One of the quickest and easiest ways to freshen up your home is to add a new coat of paint to your woodwork, and this is a relatively straightforward job that only requires a few basic supplies from your local DIY store.

Removing Old Paint
You can just paint over the top of existing paintwork, but if there are a few layers already this can create a lumpy, even finish and so if you do have enough time it is a good idea to strip the paint using a scraper and heat gun.  Once the majority of the paint is off you can sand the woodwork to make sure you have a smooth finish ready for painting. You can buy cheap wood sanders direct from TWENGA!”

Knotting
If you have any new woodwork then it may need treating with a shellac based solution to ensure any knots present to not bleed sap through to the paint, causing brownish marks.  Just dab a little knotting solution onto the knots with a paintbrush and leave to dry for an hour before painting.

Filling
You may need to fill any gaps or chips in the woodwork before you begin painting, and this should be done after priming, as this will make the defects very clear.  Mix the filler into a thick, workable paste and fill cracks and chips and wipe off excess filler with a rag.  When dry rub down with some sandpaper to create a smooth finish.

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Here is a short DIY guide on how to fix your broken window pane by yourself and save some money in this period of recession

Step One

Spread a sheet on the ground either side of the window and carefully remove the remaining glass from the frame using protective gloves and glasses.

Step Two

Cut away the old putty and also remove old retaining sprigs, taking care not to damage the frame in the process. Clean down the frame and then paint with a coat of primer (wood or metal) to prepare the surface for the new pane.

Step Three

Measure the height and width of the window opening, deducting at least 4mm from each measurement to allow the glass to sit easily in the frame. Get the glass cut for you at a professional glass merchants or DIY store, to ensure the best fit. You can also buy all of the sprigs and putty you will need here to fit the window in as well.

Step Four

Feed the putty into the frame rebate and place the glass in, bottom edge first. Lightly press the pane into the putty and then fix back into the frame with the sprigs. Finish off by feeding putty around the perimeter of the frame, and then remove any excess.

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Open vented systems

Central heating systems may need to be drained in order for radiators and boilers to be repaired or replaced, and some people do like to drain the system completely once a year, as part of the overall central heating maintenance.

1. Switch off the boiler and disconnect it from the power supply, or make sure the fire is out if it is a solid fuel boiler.

2. Turn off the water supply to the expansion tank (if you cannot find the valve simply tie up the ball cock with string).

3. Connect a hose to the drain cock and secure in place over a drain or gulley, and open using a pair of pliers to start the water draining.

4. Allow air to replace the draining water by opening the air bleed valves on the upstairs radiators, and then once the water level has dropped repeat with the lower radiators.

5. Once water has stopped coming out of the hose attached to the drain cock, the system should be empty.

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