Building News & Plumbing Blog

What is a soil pipe?

Soil and waste pipes are a key part of household plumbing systems, performing integral tasks without which homes would be a lot less comfortable to live in. Looking after these systems is the best way to keep them in good condition for longer - but to do so, you need to know at least the basics of…

What is rainscreen cladding?

  Adding cladding to your home can be a great way to change its overall appearance and update it to suit your preferences, but the planning process for such a project can bring up a lot of questions. While some have straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers, such as whether or not you need to acquire planning permission…

How to hide a soil pipe in the bathroom

  Your bathroom’s waste and water pipes are essential for its smooth running - but that doesn’t make them aesthetically pleasing. Whether there’s a full bathroom remodel in the works or you’re just focussing on this one aspect of the room, there are a number of ways you can hide away your

Should I get artificial grass?

The debate of whether to choose real or fake turf for your garden has been going on for years, and it seems we’re no closer to a general consensus than we were when it started. For some people, artificial grass is the best solution for their space and needs; for others, real turf is the only way…

Standardised and Made-to-Measure uPVC Windows & Doors

Standardised and Made-to-Measure uPVC Windows & Doors from Nationwide Supplies At Nationwide Supplies, we’re pleased to announce the expansion of our uPVC window offerings to include a wide range of standardised sizes, alongside our renowned made-to-measure service. This enhancement is designed to provide greater flexibility and convenience for our customers, catering to both those who need quick, standard solutions and those requiring bespoke windows to fit…

The ultimate guide to creating indoor spaces outdoors

The ultimate guide to creating indoor spaces outdoors With warmer weather just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start making the most of your outdoor space. Outdoor living has grown in popularity over the past few years and shows no signs of slowing down. If you want a quick and cost-effective way…

How to clean door handles

  Door handles, though often overlooked, are pivotal features in our homes and offices. They are the primary points of contact for interior doors, and as such, they can accumulate dirt and germs, even if this isn't visibly apparent. Maintaining clean door handles is not only crucial for aesthetic appeal but also plays a significant role in limiting the spread of diseases through contact with contaminated surfaces.…

How to Change a Door Handle

    Changing a door handle may seem like a minor alteration, but it's an effective way to refresh the appearance of your home's interior. Whether your current handle is worn out or you're just in the mood for a new look, replacing a door handle is a straightforward DIY task that most people can undertake…

How to Measure for Door Handles

  How to Measure for Door Handles Changing door handles can be a simple yet effective way to refresh the look…

Embracing the Future: The Advantages of Press-Fit Copper Fittings in UK Plumbing

  When it comes to plumbing in the United Kingdom, innovation is the name of the game. In recent years, a modern approach known as press-fit copper fittings has gained widespread popularity, and for good reason. These fittings offer a plethora of benefits over traditional methods, promising a smoother, quicker, and more reliable solution for both professionals and…

A comparison of Polyethylene and Nitrile Pipe Insulation

A comparison of Polyethylene and Nitrile Pipe Insulation When it comes to keeping our homes warm and cosy, proper insulation is key. Among the various options available, two popular contenders stand out in the UK market: Polyethylene (PE) foam and Nitrile pipe insulation. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of these materials, exploring their differences, strengths, and applications, all within the framework of…

How long do sleepers last?

How long do sleepers last?   When you’re choosing materials for a project, such as railway sleepers, one important consideration is durability. This can have a big impact on the ‘real’ price of the project. For instance, a cheaper material that needs to be replaced more often might turn out to be less…

How to clean up after using silicone sealant

How to clean up after using silicone sealant Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, one of the most important parts of the job is clearing up after yourself. It can make the difference between a sleek, masterful finish and an unsightly mess, so it’s well worth learning how to…

What are the benefits of fitting external cladding?

What are the benefits of fitting external cladding?   If you’re thinking about fitting cladding on your house’s exterior walls, it can be helpful to understand the implications of the job. Finding out how much it would cost to hire builders, buy materials and cover overheads is one thing, but you’ll also want to…

A Comprehensive Guide to Soundproofing and Sound Absorption with JCW Acoustic

 A Comprehensive Guide to Soundproofing and Sound Absorption with JCW Acoustic   When it comes to crafting a peaceful and noise-free environment, understanding the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption is crucial. In this guide, we'll delve into the essentials of these acoustic solutions and explore how JCW products can help you achieve tranquility in various scenarios. Soundproofing vs. Sound Absorption Soundproofing Soundproofing is…

Keeping you toasty: The lowdown on central heating pumps

Picture this: It's a chilly winter morning and you're shivering in your cozy home, but thanks to a little-known hero in your heating system, you're soon wrapped in warmth. That unsung hero is the heating circulating pump. In this article, we're going to dive into the world of heating circulating pumps, focusing on popular brands like Grundfos UPS3 and Keyplumb, as well as other vital information to…

Do I need planning permission for cladding?

Do I need planning permission for cladding? Planning renovations to your house can be exciting, but it’s important to make sure you’ve thought about all the important considerations before you start buying supplies or hiring builders. Planning permission is one thing that could put the brakes on your project, so checking out in advance what the…

How to build a sleeper retaining wall

How to build a sleeper retaining wall Having a retaining wall built out of sleepers instead of concrete or bricks can make for a simple, more naturalistic alternative that works just as well. This is something that can be done as a DIY project, or with the assistance of expert contractors if you’re not…

How to clean artificial grass

How to clean artificial grass One reason that artificial grass has become so popular over recent years is that it requires far less maintenance than a traditional lawn. Since the grass isn’t real, the turf will stay lush and verdant all year round, making it an excellent choice for those who lack green…

How to Clad a Wall

How to Clad a Wall Cladding can provide lots of benefits for your home. It’s a durable, long-lasting protective covering for your walls, offering weather protection and improved thermal insulation. It also has great aesthetic appeal, allowing you to create a unique and eye-catching look for your home. If you want a property with kerb…

How to Lay Artificial Grass

How to lay artificial grass Planning a makeover of your outdoor space with artificial grass? Whether it’s a tiny patch in your front yard or the whole of your back garden, it can make any space feel a little more welcoming. Plus, artificial grass is low maintenance and not affected by drought, flooding or extreme weather. It’s great if you have kids…

How to remove silicone sealant

How to remove silicone sealant If you’re renovating a kitchen or bathroom, one of the jobs you might need to tackle is removing old silicone sealant. It may be tired, peeling away or ragged at the edges, or perhaps applied in error. If previous attempts at sealing a bath, shower or sink were a little messy, you’ll need…

How to prepare for installing artificial grass

How to prepare for installing artificial grass     Laying artificial grass can be an excellent way to upgrade your outdoor area with a naturalistic look that doesn’t take up all your time to maintain. But if you’re planning to install artificial grass in your garden, you’ll need to prep the area -…

How to lay sleepers for garden edging

How to lay sleepers for garden edging     Sleepers are a hugely versatile resource when it comes to garden features, as they can be incorporated into any number of designs and DIY projects. With a naturalistic, wooden aesthetic, they’re perfect for rustic layouts, and if something more modern is required, they can be…

What is sealant?

What is sealant? Whether you’re building something as big as a house or just performing a simple DIY task, chances are at some point you’ll need to fit together two dissimilar materials. It can be hard to get a good fit when this occurs, which can lead to leakage between the materials - whether…

How to use sealant guns

How to use Sealant Guns   Whether you’re a total newbie to using sealant guns or you’re a seasoned pro, it’s never too late to learn some handy tips and tricks to help you wield these tools with confidence. Applying sealant can be a delicate project that requires patience and a…

What is cladding?

What is cladding?   Cladding is a frequently used term in the construction world. However, if you're not familiar with cladding, then it can be hard to research the various options out there. To learn more about it so you can decide what is right for your project, keep reading. What is cladding on…

What are Sleepers?

What are Sleepers?   Sleepers are a mainstay of many construction projects, with a range of uses for both the professional and the DIYer. They’re known by a variety of terms - railway sleepers, landscaping timber, garden sleepers - but regardless of what you call them, do you know what they are? Keep reading to learn more about…

What is Ironmongery?

What is ironmongery?     If you’re carrying out renovations or putting the finishing touches on a building project, you’re going to need to know about ironmongery. It’s used in homes and other buildings far more than you may think. In fact, you’ll find it in everything from doors…

What is Chipboard?

What is chipboard?     If you’re tackling building or renovation work, you’re likely to come across chipboard. It’s a commonly used sheet material, popular due to its affordability and versatility. But what exactly is it, how is it made and what can you use it for? Firstly, let’s look at what chipboard is. Also known as particle…

What is Aggregate in Construction?

What is aggregate in construction?     In the world of construction, the term ‘aggregate’ is commonly used. You’ll hear it in relation to cement and concrete, foundations and footings. But what does it actually mean? Read on to find out more about aggregates in construction, including how to work out how much aggregate you need for…

How Much Sand and Cement Do I Need?

How much sand and cement do I need? Planning a DIY paving project, or building something more substantial? One of the many materials you’re likely to need is cement, combined with just the right amount (and type) of sand to get the perfect mix.

Should I remove old loft insulation?

Should I remove old loft insulation? Thinking of replacing your loft insulation? Perhaps it’s old, damaged or starting to disintegrate, or has been affected by moisture due to a leak in the roof. Or maybe you’re thinking of upgrading your loft insulation, and want to know whether you need to…

How to install air bricks

How to install air bricks Ventilation is critical for controlling moisture within homes and other buildings. Without a properly balanced system of heating and ventilation, moisture can build up. Ultimately, it can cause problems with damp and mould. One way of providing ventilation to the structure of your property is with air…

What is Galvanised Steel?

What is galvanised steel? Galvanised steel is a versatile, reliable and durable material suitable for all kinds of metalwork projects. It has all kinds of useful properties, such as being rust and corrosion resistant. It’s also extraordinarily long-lasting, depending on the conditions it’s exposed to. Now, how is galvanised steel made? It’s a type of steel which has been coated in zinc, usually through a ‘hot dip’ application process. This is where clean steel…

Can I use Masonry Hangers on Timber?

Can I use a masonry hanger on timber?   Joist hangers are a form of builders' metalwork used in a variety of construction projects. Sometimes referred to as jiffy hangers, they're often involved in the structural framework of buildings. As their name suggests, their main purpose is to help fix joists…

Are air bricks necessary?

Are air bricks necessary? Air bricks are useful things that help to prevent costly damp problems within homes. However, if you’re concerned about the implications of installing air bricks, you might be wondering if they’re really necessary. Below, we’ll explain everything you need to be aware of. Do I need air bricks? Air bricks are typically used to increase the air flow and…

Can you tile on Plywood?

  Can you tile on Plywood? Plywood is one of the most well known sheet materials around. There are different types of plywood, including shuttering ply and weather and boil-proof (WBP) plywood, and each type is suited for various uses and projects. Let’s take a more in depth look at what you…

What are air bricks?

What are air bricks?   Does your home have a suspended floor or cavity walls? If so, it’s likely that you already have air bricks installed. If you’ve not come across them before, you might not even be aware that they’re there. But what actually are air bricks,…

What is a Damp Proof Course?

What is a damp proof course?   Worried about damp in your home, or working on a property with potential damp issues? Whatever the case, you’ll want to know about damp proofing measures. In this guide, we’ll be putting damp proof courses under the microscope.…

How much Insulation do I need in my loft?

How much Insulation do I need in my loft? The recent cost of living crisis has sent energy bills soaring. So to keep bills in check, many of us are trying to find ways to reduce our energy consumption. One of the most effective things you can do is improve the insulation in your home,…

What is Top Soil?

What is Top Soil? Tackling a garden project? You’ll need to make sure you’re using the right kind of soil or compost for the right purpose. In this guide, we’ll look at top soil, exploring what it is and how best to use it. And of course, how it’s different from other garden soils and composts. The…

What is MDF?

What is MDF? Close up of a carpenter with a stack of MDF boards in a workshop If you’re trying to choose the right sheet materials for a project, one option you’re bound to come across is MDF. But what actually is MDF, how is…

Underground Drainage: Explained

img: Underground drainage fittings layout What is Underground Drainage? Domestic underground drainage, or foul drainage, refers to the network of pipes, manholes, and other structures that are used to collect and transport sewage and surface water away from homes and other buildings…

What is the difference between breather membrane and building paper?

What is the difference between breather membrane and building paper? What is building paper / What is a breathable membrane? Building paper and breathable membranes are both materials that are used in construction as a moisture barrier to protect buildings from water damage. Both building paper and breathable membranes are installed on the exterior…

How much does an extension cost?

See below or click here for our interactive estimator   …

How to lay a Driveway with blocks

What are concrete Driveway Blocks? Driveway blocks are an essential element of any driveway design, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These concrete driveway blocks come in a variety of styles, colours, and sizes, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect option to complement their home's…

How to Paint an Internal Door

How to paint internal doors Whether you’re buying new internal doors or just want to refresh the ones you have, giving them a new coat of paint can be a great way to personalise your doors. Adding a layer of paint to your doors not only tidies up scuff marks…

How big is an internal door?

How big is an internal door? If you’re in the market for an internal door, you’ve probably already measured your door frame to check which size door you need. But when you start shopping around for the right door, you’ll likely notice none of them are exactly the right size - unless you’re very lucky. So how do you go about buying an…

What is Timber?

Timber is a versatile building material used in many different types of construction projects for various purposes. The term timber refers both to the wood used in construction and the trees grown specially to provide that wood. Timber comes from a variety of different trees and can be made into many shapes and sizes. In addition, not all timber is created the same –…

How to Lay a Timber Deck

A timber deck can be a great addition to any garden, providing a purpose-built area to host parties, enjoy outdoor dining and soak up the sunshine. Whether you’re an expert looking…

How to Fit an Internal Door

If you’re looking to cut costs on a home renovation job, doing it yourself instead of getting in a specialist fitter can be a good way to keep the price down.…