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

Some of the abodes I have seen are something else. 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 trying to do jobs like fitting skirtings, some of the angles you have to deal with can give you serious brain hurt!

One of the main problems with these houses is the non existence of any substantial foundation. They were pretty much slapped up as quick as possible to give the newly arriving workers a roof over their heads. It’s amazing they have lasted this long really.

During the initial fifteen years of their lives many of the dwellings have sunk and as such many internal walls have become distorted. This commonly gives rise to a wedge shaped room and all the wonderful angles that entails.

If you have ever had the thankless task of installing kitchen worktops in Bristol homes you will know these angles only to well. You’d be wise to brush up on your pro wood butchery skills before attempting this kind of project.

Once you’ve done a few it does get easier and you will become a dab hand and scribing those worktops into those wibbly walls. In fact getting it right is very satisfying. Good luck in your endeavours!