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How to Install Interior Doors – Robin’s Step by Step

The final part of our internal door installation series, hanging an interior door. Robin Clevett hangs the door in his frame and shows you loads of his carpentry tricks and tips.

This video shows you how to install an interior door that is not prehung and quite a tricky DIY door install.

If you missed the first two parts you can see them here:

Part 1 – How to Fit Door Frame Lining – Fitting Tricks
Part 2 – Fitting Door Trims, Architraves & Skirting Boards

Door, handle and accessories from XL Joinery – https://www.xljoinery.co.uk

How to Install Interior Doors

XL Joinery has a huge range of modern styles in its range, but it hasn’t neglected the traditional classics such as this 4-panel softwood Shaker style door. Carpenter and joiner Robin Clevett gives us a few of his tips on how to hang a door.

Most people know that fire doors require three hinges but what about non-fire rated doors? When I was at college we were taught that most internal doors could be hung quite happily with two hinges.

The exceptions were where the finish was different on either side or where there would be a difference in humidity or temperature. That would be a bathroom door for sure and maybe a kitchen or utility room door.

3 Hinges

These doors require three hinges and I notice that it is becoming standard practice to fit three hinges. You might suspect that it is hinge manufacturers who are keen to increase their sales by 50% but the real reason is that three hinges helps prevent warping.

We live in an age of quick grown timber and it is therefore doubly important that you keep the door wrapped until you are ready to hang it and then when you do hang it that you don’t leave any bare timber. It might seem like overkill, but I always dab a bit of quick-drying primer or sealer behind the hinges as well as on planed areas.

If you have to shoot a door in, take the same amount from either side rather than just trimming up one side. These XL doors are capped with hardboard but are not hollow.  The hardboard shell means there will be no shrinkage on the panels of rails, but it also means you have that little wrap over on the edges.

I use an electric planer on the jams for greater accuracy but on the top and bottom rails I like to use my track saw to avoid tearing the end grain.

Cutting in Hinges

Back in the day I used to do all the hinges with a chisel when I was an apprentice but now I route them in freehand. It is easy enough to keep the router on the line if you mark the hinge out with a Stanley knife or marking gauge because you can stop short of the line.

The router gives you a perfectly flush hinge but sometimes you need to set them in ever so slightly deeper. I usually do a trial fit on flush and then, if I need to reset the router I am good to go with the rest of the do. There is nothing to bear a production line approach. The first door takes an hour or more and the last one takes 20 minutes.

One thing I have on my shopping list is a smaller router. If you are cutting in hinges freehand then a 1/4-inch router that is handheld is a better way to go. I am looking at a few cordless palm routers that are easy to use one-handed so watch out for my review on those.

The handles and three hinges came from XL indoor fitting packs, which is a really good way of selling all you need. The tubular latch is included and the 65mm backset puts the handle right in the centre of the stile.  You should also not generally fit the latch in line with the mid-rail because it can weaken the joint.

eSynic Air Wedge Pump
eSynic 2Pack Upgraded Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Rounded Corner Design Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Perfect Inflatable Air Wedge Load-Bearing 300 Pounds for Door Window Lifting
One Sight Air Pump Wedges
One Sight 2PCS Air Pump Wedge Up Bag Square Clamp Air Wedge Pump Hand Precise Alignment and Leveling for Home Use Door Window Installation Auto Repair Inflatable Shim Cushioned Powerful Hand Tools
Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump
Pack of 2 Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump Up Air Tool For Fitting Windows Doors Lifts Up To 140 Kilogram
eSynic 2Pack Upgraded Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Rounded Corner Design Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Perfect Inflatable Air Wedge Load-Bearing 300 Pounds for Door Window Lifting
One Sight 2PCS Air Pump Wedge Up Bag Square Clamp Air Wedge Pump Hand Precise Alignment and Leveling for Home Use Door Window Installation Auto Repair Inflatable Shim Cushioned Powerful Hand Tools
Pack of 2 Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump Up Air Tool For Fitting Windows Doors Lifts Up To 140 Kilogram
£12.58
Price not available
£26.99
eSynic Air Wedge Pump
eSynic 2Pack Upgraded Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Rounded Corner Design Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Perfect Inflatable Air Wedge Load-Bearing 300 Pounds for Door Window Lifting
eSynic 2Pack Upgraded Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Rounded Corner Design Air Wedge Door Pump Up Bags Perfect Inflatable Air Wedge Load-Bearing 300 Pounds for Door Window Lifting
£12.58
One Sight Air Pump Wedges
One Sight 2PCS Air Pump Wedge Up Bag Square Clamp Air Wedge Pump Hand Precise Alignment and Leveling for Home Use Door Window Installation Auto Repair Inflatable Shim Cushioned Powerful Hand Tools
One Sight 2PCS Air Pump Wedge Up Bag Square Clamp Air Wedge Pump Hand Precise Alignment and Leveling for Home Use Door Window Installation Auto Repair Inflatable Shim Cushioned Powerful Hand Tools
Price not available
Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump
Pack of 2 Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump Up Air Tool For Fitting Windows Doors Lifts Up To 140 Kilogram
Pack of 2 Hedgehog Easy Air Wedge Pump Up Air Tool For Fitting Windows Doors Lifts Up To 140 Kilogram
£26.99

Air Wedges

One thing I could not do without these days is a pair of air wedges to pump the door up into position. The old-style door lifter was all well and good but a little pump on each bag means you can dock it in precisely.

To be honest I am so busy cutting in roofs for builders these days that I don’t do a lot of second fix work these days. There was a time when I would get set up and in a long day I could do a whole house but not now. Still, I enjoyed myself doing these XL doors and it is good to keep my hand in

The XL primed doors look good, but they need painting with a couple of coats as soon as they are fitted. Remember to apply the same number of coats to each side of the door.  I have seen people leave one side of a door stripped and the other painted and they wonder why they end up with a banana.

See more on doors with Skill Builder.

Fitting Door Trims, Architraves & Skirting Boards

Before you watch Fitting Door Trims, make sure you watch DID YOU SEE PART 1? https://youtu.be/6E9KWP_ooHI

Part 2 of our 3-part series on door fitting, framing, lining & skirting. Robin has moved on to the door trims, architraves and skirting baseboard.

As usual, he has his own methods for getting it all in neatly.

See more tutorials on carpentry and building on Skill Builder.

New Plaster Research Heralds the End of Lime

New plaster research heralds the end of lime

While conservation officers and others are keen to ensure the use of traditional lime-based plasters and renders on listed and heritage buildings; research into new technology by Safeguard Europe – the UK’s leading specialist in damp-proofing and waterproofing technology – suggests that better, more effective options are available.

The preference for lime plasters in conservation applications today is because of their perceived traditional material composition and, especially, breathability – allowing walls to attenuate moisture to the environment.

However, in the face of rising or penetrating damp, lime plasters can start to fail. This is especially the case where the dampness introduces salts into the plasterwork. Furthermore, new research shows that lime plasters are far from the most breathable of their kind; and modern hybrid ‘hi-lime’ or damp-resistant materials are far more effective.

In these tests, hi-lime plasters were shown to allow transmission of around 1.2kg/m2 of water vapour over a fourteen-day period, compared to 0.85 1.2kg/m2 for a traditional mix of 3:1 sand and lime. More interestingly, recently introduced proprietary damp-resistant and fast set plasters were also shown, over two weeks, to transmit 1.55 kg/m2 and 1.48kg/m2 of water vapour respectively.

Consequently, there is a need for internal plastering systems that are impervious to damp; while not creating the problems associated with a sand and cement system: condensation risk and vapour impermeability.

SE1909HP Safeguard Europe Heritage Plasters Research

New ‘second generation’ plastering systems have been introduced that are more resilient to dampness and salts than traditional plastering methods. These modern systems are capable of being applied to walls that are still damp and can resist high levels of moisture and salt ingress. The make-up of these plasters means they have large pores and a high pore volume. This allows salts to form within the plaster rather than on the surface; and the high pore volume results in thermal resistance, reducing the risk of condensation.

Other properties include a 0.3m2 compressive strength, ensuring that the plaster can easily be removed later without damaging underlying brickwork; high water vapour diffusion (breathability) and conformity for the EN998-1 CE Standard as ‘Renovation Mortars’.

While traditional plasters have been used on internal walls for thousands of years to create smooth, decorative surfaces – lime-based plasters were used in Jordan as long ago as 7500 BC, and clay and gypsum in ancient China and India – the orthodoxy around plastering in listed and conservation environments, save when special materials or skills are demanded; can now be effectively challenged: and in the best interest of heritage buildings too.

For further details of Safeguard’s advanced, high-performing hi-lime and damp-resistant plasters, visit www.safeguardeurope.com/products/dryzone-system

How to Fit Door Frame Lining – Fitting Tricks

Robin’s back with another carpentry tutorial. This is the first part of a series of three and it’s how to fit interior doors, part one is the door lining.

See more on door fitting on Skill Builder.

Flaky Paint & Treating Woodworm – ASB #14

Greg has a strange patch on his wall and wonders what is causing this on an outside wall that’s not long been replastered and painted.

Treating Woodworm

Treating Woodworm
Little woodworm lies on tree

Treating Woodworm is at the top of James Swinyard’s ‘to do’ list. He’s renovating a house and has stripped it out completely to rewire it and upgrade the heating and plumbing systems and has found traces of woodworm. Most seem okay but in the bathroom particularly the floorboards seem very brittle.

Jim Lea has french doors on a South-facing wall and wonders what paint system we’d recommend as he currently uses Dulux Weathershield exterior paint but it only lasts about a year and he’s getting fed up of painting them when it says on the tin its 10 years!

Peter Need is renovating his bathroom and has taken out the bath, basin, toilet and wants to replace these. The dilemma is he needs a hot and cold supply to everything. Should he take out all that piping and start again?

Gary Atkinson now has the confidence to refit his own ensuite bathroom and wants to top out the stud wall surrounding the frame for the toilet with a removable shelf, but cannot find it.

Don’t worry Gary, the Abacus Simple Shelf is here:
https://www.abacus-bathrooms.co.uk/#!/sanitaryware-furniture/furniture/shelves/Shelf-1800x320mm.html

The NEW ProtecWork Protective Clothing From Snickers Workwear

Fully accredited, advanced Protective Wear for heat and flame, electrostatic and chemical risk environments from the UK’s leading workwear innovator.

ProtecWork is a new collection of protective working clothes and accessories from Snickers Workwear, which has developed out of over 40 years leading the workwear industry – and through close consultation with users and employers in the railway and energy sectors around Europe.

The market-leading risk-protection properties of the clothing are integral components of the extensive range of Base-, Mid- and Top-Layer garments for men and women that combine well with the Snickers Workwear hallmarks of best-in-class durability, comfort, ergonomics and fit.

Fully accredited as appropriate to a variety of risk and weather conditions such as heat and flame, electrostatic, chemical and bad weather working environments, all the garments are manufactured from tailor-made fabrics designed to respond to the demands and risk factors of the conditions in which they’re worn.

So with over 60 different garments and accessories to choose from, you can make sure you get the right protection, visibility, flexibility, comfort and durability. Check out the new Snickers ProtecWork range to fit your workday and well-being on site.

For more information on the new ProtecWork products, visit www.snickersworkwear.co.uk alternatively, call the Snickers Workwear Helpline on 01484 854788.

Tenant Complaints Could Soar with Homes Act 2018

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Tenant complaints could soar with Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018

www.safeguardeurope.com

The recently introduced Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – which came into force in March – potentially heralds a significant increase in tenant complaints against landlords whose properties fail to live up to ‘fitness’ standards according to new research from YouGov.

The findings of the YouGov poll, commissioned by damp-proofing experts Safeguard Europe, show that, in the light of the new legislation, 42% of renters are now more likely to complain about the condition of their homes.

The new 2018 Act supersedes the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 so that tenants can take landlords to court if their homes are not fit to live in. Although this was theoretically possible previously, it only applied where rents were £52 a month or less (£80 or less in London). The survey shows that not only do 71% of renters pay between £250 and £750 per month in rent; but also over half of them (51%) said that they had lived in homes with a damp problem.

Damp and mould is the largest cause of tenant dissatisfaction with properties and experienced by 51% of renters: a figure rising to 55% in the private sector. Furthermore, 26% reported properties with little or no ventilation in areas of high humidity – a known factor in causing damp problems, especially those arising from condensation, in homes.

YouGov spoke to just over 1,200 tenants in private, local authority and housing association rented accommodation; and the survey showed that the problem cuts across employment, martial and parental status. When considering working status, those employed full time are most likely to encounter damp – 61% – compared to the retired, who are least likely at 31%.

Among families, there is a strong correlation between the number of children and the incidence of damp, with 65% of those with three or more children having issues – unsurprisingly, perhaps, as washing, cooking and cleaning are major vectors of condensation and more associated with larger households.

One demoralising finding is the lack of change in the numbers of groups suffering from damp in the past few years. In an earlier survey – looking at how damp problems damaged house prices – it was found that 52% of tenants had lived with damp; whereas the figure today is 51%, suggesting an ongoing reluctance on the part of landlords to invest in remediation.

Whether tenants will be prepared to complain to landlords under the new rights conferred by Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 remains to be seen: especially while ‘Section 21 evictions’ are possible. These so-called ‘no fault’ evictions can take place at the end of tenancies, and this section of the Housing Act 1988 is claimed to enable revenge behaviours on the part of landlords confronted with tenants perceived as troublesome, even if only insisting upon accommodation being brought up to fit standards.

While there is a current proposal to amend the Act to scrap Section 21, the many tenants living in properties under Assured Shorthold Tenancies of six months see continuity of residency as important and those suffering with damp may be deterred from exercising their right to complain while the risk of eviction – rather than tenancy renewal – lingers.

Hudson Lambert, managing director of Safeguard Europe says of the findings: “Not only does the survey confirm our experience that damp is a massive problem in the tenanted sector; but also that little progress has been made in the past few years in bringing damp properties up to scratch”.

“Treating damp is not difficult, given the expertise and technologies existing today; and plenty of assistance is available to both landlords and tenants if they seek it. Plainly, the vast majority of landlords aren’t avoiding their responsibilities to provide decent accommodation; yet the mental and physical health impacts of damp, mould and condensation should not to be underestimated and there should be a greater degree of mindfulness about it”.

“We only hope that the next time such a survey is conducted, we see a significant reduction in the numbers of people whose lives are blighted by these problems”.

Safeguard Europe’s range of market-leading, proven damp-proofing solutions is supported by the company’s own highly qualified and experienced staff. The support and know-how they offer is extended to contractors, specifiers and property owners and includes technical advice, specification help, research and even in-house laboratory analysis of plaster and masonry.

For full details of the survey, visit safeguardeurope.com/news/edt1-idt2-home-fitness-for-human-habitation-act-yougov-poll

The Van Insurer Reveals Customers’ Top 10 Vans

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Investing in a new van is a big decision to make. Between the different makes and models, varying specifications, questions about fuel consumption and insurance costs to consider, it’s hard to decide what’s best for you and your business.

Insurance comparison website The Van Insurer has crunched its quote data from the last 12 months to find the most popular vans amongst those looking for insurance cover.

The data also identified the favourite vans amongst electricians, builders, carpenters and gardeners, and it’s clear that some vans are more popular with certain tradespeople than others. 


Top 10 Vans of 2018

1.     Ford Transit

The Ford Transit pipped all the others to the post to gain the top spot in 2018, with a third of  quotes processed relating to the trusty Transit.

Boasting flexibility and adaptability, three load lengths and driveline configurations, to name but a few perks, it’s easy to see why many van drivers would consider this one a worthy winner.

In fact, it was the builder’s vehicle of choice, with the largest percentage of overall quote requests for the Transit coming from builders. Gardeners also favour the Transit, with this van proving to be the most popular with green-fingered drivers.

2.     Vauxhall Vivaro

The second most quoted-for van last year was the Vauxhall Vivaro.

Vauxhall prides itself on offering practicality and efficiency with this little mover. Boasting strong styling and serious payload capacity, it’s another van offering comfort and cutting-edge tech to support you while you’re out on the road.

3.     Ford Transit Connect

The Transit Connect was the second of Ford’s vans to make the top three rankings.

Toughness, durability and functionality are just three of the features synonymous with this van. According to Ford, it’s been given a sophisticated new look, comprehensively updated interior and more advanced technology than ever before, which seems to have paid off.

4.     Volkswagen Transporter

The total quotes processed for the Volkswagen Transporter placed it firmly in fourth place.

Volkswagen’s worked hard to ensure that this latest edition offers advanced engine technology that saves money and the environment. Coupled with the comfort and practicality you’d expect from the Transporter, clearly it’s another top choice.

5.     Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The Mercedes Benz Sprinter came in fifth in our rankings. 

Mercedes believes it’s plugged a gap in the market with this latest Sprinter edition. Claiming to offer new levels of individuality, productivity and efficiency, all customisable to the van driver’s needs, it looks like their message really has got across.

Perhaps it’s no coincidence that the Sprinter proved to be the delivery driver’s top van choice for 2018. Over 10% of quote requests for this nippy motor came from delivery drivers and couriers. 

6.     Vauxhall Combo

The Vauxhall’s Combo van remains another firm favourite amongst customers, taking the sixth spot.

In addition to several award wins, Vauxhall likes to boast about the Combo’s practical design, paired with a sleek and sporty finish. For practicality and efficiency, it’s evidently a good choice.

7.     Citroen Berlingo

Following hot on the heels of the Combo, the Citroen Berlingo came a very close second to the Vauxhall favourite, with only slightly fewer quotes generated.

If you’re looking for versatility and a van that will take you from work to play, this is probably it. Space, comfort and modularity come as standard with this van, which explains why its spot in the top 10 is justified. 

Painters and decorators seem to share this view, as it was The Van Insurer’s most quoted-for van by those in the trade last year. 

8.     Renault Trafic

The Renault Trafic took eighth position in the countdown of van drivers requesting quotes.

Renault claims that the needs of the van driver have been put first with this edition, which offers numerous variants and impressive fuel efficiency. It’s an award winner too, making it another worthy top 10 entry.

9.     Volkswagen Caddy

Volkswagen’s second top 10 entry belonged to the Caddy.

It’s another van that offers impressive technology as standard, from adaptive cruise control and an in-built parking system to safety systems that give you peace of mind. It’s a great little mover that’s just inside the top 10.

Improved tech obviously has appeal for sparkies, as more than 6% of electricians requested quotes last year, making it the most popular van for that sector of the trade, according to the online insurance comparison website.

10.  Ford Transit Custom

The third Ford van to make the top 10 was the Transit Custom.

Ford claims the latest evolution maintains its toughness, functionality and reliability but now delivers an even wider range of innovation and smart technology. It’s clearly another Ford favourite that deserves its top 10 status.

The Ford Transit Custom is a firm favourite amongst carpenters, as nearly 6% requested insurance quotes last year, the highest from that demographic.

Jade Isabelle, Commercial Director at The Van Insurer, says: “Here at The Van Insurer, we are used to handling quotes for van drivers with various requirements and from all types of tradespeople, but it’s always interesting to see patterns emerging amongst our customers.

“There are so many van choices out there, but clearly some vans answer the needs of certain sectors of the trade more than others.

“Whether you need your van for work, play or somewhere in between, we like to remind all of our customers that we can help to find a quote that works for them.”

*The Top 10 list comprises the vans for which The Van Insurer received the most quote requests from January to December 2018. 

Hellberg Safety PPE and Snickers Workwear – Comfort and Safety Combined

The Hultafors Group Adds Hellberg Safety PPE products to its premium brand portfolio for professional tradesmen and women.

With over 50 years of experience in the PPE industry, the Hellberg Safety specialist equipment includes highly advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions for personal protection on site.

From face guards, helmets and passive hearing protection with up to 3 levels of protection from low to extreme noise, Hellberg also supply secure electronic hearing protectors to suit different work environments.

Peter Dumigan, managing director of the Hultafors Group UK says, “Hellberg PPE products complement the Snickers Workwear and Solid Gear Safety Footwear product portfolios so well – in particular, the newly launched Snickers Workwear ProtecWork Heat and Flame Protective Wear”.

“The Hultafors Group now provides the UK market with an even more extensive range of EN-accredited, top quality premium brand products, ideally suited to protect the personal wellbeing and safety of the discerning professional tradesman and woman”.

Getting information on the new Hellberg Safety product range is easy – call the Hultafors Group UK Helpline on 01484 854788 or checkout the website www.hellbergsafety.com

TorFloor Suspended Underfloor Heating from Omnie

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We’ve covered lots of underfloor heating systems but this one is a little different because it provides a structural deck and underfloor heating in one system.

Floor and Heating System in One

TorFloor suspended is the only independently tested structural underfloor heating panel. The multi-directional 22mm panels are laid directly onto the joists, replacing the need for traditional floor decks and making ordering and installation easy.

A 6mm ply covering layer is then glued and screwed to the TorFloor panels to complete the floor.

Easy installation

The TorFloor batten underfloor heating system is manufactured from flooring grade chipboard or plywood and replaces the floor deck used in the construction. The TorFloor panels are laid directly on the joists.

The pipe is then installed by piercing through the pre-bonded aluminium diffuser strips into the channels with the ends of each circuit dropping into the joist space to be connected to a common 12mm flow and return.

Alternatively, the system can be installed as a continuous system by feeding the 12mm pipe through the joist space if access permits.

Improved Performance and Heat Output

TorFloor underfloor heating panels are provided with pre-installed aluminium diffusers which improve the heat output and energy efficiency compared to other systems. The pipes within the panel are designed to fit as close to the floor finish as possible which further maximises the heat output of the panels whilst minimising the temperature of the water being used.

The TorFloor system is optimised to work in conjunction with Omnie heat pumps.

Further reading on underfloor heating

More on underfloor heating on Skill Builder.

Find out more about TorFloor Suspended Underfloor Heating.

Three Reasons Why Builders Should Apply for Business Awards

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Caroline Pegden from TempaGoGo, an online temporary recruitment marketplace helping construction companies and builders find temporary staff easily, shares three reasons why builders should apply for business awards.

Have you ever considered applying for a business award? If you haven’t, you should! There are more than 65 construction-focused business awards to pick from every year in the UK, and many more in other categories that might be relevant to you too (e.g., local Chambers of Commerce, regional awards).

Here is why…

  1. Establish credibility

Winning an award is a great way to gain external validation for your product or services.

Adding the award logo to your company’s website and your email’s signature is an easy way to help you gain trust from prospective customers.

  1. Gain more customers, for free

Even if you are only shortlisted for an award, you can easily promote this event on social media, your website, your newsletters and blogs. Don’t forget to post the news on LinkedIn too. These are all very powerful ways to get your name out in your business and local community and get new customers, for free.

  1. Attract future employees

If you’re a small business, it can be hard to compete against the big names of the industry to retain your existing staff, and attract new employees.

Winning an award can help you motivate your existing staff, giving them pride in what your company is achieving, especially if they have the opportunity to attend the gala dinner.

It is also a great way to attract future staff, at a time where the war for talent is rife.

Where to apply for awards?

There are hundreds of business awards available in the industry. For most, it is free to enter. You generally only have to pay if you want to attend the awards ceremony dinner.

Firstly, find the awards that are relevant to you. Take a look at your local Chamber of Commerce’s awards as well as the specific awards for the Construction and Building industry.

Secondly, plan ahead. Writing good applications takes time so carve out sufficient time in your agenda to write.

Finally, don’t be shy about your achievements. Explain your performance, how you contribute to your local or business community and share some of your customers’ testimonials.

Boilers, Darkness & Should We Help? – ASB #13

Adrian Ripa has spotted some weird gas pipework at a restaurant in London where he’s done some work.

Tom Barry has had his annual combi boiler service from British Gas which took less than 15 mins. The next day he had low pressure and wonders if the work carried out was worth it.

Anonymous builder isn’t happy that Skill Builder helps people solve problems that professionals would have earned money from.

Jane Stark has dark areas of her house now that the extension has been built. How can you get some daylight back? The Keylite Sunlite can help with getting daylight into a dark room.

Wayne Forrest wants to know if he needs more than one boiler to cope with three showers in his newly extended house.

The Alpha Flowsmart system may well help with its thermal store, find out more here:
https://www.alpha-innovation.co.uk/products/Flowsmart/FlowSmart

Send us your pictures and videos: https://skill-builder.uk/send

#9 ~ Mental Health & Dealing with Stress

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The podcast is back and we’re tackling mental health, depression and anxiety. The building industry has a huge problem with mental health issues and its workforce suffers more than average.

Let us know how you’re handling your demons and share any advice and tips that help you in your day-to-day life.

Some good articles worth reading:

10 Best Ways to Increase Dopamine Levels Naturally – https://bit.ly/2rBH4fE

Six Unconventional, Scientific Ways to Be Happier – https://bit.ly/30E3qgo

Why You Should Stop Caring What Other People Think – https://bit.ly/2t5iR48

The 14 Habits of Highly Miserable People – https://bit.ly/2WvhEBf

Robin’s Rafter Template – Carpentry Life Hack

Robin proudly shows off one of his favourite carpenter hack techniques with his rafter template!

This is part of our ‘How to Create a Pitched Roof’ video which you can see here:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90cB_qiu-YA&w=560&h=315]

We’ll have more woodworking tips and hacks from Robin Clevett soon.

Breakthrough at Metabo: The New SDS-Max Hammers with Brushless Technology

  • Powerful brushless motors now also in the mains-powered area for quick work progress during demolition and drilling applications
  • Extremely long service life of the machines, guaranteed with an uncompromising three-year warranty
  • Double vibration protection for best protection of health

Nürtingen, May 2019: Extreme demolition applications require an extreme amount of power. The new SDS-max combination and chipping hammers from Metabo fulfil this requirement with powerful brushless motors and optimised hammer impact mechanisms.

Thanks to this, the Metabo hammers have at present the fastest drill speed and best material removal on the market. However, that is not all: With double vibration protection and effective dust extraction, the new SDS-max hammers make the difficult applications significantly more comfortable. A six-metre-long cable also ensures maximum freedom on the construction site.

Full speed ahead

The new SDS-max combination hammers KHEV in the 5 kilo, 8 kilo and 11 kilo class are, just like the new SDS-max chipping hammers MHEV in the 5 and 11-kilo class, are all of equipped with powerful and robust brushless motors.

“Brushless motors have greater efficiency, longer service life and require less maintenance”, explains Jörg Stoschus, manager of the competence centre “building trade” at Metabo. In connection with specially optimised high-performance hammer action systems, the new SDS-max hammers thus have a higher drill speed and high material removal.

The brushless electronics ensure constant working speed when under load, the speed and impact rates can also be reduced by the operator depending on the application. Impact mechanisms and motors of the hammers are built in robust die-cast aluminium housings.

Therefore they have an even longer service life and are effectively protected against the harsh environment that they operate. The Nürtingen company assures the service life with an uncompromising three-year warranty that also includes wear and tear parts.

Always a firm grip

“SDS-max hammers are used every day for different drilling and demolition applications. They must do the job in a fast and powerful manner, and not make the already tiring work even more difficult with strong vibrations”, says Stoschus.

With the new SDS-max combination hammers KHEV 5-40 BL, 8-45 BL and 11-52 BL, as well as the chipping hammers MHEV 5 BL and 11 BL the vibrations are dampened in two ways: On the one hand, handle and motor-gear combination are decoupled from each other.

On the other hand, an impact-absorbing counter-oscillating mass reduces the vibrations. “This special anti-vibration system effectively counteracts the high forces that are inevitably generated when working with the machines”, explains Stoschus.

“Spring-mounted weights reduce the vibrations without having a negative influence on the machine performance. Subsequently, the user is exposed to fewer vibrations and can work for longer with the hammer.“

Effective dust extraction as a system

Apart from vibrations, there is something else that makes working difficult: Dust. Hammer drilling or chiselling in concrete, masonry or stone is generally anything else but a clean matter.

“An effective dust extraction does not only protect the user’s health, but it is also prescribed in many locations by trade associations or organisations”, says Stoschus. The dust extraction set ESA max, compatible with the new SDS-max hammers, can be used for different hammer drill and chiselling applications with different drill bits and chisel bits.

The installation is easy and possible without tools. ESA max is compatible with all new Metabo SDS-max hammers since 2018 and all Metabo M and H vacuum cleaners. Drill bits and chisel bits can be exchanged without removing the extraction system.

Powerful together

The right accessories are also taken care of: “In the SDS-max area, Metabo covers the entire range of accessories – from basic accessories to premium quality”, says product manager Alexandra Haas.

The new SDS-max Pro4 Premium drill bit with its unique full carbide head with four cutting edges is particularly robust and durable, even when drilling in reinforced concrete. The strong welded connection between the steel body and full carbide head ensures an extremely high resistance to load and heat.

“This makes the SDS-max Pro4 Premium drill bit 50% more durable and 35% faster than the current market standard”, says Haas. The sharp 90-degree centring point drills precisely and sturdily into the material. The drill bit covers all standard applications with diameters of 16 to 28 millimetres.

For bores of 12 to 52 millimetres in concrete, masonry and natural stone, the proven SDS-max Pro4 hammer drill bit is also suited with a powerful full carbide S-cutting edge as well as drill active centring point.

In the entry-level segment, the new four-cutting edges drill bit SDS-max Classic with 16 to 40mm drill diameter is the right choice. “We also offer all chisels and core bits”, says Haas. With accessories, machine and dust extraction you will get an all-round powerful system that meets a maximum of power and service life.

Metabo SDS 2

Hammer performance: The new SDS-max combination hammers KHEV in the 5, 8 and 11-kilo class, just like the new SDS-max chipping hammers MEV in the 5 and 11-kilo class, are all equipped with powerful and robust brushless motors.

With its high-performance hammer action, the new SDS-max hammers make even difficult demolition and drilling applications easy. The vibrations are dampened in two ways by means of a decoupled handle and an impact-absorbing counter-oscillating mass.

Metabo SDS 3

The ESA max dust extraction system compatible with the new SDS-max hammers can be used for different hammer drilling and chiselling applications.

Metabo SDS 4

An all-round powerful system – the new SDS-max hammers from Metabo impress with performance, high-quality accessories and an effective dust extraction system.

About Metabo

Metabowerke GmbH in Nürtingen is a traditional manufacturer of powertools for professional users from the core target groups of metal trade and industry as well as building trade and renovation.

Metabo stands for very powerful cordless tools and is the leading supplier in the battery pack sector with its LiHD technology. In this way, Metabo has turned its vision of the cordless construction site into reality.

Under the brand name Metabo, the full-range supplier provides machines and accessories for all standard applications, but also competence products and system solutions for special requirements.

Founded in 1924 in the Swabian town of Nürtingen, Metabo today is a medium-sized company which also produces also in Shanghai, China, in addition to its headquarters in Nürtingen. 25 subsidiary sales companies and more than 100 importers ensure international presence.

More than 2,000 people work for Metabo worldwide, and in 2017 they have generated a turnover of 467 million euros.

www.metabo.com

Stable Conversion Tour with Robin Clevett

Robin gives you a guided tour on one of his recent building projects that has many features that we wanted to share with Skill Builder viewers.

This stable conversion in Staines was an ambitious building challenge for Robin and his team but the end result is one that he’s very proud of.

Like a barn conversion, it’s quite tricky creating an extra floor within the roof space so you can see what Robin’s done to overcome many of the challenges.

Stable Conversion resources

The Stables Conversion pin board on Pinterest

12 Inspiring Barn Conversions with Homebuilding

See more of Robin’s projects on Skill Builder.

Check out Robin’s website and see some more projects that he’s worked on: www.robc.co.uk

The Newest Clothing Innovations in the 2019 Snickers Workwear Catalogue

Including market-leading designs and the latest fabric technology innovations from the world’s leading Workwear brand.

This 200-page catalogue has all you need to know about the UK’s most extensive range of working clothes for professional tradesmen and women.

There’s something for every trade you can name in the Snickers Workwear range – AllroundWork, RUFFWork, LITEWork and FLEXIWork clothing – Trousers, Jackets, Tool Vests, Shirts, Underwear, Accessories and much more – plus an extensive range of EN-certified PPE working clothes.

Added to which, there’s the most innovative street-smart stretch fabrics for mobile comfort and a Layered Clothing System that ensures you can choose clothes to suit the weather on site – rain or shine, wind or snow.

Complimented by Snickers Profiling and Embroidery services and the most extensive range of garment sizes, the Snickers Workwear system delivers the ultimate solution to make every man and woman’s workday easier and safer.

For more information, visit the website at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk alternatively, call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788.

How to Silicone Seal Tips with Cramer Fugi 5 Kit

Jubi shows us how to apply silicone sealant in the bathroom, around the bathtub, along the basin unit, toilet and the mirrored shelf with the Cramer Fugi 5 Kit and some washing up liquid.

Managing Silicone

This multifunctional tool can be used for many flexible sealants and caulks.

Application of masking tape and cleaning afterwards is no longer necessary if you can develop the knack of using this kit.

Due to the design of the FUGI there is no need to use a releasing agent and the desired form of sealing can be applied without leaving a greasy film.

Mistakes can be repaired by simply re-grouting, however, this works only if the sealing-grout/caulk has not yet bonded (Cellulite-skin surface).

Controlled Flexibility

All pastes, silicone, acrylic and polyurethane can be applied as a sealant, and flexible grouts are able to be formed with the FUGI paying attention to the Manufacturer’s instructions.

By holding the FUGI so that it fits seamlessly to the wall and floor, slight pressure is applied so the flexible cutting edges fit well into the wall angle. Always use the absolutely smooth edge for spreading.

Work step by step, by only doing short distances. Should the sealant go above the FUGI, stop spreading, and clean FUGI with a household paper towel.

Cramer Fugi 5 Kit

Cramer Fugi 5 Kit

The FUGI Toolkit presents the professional solution for all different kinds of joints. Added to that, this unique toolkit enables you to render perfect joints without the use of soapy water.

The FUGI can be used on all smooth, rough or wave-like surfaces. When working on uneven surfaces push a little harder onto flexible edges.

Cramer Fugi 5 Kit is supplied with:

  • 5 Tools – 16 different ways of use
  • 1 x 180°C angle
  • 1 x 90°C angle
  • 4 x 45°C angle (16, 10, 8, 5mm)
  • 3 x concave grooves (r = 5, 10, 15mm)
  • 7 x convex shapes (30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 8, 6 x 3mm)
  • Swallow-tail tool for tight corners and hard to reach areas

See more on silicone sealing on Skill Builder.

Check out the official Cramer website.

NYEs Building Supplies Relaunch Event

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Robin and Roger visit their local builder’s merchant to support the relaunch event.

About NYEs Building Supplies

Welcome to NYEs Building Supplies. We are extremely proud of our company and the service we provide to all our customers.

NYEs Building Supplies started off as D.W.Nye Builders Merchant in 1985 but updated its name in 2019.

We are a family-owned and run Building Supply company, supplying competitively priced building, landscaping and timber materials locally to the Surrey and Sussex areas and nationally to the rest of the UK.

Established in 1985, we have always kept one thing as our highest priority which is the customer and ensuring that all of our customers, no matter their size or experience, receive the highest level of service at all times, whether this means a 24hr delivery service, keeping huge stock and wise product ranges or just making sure you feel welcome when you visit us or talk to us.

We operate out of Kingsfold in West Sussex from a 6-acre depot which is situated between Horsham and Dorking on the A24.

With huge displays, ample parking and easy ways to browse our product range, we make sure your experience at NYEs Building Supplies always stands out.

www.dwnye.co.uk

D.W. Nye Ltd,
Dorking Road,
Kingsfold,
Horsham,
West Sussex,
RH12 3SD

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The Fox in the Box & Rendering Advice – ASB #12

Send us your pictures and videos: https://skill-builder.uk/send

Justin Sider is having lots of problems with foxes pooping in his garden and making loud noises at night that make his dogs bark. Fox poop is also a popular moisturise with Cocker Spaniels and hard to remove unless you have some tomato ketchup to hand.

Tim Overall has a path in need of repair down the side of his mother’s bungalow and it has sunk to ground level in the middle with a massive crack.

Mr G wants to render a few walls using 5 1 1 mix but some people have said to PVA the wall first but some say not to use PVA. We like using SBR instead and there’s quite a bit of good advice here for the person known as ‘G’.

Jerry Moffat is changing a radiator in his living room. The flow goes in at the top right-hand corner and the return out of the bottom left. Can we see any reason why he can’t install it the same way?

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Tell us what you like: https://skill-builder.uk/vote
Get in touch, send us your pictures and videos: https://skill-builder.uk/send
Twitter: https://twitter.com/skillbuilderuk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skillbuilderchannel

Out of respect to our channel sponsors and the wide variety of people who watch our videos, we will remove comments that do not follow common standards of politeness and decency.