Whether you need to fix a household problem or simply want to spruce up your property, this hands-on guide will help you prepare for and manage a multitude of home improvements and repairs. Learn how to sidestep the trials and tribulations of DIY with information on jobs ranging from fixing a leaky tap to hanging wallpaper. This full-colour guide uses step-by-step illustrations to take you through each project and offers a lay-flat binding that's perfect for on-the-job advice.

• Plan your project – assess the scope of your DIY dilemmas and find out how to budget and prepare for the path ahead

• Don't get in a tangle – easy-to-follow advice on performing electrical and wiring repairs, as well as dealing with damp, replacing window panes and more

• Colour your home beautiful – learn how to paint and wallpaper your walls without disaster

• Tread softly – get the lowdown on replacing and repairing wood, tile, carpet and vinyl flooring

• Get stuck in – find out how to carry out straightforward plumbing jobs, without calling in the experts

Open the book and find:

• The best DIY tools and how they work

• Essential health and safety info

• How to save money and avoid overspending

• Advice on preparing walls and choosing wallpaper

• Guidance on finishing wood

• Painless ways to unblock a sink or drain

• How to deal with damp

• When to call in the professionals

• How to find a good builder

Learn to:

• Draw up realistic plans and budgets for your DIY projects

• Achieve success with full-colour illustrations and step-by-step advice

• Tackle everything from putting up a shelf to hanging wallpaper or unblocking a drain

IN FULL COLOUR