Gert-Jan Vrolijk is one of those affiliated professionals at Werkspot. He describes some DIY problems as ‘mysteries’. “Many problems may seem simple, such as a hidden toilet or a squeaky smoke detector. But if you’ve never had to deal with it, it can be quite difficult to know what to do.”
Vrijin shares his current top 10 with the most common DIY questions, provided with advice.
1. How do I display a toilet?
“This problem is often easy to solve with the help of an unblocker, which only costs 5 to 10 euros. Take the unblocker and push it down with increasing force and then up, so that the water starts to run down and the blockage can flow away. If this does not work, the blockage is probably deep in the drain and a professional is needed.”
2. How do I bleed my radiator?
“Turn off the radiator first and wait until it has cooled completely. Place a towel and add a container or bowl to catch any water. Use a radiator key or a flat screwdriver (a coin is also possible!) To slowly open the valve on the side.”
“First you hear a hissing sound: that is the sky that escapes. As soon as water comes out, turn the valve again. Tip: Always start with the radiators below and then work upwards.”
3. How long should you let the stucco dry before you can paint the walls?
“This can vary from a few days to four weeks, depending on the location and conditions in the room, such as heat and moisture. The stucco is dry as soon as the color changes from dark gray to light gray or almost white.”
“If the stucco is dry? First apply a diluted paint layer (nebula layer): mix about 30% water with 70% paint. This prevents the paint from leaving later, because otherwise the stucco pulls moisture out of the paint too quickly. Apply two of these diluted layers and then paint two normal layers of paint as soon as the first layers are well dry.”
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4. How do you replace the doors of kitchen cupboards?
“New doors and handles are an easy way to give your kitchen a fresh look without replacing everything. Start measuring your doors: they must be about 3 mm smaller than the cupboard so that they can open well.”
“Then remove the door hinges with a screwdriver. Start at the lower hinge, so that you catch the weight better. Then mark and drill the hinge holes in the new doors in the same places as with the old ones. Confirm the doors, hang the doors back and neatly. Finally, you get stuck and drill the holes for the holes.” ””
5. Is it possible to install ventilation grilles over new windows with double glazing?
“That is possible, but first check whether there is enough space at the top of the frame to be able to apply the ventilation grille. Older windows may be in need of replacement. Drill gaps in the frame for the ventilation grilles. Does it seem too complicated to you? Then switch on a professional.”
6. Do I have to use high gloss or satin paint for skirting boards and doors?
“What you should pay attention to when choosing paint for skirting boards and doors are the color, durability and shine. In general: the more shine, the more durable the paint. High -gloss paint often contains more resin or email and therefore forms a harder, robust surface. For skirting boards, which are susceptible to bumps and wear.”
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7. Is the use of primer the same as applying a neve -layer?
“Although a nebula layer can sometimes serve as a primer, they are usually used for other purposes. Primer has a thicker consistency and you use on bare, hard surfaces, such as wood. A nebula layer is a diluted paint layer that you apply to ensure that the final paint layer adheres well.”
8. Can I move an intermediate wall?
“Technically it is possible, but in practice it is difficult to loosen and move an intermediate wall without damaging the surrounding walls or ceiling. After the wall has been moved, it must be plumbed and finished again, just like the space where it was first. Sometimes there are also building regulations that you have to take into account. It is therefore wise to switch on a professional.”
9. Can you lay a new laminate floor over an old laminate floor?
“That is not recommended. With some flat subfloors, such as concrete or wood, it can sometimes, but it can eventually cause problems. Moreover, the floor becomes higher, making doors more difficult and later problems when installing devices under fixed worksheets.”
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10. Can you tile over tiles or do you first have to remove all old tiles?
“In theory it is possible, but experts strongly advise against it. Moreover, placing new tiles on top of old tiles causes extra weight on the wall or floor, which can cause damage.”