Crafting spaces with care –A TRIBUTE TO HERITAGE AND HOME
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EDITORIAL
Content Manager: Raina Julies, rainaj@picasso.co.za
Contributors: Orlando Luis, Nicole Russell, Palesa Ramaisa
Copy Editor: Brenda Bryden
Content Co-ordinator: Natasha Maneveldt
Online Editor: Stacey Visser
DESIGN
Head of Design Studio: Jayne Macé-Ferguson
Senior Designer: Mfundo Archie Ndzo
Cover Images: [faustinocarmonaguerrero]/123rf.com, [lanastock]/123rf.com, [in4mal]/123rf.com, Supplied
SALES
Project Manager: Gavin Payne, gavinp@picasso.co.za +27 21 469 2477 I +27 74 031 9774
PRODUCTION
Production Editor: Shamiela Brenner
Advertising Co-ordinator: Johan Labuschagne
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Printing: CTP Printers, Cape Town
MANAGEMENT
Management Accountant: Deidre Musha
Business Manager: Lodewyk van der Walt General Manager, Magazines: Jocelyne Bayer
Copyright: Picasso Headline. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. EasyDIY is published by Picasso Headline. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Picasso Headline. All advertisements/advertorials and promotions have been paid for and therefore do not carry any endorsement by the publisher.
In South Africa, Heritage Month invites us to reflect on the legacies we inherit and the ones we create. While heritage often evokes traditions, language and culture, it also lives in the spaces we shape and care for daily. Whether a family heirloom, a long-standing home or even a newly renovated kitchen, our living environments carry the stories of who we are and how we live.
This edition of EasyDIY celebrates that spirit through practical, creative and sustainable home improvement. From Sika’s smart waterproofing systems to everyday fixes and design hacks – whether maintaining vinyl
floors, handling household repairs or turning leftover paint into bold new accents. And, for the weekend warriors, our DIY projects are designed to be accessible, yet impactful: create an elegant wall feature with trim moulding, or set up a compact, kid-friendly gaming corner that won’t break the bank.
In a season that honours history, may this issue inspire you to keep building – with purpose, pride and care. Because our homes, like our heritage, deserve to be nurtured and celebrated.
RainaJulies
CONTENTS SPRING 2025
BITS ‘N’ BOBS
3 SMART SURFACES, SEAMLESS SPACES
From durable rooftop waterproofing to refined kitchen finishes, Sika and Miele offer design-led solutions built to last
MAINTENANCE
7 VINYL, VARNISHED AND VIBRANT: THE SMART WAY TO CARE FOR YOUR FLOORS
Expert tips for cleaning and maintaining wood-look vinyl tiles, ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance.
EXPERT ADVICE
10 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MR.DIY
MR.DIY shares simple, affordable ways to refresh your home, garden and even your car, from clever cleaning tools to garden gear and car-care essentials for a quick and satisfying spring makeover
16 10 HOUSEHOLD REPAIRS MADE SIMPLE
Brights Hardware CEO Orlando Luis explains how to tackle common home fixes – no handyman required.
PROJECTS
20 SMALL TINS, BIG IMPACT: CREATIVE PROJECTS WITH LEFTOVER PAINT Dulux colour expert Palesa Ramaisa shares clever ways to upcycle half-used tins of paint into stylish home updates.
DIY 101
24 ELEGANT WALL FRAME PANELS WITH TRIM MOULDING
Transform a plain wall into a classic feature using lightweight moulding – no major renovation needed.
27 DESIGN A FUN, FUNCTIONAL GAMING CORNER FOR KIDS
Create a playful, space-saving nook your kids will love – perfect for screen time and easy to tidy.
S mart SURFACES, seamless spaces
ro r e roo o er roo o re e e s es Sika Miele
offer es e so o s o s
MIELE’S PEARL BEIGE – UNDERSTATED, ELEGANT AND BUILT TO LAST
Miele South Africa has introduced Pearl Beige, a new finish available across its handleless ArtLine built-in appliance range. The soft, warm-toned neutral is a mix of grey and beige, offering a fresh alternative to cooler metallics and darker hues.
Designed to integrate seamlessly into modern kitchens, Pearl Beige is subtle
but sophisticated. It complements a range of interior styles, from minimalist and monochrome to layered, textured spaces. The finish has a gentle shimmer that adds depth without dominating the room.
Paired with Miele’s ArtLine design, appliances in this colour come handleless and flush-fitting, with Touch2Open sensor
SMART WATERPROOFING FOR COMPLEX ROOFS
In Gauteng’s Eye of Africa Estate, a luxury home recently required a waterproofing solution that could manage the demands of a complex roof design. The homeowner opted for Sikalastic®-560, a liquid-applied polyurethane-modified acrylic system known for its flexibility and long-term protection. Recommended by a colleague abroad, the product has been used in high-end residential projects globally. Unlike traditional methods, Sikalastic®-560 forms a seamless, flexible layer that adapts to structural movement – helpful in preventing cracks and leaks. It also offers UV resistance and holds up well in South Africa’s varied climate conditions.
For extra reinforcement, particularly at joints and detailing points, the team added Sika® Reemat Premium, a fibreglass mat that improves durability and helps the system handle stress points better.
Key benefits
• Seamless application for a uniform finish.
• Flexible and weather-resistant.
• White reflective coating helps with heat reduction.
• Water-based, low VOC formula.
Specifications
Sikalastic®-560 is compliant with ETAG 005, Energy Star, and fire performance standards.
technology for a clean, streamlined look. Doors open with a gentle tap, reinforcing the brand’s focus on function with elegance. Available products in Pearl Beige:
• Ovens and combi-steam ovens (45 cm and 60 cm).
• Microwave combination ovens.
• Built-in coffee machines.
• Warming drawers.
As with all Miele appliances, Pearl Beige products are engineered for durability, tested for the equivalent of 20 years of use.
Where to buy
Available at Miele Experience Centres and premium retailers across South Africa.
For more information, visit www.miele.co.za
Availability
Visit www.sika.co.za or contact Sika South Africa for more information.
This system offers a practical waterproofing option for homes demanding both performance and design flexibility.
Making the correct choice between A FLAP DISC AND A GRINDING DISC
With the scope of abrasives having expanded exponentially over time, the choice of the correct product can be rather overwhelming, especially with so e ro s o o e s e o oo s ffere GRINDING TECHNIQUES cuts through the confusion
For the DIY enthusiast, a trip to the local hardware store can be very satisfying, especially if they have a project they’d like to tackle. However, choosing the correct product can become a daunting task.
When selecting abrasive products, the first consideration should be the safety thereof.
Superflex cutting and grinding media are all manufactured and tested to meet oSa (Organisation for the Safety of Abrasives), EN and ISO 9001 standards, with compliance clearly marked on all our product labels to ensure they are safe to use. Apart from these markings, information regarding the specific application of the product, be it cutting or grinding, is also noted.
Once product usage is confirmed (that is, the type of material and the work to be done), the desired end result will further guide the product selection process. Although some products will provide a similar but not identical net result, each item has its own benefits.
As abrasive technology has grown and advanced over time, so too have the
“standard” ways of completing even the simplest of tasks.
GRINDING DISC OR FLAP DISC
Right-angle grinding discs have always been known as the “go-to product’’ for stock removal on various materials.
Superflex 115x6.5x22.23 AS24/30T industrial grinding discs are designed for maximising stock removal with a far lesser focus on the final finish of the surface or material being ground. These discs are ideal for grinding down large welds or where a large volume of metal needs to be removed. For nonmetallic applications, Superflex 115x6.4x22.23 CS24T stone angle grinding discs are perfectly suited for grinding down unevenness on concrete, stone and masonry substrates. The core benefit of these products is to complete the work as quickly and economically as possible, due to their rapid grinding ability and overall unmatched longevity.
The coated abrasive flap disc is a more recent development and has become a very popular line in the majority of hardware stores.
The benefits it provides in comparison to the conventional angle grinding disc are numerous. When viewed from a DIY perspective, flap discs tend to be easier to handle for the novice as they are less aggressive in engaging the material. The reduced weight of the disc also helps to reduce fatigue on the operator. With the overall grinding action and material removal rate being lower than with conventional angle grinding discs, the finish they provide is substantially smoother and more refined, leading to less post-grinding refinishing being required.
Superflex flap discs are available in a range of sizes, grits and grain types, with the two most popular variants being aluminium oxide, suited to lighter duty work on steel and wood applications, and zirconia alumina, perfect for heavier duty applications on mild, carbon and stainless steel, wood, plastics and other substrates.
Identifying these products is simple –they can be distinguished easily based on their colour. Aluminium oxide will have a red-brown colour, whereas zirconia alumina is blue-green in colour.
With the core benefit of a balance between material removal and final finish, flap discs are an ideal time-saver, reducing a two-step operation to only one.
Available in several tiers ranging from Evolution to Premium, Superflex flap discs offer the perfect solution to various applications.
Both the Evolution and Industrial range are available at major retail outlets.
For more on our product range, please contact one of our business development managers: +27 11 271 6400 info@grindtech.com www.grindtech.com
V inyl , VARNISHED AND VIBRANT
High-end vinyl floor tiles are a savvy investment for any home or office. With the warm, natural appeal of richly grained timber and the toughness to handle real-life messes, vinyl tiles deliver both beauty and function. They’re water-resistant, durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for busy households, stylish living spaces and commercial interiors.
However, even these resilient surfaces need the right care to remain stunning. Using harsh products or too much water can damage them. With just a few simple habits,
you’ll keep your floors looking pristine for years to come.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CLEAN VINYL FLOORS?
Proper maintenance doesn’t require daily effort – just a thoughtful routine:
• Daily/every few days: sweep or vacuum to remove dust, dirt and grit. This helps prevent micro-scratches and dullness.
• Weekly: mop gently using a soft mop with a safe cleaning solution.
• Immediately: wipe up spills the moment they happen to prevent staining or damage.
YOUR MUST-HAVE CLEANING TOOLS AND PRODUCTS
Gather these essentials for a safe and effective clean:
• A soft broom or vacuum (no beater bar).
• A damp (not wet) soft mop.
• Two buckets – one for cleaning, one for rinsing.
• Soft cloths or sponges.
• A vinyl-safe cleaner like TFC Luxury Vinyl Cleaner (available at Italtile) or a DIY vinegar solution.
DIY CLEANING SOLUTIONS THAT WORK
• Everyday clean: mix 1 cup white vinegar with 4 litres of warm water. Mop with a damp mop.
• Monthly deep clean: add a few drops of gentle dishwashing liquid to your vinegar mix.
EXPLORE MORE WITH ITALTILE
Thinking of upgrading to vinyl? Visit an Italtile showroom or browse online to explore the full range of luxury vinyl tile options. Use our free online design tools to visualise your new space, or speak to a design-certified consultant for expert guidance. Ready to elevate your cleaning game? Stock up on our tailor-made vinyl-safe cleaning products, available online or in-store.
WHAT NOT TO DO: AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES
To protect your floor’s integrity and finish, never use the following:
• Steam cleaners or steam mops.
• Steel wool, scourers or harsh brushes.
• Bleach, ammonia or acid-based cleaners.
• Harsh chemical solvents.
• Wax or polish – these can leave a sticky, dust-attracting residue.
SCRATCH-PROOFING YOUR VINYL LIKE A PRO
Prevention is better than repair. Keep your floors safe from scuffs with these smart strategies:
• Use furniture pads under legs and bases.
• Place doormats at entrances to trap grit.
• Always lift, not drag furniture when moving it.
THE LONG GAME: PROTECTING YOUR VINYL FOR YEARS TO COME
With the right care and smart habits, your vinyl flooring will maintain its rich colour, texture and lustre for decades. Gentle, regular maintenance not only boosts durability, but also enhances the beauty of your living space
DOWNLOAD
Free online design tool
Spring INTO ACTION
South Africa is waking from its winter slumber, and there’s no better time to bring fresh energy into your home, garden and even your car. From deep-cleaning to decluttering, MR.DIY s e oo s s ffor e s o ee o e o r s r re res s e s s
As we start emerging from our cocoons after what has probably been the longest winter ever, now is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home, garden and even your car.
Whether your spring-clean plans include scrubbing tools, garden gear or even a little pep up for your car, MR.DIY is your one-stop shop for affordable, practical spring-cleaning solutions that help you spruce up your space without breaking the bank.
A CLEAN SWEEP WITH TOOLS THAT MAKE TIDYING A BREEZE
Spring-cleaning always sounds like a great idea until you’re elbow-deep in dust. Luckily, with the right tools from MR.DIY’s home aisles, you can go from dust to dazzle in no time.
•Mops that reach every corner: choose from flat mops, spin mops and microfibre options that make floor cleaning fast, effective – and yes – fun.
•Scrubbing brushes and scouring pads: from stubborn bathroom tiles to greasy kitchen grime, MR.DIY has scrubbers and scourers in all shapes and textures to suit any surface.
•Multipurpose cloths and gloves: durable, reusable and budget-friendly, these essentials are perfect for wiping and polishing. Plus, they’ll protect your hands (and that fresh spring mani) while you work.
If you’re looking for trusted cleaning brands, you can always count on Sheen. A South African favourite, Sheen’s range of sprays, detergents and surface cleaners will help you achieve a sparkling finish with minimal effort – and they’re available at MR.DIY.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS TO HELP YOU DIG INTO YOUR GARDEN GOALS
Spring is the season of new growth, so why not give your garden a little extra love?
Whether planting herbs, trimming hedges or trying to tame the jungle that used to be your lawn, our gardening section has you covered.
•Protective gloves: say no to scratched hands or dirt under your nails with gloves available in various sizes and materials for maximum comfort and durability.
•Clippers, spades, forks, and more: take your pick from pruning shears, sturdy spades, hand forks and trowels. MR.DIY’s garden tools make outdoor work feel more like therapy than hard labour.
•Planters and watering cans: add a pop of colour and personality to your garden, balcony or patio with MR.DIY’s range of planters and watering accessories – perfect for spring entertaining.
MR.DIY tip: even a small balcony can become a lush retreat with the right tools and a few carefully chosen plants.
CAR TLC TO GIVE YOUR RIDE A SPRING MAKEOVER
Your home isn’t the only thing that deserves a refresh – your car could use some seasonal TLC, too. Our auto section has everything you need to get it looking and feeling brand new.
• Interior cleaning kits: wipes, sprays and microfibre cloths to banish dust, stains and that mysterious stickiness in the cup holder.
• Air fresheners: from subtle scents to uplifting fragrances, make every drive a breath of fresh air.
• Exterior care: sponges, waxes and tyre cleaners to give your car that just-off-the-showroom-floor shine. You’ll be amazed at how a clean car can boost your mood and make your morning commute feel brighter.
MR.DIY spring tip: the secret to a stress-free spring-clean?
Plan one area at a time, use the right tools for the job, and let MR.DIY help you tick off your to-do list without breaking the bank.
SHOP
Visit MR.DIY South Africa or pop into your nearest store to check out our amazing range of cleaning, gardening and auto essentials guaranteed to make your spring-cleaning simple, quick and satisfying.
READY, SET, REFRESH
Spring-cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming; it can be fun. With the right tools, a little motivation and a dash of creativity, you can transform your space in just a weekend. MR.DIY makes it easy by offering everything you need in one place, whether you’re scrubbing, planting, polishing or pruning. So, grab your gloves, turn up your favourite playlist, and let the sunshine in. Your refreshed, re-energised home is just a few wipes and sprays away.
1 10
HOUSEHOLD REPAIRS MADE simple
Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, says don’t call the handyman just yet!
It’s amazing how quickly a home starts to show wear and tear. The loo that won’t stop running. The sliding door that jams every time you try to open it. The washing machine that’s started to leak again. They’re the kind of everyday home hassles that often get ignored in the rush of life – until they start driving you mad.
The good news? You don’t need to be a pro or spend a fortune to fix them. Many of the most common household repairs are surprisingly simple. You don’t need to call a handyman for everything. We see customers leave the store with a few screws and a tip from our team, and then come back saying, “I can’t believe I put that off for so long!”
The toilet that won’t stop running
You jiggle the handle. You lift the cistern lid. Still, the water keeps flowing.
This is one of the most common water-wasting issues we see. It’s usually caused by a worn-out flush valve or a loose handle. With a basic cistern repair kit, you can replace the inner workings in under 30 minutes. Brights offers plastic or brass valve service kits to sort out most cistern problems quickly and affordably.
3
Clogged kitchen sinks
A slow-draining sink is more than a minor irritation
– it can become a smelly, expensive mess.
Grease, food particles and even coffee grounds build up over time. Start with a rubber drain plunger.
If that doesn’t work, try a flexible Tolsen drain snake or caustic soda flakes from your local Brights. It’s all about restoring healthy flow before it becomes a major blockage.
2
Sliding doors that stick or derail
When opening the patio door feels like wrestling a bear, it’s time to intervene.
Dust, dirt and worn rollers are the usual culprits. Clean the track thoroughly with a stiff brush, then apply silicone spray. If it’s still not sliding smoothly, replacing the rollers can make it glide like new. Try a stainless steel sliding door roller and Garage Door Blaster spray lubricant, both available in stores and online, to restore smooth operation.
4
Leaking
window or door frames
Rainwater sneaking in around the windows or pooling under doors? Blame old seals (and we don’t mean the infamous Gordy).
Over time, rubber seals harden, crack or fall out. Reapplying self-adhesive sealing strips or using a silicone sealant to close gaps can make a big difference – not only for leaks, but also for winter draughts. Look for weatherproof options like Sikaflex sealant and self-adhesive foam strips to seal gaps and improve insulation.
5
The leaky washing machine
A puddle on the floor is often blamed on the machine, but the real problem may be simpler. Start by checking the door seal for hair or debris and inspect the hoses at the back. If the rubber seal is cracked or loose, it can be replaced. The filter at the bottom should be cleaned regularly; most people forget about it until it’s too late. Universal appliances’ fill hoses and rubber seal packs are available for quick fixes that stop leaks for good.
6
Loose or damaged plug tops
Broken or stuck drawer runners
You yank it open and the whole drawer jumps off, spewing its contents all over the floor and possibly giving you a bruised toe in the process.
Worn-out runners can be swapped out with just a screwdriver. Measure the length, choose a replacement and screw the new set into place. It’s a ten-minute job that restores peace in the kitchen or bedroom. Choose between white 10kg runners or more durable ball-bearing models, depending on drawer size and use.
8 7
A showerhead that sprays in all directions
Side-splashing chaos is not part of the spa experience. This usually means mineral build-up.
Unscrew the showerhead and soak it in vinegar overnight. If it’s beyond saving, consider upgrading to a new water-efficient model. Water-saving shower roses with multiple spray functions save water and hassle and are an easy upgrade available at your hardware store.
Power flickers when you move the cable, or the plug feels hot to the touch? This is a safety concern – don’t ignore it. Cut the plug off, strip the wire ends and rewire it into a new plug top. It takes five minutes, and you’ll avoid potential shocks, damage to your appliances and even a possible house fire. A surge plug top with a pilot light is an ideal replacement to ensure safe and stable power flow.
9
Loose door handles or lock mechanisms
If the handle spins loosely or the latch doesn’t catch, it’s time for a tweak. Remove the faceplate, tighten the screws and check the alignment of the latch with the strike plate. Sometimes, just a small adjustment can make a huge difference in how smoothly a door opens and closes. Keep WD40 silicone spray, WD40 Smartstraw and quick-set wood filler like Alcolin Mix n Fix on hand to tighten loose mechanisms and repair damage
10
The gutter that’s overflowing (or growing things)
Out of sight, out of mind – until water starts pouring over the edge like a waterfall.
Blocked gutters are a major cause of damp walls and roof leaks. Leaves, moss and dirt can build up surprisingly fast. Cleaning them out with a small scoop or even an old kitchen spatula and rinsing with a hose can prevent long-term water damage. Products like Powermastic or Everbuild roof repair sealants can help waterproof minor gutter or roof issues quickly.
Brights Hardware stores are located in Boston, Blackheath, Langebaan, Mitchells Plain, Richmond Park, Plattekloof, Stonewood, Brackengate and Sunningdale. The online store at www.brights.co.za offers delivery across South Africa, including express delivery in Cape Town for online purchases.
A LOCAL BRAND THAT HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME
With advanced automotive battery manufacturing capabilities, product expertise and an extensive distribution network, AUTOX offers reputable household brands, including Willard Batteries – a much-loved South African favourite – to Africa and beyond
AutoX boasts a range of branded batteries for all vehicle and motorcycle types, leisure and industrial applications, complemented by an inclusive service offering that supports market requirements.
If you are looking for a true-blue indigenous brand that has been a stalwart in the local parts aftermarket for decades, Willard® Batteries will most certainly pop up on your radar. For over 70 years, Willard Batteries has reflected the South African spirit of combining international state-of-the-art technology with local ingenuity and know-how.
With batteries to suit a broad market, from passenger, commercial, leisure, mining and construction to agriculture and more, Willard Batteries are designed with the technology and robustness to suit the rugged conditions of our native land.
Willard Batteries has had a presence in South Africa since the 1920s. Production in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility started back in 1954, employing many locals from the surrounding community. It is perfectly geared for future growth in the local replacement, original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and export markets.
TRUSTED BY SOUTH AFRICAN MOTORISTS
Willard Batteries is a well-known and trusted name in the automotive battery market, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality batteries for both the replacement and OEM sectors. In recent consumer surveys, many respondents rated Willard as one of their top battery brand choices.*
develop and deliver products to meet the needs of the future.
It remains committed to its environmental responsibilities. The life cycle of a lead-acid battery follows a continuous, closed loop. When a scrap battery is collected and returned to Willard Batteries, its lead and plastic are reclaimed and directed to new battery manufacturing.
*Basedonindependentconsumerresearch. Fullresultsavailableonrequest.
The product range is designed and ideally suited to cope with the harsh conditions of Africa, and Willard Batteries continues to For more information, contact: 0860 12 00 12 www.auto-x.co.za or www.willard.co.za
FOR OVER 70 YEARS, WILLARD BATTERIES HAS REFLECTED THE SOUTH AFRICAN SPIRIT OF COMBINING INTERNATIONAL STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY WITH LOCAL INGENUITY AND KNOW-HOW.
SMALL tins , big impact
Creative projects with leftover paint
That half-used tin in the garage? It’s your ticket to a fresh new look. Dulux colour expert Palesa Ramaisa shares smart and stylish ways to repurpose leftover paint – adding personality, colour and creativity to your home, one r s s ro e e
Unused paint is often seen as a nuisance, lingering in the corners of garages and storerooms, forgotten and neglected. Rather than discarding it, why not repurpose it and unleash your creativity with ways to give it new life?
Leftover paint is a versatile resource for a variety of projects, including painting smaller items like picture frames, revamping furniture or creating colourful accents in the home. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living space, embark on a DIY craft project or contribute to sustainability efforts, there are countless innovative ways to make the most of that paint.
Here are some creative ways and useful tips to enhance your space with surplus paint:
BREATHE LIFE INTO YOUR SHELVES
COLOUR YOUR MEMORIES
Giving your photo frames a fresh coat of paint can breathe life into worn-out designs and make your cherished memories stand out. Whether you have wooden, metal or plastic frames, painting is an easy and budget-friendly way to enhance your home decor. Just clean, sand, and apply a suitable primer before painting.
REIMAGINING OLD PIECES
Upcycling old furniture is a fantastic way to renew pieces that may otherwise be discarded or forgotten. Not only does this practice promote sustainability, but it also allows you to express your creativity and personalise your home. By upcycling old furniture, you reduce waste and create stunning, unique pieces that reflect your personality and style.
EASY PATTERNS FOR AN EYE-CATCHING FEATURE WALL
Painting a feature wall with leftover paint is a smart and stylish way to refresh your living space without incurring extra costs. By choosing a vibrant or contrasting colour from your leftover paint stash, you can create a focal point that adds personality and depth to any room. Rows of painted circles are easy to create and can make a striking statement when you pair shades like Rich Navy 50BB 08/171 and White On White 30GY 88/014.
For more tips, colour inspiration and ideas on how to add pride, imagination and creativity to your home or workspace, visit the Dulux social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest.
Time to stop dependency on ESKOM’S OVERPRICED ELECTRICITY
As electricity prices rise, many households are installing solar or other battery backup solutions to reduce their reliance on Eskom’s unreliable and overpriced electricity, writes REVOV
We are navigating challenging economic conditions.
Globally, regional conflicts and tariffs are keeping economies on edge. South Africa is no different, with the United States recently slapping 30 per cent tariffs on goods we export to that country.
What does this mean for households?
Put bluntly, it means the squeeze is going to continue for the foreseeable future. However, to add insult to injury, South Africans were recently slapped with an increase in their electricity bills. In March, Nersa approved an 11.32 per cent increase in Eskom’s bulk supply to municipalities, who then determine their price hikes to consumers.
In an environment where people are struggling to ensure their rands get them through the month, this is yet another burden to carry. For many years, Eskom and the government have been mismanaging the utility and distribution network. Now, Eskom needs more of our money to remain a going concern precisely because of the decades of mismanagement.
Despite their now meaty electricity bills, many people cannot rely on having power when they need it. Unplanned power outages
have made living in some areas a nightmare. Some suburbs experience inordinately long power outages weekly.
It was recently reported that over the past 20 years, South Africa’s electricity prices have increased 1 000 per cent. This has been well above inflation, meaning that your electricity bill has reached eye-watering levels.
LOOKING ELSEWHERE
Many households, tired of trying to navigate load shedding schedules, have invested in solar installations or other battery backup solutions. The upshot of this is that if these installations are done properly, with the right inverters and, importantly, batteries, homes can radically reduce their reliance on Eskom’s unreliable and overpriced electricity.
However, solar panels only generate electricity when the sun is shining. When it rains for a long time, or at night, those without battery backup don’t enjoy the benefits of renewable energy. This is why batteries need to form part of the installations, so that when the sun is shining, excess unused power is stored in the batteries. Then, when power is needed and the sun is not shining, the batteries step up, supported by a good inverter, to provide electricity.
NOT ALL PLAIN SAILING
Nonetheless, it’s not all plain sailing. Lead acid batteries were a big disappointment, and lithium iron phosphate batteries changed the game.
When every Bob and his uncle decided to enter the industry, the market was flooded with subpar batteries and no local support. Then, when they sold their stock and moved on, many households were left stranded with ineffective batteries and no technical support.
On the flipside, there are batteries such as REVOV, which are assembled and quality checked in South Africa and supported with a warranty and countrywide teams. This means households are protected against inferior products and receive after-sales service.
Our advice to all homeowners tired of insecure electricity supply and Eskom’s continued price hikes is to find reputable installers who tick the right boxes. They must:
• Know how to build A-grade installations with the right inverters and REVOV batteries.
• Be registered and have all necessary certifications.
• Know how to build solar installations or battery backup solutions that significantly, or totally, reduce household electricity bills. Done properly, the installation will pay for itself quickly and show real return on investment faster than previously possible.
If you cannot find such an installer, contact REVOV today for recommendations for the best installers in your area.
For more information, contact: Johannesburg head offi ce: 010 035 6061 Cape Town offi ce: 021 569 2760 KwaZulu-Natal offi ce: 031 109 0814 www.revov.co.za
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO GO TO THE REVOV WEBSITE
ELEGANT wall FRAME PANELS WITH TRIM MOULDING
Turn any plain, plastered wall into a stylish focal point using lightweight trim or polystyrene moulding – no
What you’ll need
Item
• Adds character to flat, featureless walls.
• Mimics panelled or classic French wall styles.
• Works well in bedrooms, lounges or offices.
Paint the baseboards/skirtings of your wall a different colour or shade to the walls. It will make them stand out and look fresh. Think of it as eyeliner for your room!
Description
Polystyrene, PVC or MDF trim Lightweight, easy to cut (25–50mm wide)
Mitre box + hand saw/mitre saw For accurate 45° angle cuts
Spirit level, measuring tape, pencil For layout and alignment
No More Nails (or similar adhesive)
Strong adhesive for solid walls; paintable
Acrylic filler (caulking) To seal joints and gaps before painting
Paint
Sandpaper
Painter’s tape
Match the wall for subtlety or contrast for drama
Smooths filler and any rough edges
For clean paint edges if painting inside the frames
Step 1
Plan your layout
• Decide on panel sizes (for example, 600mm × 900mm).
• Choose a layout – grid, symmetrical panels or custom shapes.
• Sketch your design or use painter’s tape to visualise directly on the wall.
Step 2
Mark the wall
• Use a level and pencil to mark exactly where each piece will go.
• Ensure even spacing between panels (recommended gap: 100–150mm).
Step 3
Cut your moulding
• Use a mitre box or mitre saw for clean 45° cuts.
• Dry-fit pieces on the wall before glueing to ensure alignment.
Step 4
Mount the trim
• Apply adhesive suitable for concrete or plastered brick (for example, No More Nails).
• Start with the top piece, then the sides and then the bottom.
• Press firmly and check levels as you go.
Step 5
Fill and smooth
• Once the adhesive sets (about 2–4 hours), use acrylic filler for gaps and seams.
• Sand smooth when dry.
Step 6
Paint
• Paint everything the same colour for a clean, architectural look or use contrasting shades for a bold visual effect.
• Let dry fully before removing painter’s tape.
Optional add-ons
• Install wall sconces or LED strips inside the panels.
• Add floating shelves, framed art or mirrors within the borders.
• Use chalkboard paint inside panels for kids’ spaces
WHERE TO SHOP
• Leroy Merlin – mouldings, adhesives, paint: www.leroymerlin.co.za
• Builders – adhesives, trim, tools: www.builders.co.za
• Timbercity – MDF trim, wood moulding: www.timbercity.co.za
How-To Guide
How-To Guide
Design a fun, functional gaming CORNER FOR KIDS
Give your kids a gaming zone that’s cool, compact and organised – without needing a full room makeover
Why build this
•Keeps gaming gear neat and tidy.
•Creates a personal space for fun and focus.
•Encourages responsible tech use.
•Customisable and easy to update as they grow.
What you’ll need
Item Description
Small floating desk or shelfApprox 80–100cm wide, 30–40cm deep
Wall mount or monitor standOptional for mounting screens
LED strip lights
Colour-changing, remote/app controlled
Beanbag, stool or gaming chairCompact and comfy seating
Pegboard or wall hooks For controllers, headphones, cables
Extension plug or multiplugPreferably with USB ports
Wall decals or posters Personalises the space
Cable trunking/clips Keeps wiring tidy
Rug or foam floor mat Optional – adds colour and comfort
WHERE TO SHOP
• Takealot – LED lights, stands, chairs: www.takealot.com
• Builders – shelves, brackets, trunking: www.builders.co.za
• Makro/Game – gaming chairs, accessories: www.makro.co.za
• Typo/Mr Price Home – posters, decor: www.mrp.com
Step 1
Choose the space
Pick a quiet corner in the bedroom, playroom or even the lounge.
Step 2
Install desk or shelf
• Wall-mount the shelf 65–75cm from the floor for seated comfort.
• Secure into wall plugs for solid walls (brick/concrete).
• Use strong L-brackets.
Step 3
Set up power access
• Add a multiplug with surge protection.
• Use cable trunking for a neat finish.
Step 4
Mount the monitor
• Wall-mount or place it on the desk using a small stand.
• For laptops or tablets, use a stand and keep the desk clutter-free.
Step 5
Add storage
• Mount a pegboard or hooks.
• Add baskets or tubs for games, remotes and snacks.
Step 6
Decorate
• Stick up themed decals or posters.
• Line LED strips behind the desk or screen.
• Add a colourful mat or painted wall strip.
TOP TIP
•Use removable adhesives in rentals.
•Ensure good ventilation – avoid closed cupboards.
•Set up screen time limits or parental controls.
•Involve your child in the design – they’ll love it more!
Optional add-ons
•“Game On” whiteboard or chalkboard.
•Mini sign: “Do Not Disturb” during playtime.
•USB charging dock for multiple devices.
How-To Guide
