handyman Archives - Airtasker Blog

How to become a handyman full-time or on the side

Do you like fixing things around the house and wonder if you could make money doing it? Wonder no more, use this guide to know how to be a handyman!

Do you have a knack for fixing broken pipes and leaky taps? Can you do more than change a light bulb, such as replace old electrical wiring and outlets? When something needs repair, maintenance, or installation in your home, do you quickly rush to the scene?

If you answered “yes” and the prospect of earning money from your passion appeals to you, then you can become a handyman!

In this guide, you can learn how to become a licensed handyman and create a steady career or additional income. Read on below.

What you’ll need as a handyman

One of the best things about being a handyman is if you choose to work as an independent contractor, you’re pretty much your own boss. You can set your own hours, choose which jobs to take, and keep all that you earn (after paying the appropriate taxes and deducting the costs, that is).

You’ll need all the appropriate tools, equipment, and certifications or licenses necessary to do your job. Here’s a list of what you’ll likely need on your journey to becoming a reliable handyman.

Tools

As a handyman, you’re expected to tackle many different tasks that deal with various repair or construction issues in different areas of the house. Some of your handyman tasks can include:

Floor tile repair or installation
Installing or updating insulation
Plastering walls
Painting walls
Basic electrical repairs or maintenance
Basic plumbing repairs or maintenance

It’s advisable to get all the tools necessary for plumbing, electrical and carpentry work. Here’s a sample of what tools you’ll need:

Set of pliers
Set of screwdrivers
Set of wrenches
Set of chisels
Hammer or nail gun
Metal snips
Tape measure
Spirit level
Tile saw
Drywall hawk
Electric sander
Stud finder
Cordless drill with drill bits and hole saw attachments of various sizes
Toolbox or tool bag
Electrical tester
Wheelbarrow
Marking tools like carpenter’s pencils
Headlamp or flashlight with clip

These are but a small sample of the tools you might need. Depending on the scope of your work, the list can become longer or shorter. And as you go through training courses, you’ll have a clearer picture of what sort of handyman services you want to deliver, which will help you determine exactly which tools you’ll need.

Safety equipment

Apart from the tools to perform your duties as a handyman, you’ll need the proper safety equipment. The basic safety equipment you should have in your kit can include:

Safety gloves
Safety goggles
Hard hat safety helmet
Safety shoes or safety boots
Rubber boots (for treading or wading in water)
Safety harness
Dust mask

Safety equipment is just as important as your tools. If you choose to work for a service provider or contractor, you can’t always expect them to provide you with safety equipment, so prepare to get your own. Some contractors or customers may not even allow you to work if you don’t have them.

Apart from potential objections from your employer or customer, even the most cautious handyman can’t predict accidents at the worksite, so always have the appropriate safety gear ready.

Proper training and skills development

Part of how to become a handyman entails training. Don’t rely on the basic handyman skills you already have when dealing with new or unfamiliar tasks. Without proper training, you’re prone to making mistakes and you may also end up hurting yourself.

You can get training from community colleges, NGOs, vocational schools, or courses offered by government offices. Another way to develop the skills you already have is to apply for an apprenticeship with other experts. You also have the option of joining service companies or charitable institutions that provide training.

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Attempting to do work that you don’t have the training or skills for can also result in shoddy workmanship and unsatisfied customers. Here are some of the skills you must have or can develop as you learn how to become a certified handyman:

Installing windows and doors
Using power tools and hand tools
Basic building and construction
Painting
Clearing and maintaining rooms
Clearing and maintaining gardens

As you start, stick with what you know. Declining to do a job is better than doing a bad job, as the latter can get you bad reviews! These bad reviews can ruin your reputation and prevent you from getting more jobs in the future.

UK licences and certifications

Another advantage of becoming a handyman is its relative ease. If you plan to become a handyman that specialises in simple handyman tasks, you don’t need any special licence or formal training.

However, you can avail of government-certified training courses at accredited universities to upgrade your skills and get certified as a plumber or electrician. You can also get OSHA certification to do more complex construction work.

Insurance

If you’re a handyman, insurance isn’t usually required by law but it’s advisable to have an insurance policy—especially if you work as an independent contractor. Here are the types of insurance policies you can get as a handyman; note that these policies are optional unless required by state law:

Worker’s compensation insurance

This type of insurance is applicable if you’re working for a service provider or contractor. It covers injuries or illnesses sustained on the job. Most states require this type of insurance for their workers.

Commercial auto insurance

This covers any accidental injuries or damages sustained or caused by business vehicles. For example, if your van or truck sideswipes another car, your commercial auto insurance pays for the damages or any injuries sustained by the concerned parties.

Tool and equipment insurance

This type of insurance is used to fix or replace any damaged, broken, stolen, or vandalized tools and equipment. This can cover equipment at your workshop, stored in your commercial vehicle, or at the worksite.

Professional liability insurance

This covers costs and liabilities due to errors in execution, failure to meet deadlines and stipulations, and other forms of a breach of contract.

Commercial property insurance

This covers the cost of repairs or replacement of business assets, tools, equipment, and other inventory items due to accidents, work hazards, or natural disasters like earthquakes or floods.

Transportation

You’ll need reliable transportation for your work as a handyman, as having your own truck or van isn’t only about getting to your worksite on time. A business vehicle also serves as secure and safe storage and transport for your tools and safety equipment. In some cases, you may also have to use your truck to procure and transport materials from the supply store to the worksite.

Physical fitness

Handyman work can require significant effort like repeatedly going up and down flights of stairs, lifting heavy equipment, or carrying loads of materials to the worksite.

To be efficient and to be able to handle more handyman jobs, it’s advisable that you keep yourself in decent shape. Try to maintain a level of physical fitness that allows you to lift and carry at least 25kg without too much exertion on your part.

Getting handyman jobs

Once you’ve acquired the appropriate licenses or certifications and training for becoming a handyman, get your tools and equipment ready and start taking on jobs! A good way to begin is to let your neighbours know that you’re now offering your services as a handyman. Here are some simple ways to promote your services:

Go door-to-door to promote your services in your neighbourhood
Distribute flyers to nearby areas
Use social media as a promotion or sales tool

You can also sign up on Airtasker, create a profile, and start offering your services to customers.

Become a handyman, get hired on Airtasker

Working as a handyman in your spare time can be a rewarding part-time gig that boosts your income. To get started, become a Tasker and choose from lots of jobs available on the Airtasker platform. Sign up now!

FAQs on being a handyman

What can a handyman legally do in the UK?

A handyman can do the basic installation, repair, or maintenance jobs around the house. Note that handymen don’t have certifications or licences to do complicated plumber or electrician jobs—for these tasks, they’ll need formal training and government certification.

What skills do you need to be a handyman?

The skills needed to be a handyman include knowing how to do basic electrical, plumbing, and construction tasks. Apart from that, it’s helpful to have problem-solving skills as handyman jobs aren’t always the same. You may have to come up with creative solutions to repair or install different fixtures in your customers’ homes.

Is being a handyman profitable?

Aim to charge a decent rate, attract the right customers, and deliver excellent service to make your business profitable. The trick is to get enough jobs you can do well while keeping your customers happy. Happy customers will not only rely on your services but they’ll refer you to new customers too.

Making the most of the home that you have

Handy tips on how to give your house a refresh

Renovating your home needn’t be an intimidating thought, and there’s plenty you can do without knocking down a single wall.

From easy alterations to accessible design style, we’ve pulled together our favourite tips from our talented Taskers to give your home the refresh it deserves.

The stairway to a better… home

One of the most impactful ways to transform your home is by adding some personality to your staircase. A stair runner is an easy and affordable way to do just that – just make sure to opt for a bold colour to make a real statement. This trick is easy to implement on uncarpeted wooden stairs, but even without them, ripping up the carpet, sanding, then painting/varnishing isn’t too a technical job to sort yourself.

Source: Pinterest – House & Garden Magazine UK

If you’re not confident in your carpet ripping or staircase runner-based skills, find a handyman on Airtasker who will be able to help instead.

Get to know Billy (… Bookcase)

You all know Billy, right? The Billy Bookcase from IKEA, perhaps their most popular product. Yes, that one. But forget the fact that so many people have it already, this relatively cheap bit of kit is an internet favourite, with a seemingly endless amount of options of how to use it – large in thanks to its adjustable shelves, variable widths and heights, and changeable colour.

Want to create a style or feature wall, add a storage system-cum-kitchen island, or just create your own stylish room divider? BILLY CAN HELP.

Image source: www.southernrevivals.com

Re-tile your kitchen or bathroom

This might sound like a more expensive job than expected, but there are plenty of options from big retailers for reasonably-priced tiles that still pack a punch in the style department. For an easy and budget-friendly option, update your splashback or bathroom with a simple white tile, and try a grey grout for a cool industrial effect. Head to places like Topps Tiles for around 31p per tile.

Image source: www.cocolapinedesign.com

A fresh lick of paint

Seems like a simple one, but painting some or all of your house can make all the difference. Use light or neutral colours to give the illusion of more space, or if you really want to switch up the decor of a room while you’re at it, why not paint one wall a bold colour to create a statement design? It’s an old trick, but one that works.

…and forget following the herd and only using luxury paint products, according to most interior designers worth their weight in strategically-placed coffee table books, a high street brand like Dulux will do the job nicely.

Image source: www.domino.com

Create a DIY headboard

Okay, this one is a lot less intimidating than it looks. If you have a flat bed, a DIY headboard can really bring it to life and make some good use of the drab blank wall space right behind your bed. Seek out inspiration on Pinterest and then prepare to get crafty. You could try some of the ideas below:

Hang a textile. You could nail a rug or a wall hanging for an easy DIY headboard
Paint one on the wall. Admittedly, this one requires more creativity and some serious precision. But it can be done on a budget and looks great.
Paint the lower half of the wall just above your bed. Make sure the line is super straight and presto – you have a makeshift headboard.
Get creative with some wood. If your DIY skills are up to scratch, build yourself a headboard with shelving in it for function + design.

Source: Pinterest – Homedecorbedrooms.club

Lastly, don’t make any cliché mistakes

You’ve decided to refresh your home, and that’s great – but before you hop to it, just make sure you’re all set on the following considerations:

Do you have the skills to complete the job? Home renovating and decorating can be a fun task, but take on something you don’t have the ability to do yourself at your own peril – you might end up creating more work (and cost) for yourself down the line.

If in doubt, post your task on Airtasker to get help from trusted and local handymen in your area.

Have you checked the rules and regulations? If knocking down walls, adding staircases, or adding extensions or conservatories – make sure you have the relevant permission before you start the work.

Is there enough wiggle room in the budget? One of the top renovation mistakes that almost everyone makes is blowing the budget. To avoid budget blow out, talk to professionals, tradespeople and people who have renovated before, before commencing work.
Have you properly planned? ‘Fail to plan, plan to fail’ – a cliché quote for a cliché problem. Kicking off any grand plans without properly planning leads to chaos and calamity, just ask Theresa May. Plan everything out, including timelines, where you’ll get your materials, where you’ll find the right tradespeople, and costs involved. You’ll thank yourself for doing so later.

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And there you have it; happy refreshing!

Looking for some help with your upcoming renovation or home? Find local and reviewed handymen and tradespeople on Airtasker

How to make and style your own balcony bar

Turn your outdoor space into a comfy chill zone.

For all you city dwellers confused about what to do with your tiny flat balcony, consider building a balcony bar. Whether you have great views or not, it can help you make the most of your (no matter how minimal) outdoor space.

Why? Well it’s somewhere to sit on a balmy summer’s eve and enjoy a drink, or even dinner. And how great would it be to brunch al fresco on a lazy Sunday morning, in your pyjamas?

(No, building a balcony bar is not as complicated as it sounds. And hey, if you need an extra hand, there are plenty of handyman services in Brighton.)

How to make a balcony bar

Source: Pinterest – balkon.bar

Begin by creating your counter top with slabs of wood

Start with gathering some slabs of wood and screw together to form a counter top.

Make sure you add a little lip at the top to protect anything you place on it.

Next, sand down the wood

So far, so good?

Stain or paint with your colour of preference

A light colour gives a more natural look, and a bright colour can add a touch of summer vibrancy (that you might just need as we approach the winter months!).

Keep it simple though, as anything too bold may clash with any styling you choose for the rest of your balcony space.

Add a top coat to weatherproof

Since your balcony bar is going to be exposed to the elements, add a clear top coat designed for the outdoors to keep it protected.

Construct brackets to hook onto balcony railing

Finally, construct the brackets which you’ll need to hook your bar onto your balcony railing. Remember, your counter top can easily be removed as and when you need more space.

All done! Finish off with some bar stools and you’re set to dine al fresco whenever you fancy it.

Not sure you can handle it? Reach out to handyman services in Brighton for help.

Style:

Outdoor textiles and rugs

It’s time to cosy up the joint. To make your balcony space a little homelier, don’t hold back on piling on the textiles. By layering elements such as rugs and plush cushions, you’ll be more inclined to spend your time there.

Fairy lights

To add some ambience in the evening, fairy lights always work well at emitting a warm glow. Sure, you can light up some candles when you’re dining but a little breeze could blow them out with ease.

They’re much loved for a reason! Go for solar string lights for an eco-friendly option.

Add some green

Source: Pinterest – homefulies.com

Add a little plant action into the mix. Hanging plants are a great choice for balconies.

Not only does the green look great, but you can also plant a mini herb garden to get some fresh ingredients without leaving your abode.

Or, you could even learn how to grow a full-blown balcony vegetable garden.

Need a little help with your balcony bar? Find trusted and local handymen in Brighton with Airtasker.

Tips to feel at home in student accommodation

Easy ways to love where you live.

Chances are your uni halls or student house will be somewhere between ‘a bit basic’ and ‘what’s that smell?’. If things switch on and off when they’re supposed to, a lack of loveliness isn’t a deal breaker – yet you don’t need tons of cash or creativity to feel at home.

There are limits to what you’re allowed to do to student accommodation, so keep it simple. Think clean, clear and colourful, and you’ll be cosy in no time.

Need help bringing your DIY-design dreams to life? Find trusted and local handymen on Airtasker.

1. Avoid clutter

Treat packing for uni like applying fake tan: it’s easier to top up than deal with the excess. That doesn’t mean going fully minimalist – just pack with transport and storage in mind.

Plastic crates with lids are great for moving day, and double as storage if you’re short of drawers or shelves
Check what’s included in the rent: you may not need to buy a desk lamp, cutlery or other basics.
Sharing? Try to co-ordinate who brings common gadgets. No house needs more than one kettle (and your electricity bill will thank you).

2. Keep it clean

Keeping stuff spotless means fewer smells, slugs, bugs or mice. It’s also far nicer for studying, sleeping or having mates round.

This is where those plastic crates are twice as nice: if don’t do your dishes or hang clothes up straight away, stick them in a box and pop the lid on until you’re ready to deal with them. Keeping your mess contained goes a long way to defusing arguments with flatmates, too …

3. Grow pleasing things

Fruit, veg and flowers can thrive in almost any kind of container, from boots to birdcages. You can grow lots of plants from seed for pennies, they brighten the place, plus you can munch the edible stuff later on. If you’ve ever binned uneaten salad, or don’t want to pay supermarket prices for fresh veg, make-do gardening is worth a go!

4. Get hands-on

Before buying brand new, check gumtree, freecycle and local noticeboards to find furniture and furnishings for free, cheap or swaps. Even a quick scrub and polish can get these into decent condition, though you can go as far as you like. Selling rescued furniture when you move (or as a side business) can bring in a bit of profit, too.

Alternatively, have a wander through YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest for arts, crafts and life hacks. It’s hard to feel like it’s a chore when you’re making your own candles or turning plastic cups into phone speakers.

5. If it’s your fault, fix it

Most things that go wrong in a student house are likely to come under the landlord’s watch – so make sure they stick to the bargain.

However, if you break, smash or scratch your landlord’s gear take action early (or you could end up with a dent in your deposit instead):

A small tester pot of paint can cover up minor wall issues – but only if you know the exact shade to use
Plaster filler can fix damage from nails and pins, but it’s best to avoid the issue altogether: check what kind of fixings are allowed and, if in doubt, stick with a pin board
Don’t just replace furniture or fittings and hope your landlord doesn’t clock it. Flag it up and agree what you’ll take care of.

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Giving your rented accommodation some TLC doesn’t make for a nicer home – it makes it more likely you’ll get your deposit back in full, plus it shows you’re a keeper when it’s time to renew the lease.

9 DIY Instagram accounts you should be following

For some seriously drool-worthy inspiration.

Home renovation and DIY inspiration is everywhere on Instagram.

If you’re about embark on some DIY work of your own, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of envy inducing craft skills and home transformations on display.

Keep your feed stream lined by following a more curated selection. Here are the 9 DIY accounts you need in your life for a daily dose of inspo:

1. PSimadethis

Started in 2009 by DIY queen Erica Domesek, this popular lifestyle brand covers everything from fashion to beauty to home decor.

From the looks of it, Erica knows how to make pretty much anything by hand. And she even sells DIY kits if you don’t feel like foraging for supplies.

2. The House that Lars Built

Designer Brittany Jepsen curates this fun feed full of cute craft ideas and lots of bright colours.

Prepare to get the urge to turn seriously artsy.

3. Sugar & Cloth

Packed with DIY tutorials, and design and decor suggestions, Ashley Rose’s Sugar & Cloth Instagram account will keep your feed full of gorgeous shots. She also has a blog with lots of great DIY help and content.

Oh, and the pics of her super cute baby don’t hurt.

4. Elsie + Emma A Beautiful Mess

If you’re looking for DIY inspiration to cover any budget, check out this account started by sisters Elsie and Emma.

This is one you could easily spend a long and lazy afternoon perusing through.

Screenshot ideas you love as you scroll, and find DIY help to bring them to life.

5. Emily Henderson

Emily Henderson has a long and impressive list of stylish credentials, and you can see why with just one look at this stream of gorgeous interior design focussed content.

You should be able to find enough inspo here to want to renovate every room of your house.

6. Kelly Mindell

Covering everything from quirky crafts to stunning home renovations, Kelly Mindell’s Insta account will add a dose of fun to your daily feed.

7. Jenni Radosevich

If you’re currently renovating your home (or considering it), look no further for some seriously stylish DIY inspiration.

Jenni Radosevich’s Instagram stories are great for easy to follow DIY tutorials, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with every nook and cranny of her home.

8. Kate Watson-Smyth

Kate Watson-Smyth is one of the most influential figures in the UK interior decor scene. Soak up some of her fabulous sense of design by following this account and checking out her regularly updated blog.

There’s a fairly massive archive of DIY content and home decor news to keep you occupied and inspired.

9. Helen Powell

Lovers of simple and chic decor, take note. Helen Powell AKA the Design Hunter has all the minimalist inspiration you need to transform your home into a stylish Scandi nirvana of your very own.

It’s calming to even just scroll through.

Need some help with your next DIY project? Connect with trusted and local handymen with Airtasker.

5 DIY home staging tips

5 tips to take you help sell your house.

Another day, another viewing.

Granted, it’s debatable whether now is a good time to sell, but it can get a little nerve wracking when your property isn’t shifting despite countless viewings.

So, where is it all going wrong?

According to the HomeOwners Alliance, it could be one of five reasons.

But, let’s focus on one thing at a time…

First impressions are important. In this case, they’re particularly crucial. So ask yourself this…have you spruced up your place enough to make people want it?

As in, really want it. Before anyone else gets their hands on it.

Enter home staging.

In a nutshell, home staging is the process of organising and styling your home to get it off the market (for the best price) as quickly as possible.

We’re not talking massive costly renovations here. A few simple changes to the presentation and ‘vibe’ could be all it takes. And an effective combo of decluttering and decorating won’t just get your home sold quicker, effective home staging can sometimes even boost value a little.

Professional home stagers are a thing, but their services can be pricey. DIY staging is the way forward if you’re on a budget.

Here are the 5 essential DIY home staging tips you need to get this sale going:

1. Repair and refresh

Start the staging process by getting any repairs done. Yes, even those you’ve been putting of for ages. Sure, buyers will expect your home to look lived in, but nothing should look too worn or tired.

The better shape your home is in, the less staging will be required. Get DIY help if you need to, but get that window frame fixed and that peeling wall repainted.

2. Depersonalise and declutter

As tough as it is it to hear, buyers don’t necessarily want to be faced with multiple photos of your cousin’s wedding or your nephew’s scribbles plastered up on your fridge. They want to envision themselves living there, and lots of personal stuff can cloud their visions. Which you definitely don’t want.

‘De-personalise’ the place by packing up as many personal items as possible.

Clutter is a big no-no when you’re trying to sell your home. It can make your place look smaller, and potential buyers may worry about a lack of storage space.

Put it away, you’ll have to clear it all up for the packing process anyway.

Don’t just cram things into closets – some viewers may poke their heads in there as well. Rent a storage unit if you need to, or stash some stuff at a friend’s place.

3. Open up the space

Source: Pinterest – nordichouse.co.uk

The ‘feeling’ of space is a huge selling point. And let’s face it, we don’t get much of it in London flats.

Other than decluttering, there are a couple of tricks to make your rooms look and feel as spacious as possible.

For instance, painting walls white can brighten up a room as white reflects all colours. And then there’s mirrors. Probably the most surefire way of opening up even the most cramped of rooms. They’re cheap too. You can pick up framed mirrors of different sizes from your local charity shop.

Need a hand with your paint job? DIY painting help is available at Airtasker.

4. It’s all about the little touches

Source: Pinterest – sofaworkshop.com

Although you want your home to look like a blank-ish canvas so potential buyers can envision themselves there, you definitely don’t want it to look devoid of life. Liven up the place with some indoor plants and flowers.

Even a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen adds a homely vibe and a splash of colour and texture. Opt for long lasting fruits, such as green apples or oranges. It’s inexpensive, and hey, maybe you’ll start meeting your 5-a-day.

Finally, appeal to the sense of smell by making sure your home is smelling fresh and hotel-like. (The flowers will help.)

5. Improve your curb appeal

Although home staging usually refers to the interior of your home, don’t forget to give the exterior some TLC pre-viewings too.

Let’s start with the obvious. Clean up the outside spaces of any leaves, clutter, or rubbish. Make sure your windows are sparkling clean. Yep, buyers can be put off by simple stuff like this.

Give your front door a fresh lick of paint and make sure any greenery is in good shape. Box plants are great for evergreen and neat looking option.

Oh and finally, work on that virtual appeal. The first time many potential buyers are likely to see your home is through photos on an online listing. Find a professional property photographer skilled at making homes look Pinterest-worthy.

Need help staging your house pre-sell? Get help from trusted and rated handyman services in London with Airtasker.

Budget home improvement inspiration

Want to make some quick and affordable home improvements? Read on.

Want to improve your home without spending too much? It’s very possible. Here are some home improvement tips that you can do yourself, or with a little help, on a budget.

A fresh lick of paint

Source: Pinterest – Farrow & Ball

Sometimes, a fresh paint job makes a huge difference. And it doesn’t necessarily even need to be a new colour. If your walls or cabinets are peeling or fading, a fresh lick of paint could be just the refresh they need. If you really want to switch up the decor of a room while you’re at it, why not paint one wall a bold colour to make a statement?

Source: Pinterest – Elle Decoration UK

For a quick update, painting your kitchen cabinets can help liven up your kitchen without needing to invest in a whole new set.

Can’t paint your walls cause you’re renting? You could apply some temporary wallpaper.

Spruce up your stairs with a runner

Source: Pinterest – House & Garden Magazine UK

A really simple and easy way to liven up your stairs is by getting a runner. They’re affordable, easy to install, and easily replaceable. Opt for a bold colour if you’re ready to make a statement in your hallway.

Open up rooms with mirrors

It’s a well-known fact that mirrors can make a room feel bigger as they reflect light. If you want to make your home feel more spacious but can’t afford an extension, adding more mirrors could be the most affordable way to do so.

Source: Pinterest – One Crazy House

There’s no need to stick to just walls, you can also install mirrors on to closet doors to make your bedroom feel more spacious. And let’s face it, a full length mirror right outside your closet door is pretty useful.

Create a DIY headboard

Source: Pinterest – Homedecorbedrooms.club

Hang a textile. You could nail a rug or a wall hanging for an easy DIY headboard
Paint one on the wall. Admittedly, this one requires more creativity and some serious precision. But it can be done on a budget and looks great.
Paint the lower half of the wall just above your bed. Make sure the line is super straight and presto – you have a makeshift headboard.
Get creative with some wood. If your DIY skills are up to scratch, build yourself a headboard with shelving in it for function + design.

Get some quirky door handles/knobs

Source: Pinterest – Etsy

Door knobs are super affordable and extremely easy to install. For added quirk factor, use different door knobs for all your kitchen cabinets. You can find great ceramic ones on Etsy.

Build a stylish shelving solution

Source: Pinterest – Garden Trading

If you’re not yet confident with your DIY skills, hire a handyman to help out with this one. A DIY storage solution serves two purposes: it’s functional, and you can use it to display items. Not only are you building (or assembling) something that can store your things, you can also use it as a design element by showcasing your favourite photos and plants.

If you’re after budget renting home improvements, you can add a shelving unit that doesn’t attach to the wall.

Looking for a handyman in London for your home improvement aspirations? Find trusted and reviewed professionals on Airtasker.

5 home decor trends for 2018

Deck out your home with the latest interior design trends of 2018.

Keen to spruce up your space but not sure where to start? Find some serious home interiors inspiration using this list of what’s hot this year.

…and if you’re not ready for a complete design overhaul, you could start by incorporating a few elements from each for a quick refresh:

1. Marble

Pinterest has gone crazy for marble this year. Green marble, in particular, has been trending on the platform. It’s easy to understand the obsession with marble. There’s just something about it that injects instant opulent vibes into any room. And it feels cool and luxurious to the touch.

It’s not just marble itself, you can also find swathes of fabrics and textiles with marble prints and patterns. Which makes this trend a little easier to afford and adopt. Scout out bed linen and wallpapers with a sumptuous marble effect finish to easily include this trend into your home.

Want to incorporate some quirky additions into your home but don’t have the skills (or time) to complete the task yourself? No sweat – just hire a handyman via Airtasker to help sort the job at hand.

2. Dark woods

Looking to update your furniture in 2018? Expect to see lots of dark oak and deep mahogany if you go furniture hunting this year. Dark wooden furniture pieces are great for adding gravitas and that much-desired luxurious feel into any home. They also look pretty great against some of the tropical prints that are everywhere this year. (More on that later).

If you’re not ready to splurge on expensive wooden pieces, remember, dark wooden furniture was in style ‘back in the day’ too. Check out your local second-hand furniture shop for some surprisingly impressive ‘pre-loved’ finds.

3. Earthy tones

Earthy colours such as clay and terracotta are having a major moment in the interior design world in 2018. Let’s face it, we all crave a little more nature in our lives. And this trend is all about creating a natural and outdoorsy feel throughout the interiors of our homes.

There’s no need to go all out by painting all your walls terracotta. You can subtly incorporate this trend into your home by adding splashes of these colours using rugs or cushions.

4. Tropical prints

Inspired by the fashion runway, the tropical print trend has made its way to the world of interior design. Add a summery feel to your home by adding in dark leafy prints and gorgeous bright colours. A tropical cushion cover or a framed jungle print is a quick and easy way to include this interior design trend in your home decor.

Liven up your home with a tropical vibe by getting yourself a low maintenance house plant.

5. Recycled Materials

With many of us now consciously trying to make more sustainable shopping choices, this trend carries into the interior design world as well. In 2018, more people than ever are gravitating towards furnishings and fabrics made of recycled materials.

Many designers have caught on to this trend and are becoming quite creative with producing unusual pieces using recycled goods. If you want to be stylish but still environmentally friendly in your decor choices, you’ll now be able to find plenty of recycled options to choose from.

Need to hire a handyman to help make your home decor dreams come true? Find trusted and rated professionals on Airtasker.

Home improvement inspiration for renters

Want to make your rental home a little homelier? Check out our 5 easy home improvement tips.

Being part of ‘Generation Rent’ doesn’t have to prevent you from having a Pinterest-worthy home. Home improvements aren’t just for homeowners, and with a bit of creativity, tenants can spruce up their space without incurring a scratch. There are plenty of easy hacks to personalise your rental home, with or without the help of handyman services.

Here’s some home improvement inspiration to help you get started:

Stick on some removable wallpaper

Sure, you can’t paint your bedroom wall into that deep forest green you love. But there’s no need to stare at drab beige walls all day. You can add some of your personality onto the walls with temporary wallpaper.

These easy ‘peel and stick’ wallpapers leave no mess behind, and can often be re-used multiple times. They’re now widely available online in stores like Etsy and Wayfair. It doesn’t take a DIY expert to put these up, but have a friend over to help and you’ll have smoother results.

Temporary wallpaper isn’t just for walls. Add your favourite print inside your wardrobes and bookshelves for a splash of colour and drama.

Add some green into your life

House plants are an easy way to add some (literal) life into your rental home. Not only do they look lovely in every space of your home, they purify the air and add bright splashes of colour throughout. And there’s no need to say goodbye when your tenancy is over. It’s easy to take long lasting houseplants with you to your next rental abode.

No time for gardening maintenance? There are plenty of tough indoor plants that look pretty and don’t require too much love, such as aloe and spider plants.

A budget home improvement hack is to grow your own herbs – saving you money on grocery costs and adding instant green to your kitchen space.

Display your favourite art and photography pieces

This is an obvious but easy way to add your personal stamp to your rental home. You can display your favourite selection of photos and art on any countertops, side tables, and shelving units for an instant personal touch to your home.

Worried about damaging the walls with any hangings? There are plenty of ways around this. You can get picture hooks with adhesives that can be removed easily, and special tape or Blu Tac that doesn’t leave a trace.

Remember, art pieces don’t have to break the bank. You can easily find affordable prints of your favourite pieces at local markets and online. Frame and display with pride.

Style your storage solutions

This one may require a little bit of creativity to put together, but can add both space and style to your home at once. By adding a shelving unit such as a bookcase or a standing shelf that doesn’t attach to the wall, you can display your favourite photos, books and plants to the world. It’s also a good way to add extra storage space if your rental home doesn’t come with much.

DIY skills not totally up to scratch? Find London handyman services to help you bring your shelving vision to life.

Light it up

Your lighting choices can pretty much transform the atmosphere of any room in your home. No matter how well you style your room, it’s the lighting that really brings it to life. Most rental homes are equipped with overhead ceiling lights only, and they don’t really make a home feel warm and inviting.

It may just be a case of switching up the light shades or bulbs, or you could invest in a couple of great tables and floor lamps to change the ambience of your home. Remember, these are investments you can take to your next home.

Draw attention to specific spaces or art pieces with accent lightings such as table lamps and in-shelf lighting.

Looking for a handyman in London for your home improvement aspirations? Find trusted and reviewed professionals on Airtasker.

Airtasker Stories: Horace and Damien

This father and son pair are using Airtasker to work together and capitalise on their skills.

We caught up with father and son duo Horace and Damien to hear all about how they use Airtasker to work together, earn extra cash, and learn from each other’s skills in the process.

First up, Damien; how did you and your father go into business?

Damien (son): “My dad has always been self-employed; he first started out his career painting and doing odd decorating jobs, but he has since broadened his portfolio and now does a variety of odd jobs such as property development and restoration. When I was younger, he started bringing me to some his jobs and I started to learn on the job.”

What skills do you have that your Dad hasn’t yet learned?

Damien: “My house is like a bike museum and I’m really good at repairing and restoring bikes! That’s something that my Dad doesn’t know how to do. I would also say I am pretty good with computers, especially at coding and operating systems, whereas my Dad isn’t so hot on the technical stuff.”

What are the three key life skills that you think are essential to get through life?

Damien: “I think my generation is quite reliant on sat-navs to get around these days, so I think it is important to know how to use one. My geography isn’t great so I am reliant on my sat-nav to get to a job. I also think sending emails is essential. These days, people don’t want to text to book a job, they want to send an email.

Thirdly, I’d say having knowledge of using online platforms for sourcing extra jobs. With the rise in technology and everything going online, it’s important for me to have knowledge of navigating apps that can help us to find more work. My Dad didn’t grow up with this kind of technology, so I’m the one who tends to use it for our job.”

What are the best things about working as a father and son team?

Damien: “Just that we’re a family! We offer each other a lot of support which is good.”

Great, and Horace, what would you say are the key skills in life that you think you should teach your kids?

Horace: “It’s up to parents to pass on basic skills our kids will need in life. Preparing food and cooking meals are essential skills to have. I also think that is important that you teach them how to iron and wash.”

Good advice to live by. What skills has your son taught you?

Horace: “I have picked up a lot of skills from working with my son, he has taught me a great technique for fixing tape!”

What is the first skill that you taught your son?

Horace: “I first taught him how to ride a bike in the park. That’s probably why he’s so into bikes now, so I most likely had something to do with that!”

What is a job or task that you wish you could pay someone to do for you?

“Definitely washing – I don’t mind taking out the bins etc, however washing is the one I would pay someone to do for me if I could!”

We agree! Now one for both of you; what is your favourite type of job that you can complete together?

Horace (Dad): “I like wallpapering; I can wear a shirt and tie whilst doing it as it’s not a very messy job.”

Damien: “I like wood flooring as it’s generally a quick job and I can get in and out!”

—

Working with your family doesn’t always work out, but it sounds like it’s a real fit for Horace and Damien. Could you work with your Mum or Dad? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking for DIY or renovation help? find trusted handyman professionals in London on Airtasker.

Laundry organisation and storage tips

Create a whole load of extra space with these clever tips.

Washing clothes takes up time, but also space. And in a city like London, space isn’t something everyone has a whole load of. With that in mind, here are some nifty laundry organisation and storage tips to free up some valuable room.

Floating shelves

DIY floating shelves are an easy and inexpensive way to create additional space for detergents and towels. Spruce up a boring laundry room by opting for something simple and stylish, like these wooden shelves.

Source: Pinterest

Pull out storage tower

You can either add pull out drawers into your laundry design, or purchase freestanding slim storage carts. These are a great way to store and easily access your laundry products as needed.

Build yourself a counter top

If you’re up for a DIY challenge, you can create your own counter space just above the height of your front loader washing machine.

Laundry organisation and storage shelves

Built in shelves that neatly fit your laundry hampers or baskets make laundry organisation and storage so much easier.

If you don’t have built ins, you can do a DIY version. If you want to get really space-savvy, create one on wheels so it can be rolled from your bathroom to your laundry when needed.

Odd socks and small change

Where do you put all of the odd socks and random receipts without making a mess? Hanging ‘junk drawers’ are a great way to keep all the bits and pieces in one spot.

You can use one online, or use a large photo frame, pegs, string and wire to make your own. Wall hooks are also great for hanging items and little jars or containers for collecting loose change and bobby pins.

Hanging hampers

Save space and make laundry organisation and storage easier by hanging hampers from the wall. You can pop these away as needed and easily move them around.

Source: The Pin Junkie

Drying space

You can purchase drying racks that are mountable, foldable, extendable and more. You can also re-purpose almost anything to become a drying rack.

How about hanging a ladder from the ceiling, or suspending an old bed frame with wire springs to hang coat hangers from?

Source: Little Lucy Lu

Dispensers and containers

Make storing laundry products easier by using clear containers, and you’ll know exactly when you need to restock. Using dispenser taps is a great way to store liquid products too.

Hang your ironing board

You can buy purpose-made wall mountable racks to hang your ironing board and iron. This will save you space and stop the ironing board from crashing down on you. Towel hooks are a really effective option too.

Need a hand with laundry and home cleaning services in London? Get instant offers on Airtasker today.

Top house painting ideas

Want to paint like a pro? Now you can with these simple house painting ideas.

Found the motivation for a spot of painting but not exactly sure where to start? With a few ideas from our painting services crew, get ready to smock up and get started.

Painting colour ideas

So many colours, so little space..

Other than deciding whether to get handyman help, colour choice is one of the toughest decisions you will make when painting.

Here’s how to nail the perfect colour….

From the outside in

The exterior of your home will make or break your entire colour scheme. A well-executed exterior will add curb appeal to your home and offer long-term return on investment.

Highlight any architectural features like roof lines, gutters and doors. You can use various shades of the one colour, or mix it up using darker shades against lighter colours of paint
Use your existing landscape and driveway as colour choice inspiration
Fences help to frame the view of your home and cannot be ignored when selecting your colour scheme. Use a similar colour to the exterior of your home for painting your fence

Interior colours

Ensure your interior colours blend with those you have chosen for the exterior. It’s important to have a seamless colour transition from outside to inside, and from one room to the next.

General colour ideas

Dark walls have the potential to make a room appear smaller, whilst light colours have the opposite effect.

Some ideas that can counteract these perceptions are:

Dark walls with lighter trims make a room appear bigger
Light walls with darker trims make a room more intimate or homely
Cool colours in a large space can make a room look clinical. Just add some natural elements to the area like timber or textured linens.

Feng shui

Traditional feng shui principles have been used for centuries with colour selections. These ideas might provide some inspiration for you too.

Bedroom colours

Blue for calmness
Green for healing and renewal
Pink for warmth and energy

Living room colours

Both yin and yang colours should be used to balance a living area. For example:

Blue, grey, and black for soothing and peacefulness
Red or yellow represent an energetic vibe

Bathroom colours

Popular bathroom colours include blue, grey, white and lavender for a sense of relaxation to ease the mind

Painting preparation

Get the most out of your time and effort. Prepare your area for painting before you even pick up a brush.

Remove light fittings and bag any that cannot be removed (e.g. large chandeliers, etc.).
Tape over power outlets and light switches.
Clean and dry the painting surface thoroughly – remove any cracked paint, repair dents, cracks, etc.
Always prime before painting a topcoat.

Ideas while you are painting

These ideas will create a seamless painting process for you.

Never wash your brushes out between coats. Simply seal them in a zip lock bag. If they are too large, put the brush head in a plastic bag then seal it tight with a rubber band
Keep a damp rag with you to dab up any accidental paint dribbles or splashes immediately. Dampen the rag with whichever solvent is appropriate for the paint you are using
Don’t cut in too far in advance. Applying paint to a dried area produces overlap stripes and you will undo all of your good work
A sash brush has bristles cut on an angle and will save you having to tape before cutting in.

These painting ideas make the planning process easier. But if you don’t have the time – find painting help on Airtasker instead.

IKEA furniture assembly tips

Want to conquer assembling Ikea furniture? Read on for some tips to help you do just that.

Shopping for furniture is the fun part, but when it comes to furniture assembly, people can fall into four categories:

1. People that hate anything that comes in a flat pack.
2. Those who enjoy trying to use the instructions to successfully put furniture together.
3. People that realise it has to be done sooner or later and dig in.
4. People who choose to outsource furniture assembly.

Whether you attempt to tackle the flat pack or outsource it, here are 8 essential tips for successful furniture assembly:

Prepare

• Make sure you have enough space in the room and clear away things that can be easily knocked over.
• If you’re working on a floor that may get damaged, put a towel or old bed sheets down to protect it.
• Find something to put all the screws and bolts into.
• Lay out all of the pieces according to size and shape.

Follow the instructions

Source: Wartime Housewife

When following the steps, it’s important not to jump ahead or take shortcuts. There’s a reason that the instructions are laid out in a specific order, so try and stay in sequence.

Get the right tools

There are two types of tool that you will need – specialist tools that are supplied with the furniture (e.g. allen keys), and your own standard tools such as screwdrivers. Remember:

• Don’t lose the specialist tools to save yourself repeat visits to the supplier.
• Make sure you use proper standard tools, i.e. a bread knife is not a substitute for a screwdriver. Find a local handyman to help source tools if needed.

Source: See the woods and the trees

Leave yourself enough time

When estimating how long it will take you to build a piece of flat pack furniture, remember that it will always take you longer than you think. Even for small items, set a realistic time frame. If you’re building something large, set aside several hours to focus on it.

Proper tightening

The key to successful furniture assembly often comes down to tightening. To make sure you’ve done this correctly, make sure you:

1. Put all of the screws in place before fully tightening.
2. Do not over tighten. In fact you can often damage the boards if you over tighten too much.

Find a friend or handyman to save time

If you go solo:
1. It will take you longer
2. Less likely to make mistakes
3. Less arguments

If you get some help:
1. Bigger pieces can be put together easier
2. Less physical input demanded
3. Safer

Take it one step at a time

The first rule of furniture assembly is: never start a new piece of flat pack furniture until you’ve fully completed the first piece you started.

Why? Because more likely than not, you’ll mix up the pieces and parts if you try more than one at a time.

Revisit your handiwork

The final IKEA furniture assembly tip is to go back to the item after 3-4 days of use. Check all of the screws and fittings. Tighten any that are loose and make sure everything is working properly.

Still find yourself struggling with furniture assembly? Airtasker can connect you to plenty of helpful handyman services in London.

15 ideas with pallet furniture

Seats, tables, beds, and more. Here are 15 ways to turn recycled pallets into cool and quirky furniture pieces.

Traditionally used in shipping and airfreight, creative DIYers have long been turning pallets into furniture for homes, restaurants and offices.

In addition to looking cool, pallets are cheap and easy to get. With a bit of know-how (or handyman services), they can be transformed into almost any piece of furniture.

Here are 15 great ways to add pallet furniture to your home:

1. Pallet Bar

Use pallets to create fantastic alternatives to the traditional expensive bar tables at home.

2. Wedding Decoration DIY

Thanks to websites such as Etsy and Pinterest, many brides are finding inspiration for personalised DIY for their special day. Pallets can be turned into backdrops, signs, bars, seating and decoration. Here are a couple of examples:

Source: Brazos Valley Bride

3. Bookshelf

Use pallets to make a shelving unit. This can be a great way to organise books, display ornaments, and store your favourite crockery.

Source: Pallet Furniture Ideas

4. Coffee Table

If you’re a first timer with pallets, perhaps the easiest project to start with is making a coffee table.

Source: Decorate Idea

5. Storage Chest

Create a pallet storage chest in any size you need for toys, winter throws, or anything else you want tucked out of sight.

Source: Tree Hugger

6. Children’s Furniture

You don’t need to spend a lot on children’s furniture which won’t be used for long. With some pallets and bright paint, you can easily create fun furniture for your children’s room.

Source: Resourcedir

7. Plant Boxes

Whether it’s a huge pallet vertical garden wall or a simple plant box, this is the perfect DIY project to start with.

8. Stairs

This is a much more ambitious project, and you’d need an architect and professional handyman to look over and help design it. But it’s sure to make your home stand out.

9. Outdoor Seating

Pallets are commonly used to make outdoor furniture. You can create your bespoke garden furniture to suit your outdoor space and dress it up in a variety of colours.

Source: Kung Fu Homes

10. Wine Rack

No need to hide your wine collection when you can display it in a simple and elegant way using pallets.

Source: Homes Kid

11. TV Unit

You could build a TV unit with storage using pallets.

Source: Wookmark

12. Chandelier

How about a light fixture like this chandelier? You could swap out the candles and replace with fairy lights for a pretty outdoor ambience.

13. Office Furniture

Add a bit of fun to a bland office space with a break-out room set-up, or even a quirky pallet boardroom table.

14. A Bed

A pallet bed isn’t too hard to assemble and gives you the chance to create lots of storage nooks underneath.

Source: Wpedia

15. Garden Path

Pallets look great in a garden path, such as this Asian inspired garden.

Source: Mariners View Apartments

Have you got any more DIY pallet furniture ideas? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear them.

Don’t have time for a DIY project? Get some handyman help from an Airtasker in your area.

How to organise your garage

Converting your garage into an efficient space isn’t an easy job. Check out our simple tips on how to start organising your garage.

How does your garage look right now? Messier than it should?

You’re not alone. Most people tend to use their garage for storing everything, and clutter builds up quickly and easily.

Luckily we’ve got some handy tips on how to organise your garage and make the most of the space.

If you need a hand with the garage organisation process, post a job on Airtasker to connect to friendly locals willing to help. Also, if you’d like to know how much does a garage conversion cost, visit our updated garage conversion price guide.

Converting your garage into a workable, efficient space isn’t a one-day job. It requires careful planning to figure out how to make the most for your space. Start by thinking about the best ways to organise your things.

A key element in your plan should be shelving. There are various options to choose from when it comes to garage shelving systems. You can choose from metal shelving, wire shelving, wall shelving, cube shelves, custom-made shelving systems, storage racks and the list goes on and on.

1. Metal, Wire & Mounted Shelving

This shelving system combines metal mounted shelves with a series of adjustable racks so you can custom fit it to your space. Invest in different sized tubs and bins to help you tuck away all the ad-hoc items lying around.

Source: unclutterer

The next two shelving systems utilise the full space of the wall. You can add storage bins or wire baskets to store items, and also store longer pieces such as sporting equipment or tools.

Source: simplyorganized

Source: houzz

2. Industrial Shelving

Industrial shelving systems are often found in garages as they’re so versatile. You can also adjust these easily according to the amount of space available.

Source: garage-shelving

3. Cube Shelves

Cube shelves can be deceiving as they don’t appear to hold much. But you’d be surprised how much you can pack into them using a variety of baskets or bins.

Source: antiquefarmhouse

4. Storage Racks

Make use of all the spaces within your garage, including the ceiling. This innovative storage rack system enables you to tuck away all those bits and pieces you don’t use often but still need to access from time to time.

Have shelving or storage ideas to organise your garage? Share your tips in the comments section below.

Need a hand installing storage solutions in your garage or keen to know how much does a garage door cost? Use Airtasker to connect with handyman services in London today.

Kitchen splashbacks – ideas and tips

A splashback can be the focal point of your kitchen. Find out more about the different options available.

Ever put much thought into what your dream kitchen splashback would look like?

Getting the splashback right can be particularly important for small kitchens, as certain materials can make the kitchen appear larger.

So, how do you decide on the perfect kitchen splashback for your design?

Kitchen splashback considerations

The two main things to consider are the type of material you would like to use, and the total cost for the size you need. Take your counter tops and kitchen cabinets into consideration to narrow down your options further. It’s important to keep in mind how easy it is to clean too. After all, it’s called a splashback for a reason.

Whether you’d like to make a statement or prefer something that blends in, read on for more on different kitchen splashback materials and other factors to consider:

Inexpensive splashback materials

Glass splashbacks
Simple, inexpensive and easy to clean, you can’t go wrong with a classic glass splashback. It will suit almost any kitchen design and comes in many colour options. Bold glass splashbacks such as bright red are also a popular option for adding a splash of colour to a contemporary style kitchen.

Source: Glass100

Stainless steel splashbacks
The stainless steel splashback offers a minimal design for the more industrial-style or contemporary kitchen. Inexpensive, easy to clean and durable, it’s easy to see why this option appeals to many. It may not offer the wow factor, but it will seamlessly blend with most kitchen designs. It’s also a good neutral option that potential buyers will like if you’re hoping to sell your place down the line.

Pressed metal splashbacks
Pressed metal or pressed tin is another inexpensive and attractive option. It provides a subtle vintage feel. This option can be more difficult to clean, so keep that in mind.

A bonus for the budding DIY renovators out there – it is easy to install. Many suppliers provide detailed installation tips, and you can easily find handyman help if you need a hand.

kitchen ideas, kitchen design ideas, Kitchen splashback idea, kitchen splashback costs — Source: Klopper and David Architects

Unique splashback materials

Timber splashbacks
Timber splashbacks bring a lovely rustic look to your kitchen. The drawbacks are that timber is expensive and can be tricky to maintain and clean. But this is good option if you want to make a statement or create a warm Nordic ambience in your kitchen.

Window splashbacks
The glass window splashback design is a good choice for smaller kitchens. It draws the eye outside, making the kitchen appear larger. This design allows for ample natural light to stream into your kitchen. However you’re removing walls to put this in, it obviously comes at a hefty price.

Subway-tile splashback
A subway-tiled splashback is on-trend without being over the top. It’s easy to clean and adds instant style to any kitchen. Given the tiles are quite large with this type of splashback, it works well for a bigger space but may shrink a small kitchen.

Marble splashbacks
Marble has the wow factor, but is on the pricey side and tricky to maintain. If you have your heart set on a marble backsplash and have the patience to care for it, this option can add value and style to a contemporary kitchen design.

Feeling inspired? Find handyman services on Airtasker to help you with your kitchen installations.

Kitchen cabinet ideas and designs

Looking to spruce up your kitchen? Check out our list of cabinet design ideas to instantly refresh the entire room.

The kitchen is the heart and hub of the home. It’s the space where everyone in the house congregates to chat, eat, work, and (sometimes) cook.

You want your kitchen to be a space that you love retreating to, decorated in your favourite design aesthetic.

Whether you have a tiny kitchen or a larger open plan space, you can add your personal touch in a number of ways. One thing that all kitchens have is cupboards. Yes, they exist for all your food storage needs, but they can also be used for design purposes. In fact, kitchen cabinets are one of the easiest and most cost-effective items to update to add a new lease of life to your whole kitchen.

Read on for some inspirational ideas for your kitchen cabinets and expert handyman tips:

Door knobs and handles

You may love your kitchen cabinets as they are, but what about the door handles or knobs? Changing these is an instant (and thrifty) way to transform your kitchen without the expense and hassle of replacing all of the cabinetry.

Handles and knobs can solidify your design aesthetic or inject some quirk factor into your kitchen. They’re also an easy way to keep your kitchen up-to-date with the latest design trends.

There are various different types of kitchen door handles and knobs to choose from. Metal, wood, painted and ceramic are all popular. Not sure what to pick? It’s so simple to update these, you can replace them often.

Adding light

Kitchen cabinetry can be brought to life with modern LED strip lighting. If your kitchen is on the more minimalist side, this i something to consider for adding both ambience and style.

Multi textured cabinetry

Dark cabinetry can look chic and sophisticated. However, it can also make a small kitchen seem even smaller. Two-coloured cabinetry is a good way around this. You can opt for a row of wood (real or laminate) cabinets with white or black next to them. If you’re looking for a smaller update, consider changing just one row of cabinets, but make sure you’re happy with how they suit the existing ones.

DIY Revamps

Renew scratched or scuffed kitchen cabinet doors with a sand back and a fresh coat of paint. This could take your kitchen in a completely new design direction such as a nautical or country-farmhouse style, which is easily done as they both use a similar style of door.

Think outside the box

If you want your kitchen to stand out, consider a quirky kitchen cabinet. You can mix it up with using items such as crates as drawers to add a rustic touch. You could even use different styles of recycled cupboards throughout – just make sure it’s a similar tone for consistency.

Display kitchen cabinets

Showing off your ‘fancy’ plates, cups and other ornaments is an age-old idea. But you could add a modern slant to it. It could be as simple as open shelving or multi-panned glass kitchen cabinets. It’s also a great way to display crockery you’re proud of!

Also read: How much to install kitchen cabinets?

Want some help with painting or installing your new kitchen cabinets? Get instant handyman help on Airtasker.

Tape measure tricks for all handymen and renovators

A tape measure is one of the most practical inventions ever. Read on to find out more on how to make the most of this highly useful tool.

How skilled are you with a tape measure? A tape measure is one of the most useful items when it comes to DIY home improvements. But are you really making use of all it has to offer?

To tap into all the features of this essential tool, here’s a list of all the things (other than the obvious!) that your tape measure can do:

The ‘screw grab’

You may already be aware that you can hook (or clip) the end of a tape measure over the edge of a surface and walk backwards to extend the tape out. But have you ever wondered what that little slot in the metal hook is for?

That little slot is a ‘nail and screw grab’, which neatly slips over the flat head of a nail or screw. It’s hugely helpful as it holds the tape in place when you’re working alone.

Source: diy house help

The scribing tool

Another handy feature that makes home repair and DIY projects easier is the serrated edge of the metal hook on a tape measure. By dragging it back and forth on a surface, you can mark a measurement down to the millimetre.

Not all tape measures have this, but it’s worth investing in one that does if you do a lot of DIY work.

Source: AXMINSTER Tools & Machinery

The hook has ‘play’

Clearly, the hook of the tape measure is highly valuable and here’s one more use for it. You’ll notice the hook on the end of the tape has some ‘play’ or wiggle room on it, and the end centimetre of the tape may be slightly smaller than a true centimetre.

Depending on whether you’re measuring on the outside or inside of something, you’ll want the hook thickness to either be counted as part of the measurement or not. There is movement each way of about a millimetre or so. A professional handyman would refer to this movement as ‘play’.

Most tape measures are already calibrated for accurate measurements. For a critical measurement, you may want to check how much ‘free play’ is allowed and get the measure tape calibrated. Get a few quotes for this and other handyman help on Airtasker.

Source: AXMINSTER Tools & Machinery

The length of the tape measure ‘housing’ counts

The housing (i.e. the hand held container that ‘houses’ the tape) can actually be a very handy sidekick for home repair jobs. If you’ve ever tried to measure the inside length of something, you’ll know it can be quite difficult.

Luckily the housing of the tape measure is often marked with a measurement of length (e.g. 10cm) that you can use to make life a bit easier. Instead of trying to measure the inside of something corner to corner by bending the tape, position the tape measure inside and draw the length of the tape out from surface to surface.

Next, take note of the measurement on the tape (e.g. 65cm) and add it on to the length of the tape measure housing (65cm + 10cm = 75cm)… and voila, accurate measurements!

Source: AXMINSTER Tools & Machinery

Not all tape measures are made equally

There are different lengths of tape measures available that are more suitable for some jobs than others. For example, an 8m tape is great for small home improvement jobs such as cabinetry. For bigger jobs such as outdoor or construction, you may need something longer and possibly stronger.

You can get tape measures with magnetic hooks, blade locking mechanisms, and ones that can do a ‘stand out measure’ for hooking objects far away (i.e. you stand in one spot, and use your hand to extend the tape; it holds its weight and extends horizontally).

Source: Pro Tool Reviews

Have you got any other tape measure tricks to add to our list? Let us know in the comments section below.

For help with handyman services in London, find a DIY expert on Airtasker.

5 ways to use Airtasker to maintain and improve your property

Looking to make some home improvements? Read on for five ways Airtasker can help.

If you’re looking to spruce up your property, a little outside assistance never hurts.

Enter Airtasker.

Not only can you enlist the help of a local Tasker for your gardening or cleaning needs, but you can also find plenty of home repair and handyman help in London.

Here are just five of the ways Airtasker can help you with your home improvements (in just a few clicks).

Gardening help

Let’s face it, gardening isn’t for everyone! So, how do you keep your garden in top condition if you aren’t born with a green thumb? Luckily at Airtasker, we can connect you to a number of gardening experts in London who absolutely love it. Whether it’s a small weeding task or an entire garden revamp, you can find a local gardener willing to help.

Handyman services

DIY work is something many of us tend to put off. And all those little DIY tasks add up over time. If you’ve got paintings you’ve been meaning to hang up, light fixtures that need repair, or rooms that need a fresh lick of paint, a little handyman’s help may be just what’s needed.

Post your home repair task on Airtasker and you’ll be instantly connected to a group of local experts offering handyman services in London.

Moving furniture and decluttering

Do you have some furniture you need to move, but can’t lift by yourself? For a little bit of extra muscle, simply post a task with the details of what you need moved and where to.

Looking for someone to help you transport rubbish to the tip or finally deal with all that clutter in your garage? Decluttering your home can often be an arduous (and emotional) task. You may need an objective opinion on what to ditch and what to keep. Again, you can find someone to lend a helping hand on Airtasker.

All your cleaning needs

Need a hand with dusting, mopping, end-of-tenancy cleans, or oven cleans? There are cleaning services in London available to help with all that and more at Airtasker. Just list out how many rooms you need done and when, and you’ll have an army of friendly cleaning experts submitting their offers. It’s that simple.

Don’t be afraid to get creative

The beauty of a platform like Airtasker is that you aren’t limited on the types of jobs you can get help for. You may have an ‘out of the box’ task or a more unusual home improvement task that you’re looking for help with. By using Airtasker, you’ll be able to find someone with the skill set you need to assist you.

So don’t be afraid to put it out there, even if it doesn’t fall under any of the above categories!

Whatever your home improvement needs, hire a local expert through Airtasker and let them help you spruce up your home.

Tips for preparing your home for painting

Ready for a DIY paint job? Check out our tips on preparing your home before you start.

There’s nothing better than a fresh lick of paint to revitalise a room. A paint job is also one of the quickest ways to increase the value of your home. Before you get started though, make sure you’ve done the proper prep work. A vital step often missed before painting without any handyman help is adequate preparation.

If you don’t put in the necessary prep work, you could end up exerting more effort than required.

There’s more to painting than just colour selection and painting tools. Like most handyman services, you need to follow some planning fundamentals before picking up a paintbrush and getting stuck in.

Check the weather forecast

Paint takes much longer to dry when there is humidity or moisture in the air. Avoid wet weather, and choose a dry and warm day to get your paintwork done.

Prepare a painting greenroom

Set up an area close to where you’re painting as a staging and prep station. Use this area to store your paints and tools, fill your painting trays and pots, and do all the necessary cleaning up.

Have your cleaning solutions, spare trays, buckets, water, and plenty of spare rags and drop sheets ready. A table and chairs will also be useful for prepping paint (and for a much needed break!).

Head to a nearby charity shop for a card table and folding chairs. You can use these in your prep station to avoid further mess and spillage.

Move your furniture away

Find a temporary storage area to relocate your furniture to while you paint. This will give you more space to paint with ease, and means less objects to potentially trip over. You’ll also save your furniture from any accidental splashes. Large furnishings that are harder to move can be covered with old sheets or plastic.

Check for existing flaws

Flaking or chipped paint needs to be scraped and sanded before applying a fresh coat. Investigate any cracks in your walls to ensure there is no water seepage problems before refining with a plaster and sanding process.

Prepare for the finer details

If you’re not savvy with cutting in, use masking tape as a protective barrier on cornices and skirting before you paint.

Cover around the edge of light switches and power points with masking tape, and remove any bulky light fittings before painting.

Protect the area

Avoid any paint spills or splashes by applying canvas drop sheets to the floor.

If you’re on the lookout for how much does home exterior painting cost, check out our home exterior painting price guide.

Try before you buy

Before you splash out on a huge tin of paint, buy a small pot to trial first. Paint generally looks different once applied, and you might find you want to change the colour up a little once you see it on the walls. Trialling on a small area gives you the chance to change your mind before any huge investments (and lots of wasted paint!).

Once you’ve settled on a colour, you’ll need to measure the area so you know how much to buy.

Not up for painting yourself? Airtasker’s handyman services in London could offer just the helping hand you need.

Top renovation mistakes to avoid

Renovating your home? Read on for our list of the top renovation mistakes to steer clear of before starting.

Whether you’re going down the DIY route or getting the help of a professional handyman, home renovation mistakes can be easy to make. No amount of experience can guarantee a completely seamless renovation experience.

However, there are certain things you can do to reduce the renovation stress. Here’s a list of some of the common renovation mistakes to avoid:

Ready to go with your renovation? Find expert handyman help on Airtasker to help you construct and install your dream shelving unit.

Renovating on impulse

An impulse renovation is never a good idea. A quick decision could lead to a hefty investment later down the line. For instance, do you really need to completely remove and replace that bathroom sink, or can it be repaired by a professional handyman? It’s best to investigate an issue before you start making any changes.

When you’re about to start renovating, consider whether you have the expertise to complete the work yourself or if you should get some handyman help. Don’t start an ambitious renovation project if you don’t currently have the budget or skills to get it done.

Design without intent

It’s important to design with a clear intent. Do you want to renovate to increase your property value, or do you intend on renovating the place for your own use?

Try to set a clear objective for your renovation project before you start. It can be easy to get swept away with inspirational Pinterest boards and Instagram pages, but you need to be realistic about the purpose of the renovation, what you can afford, and whether you need it.

Not enough planning

As with most building work or services, the quickest way to a renovation nightmare is a lack of planning. You can avoid this by putting a bit of time and effort into setting a clear goal and working out a plan. Think about sequencing, your timeline, and your budget.

It’s also wise to have an in-depth renovation checklist to help you focus on what exactly you need to get done.

Rules and regulations

Check out any building and renovation regulations with your local council before you get started. You need to find out which tasks require a license, and if there are any specific times you need to schedule work in for. Local council planning approvals and application fees may be required for certain renovations.

You may also need to enlist the services of a council building inspector or independent building inspector.

Temporary living arrangements

If you’re living in a place you want to renovate, you may want to consider temporary accommodation while the work is going on. Renovating can be a stressful experience, and living in that environment may just add to that stress. If you have a friend or family member you can crash with during this period, we’d highly recommend it!

No wiggle room in the budget

One of the most common renovation mistakes that many people make is going over their budget. To avoid this, speak to a professional handyman or friends who have had similar renovations. They’ll be able to help you get a better idea of costs.

Research the work that you’re going to be doing and try to think of any unexpected expenses you might encounter. Put contingency funds aside so if you run across any issues, you’ve got spare funds to resolve the situation and move on.

Handyman arrangements

If you’re going to hire a handyman or hire a builder to do the work for you, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Get a few quotes before you decide on the handyman for your task.
Review the quality of their previous work.
Know who is doing the job – them, or do they contract it out?
Know who their suppliers are – some handymen only use specific brands.
Make sure they’re officially licensed for any renovations if required.
Ask for a breakdown of their quote.
Be clear on any deadlines and specific requirements.

For expert assistance with your renovations, get instant Airtasker offers from people offering handyman services in London.

Wall shelving ideas

Struggling for storage? A creative wall shelving solution could be the answer.

Don’t have a lot of closet space in your home? Wall shelving is a simple and space efficient solution. Putting in some shelves can help resolve your storage struggles in a stylish way. And shelves aren’t just functional, you can get truly creative with them too.

There’s a huge number of shelving styles to suit any type of home decor. So, where do you even get started?

We’ve compiled a list of creative and quirky wall shelving ideas to inspire you.

Know what style you want? Find expert handyman help on Airtasker to help you construct and install your dream shelving unit.

Source: BLOGLOVIN’

Mounted wall shelving

If you’re limited on floor space, mountable wall shelving is a great idea. You can get really creative with the design, display and styling. Think ‘open’ spaces and the ‘floating’ look. Mounted wall shelving can have a quirky aesthetic and can still be very functional.

Added bonus: getting rid of standalone shelving against walls also means no more marks on floors and carpets, and more seating space.

Source: Apartment Therapy

Industrial wall shelving

The use of pipes, cast iron, copper and other metal materials for shelving can help you create that highly desirable industrial chic look. Opt for the edgier and grittier style that industrial design is known for, or take a different angle by using colour, a copper finish, or light to create a unique, fresh style.

Source: Steel Roots Design

Cube shelves

Cube or cuboid shelves are a great way to add a contemporary edge to your home. The infinite range of colours, sizes and styles available will allow you to experiment with different looks. Try positioning cube shelves in a variety of ways before mounting. This is a style of shelving you can get truly creative with.

Source: Urban Outfitters

Design your own wall shelving systems

Push your artistic side to the limit by constructing your own DIY wall shelving system. Think steel frames and wooden boards connected with joints in any arrangement you’d like. You can jigsaw puzzle pieces together to create a modern shelving feature that’s completely unique to your home.

If you have an idea of what you’d like but need some help with construction, connect with a local professional handyman.

Source: Design Milk

Wire shelving

Wire shelving doesn’t have to be limited to the kitchen or the shower. Gain additional storage space by mounting wire baskets on walls as book nooks, to display plants, or to hang prints.

Source: Pinterest

Leaning shelves

Leaning shelves are freestanding shelves that are angled against the wall to give a ‘leaning’ or ‘ladder’ appearance. The depth and width of each shelf can be uniform for a patterned effect, or varied for a more asymmetrical look. Individual shelves can even serve a specific purpose, such as storing a home computer. If you want to use your shelf as a storage rack for items such as towels, go full ladder style (i.e. use a real ladder) and drape towels over each rung.

Source: Oleander + Palm

Geometric shelving

Take your shelf styling to the next level by decorating your walls with artfully-shaped shelves in an assortment of sizes. Think triangles, rectangular prisms, circles and hexagons. Stack them against each other, spread them out, or consider random placement.

Using geometric shelving made out of natural materials against a white wall will give your home a contemporary and fresh look. Keep this look minimalist by displaying just a few items on these shelves.

Source: I Spy DIY

Repurposed personal items

If you’ve held on to personal items that you can’t bear to part with, consider re-purposing these items into something more functional. For instance, could you turn your beloved old acoustic guitar wall into a shelf to represent your love of music?

Have a browse of what’s been laying around your garage or shed for ages, and consider how you could turn it into a creative shelving unit.

Source: ReFab Diaries

Feeling inspired? Find handyman services in London to help you bring your shelving idea to life.

How to paint window frames and door frames

Painting doors and window frames can be tricky if you're not a professional painter. Read on for some expert tips.

Painting window doors and frames is seen by many to be the toughest part of the painting process. So if you’re struggling with this, don’t worry – everyone else is too! Patience and a steady hand definitely help, but there are tips and tricks that you can can use to make window and door painting a lot easier and quicker.

Here’s our guide on how to paint window frames and door frames like a professional painter decorator.

Proper painting preparation

First things first, kick off by putting the proper prep work in. Cleaning and preparing your windows is an absolute must if you want to achieve a flawless finish. To start, remove all curtains and fixtures to make the painting process easier and save yourself a lengthy clean up post-paint.

To clean any spiderwebs and dust, use your favourite cleaning solution. This will help you achieve a sparking clean surface to paint on.

Remember to clean the top of the window sill, an area where a lot of dust tends to accumulate.

Finally, it’s time to lay down drop sheets (old bed sheets will do!) under the frame so you don’t spill any paint on the floor.

Masking tape

Masking tape is essential for painting windows and door frames where you’re using two different colours. To achieve truly smooth lines for windows, put masking tape on both the wall and also the glass before starting.

To get straight edges when you line the tape up, push the edges down where the paint will meet the tape. For corners, use a knife to tear the tape for a perfect seal.

When removing the masking tape afterwards, rip off slowly at an angle before the paint completely dries up. Otherwise you may accidentally rip off some paint too.

If there are any larger parts you need to paint around which can’t be removed, use paper towels to cover and tape to hold it in place.

Filling in and patching

Every paint job can get worn and torn over time. For any scratches, apply a bit of filler with a putty knife to fill in the hole. Use a damp cloth to remove any excess and help to give it a smooth surface – and less sanding!

Brushes and painting

Now for the fun part – it’s time to get stuck into the actual painting. Grab an angled paintbrush and dip it halfway into the paint (you don’t need a lot of on your brush) and then tap it on the bucket.

When you begin painting, start with the area closest to the glass first and work your way out. This helps to prevent any accidental smudging as you paint. After you’ve finished the inside, paint the frame that faces the room.

Depending on the type of paint and the old colour, you may need multiple coats for a smooth finish.

Cleaning up

Time for the not so fun part. Remove the masking tape slowly before the paint has completely dried. If it’s already dry, have a knife handy to help cut away the tape without peeling off any of your beautiful paintwork.

Pack up your drop sheets, clean your brushes, and store any unused paint and brushes for future touch-ups or your next painting task!

Do you have any tips for window and door frame painting? Let us know in the comment section below.

Looking for assistance with painting projects or general home repair? Connect to a number of people offering expert painting decorator services in London today.