top of page

Join
How To's


How to Mix Wall Filler Properly (No Lumps, No Cracks, Better Repairs)
Bad repairs often start before the filler even touches the wall. Not because the filler is poor. Because it was mixed badly. Too stiff.Too wet.Full of lumps. And once that happens, everything becomes harder — applying it, feathering it, sanding it, and getting a repair that disappears after painting. 👉 A smooth repair starts with a smooth mix. This is how to mix wall filler properly for patch repairs or skim coats — the way it actually works on site. Why Filler Goes Lumpy in
6 min read
Â


Mould Keeps Coming Back? Here’s the Real Reason (And Why Cleaning It Doesn’t Work)
You wipe it off… It looks gone… Then a few weeks later — it’s back. Same corner. Same wall. Sometimes worse. And you start thinking: 👉 “What am I doing wrong?” The truth is — you’re not fixing the cause. What Mould Actually Is (And Why It Comes Back) Mould isn’t just dirt on your wall. It’s spores in the air . They’re always there — in every home. The problem starts when condensation forms on a surface . That moisture lands on a cold wall or ceiling…And the spores stick to i
3 min read
Â


How to Silicone Like a Pro (No Mess, No Leaks, No Gaps)
Silicone can make or break a job. Get it right — clean lines, smooth finish, looks professional.Get it wrong — messy edges, gaps, leaks, peeling within weeks. And the truth is… 👉 Most people get it wrong. Not because it’s hard — but because they rush it, use the wrong product, or skip the prep. This is how it’s actually done on site. The First Rule — Use a Proper Product This is where people try to save money… And it always shows. Cheap silicone: Doesn’t stick properly Drags
4 min read
Â


Painted Your Wall and It Looks Patchy? Here’s What Went Wrong
You step back, look at the wall… and something’s off. It’s patchy.Different shades.Light spots where you know you’ve painted properly. It’s one of the most frustrating things in decorating — especially when you’ve taken your time. The good news? 👉 Most of the time, it’s not ruined.👉 And it’s usually an easy fix. The Truth Most People Don’t Want to Hear In most cases… 👉 It just needs another coat. That’s it. A lot of patchy finishes come down to coverage. Paint doesn’t alwa
4 min read
Â


How to Fix Screws Into Brick and Concrete Walls (Without Them Coming Loose)
How to Fix Screws Into Brick and Concrete Walls (Without Them Coming Loose) Drilling into a wall is easy. Getting a screw to actually hold properly? That’s where most people mess it up. Loose plugs, spinning screws, brackets falling off — it usually comes down to a few small mistakes that make a big difference. Get it right, and it’s solid for years.Get it wrong, and it’s coming out sooner or later. Start With What You’re Drilling Into Brick and concrete aren’t forgiving. You
5 min read
Â


Understanding Bubbling Paint on Walls What Causes It and How to Fix It
The main reason for bubbling paint at the top or anywhere on the wall is an adhesion issue. This happens when the paint does not properly stick to the surface beneath it. The surface might be dusty, porous, or even wet, which prevents the paint from bonding correctly. Understanding why bubbling paint occurs and how to prevent it is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish. This post explains the causes, how to prepare walls before painting, and what to do if bubbling paint
3 min read
Â


Effective Methods to Prevent Dampness in Interior Walls
Damp interior walls cause more than just an unsightly appearance. They can lead to structural damage, unhealthy living conditions, and costly repairs. Many homeowners and builders face this issue, especially in older properties or areas with high humidity. Understanding how to stop damp coming through interior walls is essential to protect your home and maintain a comfortable environment. Damp patch on interior wall near window Identify the Source of Dampness Before applying
3 min read
Â


Updated Fire Door Regulations After Grenfell What Builders Must Understand
Thousands of fire doors have failed inspections in recent years, raising serious concerns about building safety. After the Grenfell Tower tragedy, firedoor regulations underwent significant updates to prevent such disasters. Builders must understand these changes to ensure compliance and protect lives. ! Close-up view of a fire door with certification label Why Fire Door Regulations Matter More Than Ever Fire doors are a critical part of a building’s passive fire protection s
2 min read
Â


How to Tackle Flaking Painting Problems in Kent with Effective Fixes and Top Products
Painting your home can refresh its look and protect surfaces from weather damage. Yet, many homeowners in Kent face frustrating issues like flaking paint that spoil the finish and require extra work. Understanding how to repair flaking paint and other common problems will save you time and money while improving your home's appearance. This guide covers typical painting challenges in Kent’s climate, practical fixes, and trusted products to get the job done right. Whether you’
4 min read
Â


Mastering External Repairs: Essential Masonry Materials for Your Southwark Home
When it comes to maintaining your Southwark home, external repairs are crucial to protect your property from weather damage and keep it looking its best. Masonry repair plays a big role in this process, especially for homes with brick, stone, or concrete exteriors. Knowing the right materials and how to use them can save you time, money, and frustration. In this post, I’ll walk you through the essential materials for masonry repair and share practical tips to help you tackle
4 min read
Â


Effective Solutions for Fixing Wall Cracks by SEL Maintenance
Cracks in walls can be more than just an eyesore. They may signal structural issues or simply result from natural wear and tear. Knowing how to repair cracks in wall properly helps protect your home’s value and keeps your living space safe and comfortable. This guide shares practical steps and tips to fix wall cracks effectively, whether you’re dealing with minor surface cracks or more significant damage. Close-up of cracked interior wall with hairline fractures Identifying
3 min read
Â


Brockley Builders - Our Story
Maintaining social housing in Brockley SE4 is a challenge that requires reliable, skilled subcontractors who understand the unique needs of these properties. As a maintenance manager or main contractor, you know how crucial it is to keep social housing safe, functional, and comfortable for residents. Brockley Builders offers expert property maintenance services tailored to social housing, ensuring that repairs and upkeep are handled efficiently and to a high standard. Mainten
3 min read
Â
bottom of page