Downpipes connect the guttering to the stormwater system. Over time, downpipes can separate from the gutter or downpipe offset (swan neck), as the astragals or straps that hold it to the wall become loose, allowing them to slip. Once separated, they can fall out of alignment and rainwater will spill all over your walls. Luckily, repair is relatively simple.

These drains are designed to catch the rainwater as it flows downhill, potentially causing a problem. A typical situation is where a driveway slopes down to a garage. Without an adequate surface drain, rainwater would flood the garage. If you don’t keep this drain clean, its ability to capture run-off is reduced.

Maybe your vegie patch is bursting at the seams, or you’d like to grow your own leafy greens but simply don’t have the space. If so, it could be time to think above and beyond the ground, and take it up a notch – literally! These tiered planters are perfect for the job and will look fantastic sitting in your existing patch, on the patio or even your front lawn. Just choose the sunniest spot in your yard, build and plant up. This is one pyramid scheme you’ll certainly want to be in on!

Make this easy and interesting box planter to save space in your garden.

Are your kids spending too much time indoors? When you encourage them to go outside, do they complain that there’s nothing to do? Not anymore! Get them into the backyard with supersized lawn letters for a game of words. They’ll be out in the fresh air and they’ll be learning, too.

How’s this for a bit of wow on a plain fence? And it was all done with recycled materials – a window frame, mirror, shutters and planter box – for about $200. With a little planning and clever positioning of your mirror behind the frame, you can create the illusion of a second garden. Then just plant up with fresh-as-a-daisy blooms!

How to turn a sturdy and low chest of draws into a change table for your little one. This great unit does double duty to save space and maximise storage.

Need a home for all your bits and pieces? Check out this great space-saving solution – it’s just like a book of tools!

How to give your yard a little seclusion with this stylish slatted screen

How to give mouldy joints the flick with this easy fix

How to grow the ultimate outdoor cubby for your littlies – they’ll totally dig it!

How to make a fabulous garden seat with none other than fence pickets.

Turning a plain bed into a place of enchantment is simple to do using pine you’ll find at most timber yards. Just start with a basic wooden bed, make up L-shaped posts and canopy rails, sprinkle with a little fairy dust and your princess will drift off to sleep for a night of sweet dreams.