Dear Donny

Q

The PVC panel of my 12-year-old porch is covered in very fine scratches. How can I sort them? Jane Gallagher, via email

A

To clean UPVC, just use warm water and washing up liquid, then apply a polish you’d use on a car, something like T-Cut. The car paint polish removes fine scratches.

Q

I have 30m of block paving that I clean seal every year, but it’s flaking in places. How can I sort it? Ian Wren, via email

A

It’s impossible to keep block paving looking like new. Power/jet washing removes the fine smooth surface, exposing gravelly aggregates, so dirt collects easily. Sealers wear so it looks patchy. Efflorescence is temporary. Block paving moves so resin isn’t ideal. I just leave it to weather and wash in spring with hot water and a stiff brush.

DONNY’S TOP TIP

Curling rugs can be cured by turning them upside down and leaving to heat next to a radiator. This should shape the fibres

Q

I have a magnolia coloured K-Rend on my house but below the bedroom bay windows it’s stained with algae. What can I do? Paul Robinson, via email

A

I’ve done thousands of metres of K-Render. If you go over existing roughcast/render you can end up filling drip detail under the windowsill, resulting in water running down the wall, which stains. Try scrubbing with warm, soapy water or a stronger detergent, like household cleaners, or employ a steam cleaner. But the stain will come back if the source of the water is not stopped.

Q

How can you stop slipping on a patterned concrete drive? Brian Savage, via email

A

Stop walking on it. The finish is polished and if the drive is sloping, I imagine it’s slippy when wet. It’s tricky as I can only think of etching the concrete, which will give you a grip but change the look. Applying anti-slip floor paint would change your drive too.