Page 4 - Jade Rotheram

Thinking of tackling that next home renovation project yourself? If you want to get professional results, then you need to make sure that you have the right tool for the job with a comprehensive toolbox. In this blog, we’ll look at the essential items that should be in any DIY enthusiast’s toolbox as well as a couple of additional tools that will make your life easier.

Hammer

One of the most basic toolbox items is a claw hammer as this is a good option for a number of jobs from hanging pictures to remove nails from flooring. While hammers come in many different shapes and sizes, a standard 16oz claw hammer will be suitable for a wide range of tasks. A great inexpensive tool that should be in everyone’s toolbox.

Screwdrivers

There are two main types of screw heads, flat-head and Philips which has a cross in the middle. Screwdrivers sets are cheap to buy and will give you a wide range of screwdrivers in different sizes suitable for a wide range of jobs.

Home decoration. Two little words that are the cause of far more disagreements than they should be.

Or at least, they used to be. But here at Trade 1st, we're sick and tired of hearing about people's decorating disasters. So we've put our heads together and come up with four quick and simple tips to ensure that decorating your home runs as smoothly as possible.

Tip #1: Prepare, prepare, prepare

Failing to prepare is, as the old saying goes, preparing to fail. And that's not a great idea – especially when it's so simple to prepare to succeed instead! First off, prepare your plan of action. You need to choose a colour scheme that compliments any existing furniture or fixtures. Choosing a few tester paint pots always helps with this.

Then, when you're set on a scheme, it's time to prepare your room. That means stripping any wallpaper, cleaning surfaces, and making sure everything is ready to begin. For this, we recommend our

Keeping your business costs down

There is some evidence that economic conditions in the UK are starting to improve, and you might have noticed a rise in demand for your decorating services. However, it’s by no means plain sailing for firms like yours.

According to new research from the Forum of Private Business (FPB), the costs associated with running enterprises are rising. This may mean it’s particularly important for you to source great value decorating supplies. By saving money on these resources, you can make balancing your books that bit easier.

A worrying trend

According to the latest research from the FPB, business costs have continued to rise in 2013. Perhaps unsurprisingly given all the media focus on this issue at present, energy costs were the most commonly seen increase.

In its Cost of Doing Business survey, which was carried out among its members, the organisation found that 94 per cent of firms