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A customer recently contacted me after finding themselves locked out of their back door due to a faulty lock. This kind of issue is more common than people think — over time, locks can seize up, mechanisms can wear down, and doors can shift slightly, all of which can make them difficult (or impossible) to open.As a sole trader, I pride myself on providing a fast, reliable, and professional service, so I responded quickly to get the problem sorted.Step 1: Gaining Access Safely The first priority was to gain access without causing any unnecessary damage to the door or frame. Using professional tools and techniques, I opened the door safely and efficiently — allowing the customer to get back into their home. <figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr"><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cdG2AtN4b3eUmyo19jSODAXZfUEWA7kQ6V4h5uWADPGpeute75qxJbxYqq8q7kdl.jpg" alt="Finished lock replacement on rear door showing clean, secure fitting." title="Finished lock replacement on rear door showing clean, secure fitting." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cdG2AtN4b3eUmyo19jSODAXZfUEWA7kQ6V4h5uWADPGpeute75qxJbxYqq8q7kdl.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; Step 2: Fitting a New Lock Once the old, faulty mechanism was removed, I fitted a new Euro-style mortise lock with a thumb turn on the inside. This type of lock is not only secure but also user-friendly, allowing for quick locking and unlocking without the need for a key from the inside. <figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/6YN7DkihQhaYvxtDrLVlLaIaw6fvagc0MTJw8wpoe71EqbA4tB3Sncqp7beq8tNH.jpg" alt="New Euro-style mortise lock with thumb turn fitted on back door in Elm." title="New Euro-style mortise lock with thumb turn fitted on back door in Elm." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="0%" data-positionY="45%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Step 2: Fitting a New Lock Once the old, faulty mechanism was removed, I fitted a new Euro-style mortise lock with a thumb turn on the inside. This type of lock is not only secure but also user-friendly, allowing for quick locking and unlocking without the need for a key from the inside.Step 3: Testing and Finishing Before leaving, I made sure everything was aligned, smooth and secure. The new lock worked perfectly, and the customer had full peace of mind knowing their door was properly secured.Why This Matters A faulty or stiff lock isn’t just inconvenient — it can compromise security. By replacing old hardware with modern, secure fittings, I help homeowners feel safer and avoid bigger problems down the line.&nbsp; Need a lock repaired or replaced? I offer fast, professional property maintenance and repair services — including door and lock work, decorating, and general repairs.

IBack Door Lock Replacement – A Quick, Secure Fix

This week’s projects involved installing a hidden access panel, then repairing the surrounding plasterboard beside a flue in a Cambridgeshire home.<figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr"><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/22AusGJYrmGRIJsvJ3dKp65yCQVjwjb9TWQn9w6XeKWX4wb8vbG0ROutz9S7hAgf.jpg" alt="The open wall showing the hole beside the flue before any repairs" title="The open wall showing the hole beside the flue before any repairs" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/22AusGJYrmGRIJsvJ3dKp65yCQVjwjb9TWQn9w6XeKWX4wb8vbG0ROutz9S7hAgf.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; Step 2 – Preparing and filling Access Panel installed and gaps foamed, ready for repairs <figure id="figure-ll9gz94eyemeojquo1"><img id="ll9gz94eyemeojquo1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/17kgU3dc6mZOEyUjjEXBTRMDX6FexABsqP742sv3ymeHWvXozNkQxW0K7oGZv2dU.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/17kgU3dc6mZOEyUjjEXBTRMDX6FexABsqP742sv3ymeHWvXozNkQxW0K7oGZv2dU.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure><figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1daYUsL6CIUGlNA5mNWTrWJymVjorTqxCCKQOIKHRjQPaLglTn3PT6395xzQJVSh.jpg" alt="The wall after repair and painting, showing the hidden access panel blending in seamlessly" title="The wall after repair and painting, showing the hidden access panel blending in seamlessly" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1daYUsL6CIUGlNA5mNWTrWJymVjorTqxCCKQOIKHRjQPaLglTn3PT6395xzQJVSh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;"></figure>The repair was then filled, sanded, and carefully colour-matched to blend perfectly with the surrounding wall.The finished result is a hidden access panel that keeps the space looking clean and tidy, while still allowing future access if needed — practical and seamless.

Installing a hidden Access Panel – Plasterboard Repair in Cambridgeshire

This week I was in Peterborough, giving the outside of a home a much-needed refresh. The property’s exterior had started to show signs of wear, and one of the windows had significant timber rot that needed proper attention before any paint could go on.Step 1 – Repairing the Rotten Timber One of the bay window corners had badly decayed wood. I carefully cut away the unsound sections and rebuilt it using Timbabuild EHB60, a high-performance resin designed for long-lasting repairs. This created a solid, stable base that’s as strong as the original wood.<figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr"><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/68d0V0a85oqeFteP2Xg8Siurysxpl83V3aQ178X1N3gaEMOAjY2RzQPllvu6anGz.jpg" alt="Rotten corner of exterior timber window showing exposed, decayed wood." title="Rotten corner of exterior timber window showing exposed, decayed wood." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/68d0V0a85oqeFteP2Xg8Siurysxpl83V3aQ178X1N3gaEMOAjY2RzQPllvu6anGz.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; Step 2 – Preparing and Priming After the repair, the surface was sanded, shaped, and primed to ensure a smooth, even base for painting. Proper prep is key to making sure the finish looks great and stands the test of time. <figure id="figure-ll9gz94eyemeojquo1"><img id="ll9gz94eyemeojquo1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cT1BmeeNXFV564NtwIZwmPner1Z5nGw3qCfm8uUVkmGiLiEDuM6rV68x1p3L8JDS.jpg" alt="Timber window corner rebuilt with Timbabuild resin filler, sanded smooth and ready for paint." title="Timber window corner rebuilt with Timbabuild resin filler, sanded smooth and ready for paint." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cT1BmeeNXFV564NtwIZwmPner1Z5nGw3qCfm8uUVkmGiLiEDuM6rV68x1p3L8JDS.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure><figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/13JS4SKudMBpzN0N9rAZoWiFR0oWBAqtP28QKHasS1BJWEpwtMkdZhCcjhg4oJPL.jpg" alt="Exterior timber window corner fully repaired and painted in bright white satin finish." title="Exterior timber window corner fully repaired and painted in bright white satin finish." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="0%" data-positionY="45%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>&nbsp; Step 3 – Finishing with Dulux Weathershield Satin To complete the job, all exterior woodwork was painted with Dulux Weathershield Satin. This product not only gives a crisp, clean finish but also provides long-lasting protection against the elements — essential for British weather!The Result The transformation speaks for itself. The rotten timber is fully repaired, the paintwork is refreshed, and the house now looks sharp and well-protected for years to come.

Exterior Refresh in Peterborough – Window Repair & Repaint

Every now and then, a project comes along that allows me to combine practicality with craftsmanship. This bespoke oak mirror was designed and built for a customer’s downstairs toilet — a space that deserved a touch of warmth and character.Starting with the Material We began with high-quality oak boards, carefully selected for their grain and durability. Oak is a timeless choice for bespoke joinery, offering both strength and a natural beauty that ages gracefully. <figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr"><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/dKcFePXaTc540dS7OI72hd0RiuU0TdyyjmOx2ZxFXNXJRz7bbHKsbsvhMnP4nrl4.jpg" alt="Three oak boards laid out on a tiled floor, ready to be crafted into a bespoke mirror." title="Three oak boards laid out on a tiled floor, ready to be crafted into a bespoke mirror." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/dKcFePXaTc540dS7OI72hd0RiuU0TdyyjmOx2ZxFXNXJRz7bbHKsbsvhMnP4nrl4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; Building in the Workshop The frame and shelf were constructed in the workshop, ensuring a precise fit and clean joinery. This stage is all about accuracy — measuring, cutting, sanding, and assembling to create a piece that will not only look good but last for years. <figure id="figure-ll9gz94eyemeojquo1"><img id="ll9gz94eyemeojquo1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1bzqZtZOSAFeOT2pQPB4dwnJ9Od9BHhm0EfSpkWGEQkjQ7o5ERBpPsC65avWDU3C.jpg" alt="Oak mirror frame being built in the workshop, with tools and saws visible on the workbench" title="Oak mirror frame being built in the workshop, with tools and saws visible on the workbench" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1bzqZtZOSAFeOT2pQPB4dwnJ9Od9BHhm0EfSpkWGEQkjQ7o5ERBpPsC65avWDU3C.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure><figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/13hqU8N337O9qlLi5lNEnhEFmoDToLfCblI4JBmzO7DMWPuIJHsyiOYMhrMWIH0Z.jpg" alt="Finished oak mirror installed on the wall with integrated lighting and small potted plants on the shelf." title="Finished oak mirror installed on the wall with integrated lighting and small potted plants on the shelf." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/13hqU8N337O9qlLi5lNEnhEFmoDToLfCblI4JBmzO7DMWPuIJHsyiOYMhrMWIH0Z.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;"></figure>&nbsp; The Finished Piece Once assembled, the oak was treated and fitted with integrated lighting, adding both practicality and a contemporary touch. The finished mirror now sits proudly in the customer’s downstairs toilet, complemented by a slim shelf perfect for small decorative touches.This project is a great example of how bespoke joinery can transform even the smallest spaces. A one-off piece, made to measure, that brings warmth, function, and style all in one.

Bespoke Oak Mirror Project

Exterior Transformation in Emneth with Sandtex Cornish Cream There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint to completely transform the look of a property. This week, I completed an exterior painting project in Emneth, giving this home a new lease of life with Sandtex Cornish Cream masonry paint.Preparation is Key Before any paint touched the walls, the property was fully prepped to ensure the best possible finish and long-lasting results. The walls were:<figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr" class=""><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/30coNMo2tneemKOU6CotYF6cmzuocCczEYWEKimapCo8v2juot9zgEkh3Y0B5pZ5.jpg" alt="House in Emneth before exterior painting with Sandtex Cornish Cream, showing weathered walls." title="House in Emneth before exterior painting with Sandtex Cornish Cream, showing weathered walls." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/30coNMo2tneemKOU6CotYF6cmzuocCczEYWEKimapCo8v2juot9zgEkh3Y0B5pZ5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; Jet washed to remove dirt, moss, and surface debris. Treated with a fungicidal wash to prevent mould, algae, and future growth. Good preparation makes all the difference — it ensures the paint adheres properly and protects the property for years to come. <figure id="figure-ll9gz94eyemeojquo1"><img id="ll9gz94eyemeojquo1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fq1UnyDN3cVtxLBEpFs9eSENHFs7WDm6Zys38qfbNmU00r9p3Jw2AI4y1kbxsjD.jpg" alt="Exterior walls mid-preparation in Emneth after jet wash and fungicidal wash before painting." title="Exterior walls mid-preparation in Emneth after jet wash and fungicidal wash before painting." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 95% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="95%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fq1UnyDN3cVtxLBEpFs9eSENHFs7WDm6Zys38qfbNmU00r9p3Jw2AI4y1kbxsjD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 95% 30%;"></figure><figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2epebMhP3TteeYChQR4qaQ96oFGBkJRR77M4A7AL46oXOLYUjcTYxqw1F4rYQ4ZN.jpg" alt="House in Emneth after painting with Sandtex Cornish Cream masonry paint, showing fresh and durable finish." title="House in Emneth after painting with Sandtex Cornish Cream masonry paint, showing fresh and durable finish." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2epebMhP3TteeYChQR4qaQ96oFGBkJRR77M4A7AL46oXOLYUjcTYxqw1F4rYQ4ZN.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;"></figure>&nbsp; The Paint: Sandtex Cornish Cream For this project, the homeowners chose Sandtex Cornish Cream, a classic and timeless shade that really brightens up the exterior while still keeping a warm, traditional look. Sandtex is known for its durability, weather resistance, and excellent coverage, making it the perfect choice for UK homes.If you’re looking to give your home a fresh new look, exterior painting with high-quality products like Sandtex is one of the most effective ways to add kerb appeal and long-term protection.

Exterior Transformation in Emneth with Sandtex Cornish Cream

The outside of a building is the first thing people see, and keeping it well maintained is just as important as looking after the interior. A clean, well-painted exterior doesn’t just improve kerb appeal — it also protects the property from the elements for years to come.&nbsp; The Starting Point This property was ready for a refresh. The render had become weathered and tired, losing the sharp, clean appearance it once had. To bring it back to life, the exterior needed careful preparation and a high-quality finish that would both protect and enhance the building.<figure id="figure-xdnokv50x5meojluqr"><img id="xdnokv50x5meojluqr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/23VlMhsZJyhYIdJNHDazFLihNA5iQWZ9JC6vhoM6gLu55WOQSghlZbx7qO0gRkbM.jpg" alt="Scaffolding in place around a residential building, preparing exterior render for repainting with Dulux Weathershield." title="Scaffolding in place around a residential building, preparing exterior render for repainting with Dulux Weathershield." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/23VlMhsZJyhYIdJNHDazFLihNA5iQWZ9JC6vhoM6gLu55WOQSghlZbx7qO0gRkbM.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; The Process Preparation is the most important part of any exterior project. The walls were first treated with a fungicidal wash to kill off any algae and organic growth. Once this had time to work, the render was power-washed to remove dirt, loose material, and any remaining residue.With the surface clean and sound, the render was then decorated using Dulux Weathershield Pure Brilliant White — a durable exterior paint that offers long-lasting protection against the elements.To complement the fresh white finish, the windows were painted in RAL 7011 (Iron Grey), adding a sleek and modern contrast. Scaffolding ensured every area could be accessed safely and finished to a professional standard.<figure id="figure-ll9gz94eyemeojquo1"><img id="ll9gz94eyemeojquo1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/13R1v6KcYpQ2cTXxNhRJc8pWE15J40sGdAYbaPsFgd22MrOWT8pyLiSaNZHGP6Nd.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 95% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="95%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/13R1v6KcYpQ2cTXxNhRJc8pWE15J40sGdAYbaPsFgd22MrOWT8pyLiSaNZHGP6Nd.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 95% 30%;"></figure><figure id="figure-5md1ef6s0omeojsods"><img id="5md1ef6s0omeojsods" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1bjE0Y9IbJIIEyZNmNYEwuzZjMyzuXJRIi00oxWeuFQUjBUeB5za3RjwjRhF11k9.jpg" alt="Freshly painted exterior render in Dulux Weathershield Pure Brilliant White with windows finished in RAL 7011 grey." title="Freshly painted exterior render in Dulux Weathershield Pure Brilliant White with windows finished in RAL 7011 grey." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1bjE0Y9IbJIIEyZNmNYEwuzZjMyzuXJRIi00oxWeuFQUjBUeB5za3RjwjRhF11k9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;"></figure>&nbsp; The Result The transformation speaks for itself. The building now has a crisp, modern look, with the pure white render perfectly balanced by the iron grey windows. Beyond the visual impact, the Dulux Weathershield system provides tough weather protection, helping to keep the property looking its best for years to come.This project is a reminder of how vital exterior maintenance is. With the right preparation and materials, a property’s exterior can be both beautiful and long-lasting.&nbsp; ✨ Thinking about updating your home or commercial property exterior? A professional finish doesn’t just improve the look — it adds protection and value too. Get in touch to discuss your project.

Celeste Property Services

Previous Projects

IBack Door Lock Replacement – A Quick, Secure Fix

Installing a hidden Access Panel – Plasterboard Repair in...

Exterior Refresh in Peterborough – Window Repair & Repaint

Bespoke Oak Mirror Project

Exterior Transformation in Emneth with Sandtex Cornish Cream

Exterior Redecoration – Fresh Finish for Lasting Protection