Kettering Handyman

15/01/2026

This was a really satisfying job.

The worktop itself was still sound, but it was dry, marked, and tired. Getting it back to this finish took a lot of careful sanding to level everything out and bring the surface back smooth again.

From there, it was four coats of Danish oil, with a light sand between each coat, to build the finish properly. The result is a “like new” feel, smooth to the touch, rich in colour, and properly protected against.

I genuinely love this kind of work.
It’s quiet, methodical, and all about taking the time to do it right.

Replacing a solid wood worktop is expensive.
Restoring one like this is far cheaper, far less disruptive, and often all that’s needed to make a kitchen feel fresh again.

This is definitely a service I’d like to focus on offering more of this year.

If your wooden worktops are looking dull, patchy, or rough to the touch, they may not need replacing at all; they might just need the right care.

– Simon
Kettering Handyman

07/01/2026

📱 A quick note on how to contact me (and why it matters)

I’m going to be honest — I’m not great on the phone.

Not because I don’t want to help, but because most of the time I’m:
• driving
• up a ladder
• mid-job
• trying to remember a measurement
• covered in dust
• or with my family

I never answer the phone while driving, talking to a client or concentrating on work, and I don’t take calls in the evenings or at weekends. That means I’m basically never in the right headspace to give a proper answer.

When I do answer unexpected calls, I’m often unprepared — no diary, no notes — and that’s when details get forgotten or things get promised verbally on the spot. I don’t like working that way, and it’s not fair on anyone.

I’ve tried call answering services before, but they just became an expensive voicemail. And if I miss a voicemail, I often struggle to get back to it properly.

What actually works for me (and my customers) is WhatsApp.

If you message me:
✅ I can reply when I’m not driving or mid-job
✅ I can check my schedule and details properly
✅ I can give clearer, more accurate answers
✅ Everything’s written down — no crossed wires

It helps me stay organised, do better work, and still protect time with my family.

So here’s my genuine question…

Would it put you off if I removed my phone number from my website and made WhatsApp the main way to get in touch?

Interested to hear people’s thoughts.

– Simon
Kettering Handyman

05/01/2026

🚪 Gate Goals for 2026 🚪

I’m going to make this public — partly for accountability, partly because it’s fun to build something properly and let people follow along.

My goal for 2026 is to build and install 24 custom timber gates.
That’s just 2 a month… but considering I only managed 4–5 last year, it feels like a big and exciting step forward.

And we’re already moving 👇

🎯 2026 Gate Target: 24

🔨 Under construction: 2
✅ Completed: 0 / 24

The two currently underway:
• A double gate in Desborough, designed to make a garden properly dog-safe 🐕
• A side gate in Barton Seagrave, replacing a rotten old gate that’s had its day

Every gate is designed, built, and finished properly — built in my workshop, then installed to last. No rushing, no shortcuts.

I’ve decided I’m not resting until I’m known as Kettering’s Gate Man
(…or until something else grabs my attention — squirrel 🐿️)

I’ll still be offering general handyman work, but custom timber gates are where I’m really focusing this year.

Let’s see how the numbers change 👀

– Simon
Kettering Handyman

03/01/2026

A bit of honesty as we head into the New Year…

I’ve spent some time over Christmas reflecting on 2025 — the jobs I’ve loved, the ones I've not, and the difference the right clients make to running a small family business.

Some of the best jobs last year weren’t necessarily the biggest — they were the ones where there was trust, clear communication, and space to do the work properly.
The ones where I could plan ahead, turn up prepared, and leave knowing it was done right.

The jobs I struggled with weren’t really about the work itself — they were the ones that felt rushed, unclear, or constantly changing. And that’s made me realise something important going into this year.

In 2026, I want to be a bit more intentional about the work I take on.

I’ll still happily help with general handyman jobs - that’s not changing - but my main focus this year will be on the kind of work I genuinely enjoy and do best:

🔨 Carpentry
🍽️ Kitchen fitting & kitchen repairs
🌳 Outdoor timber work — fencing, decking & gates

In particular, I’m really keen to do more custom timber gates, built properly in my workshop and installed to last.

And if I’m allowed a dream job for the year…
I’d love to plan and build a boardwalk at some point. That kind of project is right up my street.

Running a small business means learning as you go - about the work, the balance, and the kind of clients you work best with. This year is about doing fewer things, better, and enjoying the process a bit more.

If you’ve got a project in mind for the year ahead, feel free to get in touch.
January’s a great time to plan things properly.

– Simon
Kettering Handyman

11/12/2025

Another 5 star review 🤩🥳🙏

Thanks Michelle

10/12/2025

Im proud to show you one of my latest creations.

Here are a couple of before and after pictures for a gate I replaced.

The old gate was rotten through and the door wouldn’t close from being swollen. It had had its day and was now time for a new one. So I designed and built a custom gate that would be more forgiving of weather changes while respecting the traditional design.

Security and access were essential keeping the same height and solid materials. I also installed a lock that can be opened from both sides.

I’m looking for more gates to build in the new year. So if you have a gate that needs replacing then please message me.

13/11/2025

🎉 Happy New Year! (…sort of 😉)

Now I’ve got your attention — I need a tiny favour from you lovely lot.

January is usually a quiet month for most trades, and while that sounds relaxing, it mostly means me pacing around the house annoying Melissa and reorganising the toolbox for the 27th time 😂

So this year, I’m trying something different…

If you’re thinking about decorating, freshening up your living space, or giving a tired room a proper New Year makeover, now’s the perfect time to let me know.

A lick of paint
A feature wall
A full room refresh
A cosy lounge renovation
New flooring or skirting
Or those finishing touches that make a room feel “done” —

These are exactly the kinds of jobs I’d love to get booked in for the New Year.
And yes — the smaller jobs are still absolutely welcome too ❤️

By getting in touch now, you’ll be helping our family relax over Christmas knowing we’ve got some great jobs lined up for January — and you’ll start 2025 with a home that feels fresh and sorted.

Pop me a message and I’ll get you booked in.

Thanks as always for supporting a local family business 🧡
– Simon
Kettering Handyman

06/11/2025

A little while back, I mentioned the idea of creating a small club — something to say thank you to the people who’ve supported my business time and again.

Well, it’s happening.

Our parent business, Langham Family Business, is launching a new family venture:
The Langham Family Card

It’s our way of giving something back to the loyal customers, friendly faces, and quiet supporters who’ve kept us going.

It will also include my wife’s business Kettering Cleaner

Members will enjoy:
✨ Exclusive discounts and offers
🎁 Occasional gifts and surprises
🛠️ Extended warranties on selected work
🚀 Early access to new products and services

Think of it as a loyalty card — but more personal.
A small thank you, from our family to yours.

In the coming days, I’ll share how you can sign up for free.
Keep an eye out — this one’s special.

— Simon
Kettering Handyman | Part of the Langham Family Business

03/11/2025

🐺 Protect your fence from the Big Bad Wolf!

Before he comes huffing and puffing this winter, let’s make sure your fence can stand its ground. 💨

We can:
🔧 Repair or replace broken panels
📏 Secure wobbly posts
🌿 Attach trellis or clear away ivy
🎨 Paint it if the weather is dry

Whether it’s a quick fix or a full replacement, we’ll make sure your garden looks great and your fence stands strong.

📍 Based in Kettering — covering all nearby towns and villages (NN14, NN15 & NN16)
💬 Message Kettering Handyman today and let’s get that fence wolf and storm-proof! 🪚

28/10/2025

We've been working hard to create nice, natural cleaning products for you and your family.

We've launched with this fantastic offer to get the ball rolling and would appreciate your support in sharing this with anyone you know who may be interested.

Message me today to place your order.

£5 each
Special offer 👉 buy one, get one free for a limited time.

✨ Local Launch Offer ✨

We’re so excited to introduce our brand-new Langham Family Business General Cleaning Sprays — made by our family, for yours.

🌿 Nature’s Guard – a gentle, natural cleaner with ingredients that help keep pests at bay.
🎄 Festive Comfort – warm notes of cinnamon, cedarwood, bergamot and geranium for a cosy seasonal clean.

Both refills are made in Kettering using naturally derived ingredients that work effectively without harsh chemicals.

To celebrate our launch, we’re keeping it simple:
💚 £5 each — and for a limited time, buy one, get one free (mix & match).
📅 Offer ends 5th November.
📦 Local delivery only to NN14, NN15 & NN16 — delivered within 3 days of payment.

To order, just message us with your name, address, and which refills you’d like. We’ll send you a quick payment link or bank details — easy as that!

WhatsApp or message Melissa on 07398 211319‬ or read the comments for a link.

We’re also working hard to:
✨ Add more fragrances & products
✨ Source durable spray bottles for refills
✨ Extend delivery once we’ve perfected postage
✨ Launch our online shop soon

Thank you for supporting a small local family business — every refill helps us grow 🌿