The condition of your ceiling may be starting to show signs of wear and tear and coming away from the ceiling timber joists. If so then it could be time to think about replacing it. Some ceilings after time will also begin to show excessive cracking which can also contribute towards the ceiling coming away [...]

You will want to set everything out clearly to ensure you know exactly what you are removing and to know where your new concrete or steel lintel will sit. You will want the new RSJ or concrete or steel lintel to rest on a minimum of 150mm bearings so make provisions for this when marking out. You can use a hammer and bolster to chop back the plaster covering the brick. An angle grinder can be used to make a straight line where the opening will run to or the traditional method of hammer and bolster.

This is something that has made me think a little after receiving a call today from Stephen Cousins, from Construction Manager Magazine. The magazine of the Charted Institute of Building www.construction-manager.co.uk It suddenly occurred to me that there may be many avenues in marketing that builders or perhaps other tradesmen may not be employing to [...]

Damages sections of boards should be cut out and replaced, or a new board fitted if the damage is substantial. First check that there are no gaps or cables running below the damaged section, otherwise you will have to remove the entire board in case you cut into them by accident. To cut a section [...]