DIY Academy category
Buying Guides DIY guides.
Clear UK homeowner guides for materials, trade counters, paint, tools, TV sizes, product choices and where spending more actually matters.
For London homeowners, the best place to buy materials depends on the job: Screwfix and Toolstation are strong for tools, fixings, plumbing bits and same-day collection; B&Q and Wickes suit visible DIY materials and weekend access; Travis Perkins and builders' merchants suit bulk building materials, timber, aggregate and trade deliveries. Cost: planning only; pro: depends on material basket. Timeline: 1-3 hours for an initial homeowner decision, or several days for a proper specification, quote comparison, material schedule and delivery plan.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide Beginner · 13 min read Screwfix vs Toolstation vs B&Q vs Wickes vs Travis PerkinsScrewfix and Toolstation are usually fast trade-counter choices for tools, fixings and small parts Cost: planning only; pro: compare like-for-like basket. Timeline: 1-3 hours for an initial homeowner decision, or several days for a proper specification, quote comparison, material schedule and delivery plan.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide Beginner · 11 min read Where to buy paint in London and the UKBuy paint based on room use, finish, durability and colour accuracy Cost: £25-£120 per room materials; pro: from £220/day. Timeline: 2-6 hours for choosing, testing and preparation decisions; actual decorating work can take 1-3 days per room depending on repairs, drying and finish level.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide Beginner · 12 min read Best paint for bathroom mould and damp roomsAnti-mould or bathroom paint can help in damp rooms, but it is not a cure for condensation, leaks, cold surfaces or poor ventilation Cost: £25-£120; pro: from £220/day. Timeline: 1-3 days for one normal room including preparation, filling, sanding, drying time and two coats. Whole-property decorating is usually several days to several weeks.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide Beginner · 10 min read What size TV should I buy for my viewing distance?For most living rooms, TV size should be chosen from viewing distance, wall width, seating height, glare and how the room is used Cost: planning only; pro: TV mounting from £89 call-out. Timeline: 30 minutes to 2.5 hours for a straightforward installation after measuring and checking wall type. Heavy items, poor walls, hidden services or multiple fittings take longer.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide Beginner · 11 min read What tools every homeowner should haveA homeowner toolkit should cover safe observation and small fixes: tape measure, screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable spanner, level, torch, utility knife, hammer, Allen keys, gloves and a basic drill only if you know wall types. Cost: £40-£200; pro: handyman from £55/hr when the task is beyond tools. Timeline: 1-3 hours for an initial homeowner decision, or several days for a proper specification, quote comparison, material schedule and delivery plan.
Best for: Homeowners comparing products, merchants or materials before spending money. Call a professional if: Book help if the job becomes unsafe, time-sensitive, regulated, technically uncertain or more expensive to fix if it goes wrong. Read guide