Can I paint splashback rather than get it tiled? ask donny.

Byline: Donny Sheridan

Q I want to paint my kitchen splashback rather than go to the trouble of tiling it. Is this practical?

A No. You need a durable surface either made from tiles, glass or aluminium. You can also get boarding for splashbacks.

You need something hardwearing and easy to clean because when you are preparing food, you will inevitably get splashes on the wall and cleaning tiles is easier than cleaning paint. Paint cannot endure the same punishment as tiles.

But if you take extra care wiping your worktops and avoid the wall, you could get away with paint in the short term.

Q The access hatch to my attic is a bit small and getting things in and out is a tight squeeze. Can I make it bigger?

A To create a larger opening, you can cut back a maximum of one joist, fit timber trimmers to each side of the opening where the joist was cut and make sure the trimmers are the same size as the existing joists.

You may also want to consider fitting a loft ladder, as this will make access easier and safer.

Q My floorboards are showing through my new hall carpet. It is a good quality floor covering and the underlay is thick, so why is this happening?

A In future, lay hardboard or 6mm plywood first, as this will level out the indentations of the floor boards and provide a flat surface for the carpet to be laid on. This should stop the uneven boards showing through.

Q I want to replace the modern skirting boards in my tenement flat with something more traditional. Should I use plywood or MDF for the timber upright?

A Use MDF as it is easier to paint than plywood and has a smoother surface that requires very little sanding between coats of paint.

Most sawmills and large DIY stores have a cutting service, so get them to cut the MDF to size.

Q The hall in my bungalow is very dark. Would glass doors brighten it up?

A Fit a sun tunnel instead of going to the expense of changing your doors. This is basically a Velux window on your roof with a large reflective aluminium funnel that passes through your loft and is fitted to your ceiling.

Natural light is reflected down the funnel into your room. It's not unsightly - from the inside it looks just like a light fitting.

Are you a DIY disaster? Our expert, Donny Sheridan, will teach you the tricks of the trade with his step-by-step guide. Contact Donny at [e-mail] - but sorry, he can't answer each question individually.