Dear Donny

Q What’s the easiest way to remove oil stains and moss from paving stones? Jane Blackie, by email

A You need to apply an emulsifying de-greaser, then brush it into the oil stain and leave it to work according to the instructions. Wash away with clean water. For persistent stains you might have to use a steam cleaner. The key is to soak up as much of the oil as you can as soon as you notice it.

Q I have dropped superglue on my laminate floor. I have tried to get it off by using “sticky stuff” remover but no success. Any ideas? Karrie Fuller, by email

A You need to use super glue remover and it’s easy. Just squirt the super glue remover over the glue and leave it to go soft. Wipe it off.

Q I had my house roughcasted about four years ago to stop damp on the external walls but it is still there. How can I get rid? Alan Donohoe, by email

A You need to find the source of damp. For example, if the wall is wet at the bottom, this would suggest rising damp, which can be due to bridging of the damp-proof course. This can be caused by raising your paving or installing a drive then raising the ground level above the DPC.

DONNY’S TOP TIP

After applying de-icing salts on your new paving this can leave it looking dull. A quick brush with warm soapy water does the trick.

Q I get bad condensation in cold weather on my bedroom window. I have asked a local tradesman if a new window would solve the problem but he said changing from the 12mm gap we have to a 20mm one should show some improvement. Do you think I should just get a new window? Colin Huston, by email

A I agree a better window will be an improvement, but if the window is cold it will condensate. Installing a radiator under the window usually does the trick.