Roger, James and Ian are building decking steps and share with us a simple how-to, running from an elevated decking area down to the garden.
More From Skillbuilder – Get Your Decking Spacing Right
Ultimate Roofing square & Hinge Jig
Suit Up for Changeable Weather…
…with the Snickers Workwear System for Autumn.Â
Snickers Workwear’s body-mapping Jackets, Tops, Trousers and Accessories work together for sustainable working comfort and protection wherever and whenever it’s needed.
Designed for professional craftsmen and women who want maximum functionality and mobility on site, they incorporate the very latest in high-tech fabric technology for top-class performance.
The new clothing in the Autumn Workwear System includes windproof, waterproof and Hi-Vis garments for both men and women to keep them warm, dry and visible all day, every day.
So, when the weather takes a turn for the worse, make Snickers Workwear your first choice for tackling the toughest of jobs and the worst of weather.
Makita Adds More 40VMax XGT Woodworking Tools to Its Range
Makita has launched a new 40VMax XGT Brushless Pin Nailer (PT001G) and added a new kit option for its recently introduced 40VMax XGT 82mm Planer (KP001GD201).
The new 40VMax XGT Brushless Pin Nailer (PT001G) has been specially designed for interior nailing operations where a high-quality finish is required, such as the installation of decorative mouldings.
The low recoil mechanism enables effective nailing without pushing the tip of the pin nailer so firmly onto the material. The PT001G is compatible with 23Ga pin nails in 15, 18, 25, 30 and 35mm lengths, has a simple driving depth adjustment and a magazine capacity of 100.
The PT001G features an ergonomically designed grip and an improved nose tip for better visibility. For enhanced safety, the pin nailer has a trigger lock and anti-dry-fire mechanism.
It is IP56 dust and shower-proof rated and features an LED job light with pre- and after-glow functions. The energy-efficient brushless motor and redesigned driving spring shortens the time required to compress and release the spring, providing significantly quicker firing for improved productivity.
Makita had also launched a new option for the 40VMax XGT 82mm Brushless Planer (KP001G). The KP001GD201 features the same powerful XGT planer but is supplied as a kit in a MAKPAC case with two 2.5Ah 40VMax XGT batteries and a DC40RA fast charger.
The KP001G is ideal for smooth, rough and thin planing and has a planing width of 82mm and cutting depth of 4mm. Its brushless motor delivers a no-load speed of 15,000rpm for efficiency and rapid cutting.
To ensure user safety the KP001G has an electric break and an anti-restart function to prevent accidental start-up. It also includes Makita’s Auto-start Wireless System (AWS), which allows the KP001G to be wirelessly connected to a compatible dust extractor via Bluetooth, enabling the dust extractor to automatically start when the tool’s trigger is engaged.
Makita has also launched new 5.0Ah XGT power source kits, ideal for users of XGT tools who want to invest in additional batteries.
There are four kits available with either two or four 5.0Ah batteries and a 110v or 240v DC40RB twin-port fast charger.
The kit is also supplied in a Makita MAKPAC case for easy storage and transportation.
[Name, Job title] at Makita said: “The new XGT Pin Nailer is an excellent addition to any professional’s kit for when a high-quality finish is required.
We have designed it around the needs of tradespeople to make their work as simple as possible.
“The new kit option for the KP001G is valuable for anyone who has not yet invested in the high-performance XGT platform. The KP001GD201 kit provides them with everything they need in an easy to handle and store case.â€
To find out more about the Makita 40VMax range visit: www.makitauk.com/products/xgt-machines.
How To Cut Skirting Board With A Splayed Angle
Dan is about to cut skirting board and shows us how with bisecting angles.
More From Skillbuilder – Fit Skirting Boards Like A Pro
How To Fix Low Water Pressure Problems with AccuBoost
I have been a plumber for over 40 years and one question I have heard over and over again is “What can you do to improve my mains water pressure?”.
For a lot of my career, the answer was “not much” because boosting the flow and pressure on water mains used to require a complicated and expensive set-up or a new water main.
Happily, we now have a much easier option from Salamander that can be fitted in a day and in this video I am going to take you through the whole process from start to finish.
Before any installation, we need to select the right product from the Salamander range. Now if all this sounds a bit daunting don’t worry because Salamander has a technical team that can help you to get it right.
It all depends on what you have in the way of flow and pressure to begin with and what you want to achieve.
It could be that you have a house full of people and several showers and bathrooms that everyone wants to use at once or it could be that you simply want to put a bit more oomph into your shower.
All of this is achievable with Salamander.
Now it could be that you need nothing more than a simple mains boost pump. There was a time when pumping your mains water was not allowed but now the Water Regulations allow you to pump up to 12 litres per minute.
This will give you a very nice shower and help you to fill your bath faster.
Now it is worth mentioning at this point that a slow hot water flow may simply be because your combi boiler is struggling to heat the water fast enough in the winter when the water comes into the house a lot colder.
Your plumber or heating engineer should be able to give you some advice on this.
The first thing they will do is find out what kind of pressure you have already and they will also measure your flow rate to see how close you are to that magic 12 litres per minute.
Now this house has three ensuite showers and a bathroom so we are really looking for more than 12 litres a minute. At the moment they have a morning routine where they all use the showers at different times because the flow rate is just not enough.
Just as a point of interest they actually had the water service pipe renewed all the way from the main in the road as part of a lead replacement programme but the new pipe has made very little difference because the old 1/2 inch tapping on the main was not changed.
So what I have recommended for this home is an AccuBoost tank and since they have plenty of room in the cellar we are going to fit the largest one in the range. If you don’t have room for something like this there are smaller units. There is also the option of using a pump and the AccuBoost tank.
I am going to fit the tank on its own but I have told the homeowner that they can have a pump added to the unit if they want to boost the flow rate even more. I am hoping that the AccuBoost on its own will do the trick but, for the purposes of this video I am going to fit a smaller pumped unit so we can see what the difference is.
The good news is that neither option is complicated.
The more technically minded of you might be wondering just how this tank can boost the flow rate without a pump so let me explain what is going on.
The mains water is coming into the house around 7 litres a minute, but this can vary at different times of the day. This house is on top of a hill and is probably the last property on the line so there is a drop in pressure during the busy periods. There is also an ensuite shower in the loft conversion so that often finishes up with no water at all when everyone else is using the showers.
During the night the pressure and flow inevitably go up when people aren’t using water so this extra pressure will force water into this Boost cylinder. Inside the AccuBoost is an EPDM rubber balloon and as the water pressure comes in the balloon is compressed.
There is a non-return valve on the mains to make sure the water doesn’t simply flow back into the mains when the pressure drops. So, the mains pressure compresses the balloon and the water in the cylinder is under maximum pressure. When a hot or cold tap is opened the water will rush out as the rubber balloon expands to push the water out.
Now this is a big cylinder so there is enough water here to give the home plenty of showers but as the cylinder is emptying it is also filling up again. You can think of it like a buffer taking out the spikes in demand and steadying the flow.
If however, we didn’t have enough room for a large tank we might want to fit a pumped unit so the AccuBoost could begin filling at a faster rate.
The real beauty of this technology is its flexibility. It can be configured to suit the space available and the demands of the home.
__________________________________________
Salamander AccuBoost Accumulator Tanks
salamanderpumps.co.uk/range/accuboost
Unsure which model to choose?
Site survey form: https://bit.ly/3OburA1
You can submit this form to the Salamander team who will help to specify the correct product.
Product selection grid: https://bit.ly/3n6t75F
This shows the length of time that each product will deliver certain flow rates.
Product Roundup 3 ~ The Best Tools To Add To Your Collection
Were rounding up the best tools that you need to stay on top of your game..
? PRODUCT LINKS ?
Boss Hammer
? https://www.bosshammerco.com
Boardbars
? https://bit.ly/3Rn6NCH
BullFix Plasterboard Fixing
? https://bullfix.co.uk
Milwaukee Shockwave Right Angle Adapter
? https://amzn.to/3Pa5tBl
Plastmaster
? https://www.plastmaster.co.uk
Boss Hammer now available in Australia
? https://www.vektools.com.au
CHAPTERS
00:00 Boss Hammer
01:45 Boardbars
05:10 BullFix
06:51 Milwaukee Right Angle Adapter
08:23 Plastmaster
Dan & Greg Build a Pyramid Hipped Roof
See ‘Can a Plumber Pitch a Double Hipped Roof?’
? https://youtu.be/7eoLdqZFweg
Dan’s Roofing Square & App:
? https://www.essential-carpenter-tools.co.uk
Roger meets Dan and Greg at the George & Dragon pub in Headcorn, to follow him building a wooden gazebo for a cocktail bar.
â–¶ https://georgeanddragon-headcorn.co.uk
More From Skillbuilder – How To Put A Hipped Roof On A Building That Isnt Square
CHAS Launches Verification Service for Construction Material Suppliers
New from CHAS, the trusted expert in supply chain compliance, is “Verified Supplier” – a compliance verification service which enables construction material suppliers to showcase their commitment to operating credibly, safely and ethically.
As supply chains come under increasing scrutiny, construction material suppliers must confirm they are compliant with a growing list of legislation and guidelines covering health and safety, quality assurance, environmental protection and ethical practices, among others.
Easily demonstrate compliance
Becoming a CHAS Verified Supplier is a convenient way to demonstrate compliance across a range of risk management areas via a single verification, reducing duplication of pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs) and making it faster and easier to pre-qualify for contracts across the UK.
As well as demonstrating a supplier’s commitment to quality practices and processes, achieving CHAS Verified Supplier helps suppliers highlight compliance with the following laws and regulations:
- UK GDPR
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- Modern Slavery Act 2015
- Environment Act 2021
- Equality Act 2010
Verified Suppliers also get access to CHAS’s growing bank of exclusive benefits, including discounted training courses, free legal advice and exclusive savings with TradePoint, Speedy Hire, Checkatrade and more.
Streamline supply chain risk management
Specifying CHAS Verified Supplier gives clients confidence that their suppliers operate to a consistently high standard. This helps protect clients from the disruption and reputational harm that can arise from non-compliant supply chains.
Clients can find verified materials suppliers quickly and easily alongside verified subcontractors via the free CHAS Client Portal, helping to streamline their supply chain risk management processes.
Commenting on the launch of Verified Supplier, CHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon says: “We are delighted to launch the CHAS Verified Supplier service and make it easier for responsible building materials suppliers to highlight their credentials to potential customers.
“The launch of CHAS Verified Supplier underlines CHAS’s commitment to simplifying prequalification in the construction industry while raising risk management standards and ensuring that responsible businesses thrive.â€
Contact CHAS today to learn more about becoming a Verified Supplier and join CHAS’s growing community of suppliers committed to observing and increasing industry best practices.
The Great CO2 Emissions Con That Governments Conspire In
This is why we will never lower our CO2 emissions, and how the con behind CO2 targets is something the Government will do their best to hide.
Global warming is subject to some cooking of the CO2 figures to make us look good.
More From Skillbuilder – How Much CO2 Does A Climate Conference Produce?
Skill Builder V Heat Geek | Heat Pump Argument
PART 2 â–¶ https://youtu.be/BHLpJ5hK80k
The Sticky Subject Of Air Source Heat Pumps
Roger catches up with the Heat Geek team to discuss.
Follow Heat Geek
↪ https://www.youtube.com/HeatGeek
↪ https://www.facebook.com/heatgeek
↪ https://www.instagram.com/heat_geek
↪ https://twitter.com/_heatgeek
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are an efficient and environmentally friendly heating and cooling solution that extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it into buildings. They work by absorbing heat from the air (even in cold temperatures) and using a refrigeration system to amplify and deliver it inside, providing warmth in winter. In summer, the process can be reversed to cool indoor spaces.
ASHPs are a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based heating systems, offering lower carbon emissions and reduced energy costs. Their versatility, ease of installation, and ability to integrate with existing heating systems make them an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial properties. Additionally, as they rely on renewable energy sources, they align well with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and combat climate change.
Is This New Heat Pump Idea Crazy?!
Avoid a Life of Knee-dless Pain! | Toughbuilt Knee Pads
Toughbuilt Knee Pads Innovation
“When you check out a ToughBuilt (Knee Pads) product, you’ll probably think: I wish I’d thought of that. In a way, you did. Because before we start designing, we spend hours watching hard working professionals like you at work. Then we figure out how to make your life work easier, better, faster.”
Contact Toughbuilt to find knee pad buying options near you: info-uk@toughbuilt.com & info-eu@toughbuilt.com
Knee pads are an essential piece of protective gear in many trades, particularly those that require extended periods of kneeling or working on hard surfaces. In professions such as construction, plumbing, flooring, and carpentry, workers often spend significant time on their knees, which can lead to chronic knee pain and long-term damage if proper protection is not used. Knee pads help to distribute pressure more evenly across the knee joint, reducing strain and preventing injuries like bursitis, tendinitis, and cartilage wear. By cushioning the knees, knee pads also help to prevent acute injuries that can result from accidental impacts or falls, providing a critical layer of safety.
Beyond the health benefits, knee pads contribute to overall work efficiency and productivity. Workers who are comfortable and free from pain can focus better on their tasks and work for longer periods without needing frequent breaks to alleviate discomfort. This not only improves the quality of work but also reduces downtime caused by knee-related injuries or discomfort. Moreover, investing in knee protection demonstrates a commitment to worker safety, which can enhance job satisfaction and morale. In trades where physical health is closely tied to job performance, knee pads are a simple yet effective tool to ensure long-term well-being and efficiency.
How To Avoid Replacing Your Knees: https://youtu.be/Z5upzvsbKm0
? https://toughbuilt.com/knee-pads
Follow Toughbuilt:
https://www.instagram.com/toughbuilt_europe/
https://www.facebook.com/ToughBuiltEurope
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC03yeRUtlGeBhRZrJjYOZ6w
GelFitâ„¢ Fanatic – Thigh Support Stabilization Toughbuilt Knee Pads
https://toughbuilt.com/product/gelfit-fanatic-thigh-support-stabilization-knee-pads-1
GelFitâ„¢ Stabilizer Toughbuilt Knee Pads
https://toughbuilt.com/product/gelfit-stabilizer-knee-pads
GelFitâ„¢ Non-Marring Toughbuilt Knee Pads
https://toughbuilt.com/product/gelfit-non-marring-knee-pads
GelFitâ„¢ Rocker Toughbuilt Knee Pads
https://toughbuilt.com/product/gelfit-rocker-knee-pads
GelFitâ„¢ Toughbuilt Knee Pads
https://toughbuilt.com/product/gelfit-knee-pads
Why Is It Worth Investing In Knee Pads?
This Young Apprentice Will Make Your Brain Hurt
Roger visits Eliot at the Building Crafts College in Stratford.
Located in Stratford, East London, the BCC has a long tradition of delivering high-quality education and training in building crafts and conservation.
Dan’s Roofing Square & App: www.essential-carpenter-tools.co.uk
Building Crafts College: www.thebcc.ac.uk
Eliot on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ejd_carpentry
• Heritage & Conservation
• Wood Occupations
• Construction
• Stonemasonry
• Musical Instrument Making
Find them at Kennard Road, Stratford, London E15 1AH. The college is a 5-minute walk from Stratford overground and underground stations.
Tips for Hydraulic Machines: How to Stop Your Machine from Breaking Down
Hydraulic machinery is a type of fluid power system that uses pressurised oil to transmit power, rather than cables or chains.
Hydraulic systems are frequently used in manufacturing, especially in processes involving heavy lifting or moving.
Hydraulic equipment can also be found in mining operations, construction sites, and other industrial settings where heavy equipment is used.
Whether you manage a small factory or a large industrial facility, it’s important to keep your hydraulic machinery working optimally at all times.
If your hydraulic machinery isn’t running correctly, it could put the safety of your employees and site visitors at risk.
Additionally, an overheated or leaky hydraulic system will use more energy than necessary and reduce the productive output of your facility.
Below are some useful tips for keeping your hydraulic machinery running smoothly at all times. Contact CJ Plant Maintenance today if you require hydraulic repairs or maintenance.
Â
Test Your Equipment Before Use
Before you put your hydraulic machines to use, you should test their functionality to ensure that they operate as intended.
Test the pumps, valves, hoses, and cylinders of your system to determine whether they have sufficient pressure and flow.
If any parts of your system aren’t operating as they should, you should replace them before putting the system into production.
You should also test your hydraulic system under the conditions that it will be used.
For example, if your hydraulic system is used to lift heavy materials, you should test it while lifting the heaviest materials it will be used with.
Hydraulic systems can fail without warning if they’re put under too much pressure.
By testing your system ahead of time, you can find potential issues and fix them before they lead to a hydraulic failure.
Â
Keep a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Hydraulic machinery should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis.
To keep your hydraulic system running smoothly, you should perform routine inspections, cleanings, and repairs on your machinery.
You should also test your system regularly and replace hydraulic oils as necessary.
Periodic maintenance isn’t just useful for preventing malfunctions; it also helps you to spot potential issues before they become serious problems.
For example, if there’s a leak in your hydraulic system, you may be able to locate and repair the leak before it becomes a major problem.
Additionally, regular maintenance can help you to save money on energy costs. A well-maintained hydraulic system will use less energy than an unclean, poorly maintained system.
Â
Monitor Fluid Levels and Temperature
Hydraulic systems operate at very high temperatures, so it’s important to keep an eye on the temperature of your system’s fluids.
If your hydraulic fluids are too hot, they can damage the system and lead to malfunctions.
You can monitor fluid temperatures by installing sensors in your system or by keeping a journal of the temperatures of your fluids at various times of the day.
If you notice that any fluids are overheating, you should check their source of heat and try to remove it as soon as possible.
You should also keep an eye on the levels of hydraulic fluids in your system. You can use gauges to monitor the levels of oil or other hydraulic fluids in your system.
If the levels of any fluids drop too low, it could indicate that there is a problem with your system.
Â
Adjust Your Valves and Filters
The filters and valves in your hydraulic system are essential components that help to clean and direct the flow of fluids.
If your valves or filters aren’t working correctly, they could cause contaminants to enter your system and lead to malfunctions.
If any of your valves are too tight or loose, they may cause unnecessary pressure on your system.
If any valves are clogged or have holes, they could leak hydraulic fluids. If any filters are clogged, they may prevent hydraulic fluids from flowing correctly.
Â
Conclusion
Hydraulic machines are essential in industrial and manufacturing settings, where heavy equipment is used to lift heavy materials and transport them to new locations.
These machines are also used in mining and construction sites, where they are needed to lift heavy materials and transport them to new locations.
It is important to keep your hydraulic machines working optimally at all times. If your hydraulic machinery isn’t running correctly, it could put the safety of your employees and site visitors at risk.
Additionally, an overheated or leaky hydraulic system will use more energy than necessary and reduce the productive output of your facility.
How To Fix a Concealed Cistern WITHOUT Removing Tiles
How To Fix a Concealed Cistern WITHOUT Removing Tiles.
Roger shows you how to repair a concealed cistern without hacking out any tiles.
Concealed cisterns are designed to be serviced and have parts replaced simply by removing the faceplate.
How to Build a Garden Room In 1 Day with The Insulated Panel Store
Use promo code ‘SB10’ for a 10% discount on orders placed before 31-07-22.
Roger and Abe assemble the Grande Garden Room Kit 3 from The Insulated Panel Store.
The Grande is the largest of the insulated garden room range at 5.5 X 3.3 metres.
For doors that fit the garden Room kit, visit AWM Windows & Doors.
🔗 AWM Windows & Doors
Each kit includes the insulated roof, wall and floor panels, flashings, accessories and fixing kit.
All you need to complete your build is a solid base and your door.
Product Highlights
• Speed of install – waterproof & wind tight substructure up within 1 day
• No need for timber or steel frame substructure
• Cranked Corners eliminating the need for flashings on the walls
• Insulated Panels are ideal for disassembly and reuse
• Leading thermal performance with QuadCore technology
• Year-round use. These garden rooms are cool in the summer and warm in the winter
• Excellent customer service and after-sales support
Some ideas for your garden room:
✔ Bar
✔ Gym
✔ Hair salon
✔ Dog grooming parlour
✔ Summer house
✔ Pool/games room
✔ Photography studio
✔ Office
✔ Man cave
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◾ Out of respect to our channel sponsors and the wide variety of people who watch our videos, we’ll remove comments that do not follow common standards of politeness and decency.
Snickers Workwear Trousers – More Than Fit For Purpose
Six Work Trouser families to satisfy every need on-site – sustainably.
Snickers Workwear’s trouser families are suited to any kind of work on site.
Delivering maximum functionality, comfort, protection and mobility they’re the products of choice among discerning professional tradesmen and women.
For them, sustainable, street-smart, body-mapping clothing are key parts of their product choices.
Hi-tech fabrics, functionality and fit are the hallmarks of these market-leading products.
The AllroundWork trousers are ready for any kind of work in any trade. FlexiWork trousers deliver superior freedom of movement.
While LiteWork trousers keep you cool, dry and ventilated.
Then there are RuffWork trousers, reinforced and tough for the roughest work on site.
ProtecWork protective wear for hazardous environments and certified High-Vis trousers when personal visibility on site is a priority.
Snickers Workwear Trousers also deliver certified protection with the patented KneeGuard System for greater flexibility, comfort and durability.
It’s what makes them the optimal choice for craftsmen and women who need to get every job done comfortably and sustainably on-site.
Windows Installation Tips & Tricks ~ Orangery 7
Glazing Store: http://www.glazingstore.co.uk
🎬 How To Install Korniche Bi-folding Doors: https://youtu.be/UUWGzFARELg
Roger and Jubi fit the bespoke anthracite grey Cortizo aluminium casement windows from the Glazing Store in the latest episode of The Orangery.
How to Make Your Lead Flashing Look Its Best
Lead flashing is universal across pitched roofs in the UK. It’s used to cover the joints created when tiles meet things like chimneys, abutments, and dormers.
Unlike, say, roof tile vents, there is no universe where lead flashing can look discrete. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t look like an appealing part of your roof.
Remember, however, that no matter how nice lead may look it’s still lead. It’s still highly toxic and should always be handled with full safety precautions.
Even lead residue under the fingernails can be very dangerous. If you’re uncomfortable working on a ladder, a roof, or with lead, it’s best to leave this to the professionals.
Installation
Lead can’t be just slapped on and expected to look right. Not only will the initial job look wrong, but sloppy installation can lead to lead cracking.
This is caused by lead expanding more than the brickwork does in response to high temperatures. When it is installed properly this will not lead to cracking.
To install lead correctly, always use the correct code of lead. Lead codes determine its thickness and weight – code 3 might be used for soakers for instance, while dormers will need lead that is at least code 6, 7, or 8. Lead should never exceed strips of 1.5m, to minimise the chances of splitting.
There are two types of lead flashing – cover flashing, for when the flashing is covering a horizontal join, and step flashing, for when the join is diagonal.
Since flashing always has to enter gaps in the brickwork, step flashing forms a step pattern at the top of the flashing.
The gaps in the brickwork are usually made deeper using an angle grinder so flashing can get good purchase.
This carving is usually 25mm deep, 20mm if near a lintel or window.
Careful measurements must be taken to make sure that the lead is fitting in properly.
It always needs to rise up at around 150mm, and overlaps between pieces of lead should be between 200mm and 150mm.
Finally, for the best possible appearance and fit, remember to use lead dressing tools. Setting in sticks allow you to get it into angles.
While on the other hand, bossing sticks can be used to mould it around corners. Finally, chasing wedges can be used to guide it into the gap in the brickwork.
Patination Oil
Lead can’t be painted over easily thanks to that same high level of thermal expansion that can cause cracking.
However, patination oil – a type of oil used to protect newly formed lead – can be used to give lead a full, dark grey that is very appealing to the eye.
Normally, patination oil would just be applied when lead is first installed since by the time it was worn away the lead would have developed a patina to protect itself.
However, to get back that colour, patination oil can be reapplied every few years.
In addition to affecting the lead’s appearance directly, using patination oil from the beginning will prevent the occurrence of unsightly white scribbles.
It will also protect the lead from metallic runoff that can lead to red marks. To apply patination oil, just work it in with a smooth cloth.
Be careful, patination oil is made with white spirit which can be toxic.
Getting rid of stains
If you already have white stains then don’t worry, you can get rid of them using vinegar and a nylon brush.
You can also use this brush to help remove red metallic runoff stains, but this time you’ll need to apply a powerful detergent.
Actual rust should be removed using a lead restorer.
5 Ways to Avoid Injury During DIY Work
DIY is a fulfilling and pleasant hobby for many people around the UK. However, it can also come with its attendant dangers. Unlike tradespeople, DIYers often have only amateur experience, training and resources, which can make difficult jobs dangerous. This article will go over some of the best ways to reduce your chance of serious injury from DIY work.
- Wear proper protective equipment.
Always make sure you are wearing the correct protective equipment when engaging in a project. Your eyes, hands and feet should always be protected by specifically designed safety goggles, gloves, and boots.
Don’t skimp out on any of these. Goggles protect your eyes from both physical and chemical damage, gloves improve your grip as well as protect your hands and boots, such as Buckbootz, shield your toes and give you extra traction.
If you are dealing with unusual hazards like powerful chemicals you may need additional protection. Usually, the technical data sheet or installation guide will outline what you need to wear to stay safe.
- Take special care at heights
By far the most common serious DIY injuries come from falls from ladders. Even professionals must be wary when working at height.
In order to stay safe on ladders, you should only go up when it’s dry, and use a quality roofing ladder in good condition.
It shouldn’t be rusty or have any visible damage.  If you can, get a trusted assistant to hold your ladder in place for you.
Also, never ever go above the guardrails on the ladder or lead off to the left or right. You don’t want to tip the ladder over.
If it’s possible, scaffolding is the safest way to work, but getting scaffolding up is a bridge too far for the average DIYer.
- Always lift properly
Even if you’re healthy and strong, improper lifting form can lead to serious injury to the back, shoulders, elbows, or wrists.
Always make sure you know that you can lift what you’re lifting and that you know how you are lifting it, such as where to hold.
Lift in steady, careful, and smooth movements.
And never, ever, lift with your back.
- Maintain your tools
Keeping your tools in good condition helps you out twofold. Firstly, working with blunt tools, especially blunt blades, requires you to apply more force.
Working like this consistently can greatly raise the chance of carpal tunnel syndrome. In addition, worn or damaged tools may lead to cuts.
A tool that breaks while you’re using it can cut you for instance.
- Never bite off more than you can chew
There are a surprising number of projects that you can accomplish even if it’s your first time DIYing.
But there are just as many that are beyond the ability or equipment of a DIYer without specific training.
Always make sure you’re taking on something beyond your limits.
If you’re new, try to get experience with small, easy projects rather than throwing yourself into something complex first thing.
Men’s Health Week | Bradfords to Get Men Talking
Bradfords Building Supplies has teamed up with the Exeter Chiefs and Somerset County Cricket Club to encourage people to check in on their friends this Men’s Health Week.
Sports stars including Exeter Chiefs RFC and England player, Henry Slade, plus Somerset County Cricket Club captain, Tom Abell, will feature alongside tradesmen in a special video encouraging men to look out for each other.
As part of its commitment to support health and wellbeing, particularly of its employees and colleagues across the construction industry, Bradfords has promised to donate £10,000 to charity The Movember Foundation when viewing numbers of the video hit 50,000.
The donation will be made with the support of four key Bradfords suppliers, Stonemarket, Dulux Trade, Tarmac and Polypipe Building Supplies to help Movember continue its work taking care of men in the South-West and around the country.
The initiative is the latest in Bradfords’ ongoing efforts to support the mental health of colleagues and customers, including the provision of mental health first aiders across its business and mental health awareness training for managers.
“Ever since we were established more than 250 years ago, Bradfords has built a proud history of taking care of our teams and the customers we serve – and we know that looking out for our friends is one of the most important jobs we can do,†said Bradfords’ CEO, David Young.
“Research by Movember shows that 47% of men find it difficult to talk about their problems and we see this as a significant issue for the building and construction industry.
We hope our video will remind our customers, team members and the wider communities we serve to check in on their mates – whether it’s talking about any particular problems they might have, or just the chance to connect with each other.
“We’re very grateful to the support of the suppliers who are contributing towards our donation, and we encourage everyone to share our video far and wide!â€
Paul Malloy, Head of Marketing at Bradfords, added: “When sharing the YouTube video, please post the link itself so we can keep track of how many people have seen it. We’ll be ready to make that donation as soon as we’ve reached 50,000 views!â€
For more information on Movember, including resources to support men’s mental health, visit: uk.movember.com
