What seems like a straight forward job of fitting shelves into a utility cupboard turned out to be an awkward proposition. It wasn’t until I ran a cable detector down each wall that it was realised that both walls were stuffed with cables and pipes. The property was a new build, the utility cupboard itselfContinue reading “Free standing Utility cupboard storage”
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A porch that was condemned (how to save £1000s)
I was initially approached by this customer to give a quote for replacing their porch. They explained over the phone that they had been told that it was beyond saving, by a builder as well as another carpenter, and that the porch was about to fall down. I initially asked for an image of theContinue reading “A porch that was condemned (how to save £1000s)”
Unpainted Crown Cap Handrail
This crown cap handrail was left unpainted so that the grain and beauty of the wood can be seen, with this in mind I took my time selecting the wood for a clean straight grain without any knots. The sweep from the bottom of the stairs to the top is unbroken therefore there are noContinue reading “Unpainted Crown Cap Handrail”
Carpenter’s Tools of the trade
I know of no other trade except perhaps a good all-round mechanic who requires so many tools in order to undertake their work. A brief look at online suppliers or trade catalogues will reinforce this statement. However, there are tools and then there are quality tools that to those in the trade hold a certainContinue reading “Carpenter’s Tools of the trade”
Carpentry reference: Modern Practical joinery by G.Ellis
Model Practical Joinery by G Ellis , second edition 1925
Porch replacement in Southampton
Rot had set in at the base of this post, a common problem. The replacement portion was 800mm long a hardwood key was also inserted to prevent any slip on the joint. I could have also used a stepped Scarf joint which would have had the same effect as the hardwood key. Because the overallContinue reading “Porch replacement in Southampton”
Replacement Pergola
A replacement Pergola, the original was blown down after a winter storm. It creates a welcoming invitation to enter into a private secluded back garden in the centre of the city. The various shrubs and roses that embraced the old pergola were saved and will be woven into this replacement and no doubt come theContinue reading “Replacement Pergola”
Victorian bench
This much cherished Victorian bench has been part of the family for over a century, with photographs of grandfather sat on it as a young man. The rot in the feet of each leg being the result of many years standing on damp ground and ‘old age’. The solution was to sit the bench ontoContinue reading “Victorian bench”
Shed rebuild
The customer was hoping I could do something with their much loved and well used shed. The alternative to repair would have been replacement. A 20ft x8ft shed costs around £4000. Then there is the cost of installation to add. So after careful inspection of the floor and floor bearers , I decided that itContinue reading “Shed rebuild”
Refurbishing a garden seat
This chair was of great sentimental value, the customers husband used to use it whilst convalescing, but sadly passed away. So, ‘ whatever it takes’ was the message given to me. Initially I tried to salvage the old slats by pressure washing them and intended to soak them in wood preservative, unfortunately they fell apartContinue reading “Refurbishing a garden seat”
