4Homes DIY & Self Build

What we liked:
The DIY section of Channel4.com’s 4homes strand features detailed how-to instructions from TV property-and-design expert George Clarke and interiors guru Naomi Cleaver.

The cost, skill level and time required for each project are provided along with a list of tools and materials. Each step is accompanied by a photo, sometimes helpful, sometimes decorative (George Clarke looking pensive, for example).
The site includes a broad range of home-improvement guides and advice about related subjects such as insulating the loft and hard flooring. Members can add comments, tips and personal experiences to projects, which helps lend the site a sense of community. The forums are lively, with people suggesting solutions to repair and renovation problems.

DIY is just one strand of this site and so you also get shopping and trend advice as well as room schemes to check out. Plenty to get the reluctant DIY-er going.

How it can be improved:
Guides are listed alphabetically rather than by trade, which can make searching a slow process. The layout is a bit messy and could use some improvement itself.

Our verdict:
4homes DIY & Self Build boasts a friendly community and solid advice. It’s useful that it forms part of a larger property and design resource.

Reviewed: Issue 208 (26 February 2009)