Dear Donny

Q I care for a horizontal headstone which is etched marble with gold lettering. What is the best all-weather paint to retouch the lettering as it’s starting to fade? Eric Smith, via email

A Without a doubt I’d use Ardenbrite metallic paints. They have six different gold shades – Sovereign Gold No 8 is close to gold leaf, so try that.

Q Can you recommend a solvent that will remove cement stains from our resin driveway please. Ingrid Anderson, via email

A Cement and mortar are insoluble and need to be treated with the appropriate acid cleaner – but test on a hidden surface first. Wet the drive, then apply a 7-10% diluted hydrochloric acid (you buy the acid already diluted) to the affected area. Scrub with a stiff brush agitating the acid into the stain, then rinse with clean water.

Q My red paving slabs have gone a horrible black this winter, so I want to treat them after I have cleaned them up again. What do you recommend for this?

Jani Harvey, Sherwood Forest, Notts

A I’m not a fan of sealants for paving or hardstandings, as they quickly look patchy through wear and tear, and need applying annually. It’s best to just scrub with hot soapy water every spring and autumn.

Q I bought a new hut which was erected in my garden last June. Recently I’ve noticed a blue mould-like substance on some of the boards inside. The warranty expires in June this year.

Elizabeth Nelson, Cumnock, Ayrshire.

A It’s probably a fungal stain from the wood being damp or not dried out. I would contact the supplier, particularly as it’s still under warranty, as I’m sure they will be happy to help and will have come across this problem before. They will have a solution.

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