ASK THE
experts
Our team of experts answer your home improvement questions
I’m going to renovate my kitchen – how should I plan for the plug sockets? Sam Miller, via email
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Howard Solomons, Head of Design at Wandsworth Electrical, says… You’ll need to ensure the sockets are far enough away from water sources for safety. But it’s important to remember that your kitchen is a hard-working area, so the more outlets you have, the better. Think about the appliances you want and
those you use a lot – you’ll want at least one twin socket per appliance. You should also be able to isolate large appliances, such as fridges. You can do this with a regular socket, but a more practical approach would be to use a fused switch for each large appliance. These can be tucked away as long they’re still accessible, so that the appliance can be easily isolated when required. Once you know what appliances you want, think about what else you use in the kitchen, especially devices such as tablets and smart speakers. I recommend installing twin-switched sockets with integrated USB outlets in areas that are clogged with devices.
Photos Jess Hurrell; Kasia Fiszer; Getty Images x 2
Lacquered satin brass double socket, £77.13, Wandsworth Electrical
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yourhomestyle.uk
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How can I clean my windows without leaving streaks? Tara Shepherd, Shrewsbury
Lynsey Crombie, @Lynsey_ QueenofClean on Instagram, says… Never clean your windows when the Sun is blazing on them – the cleaner will dry onto the hot window before you get a chance to wipe it away, which will cause streaks. Instead, start cleaning the windows in the shady part of the house or clean them on a dull, overcast day. Use a solution of warm soapy water with a dash of white vinegar and two thick microfibre cloths – one for cleaning and one for drying – and work in an ‘S’-shape motion. After cleaning, scrunch up a sheet of newspaper and use it to absorb any water that’s been left behind.
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I have hairline cracks in my ceiling. When are they serious and can I fix them myself? Hannah Banwo, Bradford
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Pat Gilham, painting and decorating expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, says… Cracks wider than a £1 coin or that run across the ceiling to the corner could be structural and are worth getting checked by a structural engineer or builder. But hairline cracks aren’t usually anything to worry about. If there’s only a few cracks, you can fix these with a fine filler and filling knife. If there are lots, I’d advise getting your ceiling reskimmed by a plasterer to create a smooth surface for a repaint.
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