Trusted Traders Q&A

When we asked our members via our Members’ Club Facebook group which home improvements questions they would like to put to a Which? Trusted Trader, we were inundated. Here, you’ll find a few of our favourite questions and answers – look out for more on the Members’ Club. 

Loft insulation

Q: Can I insulate my own loft? If so, what type of insulation should I use and how thickly should I lay it? Is it a big saving compared with employing a professional?

Trusted Trader, The Attic Guys, Luton, says:

It is possible to insulate your own loft, but be aware of safety and regulations. Moving around in any loft must be done with great care, as plaster board will not support much weight. The other key point is to ensure you use enough of the right kind of insulation to meet building regulations and deliver optimum benefit.

Current building regulations recommend a depth of at least 270mm. Using this thickness of good-quality insulation will deliver the minimum specified ‘R-value’ or thermal resistance of 6.1m2K/W. 

There are many brands of insulation products on the market. For loft floor insulation Knauf Earthwool is particularly good.

If you use a professional contractor, expect to add 50% to 60% on top of the cost of materials.

Window insulation

Q: Which type of window gives the best insulation against cold and noise? Is there a specific brand you'd recommend? What questions should I ask when getting new windows fitted?

Trusted Trader, Aftercare Double Glazing Repairs Ltd, Burgess Hill West Sussex, says:

While double glazing works sufficiently well for most situations, triple glazing will block out more cold and noise. It’s pricier, so talk to your installer about cost and energy ratings.

Making a recommendation isn’t straightforward as there are three stages to constructing a double-glazing unit. There’s the ‘manufacturer’ who supplies the materials to a particular specification, the ‘fabricator’ who uses the materials to make the bespoke windows, and finally the ‘installer’ that householders have contact with.

To a large extent, the material and style you choose and the suppliers in your area will determine the options available to you. 

Questions to ask when considering double glazing should include:

• What different styles can you offer?

• Can you supply triple glazing and how do the cost and energy ratings compare with double glazing?

• What is your guarantee on installation and the components?

• Are your fitters directly employed or sub-contracted? We recommend you avoid sub-contractors.

• Where is your company based? A local company should have plenty of local customers you may be able to ask for references. Also, it is easier for you to deal with local companies directly, and simpler for them to visit to resolve any problem that may arise.

• Ask if the existing windows can be upgraded. Many can be upgraded with new energy-efficient glazed units while seals and locks can be renewed at a fraction of the cost of installing new. If the company isn’t willing to consider this, don't be brow-beaten into agreeing to new windows. 

New boiler

Q: I want to replace my old boiler and water tank with a new combi boiler. Do I also need to replace the old microbore pipes and radiators?

Trusted Trader, Boost Plumbing and Heating Ltd, London, says:

Not necessarily. Ask a professional to test the pipework and radiators by doing a high-pressure (approximately five bar) power flush. If the system passes this test, then it’s acceptable to connect your current pipework to the new combi boiler. Consider adding new thermostatic radiator valves at the same time – these allow you to control the temperature in each room.

Decorating

Q: What's the best way to cover up an Artex wall? I'd like a smooth finish instead.

Trusted Trader, Claire Walker Decorating, Stratford, says:

If your wall is in sound condition, then plastering over the Artex is usually the quickest option. But before deciding what to do, get it checked by a surveyor. Old Artex can contain asbestos, so removing, chipping or sanding it could be hazardous. If it is blown or cracked it may need to be removed.

Cleaning tiles

Q: What's the best way to clean grout in the bathroom?

Trusted Trader, Wilton Studios, Grimsby Lincolnshire, says:

There are several brands of specific tile grout-cleaning solution. While these are the best option, you can get away with any household cleaner, even bleach. Just make sure the tile surface is thoroughly rinsed after you’ve treated it. An old toothbrush is the ideal tool for cleaning grout.

Q: What's the best way to remove stained sealant?

Trusted Trader, Alan Heath and Sons, Coventry West Midlands, says:

Firstly, cut out what you can using a plastic sealant remover tool. You could also use a Stanley knife or similar, but take care not to scratch or damage the tiles. Wipe away all debris, then generously apply sealant remover. Leave it to work according to the instructions – usually 15 to 30 minutes. This should loosen the remaining sealant sufficiently so you can remove all traces of it.