Roughcasting is a type of exterior finish, in which pebbles and stones are mixed into the concrete or plaster as a finish for the exterior surface of the walls. The material dries into a rough, durable finish that is often maintenance-free for decades. Roughcasting is often confused with pebbledashing, a process where pebbles and stones are thrown against a soft cement finish.

Roughcasting is a type of finish for commercial and residential buildings that uses gravel to create a smooth surface. The practice, which originated in Great Britain, was once common on outbuildings but has become more popular in home construction. Remember, that only proven companies will do this job well.

In some areas of the world, roughcasting includes the use of tiny sea shells instead of sand or gravel. Tinting and color additives are also used in sand or gravel mixes to add a certain color to the finished home. While primarily used for exterior wall finishing, roughcasting is also a unique way of adding flavor to an interior wall.

A modified version of roughcasting is used to waterproof basement walls in some areas. A plastic sheet is fastened against one wall, and a plaster and chemical mixture is sprayed over the plastic. The surface dries to form a waterproof barrier. This type of waterproofing is often applied in the construction of tunnels; however, it is an expensive means to a problem that is often better dealt with using much more common methods.

One drawback to roughcast finishing is that it is difficult to match the repair color and finish textures. On areas which become damaged, new roughcast is often easily detected among the original finish. Weather and time factors can make it difficult to replicate the original batch when mixing a new batch of wall covering. It often becomes necessary to remove the original finish and recover an entire wall.

As winter approaches, it’s a good idea to take some time to keep your boiler working safely and efficiently.

It’s important to stay on top of any potential boiler problems, especially during the winter months when they could cause some serious issues. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep your boiler in working order and make sure that it doesn’t cause you any trouble this winter.

Take A Good Look At Your Boiler

Check carefully around the boiler for signs of damage. Some parts you can see and some you cannot. A visual inspection of the boiler unit is a good first place to start.   Inspect all parts of the casing and steam pipes. Look for rust, leakage, and other damage. If you do not feel comfortable opening your boiler’s casing, you may need to ask a professional to check it.

Check The Pressure Levels

The water pressure gauge on a boiler in good working order should read between 1 and 1.5 bar. The gauge on your boiler should indicate any amount above or below this, but if it reads less than 1 bar, it indicates that there may be an issue with your boiler.

Have Your Boiler Serviced Now

It’s a good idea to have your boiler serviced at least once a year to check that everything is working properly. If you haven’t had your boiler serviced in 2021, make sure you book it before winter kicks in. Winter is the worst time of year for boiler problems. You’ll save yourself from being left without an effective heating system if you schedule a boiler repair service now – book your annual boiler service now.

 

Imagine you have an outside drain that has started overflowing onto your driveway, causing an unpleasant smell in and outside your home. Who would you call? A plumber is the right choice if your outside drain is blocked. If it was your sink or shower that was overflowing, then maybe it would be a more obvious choice

Unblock a Drain

Some people decide, in their own home, to attempt unclogging drains themselves. We’ve been called out to more than a few jobs that would have gone much faster and been so much simpler if only the person had opted for our miracle caustic soda recipe. As long as you’re not using chemical drain unblockers—you shouldn’t do any harm.

What Should I Use to Unblock my Drains?

Be aware of the dangers that chemicals pose to your plumbing system, especially if your house was built a long time ago. If you want to avoid costly repairs, it’s important you only use drain cleaners that are formulated especially for household plumbing systems.

What separates plumbers and drainage specialists?

If your drain is blocked and water isn’t flowing away from your property, you need to contact a drainage specialist—not a plumber. The difference between a plumber and a drainage expert is that a plumbers manage water flowing in and out of your property, whereas drainage specialists deal with water and waste leaving your property.

When should you call a drain expert?

You won’t want to wait until it’s too late. The longer you leave your drains blocked, the worse the problem will get. Waiting could result in more costly repairs and bigger disruptions to your home or business. Contact your trusted drainage service in London.