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DIY advice

How to Hang a Shelf
How to Hang a Shelf
It is important that shelves are hung correctly to reduce the risk of damage to the shelf itself, the wall it is attached to, or to the contents that sit on it. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to erect a shelf securely and safely.
How to Clean & Care for Paint Brushes
How to Clean & Care for Paint Brushes
Professional paint brushes can be expensive but deliver a better finish than cheaper alternatives. They require proper cleaning to prolong their life. Follow our expert tips to care for your paint brushes.
How to Install a Curtain Rail
How to Install a Curtain Rail
Curtains make a house a home. They add colour, texture, privacy, insulation and a personal flourish to a room. If you’re hanging curtains for the first time or replacing an old curtain rail, follow our expert guide to easily achieve a professional result.
How to Fit Coving
How to Fit Coving
Coving is a decorative feature that conceals the edge between a wall and ceiling, to give a room a finished look. Coving comes in various sizes and designs to suit any type of décor. For a professional result with any coving, follow our simple step-by-step guide.
How to Lay Floor Tiles
How to Lay Floor Tiles
Tiles are the ideal flooring choice for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and high traffic areas like hallways and entranceways. Whether for a new build or a renovation, our easy step-by-step guide will help you lay floor tiles like a pro.
How to Paint an Interior Wall
How to Paint an Interior Wall
Paint has a transformative effect on a room and is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to revamp your home. Most of us have painted a wall before, but using this expert step-by-step painting guide will help you achieve more professional results.
How to Install an Attic Ladder
How to Install an Attic Ladder
An easily accessible attic provides valuable extra storage space, especially for seasonal items like Christmas decorations or deck chairs. Please note: this task will require the help of a second person in places.
How to Use a Hedge Trimmer
How to Use a Hedge Trimmer
Hedges protect your garden from harsh wind and weather, as well as providing an attractive visual barrier. Hedges need to be regularly maintained to keep them neat and healthy. Follow our guide to use your hedge trimmer like a professional.
How to Locate Cables, Pipes and Studs
How to Locate Cables, Pipes and Studs

Before drilling, it is essential to know the whereabouts of cables and pipes, to avoid an accident. It is necessary to also know the location of wall studs so they can support hanging heavy objects. Our guide will help you locate these items.

Step 1

The Old-Fashioned Way

The most basic method is listening for a change in pitch while lightly tapping the wall with a hammer. Tapping the centre of an unsupported plasterboard span gives a very hollow sound. As you continue to tap your hammer across the surface of the plasterboard, the sound will change to a duller, more solid sound, indicating the presence of a stud.

Step 2

Using a Stud-Finder

A stud-finder uses a sensor to locate wires or pipes behind the plasterboard. Place the stud-finder on the wall and press the activating button. Slowly slide it in one direction until the indicator light glows and there is a beeping sound. Most stud-finders will locate pipes and electrical cables as well as timber. There is usually a separate indicator light to indicate the presence of an electrical wire.

Step 3

Locating the Left Edge of the Stud

Using the method above, slowly slide the stud-finder across the wall from left to right. When the indicator light illuminates and the device beeps, place a piece of masking tape on the wall (or mark it with a pencil), this will show the left hand edge of the stud.

Step 4

Locating the Right Edge of the Stud

Repeating the process but sliding the stud-finder from right to left, you will locate the right hand edge of the hidden baton.

Step 5

Confirming Location

To make doubly sure you have correctly located the timber work within the wall, drive a panel pin through the plasterboard. You will feel the resistance of the timber if you have correctly found the stud.

How to Paint a Wooden Shed
How to Paint a Wooden Shed
A wooden shed that is properly cared for adds character to a garden. Freshly painted in trendy colours, it can be both stylish and functional. Follow our simple step-by-step guide for an efficient and professional paint job.