The Product Review Center

Much of Bristol’s original terraced housing stock is of the Victorian era, a time when spirit levels were not deemed necessary! At least that could be a conclusion you might come to if you’ve ever had the good fortune to work on a Victorian terrace restoration.

Some of the dwellings I have seen are quite amazing. It’s like being in topsy turvy world! The roof runs one way out of level, the floor runs the other way. If you’re attempting jobs like fitting architraves, some of the angles you have to deal with can give you stupid brain ache!

One of the main problems with these houses is the lack of any proper foundation. They were usually slapped up as fast as possible to give the newly arriving workers warmth and dry shelter. It’s amazing they have stood this long really.

During the first twenty five years of their lives many of the dwellings have moved and as such many internal walls have become distorted. This often gives rise to a wedge shaped room with all the lovely angles that entails.

If you have ever had the thankless task of fitting kitchen worktops in Bristol dwellings you will know these angles better than most. You’d be advised to brush up on your pro carpentry skills before attempting this kind of job.

Once you’ve attempted a couple it does get easier and you will become a dab hand and scribing those worktops into those bendy walls. In fact getting it right can even be very satisfying. Good luck in your mission!