Dear Donny

Q I want to add more tiles to my bathroom but the existing ones have been discontinued. Can l add white tiles to the new area and paint the existing tiles white to match? Roger Clark, by email

A You can certainly paint tiles. I have done this lots of times and I find that Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Plus is ideal. Give them a couple of coats.

Q I have tried, as you suggested, Barkeeper’s Friend to remove rust from outdoor tiles but it didn’t work, any other suggestions? Nuala, by email

A If the surface is porous then it will not work. The product you are looking for is Lithofin Rust-Ex which will remove stains and rust spots from tiles and natural stone.

Q My new exterior UPVC windowsills have been stained by red brick dust after recent building work. What’s the best way to give them a good clean up?

Sara Lloyd, by email

A Don’t use an abrasive cleaner! Try sugar soap mixed to a mild solution with water. Rinse well, then use a UPVC restorer to shine it up.

Q My paving slabs have recently been relaid and there is grout residue that has set on the tops of some of them. I don’t want to use a pressure washer as it may damage the new grout. Can you recommend a pet safe cleaning product to clean them up? Karen Stevens, by email

A The cheapest and most pet-friendly method is to use a stiff bristle brush and a bucket of warm water with some washing up liquid in it. Scrub the affected areas while being careful to avoid the joint mortar.