The Tea Room

DIY tips from real builders

Are you or your other half into DIY? Whether a DIY ace or a DIY ass, these Top Tips straight from the professionals are sure to stand you in good stead. If you think you could do better, send your tips in and we might put them on our site or even print them on our packs.

Tip#1
How to make sure something is perfectly square

Start at the intersection point of the two lines, measure down one line 3 units and make a mark. Measure down the other line 4 units and make a mark. Then measure accurately in a straight line between your two marks. If the two lines are square, the distance between the two marks will be exactly 5 units.

Tip#2
How to remove tight screws

If you need to remove something that’s stubbornly screwed in, heat the screws by applying a soldering iron to the head. They should pull out easier.

Tip#3
How to stop losing small screws and pins, etc.

Keep a magnet in your tool box. Then when you think you’ve lost something just pass it over the area you’ve been working on.

Tip#4
How to stop losing tools

It’s a fact that tools grow legs and walk away when you’re not watching. So take an empty bag or box with you and put tools in there once you’ve finished with them. When you need it again you won’t have to spend 20 minutes searching for it.

Tip#5
How to stay refreshed

Always, always, always have a quality brew to hand.