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THE SEASONS AREN’T JUST CHANGING, YOUR HOME SHOULD TOO
NUTTIGE WENKE OM SELF DAAI VERFPROJEK AAN TE PAK
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THE SMART BUYER’S GUIDE TO PREMIUM WENDY HOUSES
SAVE ON AIRCON MAINTENANCE
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MASTER EVERY PROJECT WITH CONFIDENCE
ENHANCE YOUR PROPERTY’S APPEAL WITH SMART, COST-EFFECTIVE RENOVATIONS
Om die mure en plafonne van jou huis te verf, is 'n groot taak wat beplanning vereis voordat jy begin.
Die regte volgorde vir die verf van enige vertrek is om eers met die plafon te begin, dan die mure en laastens die hout- en metaalwerk soos verkoelers en pype.
Beplan altyd jou werk deeglik en werk stelselmatig - só verseker jy dat jy nie dele oorslaan wat later sigbaar sal wees wanneer die verf droog is nie.
NOODSAAKLIKE GEREEDSKAP EN VOORBEREIDINGSWENKE
Voordat jy enige verf begin aanwend, moet jy eers besluit hoe jy die oppervlak veilig en gemaklik gaan bereik. Om met die een voet op 'n stoel te balanseer, is nié die manier nie! Maak die vertrek so leeg as moontlik en skuif enige oorblywende meubels na die middel van die kamer en gooi dit toe met plastiekbedekking.
Ma e moet ook só beskerm word. As jy nie 'n geskikte leer het nie, kan jy een by 'n winkel gaan huur. Verskeie soorte is beskikbaar - sommige vou oop tot 'n werkplatform, wat ideaal is vir die verf van groot oppervlaktes soos plafonne.
Jy moet ook let op die aard van die oppervlak wat jy gaan verf - is dit grof (soos spuitpleister) of glad gepleister? Dit is belangrik, want dit bepaal wa er roller jy moet gebruik en hoeveel voorbereiding nodig is.
Tekstuurplafonne kan met tyd bros en stowwerig raak, veral as dit nog nooit geverf is nie. In sulke gevalle moet jy dit eers met 'n olieverf verseël.
Gladde plafonne het dikwels krake wat met die regte vulmiddel herstel moet word. Talle verskillende soorte is beskikbaar. Neem dus jou tyd om die regte een vir jou projek te kies.
VERFWENKE
Sodra jy die toegang en voorbereiding uitgesorteer het, moet jy besluit wa er soort verf jy gaan gebruik - wil jy 'n dowwe-, eierdop-, halfglans- of hoëglans-afwerking
hê? Dowwe verf is dikwels die beste keuse, aangesien dit oppervlakgebreke help verbloem.
Volg 'n paar eenvoudige wenke om jou verfprojek te vergemaklik:
. As jy plafonne verf, begin in een hoek en werk die kante in terwyl jy aangaan, eerder as om eers die hele omtrek met 'n kwas te verf. Laasgenoemde metode laat dikwels die verf droog word voordat jy die res met die roller verf, wat 'n streperige effek kan veroorsaak. Laat die plafonverf sowat 2 cm teen die muur afstrek; dan hoef jy later net netjies met die muurverf teen die randlyn in te sny.
. Die proses vir muurverf is dieselfde. Sny in rondom skakelaars en proppe terwyl jy aangaan, en moenie te veel bekommer as jy effens op vensterrame of deurkosyne verf nie - dit is maklik om later netjies met die laaste verfwerk af te rond.
. Die tegniek "insny" is makliker as wat meeste die mense dink. Jy kan spesiale kwaste koop waarvan die hare teen 'n skuins hoek gesny is - ideaal vir presiese werk.
. Moenie te veel verf met die kwas skep nie. Hou dit soos 'n pen vas en begin in een hoek.
. Begin 'n bietjie onder waar jy die rand wil hê en werk stadig op tot teen die regte lyn. As daar nie genoeg verf op is nie, is dit maklik om weer daaroor te gaan om dit reg te stel.
. As jy per ongeluk teen die afgewerkte plafon verf, wag totdat dit droog is en werk dan weer met die plafonverf om die lyn reg te maak. Jy hoef nie die hele plafon oor te verf nie; dis net 'n klein regstelling.
. Moenie in die versoeking kom om maskeerband te gebruik nie - verf kruip dikwels onder die rand in, en as jy die band a rek, kan stukke van die vorige verflaag loskom, wat die kaal pleister sal ontbloot. Jy sal met 'n bietjie oefening met 'n kwas verbaas wees hoe maklik dit is om goeie resultate te kry. Die belangrikste is om jou tyd te neem en netjies te werk.
. As jy die muur agter byvoorbeeld 'n lugversorger wil verf sonder om dit af te haal, is rollers ideaal. Hulle werk ook goed in ander moeilik bereikbare dele.
The seasons aren’t just changing, your home should too
With 2025 in full swing, the hardware and DIY industry is buzzing with optimism as eager homeowners have been se ing the stage with new trends and creative solutions. Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, shares his thoughts on what is shaping 2025.
PAINTING TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT
Painting has always been one of the most affordable ways to refresh a home. A er a stretch of deferred maintenance, more people are tackling overdue projects. But painting is no longer just about sprucing up surfaces; it’s becoming a form of selfexpression and creativity.
New products in the South African market are adding to this renewed enthusiasm.
Duram’s RubberFlex, a rubberised waterproof coating, is gaining a ention for its durability and flexibility, ideal for areas needing robust waterproofing. Meanwhile, Plascon’s Nuroof Cool is se ing new standards for roof paint, offering technology that reduces surface temperatures and enhances energy efficiency—a perfect fit for South Africa’s sunny climate.
Adding a splash of personality to interiors, Dulux’s Colour of the Year for 2025, True Joy™, is an upli ing yellow designed to bring creativity and optimism into homes. For those seeking sustainable options, Amoriguard Eco-Friendly Paint, made with recycled fillers, is making waves as an environmentally friendly solution.
“Painting is about more than just maintenance,” says Luis. “It’s a creative outlet that can breathe new life into a home.”
SOLAR TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT
Despite a rocky year in 2024, solar is back in focus for 2025. With rising electricity prices, homeowners are turning to solar panels and energy-saving appliances - like the Taurus water cooler that uses ice cubes to cool the water reservoir where the air circulation blows through - to cut monthly bills and reduce reliance on the grid. Many retailers are rolling out promotional deals, making now an excellent time to invest in sustainable energy solutions.
“Solar technology keeps improving,” says Luis. “Panels are more efficient and increasingly affordable, making solar a worthwhile long-term investment. As financing options become more accessible, these solutions are poised for serious momentum.”
Even small-scale products—solar-powered outdoor lights or rechargeable gadgets—are growing in popularity.
DIY FENCING AND CLADDING TRENDS
Fencing and cladding are capturing homeowners’ a ention in 2025. Nutec Fibre Cement Wendy planks, for example, are popular for their durability, costeffectiveness, and textured wood grain finish, the ideal cladding for perimeter fencing and gates and even the exterior walls of your home. “This is about more than good looks,” says Luis. “Homeowners want low-maintenance, long-lasting, and budgetfriendly options. Fencing and cladding
can boost a property’s curb appeal while enhancing security and functionality.”
Increasingly, these materials are being used indoors. Homeowners are creating feature walls, adding texture to living spaces, or using cladding as a stylish option for high-traffic areas like hallways or mudrooms. The versatility of products like Nutec Wendy planks allows them to seamlessly transition from outdoor to indoor aesthetics.
CORDLESS LEAD THE CHARGE
“Cordless tools are evolving every year,” says Luis. “We’re seeing more heavy-duty options for construction, plus new cordless gardening tools like hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, and chainsaws.”
A notable milestone is the introduction of a 40V Makita brushless cordless tool range for engineering and construction — powerful enough for big jobs without the hassle of cables. Brands like DeWalt have launched advanced cordless tools, including the 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw and the 5-Inch Orbital Sander, designed for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
International trends in gardening tools are also making waves. Ryobi’s 36V Cordless Leaf Blower, featuring Whisper Fan Technology, delivers powerful yet quiet performance and is available locally. Greenworks’ 60V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower offers extended ba ery life, though its availability in South Africa remains limited. Meanwhile, the Aiper IrriSense Smart Irrigation Sprinkler highlights future smart gardening trends with app-controlled precision irrigation.
“Ba ery tech just keeps ge ing be er,” Luis notes. “Cordless tools are transforming how we approach construction, renovation, and gardening.”
HOT TEMPS, COOL SOLUTIONS
Cooling products—such as fans, air conditioners, and watercoolers—are set to remain household essentials. These items also improve productivity in home offices and shared spaces. New energy-efficient air conditioners, like LG’s latest AI-driven cooling systems, are hi ing the market, improving performance while minimising energy use.
Meanwhile, looming water restrictions mean water-saving products like tanks and pumps are gaining traction. Products like the Dropula system, now available for home use, monitor water consumption in real-time, helping households identify waste. For refrigeration, Samsung’s hybrid cooling refrigerators blend traditional compressor technology with cu ing-edge Peltier modules to keep food fresher for longer, though they’re not yet available in South Africa. Portable evaporative coolers from brands like Honeywell offer eco-friendly heat relief, accessible through international shipping. For outdoor enthusiasts, shaded pergolas, misting systems, and UV-protective gazebos—such as those from Coolaroo—are essential for staying comfortable under the sun. Solar-powered cooling systems are gaining traction as sustainable and costeffective solutions.
With South Africa's hot summers having an air conditioner in the home is a pleasure that the whole family enjoys. However, an air conditioner that is not properly maintained can lead to sky-high electricity bills for disappointing levels of cooling.
Keeping your air conditioner in good working order requires regular maintenance. Much of the maintenance you can do yourself, although it is a good idea to have a technician come out to service the unit at least once a year.
Given South Africa's often dusty climate, cleaning your air conditioner filter is an essential task that should be done at least once a month when the unit is being used; and before using
again after a period of no use during the cooler months.
Dirty filters block the airflow within the air conditioner, which has a significant impact on both power consumption and cooling. They can also compromise the air quality within the home, which could have health consequences for your family.
Some air conditioners contain filters that can be cleaned and reused, while others are only single-use filters and require regular replacement. Even if your filter is the type that can be reused it will still need to be replaced from time to time due to wear and tear. Your owner's
manual will tell you whether your filters can be cleaned and how to do so.
While a duster can be used to keep your air-conditioner vents clean, it can be time-consuming to do properly. Using your household vacuum cleaner to clean your vents is far quicker and more effective too as dust particles are sucked up and not allowed the opportunity to settle behind the vents. If your vents are looking grubby, try using the soft brush attachment for your vacuum to loosen built-up grime.
Once your indoor unit has been cared for it's time to head outdoors to check on the compressor or heat pump, depending on the type of air conditioning unit. The outdoor component of air conditioners is very often neglected, but their condition determines just how effective and efficient your unit is.
Your first task is to make sure that the unit has a clear space on and around it, paying particular attention to any garden debris that may have piled up in front of it. Your outdoor unit should always have free space around it
for optimal airflow.
Having cleared the surrounding space, remove the outer covers of the unit to expose the fins. First, check for any bent fins and gently straighten these with a butter knife.
Your household vacuum cleaner is a handy cleaning tool for your outdoor unit and if you have a soft brush attachment, you can use this to loosen built-up grime. If you use this attachment, be sure to follow the direction of the fins and be gentle to avoid bending any of the fins.
Your garden hosepipe is perfect for rinsing off the fins, but be careful not to have it on a highpressure setting that could bend the fins.
Once complete, replace the outer covers.
Erecting a Wendy house in your back garden – be it a garden shed, a playhouse, cabin, or a home for your “Wendy” – should not be a costly exercise, at least not in the long run.
Whether you’re paying someone to build it for you, or tackling it as a DIY project, it is essential not to skimp on the quality of the materials to ensure it stands the test of weather and time.
According to Timbacore, a leading local timber specialist, many buyers only discover problems after it’s too late, often due to a lack of clear specifications for wooden cabins or Wendy houses.
This can result in unfavourable deals with limited recourse.
WHY QUALITY IS YOUR BEST FRIEND (AND CHEAP IS YOUR WORST ENEMY)
It’s essential to see and understand the product before you buy, but how familiar are you with the standards for Wendy houses?
To help you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes, Timbacore outlines the key specifications you should consider:
. Roof sheets: “Not all roof sheets are created equal. Some products, sometimes called ‘one-year roof sheets’, are only 0.3 mm thick and last about a year.
“At Timbacore, we use high-quality Colorbond and Zincalume sheets that are 0.47 mm thick, backed by a 15-year guarantee. We can also accommodate other preferences depending on your needs.
. Roof structure: “Quality timber should be CCA pressure treated to at least H2, but we prefer using H3 for greater durability.
“Our typical pitched roofs feature purlins spaced approximately 600 mm apart, supported by robust rafters for enhanced strength.
. Timber frames for walls: “Similarly, the
Whether you choose us to manufacture and install your Wendy house, handle the installation yourself, or embark on a DIY project with our premium timber and supplies, at Timbacore we’ve got you covered.
timber frames should be CCA pressure treated to H3. Our frames include vertical studs spaced at 600 mm intervals, with top and bottom frames providing additional support.
. Wall cladding: “You can choose between timber or fibre cement cladding. Timber cladding must be CCA pressure treated to H3 for exterior use and can be painted or sealed for added protection.
“We offer a variety of timber cladding options, including Loglap, Halflog, Shiplap, Flat weather board, and Rustic cladding. Our fibre cement boards are fixed with stainless steel screws to ensure durability.
. Floors: “Our 22mm tongue and groove flooring is CCA pressure treated to H3 and fixed onto floor joists spaced no more than 600mm apart.
“This ensures a solid and long-lasting foundation for your Wendy house.”
YOUR PARTNERS IN BRINGING DREAMS TO LIFE Timbacore is dedicated to providing exceptional quality and value for all their clients. “Whether you choose us to manufacture and install your Wendy house, handle the installation yourself, or embark on a DIY project with our premium timber and supplies, we’ve got you covered.
“We partner with reputable sawmills and suppliers to ensure that our timber products come with a 20-year SABS-approved warranty against rot and beetles. Our experienced team is committed to providing expert advice and high-quality service to help you get it right the first time.
“We’re here to assist you in making the best choice for your Wendy house.”
. Ready to Start Your Backyard Transformation? Visit the Timbacore showroom in Stikland at 15 Farad Street or explore possibilities or visit at www.timbacore.co.za
Lost between H0 and H5?
Wood
CCA (copper-chrome-arsenic) is an industrial wood preservative that protects wood against insects and rot caused by fungi.
CCA treated timber is odourless and the final product can be easily painted.
The purpose for which the wood will be used, along with exposure conditions, defines the required treatment.
This is classified according to the international H-class system for treating wood:
H0-i: A mild treatment process offering protection against common insects, for interior use only – mouldings, ceilings, flooring boards and joinery.
H2: Interior use – roof trusses, laminated beams, internally used structural timber, ceiling boards, flooring, panelling, doors, cupboards, skirting, window frames and plywood.
H3: Exterior above ground – balustrades, fencing bearers and slats, outdoor decking and beams, garden furniture, laminated beams, weather board, steps, cladding, stairs, log homes, gates, fascia boards and plywood. H4: Exterior ground contact – playground structures, fencing, pergolas, carports, flower boxes, decking, bridges and stakes, as well as electrical, distribution, telephone and lighting poles.
H5: Fresh-water contact – timber exposed to continual wetting or planted in wet soil, like jetties, drains, walkways, retaining walls and slipways.
H6: Marine water contact – jetties, slipways, retaining walls and walkways.
Source: South African Wood Preservers Association
Whether you’re a weekend warrior tackling home improvements or a seasoned craftsman refining your skills, the right know-how makes all the difference.
At OS Steelworld, they believe smart preparation, proper tools, and a safety-first mindset are the backbone of every successful DIY project.
GENERAL DIY TIPS:
. Measure twice, cut once and always double-check measurements before cutting materials.
. Invest in basics – a quality tape measure, cordless drill, level, utility knife, and screwdriver set goes a long way.
. Use painter’s tape for clean lines – perfect for painting edges, marking drill holes, or holding items temporarily.
. Magnet trick – use a magnet to find studs in walls (nails in the studs will attract the magnet).
. Pre-drill holes – prevent wood from splitting by pre-drilling before inserting screws.
TOOL MAINTENANCE
1. Clean after use: Wipe tools down to remove sawdust, debris, or moisture.
2. Sharpen or replace bits/blades: Dull tools are dangerous and inefficient.
3. Store properly: Keep tools in a dry place, preferably in cases or on wall hooks, to avoid rust and damage.
ROOFING
. Check for rotten wood.
. Inspect the decking underneath shingles for rot or soft spots.
Replace any damaged sheathing before re-roofing.
. Flashing (metal around chimneys, vents, and valleys) must be installed carefully to prevent leaks—use roofing cement as backup.
TOOLS TO HAVE ON HAND
. Roofing nailer or hammer;
. Utility knife (with plenty of blades);
. Chalk line;
. Pry bar (for tear-off);
. Measuring tape;
. Caulking gun (for roofing cement) and . Tin snips (for cutting flashing).
SAFETY FIRST
1. Wear proper PPE
. Welding helmet: A dark lens (auto-darkening helmets are great) to protect your eyes from bright light and UV radiation.
. Protective gloves: Leather or heat-resistant gloves to avoid burns.
. Flame-resistant clothing: Wear thick, flame-resistant jackets or long sleeves. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they can catch fire easily.
. Welding boots: Boots with steel toes will protect your feet from falling metal.
2. Ventilation is key
. Always work in a well-ventilated area. Welding produces harmful fumes that can lead to serious health issues. Use fume extractors or fans to improve air circulation.
3. Avoid eye damage
. Never look directly at the welding arc without a helmet, as it can cause arc eye (painful inflammation of the cornea).
. Make sure others in the vicinity wear eye protection too.
Consider small, strategic upgrades to enhance the appeal of your house, rather than costly renovations.
PHOTO: FREEPIK
Rather than costly renovations that may not pay off, homeowners should when seeking to add value to a residential property, consider small, strategic upgrades to enhance the appeal of the house.
“Most experts agree that property values in most neighbourhoods have a ceiling, so an expansive overhaul might not deliver the returns you expect. Instead, smart cost-effective improvements can make a significant impact,” says Gavyn Letley of DirectAxis.
VALUABLE TIPS TO CONSIDER
. Set a budget: Work out the cost of your planned work. If you are employing a contractor for renovations, ask for a detailed quote. If you have the skills, time and tools, the DIY route will save labour costs but still work out how much all the material will cost. Once you know the costs, you can consider how best to finance the project, either from savings or a loan.
. First impressions matter: A freshly painted exterior, a wellkept garden and sparkling, clean
windows can instantly make your home more inviting. These improvements require more effort than money. Take a drive around the neighbourhood to see what makes other houses stand out.
. Have a plan and stick to it: Tackling one project at a time is the best way to stay within budget. It will also help to ensure you complete projects rather than leaving unfinished spaces.
. Repair before renovating: A brand-new kitchen will not compensate for a leaking roof or broken gutters. Address maintenance issues first, to avoid costly problems down the line.
. Avoid being extravagant: Luxury add-ons, such as a jacuzzi, might not offer a good return on investment. Instead, focus on upgrades that appeal to a wide range of tastes. An example is adding an inverter and solar panels to help with electricity backup in case of load shedding.
.Keep it simple: Major structural changes can be expensive and unnecessary when doing renovations. A fresh coat of paint, sanding and re-varnishing
wooden floors, or installing a stainless-steel kitchen splashback can refresh a space at a fraction of the cost.
. Prioritise cleanliness, upkeep: Regular deep cleaning of the kitchen and bathrooms, including tiles, grouting and ceilings, can keep these high-traffic areas looking fresh. Something as simple as replacing an old shower curtain can make a significant difference.
.Avoid unpleasant surprises: Before listing your property, consider getting it inspected for electrical compliance, cracks in the walls or floors, rising damp, dry rot or pests.
LESS IS MORE
By addressing these issues proactively, you can avoid lastminute price negotiations or potential buyers walking away.
“When it comes to adding value to your property, less is more,” says Letley. “Have a plan, focus on upgrades rather than full overhauls, do it incrementally to spread the cost and prioritise the changes that will create the most appeal at the least cost.”
