Call into your local PlaceMakers store for some really good free advice.
We have a comprehensive range of How to booklets, which will take you through your project
step-by-step – You can’t go wrong!
The following 'How
to' booklets are available instore, or by clicking the links below and
downloading them.
A timber deck is an asset to any home and building one is a classic summer project.
With only a few tools, a measure of patience and the right knowledge, a competent handyperson can achieve a
result to be proud of. This booklet contains instructions
and information to help you build your own timber deck.
Updated January 2009
This brochure will help you choose the right timber for your
deck. Using the right timber is important for maintaining the
appearance of your deck, and durability.
The most common decking timbers are Pine (Softwood),
Kwila and Vitex (Hardwoods). As long as they are properly
treated softwood can be used in all decking situations.
Hardwood decking timber is naturally durable and resistant
to wear and tear. It’s important to give careful thought to the
decking timber used ...
These instructions
will show you how to install fence posts
and rails – the fi rst step to building a fence. Once your posts
and rails are set, our other Know How fencing brochures
will help you fi nish the project: Building a Paling Fence Putting up a Picket Fence Installing Trellis Fence Panels
fence structure, – the posts and rails. Provides information on the materials and
tools you are likely to require and a few handy hints on how to space your posts and fix
your rails.
Want to install a basic trellis panel? These instructions
will show you how. If you’re using trellis panels of different
shapes, patterns and sizes you may have to adjust these
instructions to suit your particular project. That won’t be
tricky though.
First we’ll show you how to fix a trellis panel to a fence
post. Check out our Installing Posts and Rails
brochure to install posts.
These instructions show you how to build a basic 1.0m high
picket fence. If you’re using pickets of a different length,
adjust these instructions to suit.
This brochure will show you how to fi x the pickets to
a completed post and rail structure. To get to this
stage, follow the instructions for constructing the post
and rail section of the fence in our Installing Posts and
Rails, brochure ...
These
instructions are in two parts, showing how to build a
vertical or horizontal paling fence.
The instructions in the brochure Installing Posts and Rails
will show you how to install the posts and rails required to
build your new paling fence.
This booklet provides
step-by-step installation instructions for
this very versatile product. We give you an idea of the tools and materials you will need
to complete the job.
Contains tips and
instructions on how to work with concrete that
will save you time and effort. And also helps you achieve a neater, more satisfactory
result, with less waste.
These
instructions will show you how to install an internal door into a non-loadbearing partition wall. We show a comprehensive list of tools and materials required and tell you all about what plumb/lines mean, where the door stud is and how to frame the opening into the wall.
This booklet reviews the most popular types of hinges you might use on a do-it-yourself job around your home. We provide tips and suggestions to help you select butt, flat, or flush butt hinges depending on the application. We also talk about when to use ornamental and back flap hinges.
This
booklet will show you a variety of energy
saving ideas, most of which can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively. You don’t
have to be a master mechanic or even a skilled do-it-yourselfer. All it takes is a small
amount of time, a few tool that you probably already own – and some products which
can be purchased from your local PlaceMakers store.
Security is a broad
concept involving not only locks but also other protective devices, which are equally
important. This booklet contains a
checklist of preventative products, as well as some general safety precautions and product
information, which will help to improve the security of your home.
When you are
painting outdoors, the materials you require are dependent on the condition and the type
of surface you are intending to paint. This
booklet provides some helpful hints and types, which will help to make the job easier.
As well as a painting sequence guide that gives you the correct order you should paint the
exterior of your home.
Updated May 2009
Different
conditions demand different paint. This
booklet covers the different treatments for living rooms and wet areas, paint
preparation, and the order you should paint your room in - as well as many other helpful
hints and tips.
The basics of good
painting are the same inside or out: good preparation. Poorly prepared paintwork needs
redoing sooner, and takes even more effort next time round. It’s obviously sensible
to do the job right –first time. Pick up this booklet and we’ll show you
how!
Stains are used on both interior and exterior timber, and on
some manufactured boards. Some just colour the surface, while others also offer timber
some protection. This booklet
provides information on the types of stains available, hints and tips on how to prepare
the surface for staining and applying the stain, a handy tools and material checklist to
help you get the job done right…first time.
Choosing the right paint for your project can be difficult.
The main consideration is to get the correct product for the
job, so it lasts the distance and looks good in the future.
There are so many different types of paint on the market,
knowing which is most suitable for a particular job is a skill
all its own.
The following guide will help you choose the most
appropriate product for the surface you are about to paint.
The two most important things for a great paint finish are:
a good quality paint, and the right paintbrush to match the
paint type and surface.
People seem to overlook the importance of choosing the
right applicators when planning a paint project. The fact
is, even fancy 'one-coat' paints will never live up to their
potential unless they’re applied with the right applicators
Read more
The two most important things for a great paint finish are:
a good quality paint and the right roller sleeve to match the
paint type and surface.
People seem to overlook the importance of choosing the
right applicators when planning a paint project. The fact
is, even fancy 'one-coat' paints will never live up to their
potential unless they are applied with the right applicators.
Read more...
The interior trim gives the room a distinctive outline. It also
enhances dimensions and colours within the room.
There are a number of factors to consider prior to and
during your painting project. Correct preparations are the
key to your project’s success. The following steps will help
you in achieving a successful, professional outcome. Refer
to our Know How brochures Preparing to Paint, Selecting
the Right Brush and Choosing the Right Paint to help you
get the best results.
Read more
Pergolas are a useful and attractive addition to any
section. They provide support for climbing plants like roses,
clematis, jasmine and honeysuckle.
Pegolas offer a focus and architectural form in a fl at
garden; or on a plain building.
Add a roof in clear corrugated material to provide
shelter over a doorway or as a gazebo.
This brochure has instructions for a free-standing pergola,
and one fixed to a building or a wall.
Updated January 2009
Do you want a more interesting and durable approachway
to your property? Concrete pavers are a practical way to
lay hard-wearing paths, patios, courtyards and driveways,
without just pouring plain concrete. Pavers can be laid in
stages, and even better, they can be lifted if drains, cables
or pipes underneath ever need servicing.
A retaining wall is a great way to improve the look of your
lawn and garden. It can be a beautiful feature as well as
the perfect way to create a fl at lawn on a slopping section.
However, because retaining walls have an important job
to do, we advise you to call in an expert for any wall over
900mm high.
Updated February 2009
Retaining walls
perform heavy and important work. You’ll need to consider drainage and what options
you’ll choose to build your wall. Our brochure
contains a handy tools and materials checklist, complete with full installation
instructions.
Tiling demands
patience and precision. This booklet provides instructions for tiling an ordinary interior
wall or floor. There is a lot to do before you begin – we show you how.
According
to the latest BRANZ house condition survey, NZ homeowners need to spend a total of over
$5.5 billion on outstanding maintenance just to bring their houses up to moderate
condition. This booklet
is designed to provide a guide on the sorts of regular maintenance checks you should be
undertaking which will keep your home looking good, whilst maintaining it’s value and
maximising the life of the building.
This is a project that
you really can’t afford to cut corners on. Leaks can be hard to track down and if
left are very expensive. In this booklet we talk about the tools and materials you are likely to require as well as
some handy tips and techniques that will ensure you are left with a professional leak free
finish.
