One of the things we have noticed since we have been here is an explosion in DIY. Because of constructional differences in property, there are quite a few unusual tools, and also hardware items. One big DIY chain is owned by the owners of B&Q, so some common branding.
A good thing here, that may be spreading to the UK, is doors are sold ready hinged and framed. Same styles of doors as UK, from hardboard through to wooden panelled, but easy to fit. The standard door hinge here is a pin and socket type, pin on the frame, matching socket on the door. Between 2 and 4 are fitted depending on the door style, which means that the door can simply be opened wide and lifted off out of the frame. Useful for decorating.
One thing that is not common here is the 'Yale' type of spring latch. You don't shut yourself out here by pulling the front door shut with the keys on the kitchen table
. Doors are locked here by turning a (Yale type) key on exit.
And paint. Arghh. The price over here is far too high for a lower quality. I have brought paint back from UK trips several times. (Thanks Brexit).
Andrew.