Ask the
EXPERTS
We solve your DIY and maintenance conundrums with a little help from the professionals
Feature Alison Davidson
Q
A
Nikhita Sejpal, Marketing Executive at AluSplash says… When it comes to kitchen splashbacks, there are more options than people think. You don’t have to go for tiles! AluSplash aluminium panels are a great choice as they’re both affordable and practical. The panels are easy to install and come in a range of colours, such as the Petrol Blue below. More importantly, they’re less harmful to the environment, as the aluminium panels are made using a non-toxic and lead-free heat-resistant coating, so they’re better for your home and the planet. Opting for a single-panel splashback has other benefits too, especially when it comes to cleaning. For example, being a one-piece item means there are no grout lines, so there’s nowhere for dirt and bacteria to accumulate. Visit alusplash.com to find out more.
We’re in the process of buying a house with bi-fold doors and have no idea what to do about privacy at night. Any suggestions? Rebecca Kingsley, Cheltenham
For more splashback ideas, see page 46
A
Yvonne Keal, Senior Product Manager at Hillarys has this advice… Bi-folds doors are high on the wish list of many homeowners and while a wall of glass is a lovely option during the day, it can make your home feel like a goldfish bowl at night. The Intu micro system of blinds will work on 80 per cent of all bi-folds in the UK and is the perfect solution for light control and privacy. It’s a bracket system that clips behind the window bead so there is no need to drill holes or screw into the frame and, as there are no cords, it’s inherently child and pet safe. Intu pleated blinds fit snugly g y into the door frame and p provide a warm, stylish look. They can be used Intu Micro ribbon pewter blinds, prices in any room in the from £145, Hillarys house and come in a wide range of fabrics, finishes and colours. There’s also the option n to include a solar backing on the blinds that acts as a barrier to heat loss as well as offering protection from UV rays. Although, Intu blinds have been designed for bi-fold doors, they also work just as well in compact spaces and small windows. Visit hillarys.co.uk for more information.
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Q
I‘m re-doing my kitchen and I don’t want a tile splashback but glass is so expensive. What other materials work? Briony Barratt, Dundee
yourhomestyle.uk
Q
I want to paint the render on the front of my house and the front door, but what paint should I use? Joy McInerney, Basingstoke
A
Matthew Brown, Technical Consultant at Sandtex suggests… Refreshing the exterior of your house will instantly boost kerb appeal and also add value if you’re thinking of selling. When painting render, choose a formula that has been specifically designed for masonry. Sandtex’s masonry paint ensures surfaces are dirt-resistant, breathable and waterproof, and also offer 15 years of guaranteed protection. But masonry paint isn’t just for walls; it can be used on window ledges, door surrounds and gate posts, so you don’t have to buy lots of different paints. When you’re painting the front door, make sure the paint is specified for exterior wood or metal. This will provide a tough waterproof layer for you door and help it deal with the battering it’ll get from the elements. Start with a primer, then apply an undercoat. This will provide a good base and cover up any old colours. Building up the correct layers also means your top coat will last longer. There’s a huge range of colours and finishes to choose from, so head to sandtex.co.uk to learn more.
