Hands-on how-tos with steps and checklists

Hands-on is where our how-tos live. They’re concrete, step-by-step walkthroughs with checklists, for readers with a specific job or plan to get done. We update them regularly, because the rules, timing and choices they cover don’t stay still.

Our recent how-tos are written for Australian readers. They cover jobs around the house and planning a stay on the WA Coral Coast. Each one is edited by Celeste Foster and checked before it goes live.

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Hands-on how-tos with steps and checklists

Recent how-tos you can use now

We update how-tos in place rather than republishing them, so a link you saved keeps working.

Does this apply in my state?

Does this apply in my state?

Often the honest answer is ‘it depends’. Water restrictions, the right season for a job and local rules can differ by state, council and water authority. Our how-tos aim to flag those differences early, so you don’t get halfway through a job before finding out the advice doesn’t fit where you live.

Timing is the other common question. For a job like gutter cleaning, the right season depends on where you are, so we’d rather explain what the timing depends on than give one date for the whole country.

For anything rule-based, check the current position with your state water authority or local council before you start. For travel, prices, availability and park or marine-zone rules change, so confirm the details with the operator or the relevant authority before you book.

Should I do it myself or hire someone?

Some jobs suit a weekend and a checklist. Others need a licensed tradesperson or professional advice, and working at heights on a roof or gutters carries real risk. Our how-tos are general information, not professional, safety or legal advice. Where a job needs a professional, the how-to helps you understand the work and know what to ask. It doesn’t replace them.

Cost matters too. An honest budget counts the hours spent fixing things, not just the headline price, and cheap upfront can turn out expensive overall. A checklist lets you see the whole job before you start, so you can decide whether it’s a weekend task or one to hand over.

We don’t provide trade services or take bookings for trades or accommodation. Nothing is sold or booked on this site.

Before and after you use a how-to

If you’re new to the subject, read Start here first. If you’re comparing options rather than doing a task, In depth sets out the trade-offs. Once you’ve worked through the checklist, related guides on the same topic make a good next read. Prefer to see what’s newest? Browse the latest articles.

Found a step that’s out of date, or a rule that has changed where you live? Spotted a mistake? Tell us.

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