied wire connector. In most cases, a connector is nothing more than a plastic cap with a spring inside.
Fit a 3-pin plug
By law, appliances, tools and other bought electrical items have to be fitted with a plug, but how many are fitted with a 2-pin plug. Stop running around trying to find a 2-pin adaptor.
What to do in a power failure
While our day to day lives are dependent on electricity, if you are sitting comfortably in front of the TV or PC and the power goes off. What do you do?
Test your earth leakage
Do you know why a switch trips? Here is a simple guide to how your fuse box gets electricity to your appliances.
Electrical repairs
There are some minor electrical faults that can be repaired yourself - without calling out an electrician. Save yourself some money and time spent waiting by doing a bit of research...
What to do when circuit breaker keeps tripping
Eskom power is cabled into a home via the circuit breaker. An electrical panel mounted within the home, a circuit breaker is a safety mechanism that is designed to trip and switch off the power when safety has been compromised.
How to use a continuity tester
You need to perform a continuity test to ascertain whether or not a switch has failed. A continuity test will determine if a continuous electrical path flows through a switch.
Electrical Safety: How to Ensure Your Home is Protected
It is always important as a homeowner or resident to practice optimal electrical safety.
Home Improvement Projects: DIY or Hire?
While there are many projects in your home that you can DIY to make your budget stretch, some are safer and more functional (and sometimes more affordable) when you hire someone to do it instead.
Do I need to invest in home backup generators?
Some reasons that should make you consider a backup generator for your home.
6 Reasons To Invest In A Portable Generator
Should the power unexpectedly cut out for an unpredictable duration, it can adversely affect your day-to-day operation but thankfully, modernization has made the invention of portable generators possible.
The Usefulness of Generators in the Society
Generators are one of the best ways to ensure you have access to electricity during power outages and blackouts.
Window, Doors & Floors
How To Weatherproof Your Home For Winter
Autumn is almost upon us and now is the best time to start weatherproofing your home for winter.
Is it Time to Replace Your Windows?
Like many things relating to your property, there comes a time when certain fittings need to be replaced, such as windows, and we offer some tips relating to this.
Ways To Clean Your Exterior To Improve Your Home's Overall Look
Follow these helpful tips before you get started on the cleaning of your home exterior.
Repair Damage to Wood Front Door
My beloved furbaby was recently left outside by mistake and managed to almost chew through the front door to get inside - now I need to fix the damage to the door.
Restore Security Gates and Burglar Bars
There aren't many homes that don't have some type of security gate or burglar bars, and these will need to be restored when rust starts to appear.
Quick Project: Fit a new Front Door Handle
Fitting a new door handle to your front door is a 10-minute project that is reasonably inexpensive and will go a long way towards improving the look of a home.
Restore brass window hardware
If you own a Dremel Multitool you already know it has plenty of uses, and we used our Dremel Multitool to restore brass window hardware.
Maintain a Front Door
As the first feature your guests see when entering the home, your front door requires a bit more care and attention than usual to keep it looking good.
Repair timber sliding door
If not regularly maintained or painted, timber becomes dry and brittle and breaks easily. In this feature we show you have to fix damage to a timber sliding door.
TLC for Window Frames and Doors
Protect window frames and doors from the elements with regular maintenance, and keep your home looking good all year round.
Protect slasto and slate tiles
If left unsealed, slasto and slate tiles will start to flake and delaminate. Applying a sealer reduces the risk of this happening.
Maintain timber garage door
Timber garage doors look beautiful, but they do need regular maintenance to keep them looking so good. We offer tips on maintaining a timber garage door and adding curb appeal.
Seal around wooden window frames
When doing maintenance on my wooden window frames I noticed that some of the strips around the frame that hold the glass in place were missing. Here's an easy and affordable way to fix this.
Restore wooden window frames
It's that time of year when you need to look at maintaining wooden window frames. Once the rainy season is over and before summer temperatures start to soar, restore the beauty of wooden window frames.
Oil door and gate locks with ease
Ever tried getting just a tiny amount of oil into the workings of a lock or some other confined space and given up – or put so much in that it overflowed all over the place?
Prepare your home for winter chills and rain
Whether it's preparing for winter rains, or keeping out the winter chills, every home is going to require some maintenance to make sure it is ready for winter.
Replace broken tile
Chipped, cracked or broken tiles are a fact of life and that's why it is important that you always order extra tiles. Replacing a damaged tile is easy if you already have some spare.
Easy step-by-step guide to reviving grout
Apart from discolouration, moisture and humidity in bathrooms and kitchens creates an environment conducive to mould and mildew. It is difficult to remove these stains, as they are rooted deep in the grout. Often the best solution is to re-grout and seal the area.
Care and maintenance tips for hardwood floors
Hardwood flooring is an expensive investment and proper care and maintenance is required, not only to keep them looking good, but also ensure they last a lifetime. Whether your hardwood floors are oak, Oregon pine or teak, all require finishing in some way or another.
Stop leaks instantly with a can of LeakSeal
Rust-Oleum LeakSeal is an easy to use, rubberized protective coating designed to fill and seal leaks and cracks in and around the home.
Draft-and rain-proof doors
A weatherproofing strip closes the gap at the bottom of a door to keep out cold drafts and prevent heat loss, adding towards an insulated home.
Ensure a tiled balcony is waterproof
On a tiled balcony it is essential to carry out the correct preparation and to waterproof exterior areas before tiling commences, to prevent water seeping through the grout and adhesive into the substrate, and consequently into the areas directly below.
Clean and strip slate tiles
I have been receiving quite a few queries on cleaning and stripping slate tiles. Over time slate tiles, especially black and autumn colours, can become dull and cloudy, losing their beautiful colour under layers of wax polish.
How to fit a door knob
We have covered fitting a door handle and lock to an exterior or interior door, but what if you prefer to fit a door knob. While the principle is basically the same, a door knob is easier to fit. Here are the instructions for fitting a door knob to any interior or exterior door.
Keeping a home draft-free
It's time to say bye-bye to summer and hello to winter, and while we may not like the cold weather, winter is a brief change from the usual and a chance to snuggle up in a warm home until the summer once again makes her appearance.
Seal gaps around wooden windows and doors
Gaps in and around window and door frames should be sealed as soon as any cracks or opening in the joints occurs. Failure to fill in these gaps will result in moisture gaining access to the wood and leading to wood rot and eventual disintegration of the wood.
Cut out and replace damaged windowsill
When wood rot attacks a wooden windowsill, you need to fix this as quickly as possible unless you want to replace the entire window frame. Cutting out and replacing damaged wood is easy if you use a Dremel cutting tool.
Repair damage by wood rot
Where wood is not properly treated wood rot will eventually occur. Lack of protection allows moisture ingress that leads to a fungal infestation that destroys the wood fibres and causes eventual disintegration. Early treatment is essential, especially on window and door frames.
Fit a new exterior door
Many homeowners put this project on the back burner thinking that a new door is too expensive and it isn't easy to fit. Once you get started you will realise that fitting is not as difficult as you originally thought.
Strip natural stone floor tiles
If there is one project that instantly refreshes a home, it's stripping excess wax build up from natural stone tiles and applying a fresh coat of sealer. Over time the build up of wax on stone tiles dulls the finish and looks drab.
Fix cracks around wooden windows and doors
Cracks around wooden window and door frames are common enough and these need to be attended to as soon as possible if you want to prevent further problems.
Replace interior hollow core door
Hollow core doors that you buy at Builders Warehouse cost around R350 and come in ‘one size fits all’, but unfortunately that is not the case. Door heights will differ depending on the flooring installed and you will invariably have to cut the door to fit.
Treat rust in and around the home
It is important to prime and paint all iron and steel fittings in and around a home. Unpainted iron and steel will, under the right conditions, rust and deteriorate. Add salt to the equation and rust will attack unpainted iron even faster.
Treatment for aluminium corrosion
Aluminium window frames in homes are one area where aluminium corrosion often occurs for various reasons. While many are under the impression that aluminium rusts, since it does not contain any iron - aluminium does not rust but rather corrodes.
Remove bitumen and glue from floors
In an older home where parquet floor has been laid, when lifting the old parquet floor to install tiles you may find that the parquet blocks have been stuck down with bitumen.
Use liming wax for interior and exterior wood
Wooden doors, floors and furniture can be transformed by the simple chalky tones of liming wax. Liming has long been used as a traditional finish on exposed timbers, floorboards and furniture.
Maintain wooden window & door frames
Wooden window frames do more than hold glass in place, they also add aesthetic appeal to both the inside and outside of a home. Like any timber product, wooden window frames require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and extend their life.
Restore parquet floors
You either love or hate parquet floors but when cared for and maintained, parquet floors are a valuable investment in a home. If you have parquet floor buried under layers of carpet, perhaps consider the option of restoring the floor to its original condition.
Paint security gates, burglar bars, rails and fencing
As a nation that takes home security seriously, our homes are fitted with security gates and burglar bars, as well as palisade or steel railings. Over time these become dull or pitted with spots of rust, and this can easily be remedied.
Maintain an automated garage door
If the workings on your garage door look like those on the left, it's way past the time to get in there and do some annual maintenance tasks. Simply by undertaking a few regular tasks, you can maintain the life of a garage door and prevent it from looking tired and worn.
How to adjust shower door
If the sliding doors on your shower don’t glide smoothly, repair them soon. A door that drags on the lower track will eventually do permanent damage to both the door and the track. A dragging roller at the top of the door will wear and require replacement.
Does your home have woodworm?
The name may cause some confusion, especially since it isn't a worm at all but rather grubs of the Common Furniture Beetle [Anobium punctatum]. But confusion aside, woodworm can cause extensive damage to your home and furniture if left untreated.
Sand, stain and seal a wooden floor
This weekend our major goal was to sand, stain and seal the wood floors. The wooden floors are in pretty rough shape and are covered with water stains, scuffs and scratches.
Maintain doors in good condition
Slamming, banging, sticking or jammed, doors take a lot of beating on a daily basis. If you have doors that need repairs here are some tips to get you started...
Easy DIY cabinet or cupboard repairs
While most modern fitted kitchens are designed to withstand constant use and abuse, an older kitchen may be taking strain. We have put together some quick and easy do-it-yourself repairs you can tackle in a day.
Care for wooden windows & doors
There is a beauty to timber windows and the homes they grace, and if they are well maintained, they can last a lifetime. Charl Jacobz from Swartland offers some tips and advice on how to best maintain their beauty.
Remove and rehang an exterior door
Removing and replacing an exterior door, especially a front and back door, is as easy as removing the old one, making a few adjustments and then hanging the new one in place.
Remove and replace skirtings
In an older home you may find that skirting boards need to be replaced either due to rotting, damage over time, or simply to update a home. In this do-it-yourself project we show you how to remove and replace skirting boards.
Hang a new interior door
Replacing a door in an existing door frame is easier and much cheaper than pulling out the trim and frame and installing a prehung door, because you have the old door as a template.
When locksmithing is more than locks and keys
By listing the services that are offered by the local locksmith can help the customers understand the exact scope of duties that locksmiths can do on a daily basis.
Steps to Resolve a Lockout and Avoid Them in the Future
A home lockout can happen when you forget your keys, while there are many issues that can lead to a vehicle lockout.
Top Alexandria Door Contractor
If you need a door contractor around Alexandria, VA, look for one with a solid reputation.
3 Things to look out for when replacing your windows
Great care should be taken when selecting and installing your windows and here are a few things to look out for.
Hardwood Flooring Care and Maintenance Guide
In this article, we offer a few important tips to show how you can clean and take care of your hardwood floors.
Interior Maintenance & Repairs
Which is Better: Silicone Sealant or Acrylic Sealant?
It is sometimes hard to keep track of all the supplies you need for home improvement or home repair, especially with all the advancements in technology so we look at silicone or acrylic sealer and which is the better product.
The Homeowners Essential Toolbox
When you own your own home, a toolkit is essential to perform everyday maintenance and repairs in and around the property.
The 'Get It Done Now' Checklist
Every homeowner knows that it is important to stay on top of things that need to be done before each season, and we provide an essential checklist of what should be done now - before spring 'officially' arrives.
6 Things To Do Now To Prepare Your Home For Winter
Use this time before the rigors of winter set in to prepare your house properly, making sure you and your family will be safe, warm, and comfy during the coming chilly months.
How Do You Cover Up Or Hide Ugly Tiles?
Now there is a product available {locally} that lets you cover up or disguise ugly tiles with a smooth wall that can be painted over.
How To Fix A Hole In Ceiling Board
When you do any renovations that involve lighting, you may end up with a few holes in the ceiling and we show you how to fix these up.
Sweaty DIY Jobs To Do Now When It's Cooler!
I might be a DIY Diva, with emphasis on the Diva, but even I don't enjoy doing sweaty DIY jobs when the weather is hot!
The Easy Way To Finish Off Tiled Edges
I am adding another -very easy - method for finishing off ugly tiled edges using sealing tape.
Challenging 5 Myths About Home Insulation
Not sure what home maintenance needs to be done and when? Take a look at our monthly home maintenance checklist.
Challenging 5 Myths About Home Insulation
For a better understanding, we’re dispelling five common myths that can change the way you view home insulation, for good.
How To Keep A Home Cool During A Heat wave!
If heat waves are going to a normal occurrence in the future, here are some way to keep yourself and your home cool!
5 Ways to Finish Off Tile Edges
When you are tiling halfway up a wall, adding a listello to a plain wall, or have a row of tiles that need the edges covered up, what options do you have?
Finally... Wall Plug that can be used for Any Type of Substrate... Rawlplug UNO
Up until now, you have needed different plugs when mounting to solid or hollow materials, but now you can use the Rawlplug UNO Universal Plug.
Expert Tips and Tricks to Renovating Your Home After a Flood
Looking for someone to do your 'To Do List', or need repairs and maintenance done around the home? Here's how a handyman can help you.
Expert Tips and Tricks to Renovating Your Home After a Flood
There are convenient methods for renovating your home after a flood and we share some of these expert tips and tricks.
DIY Tasks you can Complete in a Day - or a Week
With one week left until lockdown ends, if you have been twiddling your thumbs until now, there's still time to get stuck into one of this DIY projects in and around the home.
Does Your Home have a Condensation Problem?
Condensation can be a problem in many homes that have inadequate ventilation, but it can also become a serious concern.
4 Things Every Homeowner Should Know
When you move into a property, you need to educate yourself with monthly or annual tasks that need to be done to keep your home safe and in good condition.
The Ultimate Guide To Asbestos Removal
Since asbestos is dangerous for kids and adults alike, people should be well aware of the risks associated while removing a piece of sheet or lining.
Renovations to Make Your Home Ready for the Holidays Season
Eliminate worries over the holidays by doing these 5 quick renovations beforehand.
5 Common Air Conditioning Problems and Their Solutions
Here are some common air conditioner problems with their relevant solutions.
Home Maintenance Tips for Autumn
A few of the top home maintenance tips you should implement this season.
7 DIY Water Damage Clean-Up Tips
Here are a few things you need to do to make sure that you are not only ready for the water damage that might happen but also deal with the water damage that you already have.
Make Wall Repairs with Alcolin Foam Filla
After having roof repairs done, the wall underneath the IBR sheet required filling in.
Deal with damp
As wonderful as the rain has been and the downpours have been cause for celebration after months of drought - plenty of home owners will have discovered leaks and possibly even developed damp as a result of the excess moisture.
Cracks... gone with Sikaflex-11FC+
Cracks are inevitable in brick and plaster walls, because these materials are not flexible. Even the slightly ground movement can result in cracks. Sikaflex-11FC+ is a flexible joint sealant that will fill and seal cracks with ease.
Damp-proofing system
When rain threatens the integrity of your home, Sika offers a damp-proofing system that will get rid of your damp problems for good!
How to treat rising damp in exterior and interior walls
When left untreated, rising damp can cause serious problems to the structure of a home. Paint and plaster will fall off the wall, and brickwork eventually becomes saturated with moisture and can lead to structural damage.
DIY fixes in and around the home
With a little advice from trained professionals you can find out exactly what improvements will bring you the highest returns for the lowest expenditure, and that’s exactly what Hippo.co.za decided to look into.
Stop leaks instantly with a can of LeakSeal
Rust-Oleum LeakSeal is an easy to use, rubberized protective coating designed to fill and seal leaks and cracks in and around the home.
How to get rid of bumpy walls
If you live in an older home chances are you have ugly bumpy walls. But there is a way to smooth those bumpy walls.
Keeping a home draft-free
It's time to say bye-bye to summer and hello to winter, and while we may not like the cold weather, winter is a brief change from the usual and a chance to snuggle up in a warm home until the summer once again makes her appearance.
Fix a broken tile without power tools
Let's get back to basics here by removing and replacing a broken tile... without using power tools. Not everyone can afford to buy the latest power tools and repairs still need to be done.
How to replace a cracked or broken tile
A floor covered with ceramic tile is about as durable and low-maintenance a surface as you can get. Replacing a broken or chipped tile is pretty simple to do and one that any homeowner can handle.
How to replace a broken window pane
It is very easy to replace a broken window pane with the right safety gear, tools and materials. Here's how to do-it-yourself ...
Save Money on Heating and Cooling Systems with These top Tips
We offer some tips on how you can implement and significantly reduce your home’s energy bills.
What Every Homeowner Should Check to Guarantee the Safety of Their Home
Here are the most important features of your home that need to be routinely checked to ensure they are in good working condition to avoid any threats of damaging your home or injuring people.
How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?
Signs that you need to change your filter and the factors that cause it to accumulate dirt quickly.
Basement Waterproofing And Why It Should Be Done When Renovating
This article looks at why there is a need for basement waterproofing during renovations.
5 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Brand New
In this article, we look at just a few ways you can give your home a refresh.
4 Tips On How To Deal With Your Flooded Basement
Here are some tips that will help you on how to deal with your flooded basements.
Things You Should Know Before Permanently Moving to a New House
Now that you have sealed the deal on a new house, it is wise to check it for any maintenance needs.
4 Reasons Why Insulation is a Great Upgrade for Your Home
This article offers a break down on the various effects that improved insulation can have to help you make the right decision for you and your home.
Should You Get Your AC Repaired? Find Out Now!
When it comes to maintaining the efficiency of an air conditioning unit to prolong its lifespan, regular maintenance is necessary.
7 Tips For Finding A Trusted Heating And Cooling Contractor
We provide some of the tips to finding a trusted heating and cooling contractor.
How To Repair Garage Floor Cracks And Pitting
In this article, we look at how to repair cracked and pitting garage floor.
When Is The Right Time To Change Your AC?
When do you know when it’s time to replace your AC unit - the following tips will help you to decide.
Exterior Maintenance & Repairs
Which is Better: Silicone Sealant or Acrylic Sealant?
It is sometimes hard to keep track of all the supplies you need for home improvement or home repair, especially with all the advancements in technology so we look at silicone or acrylic sealer and which is the better product.
The Homeowners Essential Toolbox
When you own your own home, a toolkit is essential to perform everyday maintenance and repairs in and around the property.
The 'Get It Done Now' Checklist
Every homeowner knows that it is important to stay on top of things that need to be done before each season, and we provide an essential checklist of what should be done now - before spring 'officially' arrives.
Drain Water Or Direct Flow Of Water On Your Property
If your garden becomes flooded after rains or rainwater affects your property foundations, perhaps it's time to install a French Drain, a dry riverbed or a drainage gutter to direct rainwater away.
Sweaty DIY Jobs To Do Now When It's Cooler!
I might be a DIY Diva, with emphasis on the Diva, but even I don't enjoy doing sweaty DIY jobs when the weather is hot!
Why Should I Paint The Roof?
A well-maintained roof not only protects the inside of a property but also ensures that the exterior walls are protected from the elements.
Challenging 5 Myths About Home Insulation
Not sure what home maintenance needs to be done and when? Take a look at our monthly home maintenance checklist.
Fix Roof Leaks Immediately
As soon as water stains start to appear on the ceiling, you know there's a leak in the roof that must be fixed immediately.
Finally... Wall Plug that can be used for Any Type of Substrate... Rawlplug UNO
Up until now, you have needed different plugs when mounting to solid or hollow materials, but now you can use the Rawlplug UNO Universal Plug.
Tips for Instant Curb Appeal if you are Selling or Renting a Property
If you are planning to sell or rent out your property, make sure it has enough curb appeal for the highest price.
Make Sure your Gutters are Cleaned Out
Autumn is that time of year when leaves start to fall and soon fill up gutters and it is important to clean these out regularly to ensure that the integrity of your home remains safe.
DIY Tasks you can Complete in a Day - or a Week
With one week left until lockdown ends, if you have been twiddling your thumbs until now, there's still time to get stuck into one of this DIY projects in and around the home.
Painting your Tiled Roof
Cement roof tiles are a conventional material for tiled roofs and they can withstand the elements for many years, but there will come a time when your roof tiles need to be painted.
4 Things Every Homeowner Should Know
When you move into a property, you need to educate yourself with monthly or annual tasks that need to be done to keep your home safe and in good condition.
Paint and Weatherproof your Roof
If you haven't taken a close look at your roof for some time, don't wait for leaks to fall on your head before you do - here's how to paint and weatherproof your roof.
Exterior Cleaning Tips To Enhance Your Curb Appeal
The New Year is here and it is time to do a little home exterior cleaning so that you face 2020 with a house that is clean and ready for the year ahead.
Exterior cleaning for curb appeal, design, and resale value
Below are just some of the reasons why cleaning your home is important in improving its curb appeal:
Protect your home from severe storms
Homeowners need to stay constantly alert to any minor repairs that need to be attended to.
Repair broken gate bolt
Over the holidays some of the neighbourhood kids were playing on our garden gate and broke one of the fixing bolts. Half the bolt was still in the wall. Here's how to replace the bolt without having to move the entire gate.
A Fresh Coat of Paint
Winter (in dry-rainfall areas) is the perfect time to apply a fresh coat of curb appeal to your home. Pop into your local Prominent Paint store and stock up on the products you need to refresh a home - inside and out.
Essential winter projects
The weather reports indicate that the first cold (and wet) front is on its way and scheduled to arrive this weekend. If you have been putting off essential winter projects - time to get these done... quickly.
Deal with damp
As wonderful as the rain has been and the downpours have been cause for celebration after months of drought - plenty of home owners will have discovered leaks and possibly even developed damp as a result of the excess moisture.
Repair your roof fast
The easiest and quickest way to repair your roof is to use our Sika MultiSeal-ZA tape. A simple band-aid concept for any area of your roof, that will repair holes, cracks or leaks.
Protected by SikaGard-703W
Ready to use, Sika's SikaGard-703W is a liquid, silane/siloxane base impregnation used for waterproofing of building materials against surface waters. After application, the product provides a water-repellent coating.
Damp-proofing system
When rain threatens the integrity of your home, Sika offers a damp-proofing system that will get rid of your damp problems for good!
Restore wooden window frames
It's that time of year when you need to look at maintaining wooden window frames. Once the rainy season is over and before summer temperatures start to soar, restore the beauty of wooden window frames.
How to treat rising damp in exterior and interior walls
When left untreated, rising damp can cause serious problems to the structure of a home. Paint and plaster will fall off the wall, and brickwork eventually becomes saturated with moisture and can lead to structural damage.
Prepare your home for winter chills and rain
Whether it's preparing for winter rains, or keeping out the winter chills, every home is going to require some maintenance to make sure it is ready for winter.
Repair concrete slabs
Concrete is a durable and sustainable material that can be used for a wide scope of applications. Rather than have to remove and replace concrete we offer a few tips on how to make repairs to damaged or flaking concrete.
Maintain galvanised roof
Annual maintenance and necessary repairs need to be done to galvanised roofing to ensure it remains in good condition and to prevent water leaks.
Fix up damp before the rainy season
If you haven't yet got round to solving the problem of rising damp, now is the time to do it before the rainy season gets in full swing and you end up with even more problems.
Polycell Rockset to fix up chips
There's nothing more frustrating than finishing off a plastered wall with perfect edges and then some twit comes along and knocks a big chunk out. I
Fixing and repairing cracks in concrete
Cracks in concrete happen all the time as a result of shrinkage or movement. As concrete cures and dries out it has a tendency to shrink, and that's why it is important to lightly spray concrete with water during the curing or drying process.
Curing damp in walls
While many homeowners tend to paint over damp to try and fix the problem, with damp it's important to find the source of the damp first before you can proceed with curing damp walls.
Makeover for the ugliest house on the block!
There's always that one house - the one that sticks out like a sore thumb with its peeling paint, cracked walls and rotten windowsills. You really have to see beneath the ugly to realise the potential of what this house could look like... and boy does this house get a makeover !
How to paint palisade fencing
When you go to the expense of installing palisade fencing around your home, you want it to not only provide security but look good too. Because palisade fencing is generally made of steel - it requires regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top condition.
Time to get cracking on annual home repairs
Don't put that ladder away just yet. There are still some areas of your home exterior that need to be inspected. Wooden and steel window frames and doors need annual maintenance to keep them in tip top condition.
Time to get cracking on annual home repairs - I
Owning your own home is one of the biggest investments that you will ever make, it can also be one of the most costly if you don't look after it. Taking the time to do an annual inspection could save you a lot of money.
Repair chipped or damaged plaster finish
Cracked, chipped or plaster that has fallen off the wall are all easy repairs to tackle yourself, and if you have acquainted yourself with basic plastering techniques, these are jobs that can be done in a weekend.
Repair cracks in concrete
Whether it is on the patio, in the garage or across the driveway, cracked concrete looks unsightly and if left unattended will only crack and crumble even more.
Replace roof tile
Missing or broken roof tiles allow water to penetrate the roof space and wind to lift more of the neighbouring tiles. If you attend to the problem immediately you won't end up with serious repairs later on.
Repair, restore or renovate concrete
There are many options available for transforming that drab concrete patio, driveway, or floor into a new, decorative, coloured concrete surface.
Maintain or repair a flat roof
As one of the most cost-effective ways to add on an additional room, building with a flat roof design reduces the cost of additional roofing materials and labour costs. But shoddy workmanship on existing flat roofs and over time these roofs can be a big problem.
Winter home maintenance projects
Traditionally winter is the season most likely to make you wish you'd never become a homeowner. But before you snuggle back under the covers, your new found zeal for all things homely can start right now.
Time to clean or paint the roof
A cement tile roof looks good for up to 10 years but the colour does tend to fade over time. The problem is solved by applying cleaning the roof tiles and applying a quality roof paint to ensure that your home looks good for many more years.
Fix a leaking roof before it becomes serious
If you notice water stains on the ceiling, cornice or down the walls it's time to take a look at the roof. Regular inspection of a roof can prevent costly repairs later on.
6 Tips to Repair a Damaged Wooden Door
Seeing damage on your woodwork? Does your door seem grainy with streaks all over? These are clear signs that the door is in dire need of repairs, and if you don’t do this, the damage extends beyond cosmetic
Tips On Making Your Roof Look Amazing Again
To save you from dealing with damaged interiors, you need to maintain your roof.
6 Simple (Yet Effective) Ways To Quiet Your Portable Generator
The reason that most generators produce so much noise is because of the motor working inside them but you can’t do without it.
Common Damage That Happens During A Flood
What are the common damages a flood can cause to your home?
What Every Homeowner Should Do Before Winter
If you are a homeowner, here are some of the ways you can prepare yourself for the cold winter months ahead.
Roof Renovation: Everything You Should Know
The experts behind LIFT construction mentions that roofing is not to be taken lightly and it is better to consult specialists.
How To Prevent Winter Water Damage To Your Home
These helpful tips will help to prevent water damage to your home during the winter season.
Conceal repairs to roof
In this article, you will find an overview of how to conceal any roof repairs undertaken.
Good To Know: Removing And Preventing Molds
This information is going to provide useful guidance on how to remove and prevent the growth of mold.
Do's And Dont's When In The Market For A New HVAC System
Below are some of the do’s and don'ts when in the market for a new HVAC system.
Ways to Deep Clean Your Home Exterior
If you are looking to add curb appeal, the tips below will help you achieve a clean home exterior.
The Dangers Of Neglecting A Damaged Roof
In this article, we will look into detail about what the negative effects of overlooking a damaged roof could be.
4 Winter Plumbing Tips for When You'll Be Away
In this article are a few key steps you can take ahead of time to prevent disaster from striking while you're away.
Reasons to Turn Off Your Home's Main Water Supply
There can be several reasons why we need to turn off the water supply to a home, and we’ll discuss them as we proceed.
What to Know About Finding a Good Roofing Contractor
If you need to find a contractor, you’ll want to keep in mind the following tips.
Reasons To Choose Bell Roofing Company Scott Lyon
Throughout this article, we will be discussing some of the reasons why Bell Roofing Company stands out from the rest of the pack.
How to Make Your Roof Last Longer
Despite all the threats, you can make your roof last longer and save money that you could have used to replace it after a few years.
Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter
This article looks at 5 basic ways you can prepare your home for winter.
Sump Pump Failures and How to Avoid Them
A homeowner with a sump pump should know all the possible points of failure and how to manage them.
How to Increase the Value of Your Home
Use these suggestions to improve the aesthetic appeal of your home and boost your property’s value.
5 Signs Your Roof Needs Repairing
Read on for signs you can refer to so you can save your roof from further damages.
Winter Roof Repair Maintenance Tips
Here are some tips that every homeowner should do to ensure their roof is in excellent condition all year round.
Essential Home DIY Jobs That Save You Money
With spring slowly creeping upon us and winter saying its goodbyes, now is the perfect time to get those much-needed home improvement jobs that you’ve been putting off all winter completed!
Choosing a crawl space encapsulation company
This article helps you choose the right crawl space encapsulation company.
5 Tips For Better House Maintenance
Every homeowner has a responsibility to maintain a house properly.
7 Ways To Extend The Life Of Your Roof
Here are some ways to extend the life of the roof on your home.
5 Tips To Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
We offer tips on how you can keep the exterior of your home in perfect condition.
5 DIY Steps to Quickly Fixing a Leaking Roof
How to Repair a Roof Leak at Home – 5 Steps to a Quick Solution.
Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Roof In Good Shape
When you own a house it entails a significant amount of upkeep, and the roof is among the most crucial components you need to maintain.
7 Signs You Need To Repair Your Eavestrough
If you need to repair your eavestrough, here are the seven signs you need to remember from the start.
3 Must-Dos for Your Checklist When Renovating an Old Home
It's a dream for many, giving an old home new life, but is it worth it?
Are Home Warranty Plans Worth The Money?
Did you know that paying installments for home warranties is less expensive than the cost of some home repairs or appliance replacements?
5 Tips For Finding Reliable AC Repair Services
When you are in the market for an air conditioner repair service, be sure to consider some of the following factors.