Dear Donny

QI’ve tried attaching blinds to my new windows but drill bits won’t penetrate and just keep hitting metal beneath the surface. What do I need? Tommy Graham, Glasgow A

If the windows are UPVC, you need a self-tapping/drilling screw or screws for plastic. They are short but work for hanging blinds and curtain poles.

Q

What’s best to stop weeds and grass coming up in my monoblock paving without using chemicals that might stain it? Ralph Hastie, by email

A

I’ve used a Stanley knife to cut out the bulk of the grass and a blowtorch weed killer. It’s a case of keeping on top of the maintenance because they’ll keep coming back. Q

I’ve jet washed my slabbed patio and it came up superb. Is there something I can use on it to keep it looking good in winter? Trevor, Birmingham

A

I’m not a big fan of sealants - they wear off and leave paving looking patchy. Stick to washing the paving with warm soapy water and a stiff brush. And repeat when required.

DONNY’S TOP TIP

If you want an almost zero maintenance drive, go for gravel. It just needs to be raked now and then and makes a great security noise. Q

Why is the wallpaper bubbling on an internal wall near our patio doors? There’s a sooty substance on it too.

Pat Bond, by email

A

The best solution is adding a radiator so the wall does not get cold leading to condensation and black mould spots. I would strip the paper and wash and paint the wall too. Q

Is there a varnish I can use on my Leonardo figures of Bichon Frise dogs to make them last if I put them out in the garden? Barbara Parsons, Grays, Essex A

I don’t think paint will protect them against frost. Garden ornaments and the like have to be porcelain or fully-vitrified to be resistant to frost.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: diy.donny@trinitymirror.com