The €4 hack to paint garden fence faster and better than any brush or sprayer
Ireland is basking in a rare burst of sunshine this week as a mini-heatwave sweeps across the country. Temperatures are expected to climb to a sweltering 30C in some parts today, and Met Eireann has said the warm spell is set to continue into the weekend - offering the perfect excuse to spend more time outdoors.
For many homeowners, that means tackling the long-delayed garden jobs, whether it's dusting off the BBQ, trimming hedges or finally getting around to giving the garden fence a fresh lick of paint.
But if you've ever tried painting a fence under blazing sun, you'll know that it can quickly turn from a satisfying job into a sweaty, painstaking chore - especially when using a small brush or clunky sprayer.
Luckily, one clever DIYer has shared a game-changing trick that promises to make the task much faster and easier - and it costs less than the price of a chicken fillet roll.
TikTok user @mrsclarehoops, who has over 130,000 followers, regularly shares practical home and garden tips, and her recent video has gone viral for good reason. Clare revealed her go-to method for painting fences doesn't involve brushes or sprayers at all - just an ordinary yellow sponge, which you can pick up for around €4 (or even less in some stores).
She said: "Just a reminder, if you're painting fences this weekend, you should try the sponge method. Take a big yellow sponge, I like to chop it in half, but you could use it full. So then you have two sponges."
Clare recommends wearing rubber gloves to deal with the messiness, but says the payoff is well worth it. She explained: "It's a bit messy, so you are going to want some rubber gloves. I've tried so many different methods of painting fences over the years, and this is by far the fastest. It's not the neatest, but it's definitely the quickest, and sometimes speed is what you need."
She demonstrates how the sponge "just glides on" the paint and gets into all the "really bumpy bits" of a wooden fence far more efficiently than traditional tools.
You can pick up a suitable sponge for the hack without breaking the bank. On Amazon's newly launched Irish store, the Vitrex 10 2904 Yellow Tiling Sponge is €3.67. Alternatively, they offer a six-pack of QEP grouting and cleaning sponges for €15.67, which works out at just €2.61 each.
If you'd rather shop in-store, most DIY retailers across Ireland stock similar options - for example, Lenehans sells an All-Purpose Jumbo Sponge for €3.99.
The viral video has since racked up thousands of views, with users praising the hack as a true time-saver.
One user commended: "Thank you for this. I have to do mine this year, and I use a big brush, but it's always so uncomfortable."
Another added: "This is absolutely genius, paints fences in minutes, but I would recommend cleaning the fences of algae first."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Irish Sun
44 minutes ago
- The Irish Sun
Is it too hot to work? Irish worker rights in sweltering 29C heatwave & when you can legally go home as temps soar
IRELAND is basking in sizzling temperatures this week as temperatures look set to be hotter than the Canary Islands. All eyes will be on the weather forecast over the coming days as Ireland's Advertisement 2 Working in 'extreme temperature' can impact an employee's ability to do their job safely Credit: GETTY_HUB 2 The temperatures are set to soar to a whopping 29C And the Meteorologist Cathal Nolan from Ireland's While people are enjoying the heatwave, many With the current But regulations state that despite the lack of hard rule on hot temperatures - it does not mean that "any temperature is acceptable". Advertisement READ MORE ON MONEY According to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, temperatures should be at least 17.5C or 16C if the work involves rigorous physical effort. It also states that the temperature in rooms containing workstations should be appropriate for human beings, considering the working methods used and the physical demands placed on the The regulation also says: "The fact that a maximum temperature has not been specified in the Regulations does not mean that any temperature is acceptable. "At high or uncomfortable temperatures, especially when not caused by temporary weather conditions, a means of cooling should be provided." Advertisement Most read in Irish News Also under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must ensure the safety of their staff members. Ireland to sizzle in 24C heat as heatwave arrives and Met Eireann reveal hottest areas This act states that employers must "take reasonable care to protect his or her safety, health and welfare and the safety, health and welfare of any other person who may be affected by the employee's acts or omissions at work". And health and safety regulations say employers should take efforts to keep excessive heat out of buildings that have windows. They state: "Excessive heat from the sun shining through windows, skylights or glass partitions must be avoided. Advertisement "This can be achieved by various means including internal blinds, external blinds, use of low-emissivity glass, whitewashing of windows etc." HOT TIPS TO FOLLOW DURING HEATWAVE Here are some hot tips that will help you stay cool and safe during the high temperatures in Ireland: Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature and prevents heat-related illnesses. Taking breaks can help avoid overexertion and help the body cool down in shaded or air-conditioned areas. When outdoors, it is recommended to wear lightweight, breathable and loose-fitting clothing that allows better airflow while protecting your skin from harmful sun rays. Avoid activities during the hottest part of the day, which HSE reports to be midday. Stay alert to the signs of heat-related illnesses. 'ALLEVIATE THE WORST EFFECTS' According to the Irish They said: "Where an employer is obviously sympathetic and tries to alleviate the worst effects of hot weather most employees should bear with temporary discomfort and continue working normally. "Unless conditions are extreme, measures such as those outlined above should prevent any employees justifiably claiming that the company is in breach of its duty under the 2005 Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act. Advertisement "Any refusal by the employees to work would then place them in breach of their contracts of employment, which could lead, to loss of pay/disciplinary action." The employer should do a risk assessment if the majority of the workforce expresses complaints about hot temperatures. According to the Health and Safety Authority, if the temperature starts to rise, companies should take action to cool the workplace. Additionally, they advise businesses to loosen Advertisement However, if the employers fail to ensure the work environment is safe for the employees, they may face penalties, legal action, as it will increase the risk of workplace accidents and illnesses if not dealt with properly. VITAL TIPS FOR WORK ENVIRONMENTS Here are vital tips that will ensure employees and yourself to stay safe during the heatwave: Maintain positive management-employee relations by communicating clearly and reaching an agreement with staff over the necessary actions. Keep windows open, give fans, keep an eye on the air conditioner, and generally let fresh air flow around the office. Ensure there is a sufficient quantity of cold water on hand. If required, offer job rotation and suitable rest periods. Make sure outdoor employees understand the dangers of working in direct sunlight, wear the appropriate PPE, and use sunscreen as needed. For the comfort of employees, think about loosening the dress code in workplace settings. Make sure outdoor employees don't use the high temps as an excuse to take off their steel-toed boots and hard hats, among other necessary safety gear. SYMPTOMS OF HEAT-RELATED HEALTH ISSUES Working during extreme temperatures can impact people's When employees are exposed to hot weather for long periods, they are at risk of developing one of the many heat-related illnesses, including heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat stress occurs when the body cannot cool itself effectively, resulting in many symptoms, including heavy sweating, fatigue and discomfort. Advertisement Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that arises from long exposure to heat and inadequate fluid intake; if left untreated, it can lead to heatstroke. The symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and headaches. Heatstroke is a severe condition that requires Symptoms may include confusion, altered mental state, and loss of consciousness. If not caught in time, it can be life-threatening. Advertisement
The Irish Sun
3 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
‘Always keep a watchful eye' – Irish pet owners issued stark warning over mistake that can be fatal
IRISH vets have warned of the dangers of heatstroke as temperatures continue to sizzle. Across the country, with temperatures set to exceed 29C, The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) is advising owners to be 'vigilant of their 2 Irish dog owners are being urged to keep a close eye on their furry friends Credit: Getty DSPCA bosses said it is essential for owners to 'keep pets cool and safe'. The rescue vets warned that heatstroke is a 'life-threatening condition' that can develop if an animal becomes too hot. This can cause seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and even death. READ NORE IN FABULOUS It can also be caused by being in a warm room without proper ventilation, being kept somewhere hot such as a Any dog can develop heatstroke, but flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs are most at risk. Head of Operations at the DSPCA, Suzanne McGovern, said: 'With hot temperatures forecast for the rest of the week, we must be mindful of how important it is to keep our pets comfortable. 'The warm and dry temperatures can be dangerous for our pets, so it is vital that you follow the advice for keeping your pets cool during these periods. MOST READ IN THE IRISH SUN 'Ensure they have access to lots of water and there are shaded areas where they can rest. 'Always keep a watchful eye on your pets and be responsible when exposing them to the conditions.' Galway family in tears at reunion with dog stolen two years ago Dog owners should only go on walks when it is cool, early morning and evening. Do not walk any dog during the hottest hours of the days between 12pm-4pm. Ensure your pooch is only doing light exercise only. When playing with your furry friend allow lots of time for breaks in shade, provide water, and allow your dog to cool down. Owners need to provide lots of shade and plenty of water. Do not take your dog on unnecessary journeys. Never leave dogs in cars even if windows are open; a car will remain too hot for any pet. Owners of breeds with flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs must be extra cautious. If you see an animal in trouble or distress, particularly in a car even if the window is open or in an outdoor area without shade or water, please contact the DSPCA on 01 4994700 or info@ How hot is too hot? Getty Image • 16-19 C Generally safe to exercise at all times of days. Dogs most at risk of heat stroke should only be lightly exercised in the cool parts of the days (early morning, late evening). • 20-23 C No dog should be exercised rigorously. All exercise should take place during cool parts of the day. Play time should be short and have lots of time to cool down. • 24-27 C Extreme caution should be taken. Exercise should only be extremely light and take place when the sun has set. Focus on giving your dog cooling treats, toys and plenty of opportunity to spend time in shade. • 28-31 C Dangerous for all, but life threatening for larger breeds and puppies as well as dogs who are flat-faced or obese. Stay cool and in the shade with lots of water. • 32 C Heat stroke is a major risk for all. While 20°C may not seem overly hot, pets – especially dogs – can still struggle in the heat, particularly during exercise or if left in enclosed spaces like cars or conservatories. 2 Owners should not walk their dogs between noon to 4pm during heatwaves Credit: Getty
Irish Daily Mirror
3 hours ago
- Irish Daily Mirror
Urgent Zach Bryan warning issued before show as fans told 'bring 2 key items'
Zach Bryan's much-anticipated three-night run at Dublin's Phoenix Park is finally here - and fans are being urged to prepare carefully, as an urgent weather warning has been issued ahead of the gigs. Met Eireann has warned that temperatures could soar to nearly 30C, with the mini heatwave expected to last right through the shows on Friday 21, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June. In response, promoter Aiken Promotions has issued a heat-related alert, urging concertgoers to take precautions for the sweltering conditions. A spokesperson said: "Today is set to be a scorcher. Met Eireann have warned temperatures could hit highs of 29C today." Given the weather, fans are now being strongly encouraged to bring two essential items: "Please keep hydrated, bring your 750ml plastic water bottle so you can refill at the concert (no glass/metal). Don't forget sunscreen!" With around 180,000 fans expected across the three nights, these are set to be the country music star's biggest Irish shows yet. The 29-year-old singer-songwriter's hits include I Remember Everything, Pink Skies and Something in the Orange. Promoters have also reminded attendees to travel light. Those without bags will be fast-tracked through security, while those carrying one must ensure it is no larger than A4 in size. Bags exceeding the limit will be denied entry and cannot be left at the venue. For more on the bag rules, click here. Meanwhile, fans should also be aware that there is an extensive list of banned items that won't be permitted inside Phoenix Park. This ranges from the likes of skateboards and flagpoles, to laptops and even ham sandwiches. You can read the full list here, so double check to avoid disappointment. Separately, for those eager to brush up on their favourite tunes before the show, click here for an expected setlist featuring some of Zach Bryan's biggest hits and fan favourites to get you ready for an unforgettable night at Phoenix Park. For everything else you need to know, including stage times, support acts, the venue map and the weather forecast, head here.
