If you’re planning some renovation work on your property or maybe just a bit of redecoration here and there, make sure you’re confident in your abilities. There’s nothing worse than getting half way through a project and having to admit defeat, leaving your home in disarray and having to call in the professionals anyway. It also makes sense to follow some of the following dos and don’ts of DIY:
Do
- Let your neighbours know if you’re going to making a lot of noise or your work will impact their property in any way. It’s always good to be courteous and keeps everyone sweet. You’d expect the same courtesy if the situation were reversed.
- Start with a small project and an easy fix such as replacing a showerhead or taps.
- Ensure you have all the right tools for the jobs you want to undertake. Get stocked up before you start or you’ll end up abandoning a job half-way through while you purchase the things you need. For all your DIY needs visit an online DIY store like gofixdirect.co.uk
- If you’re taking something apart, make sure you take photos of it before dismantling so you can be sure you’re re-assembling it correctly when you need to put it back together again.
- Make sure you have enough time to complete a DIY project. Many never-ending renovation nightmares occur due to a lack of adequate time for busy working families.
- Only attempt the things you’re good at. Leaving your homing looking amateurish will knock off value.
- Use the best quality materials you can afford.
Don’t
- Attempt a job that you know is out of your comfort zone. It could end up costing more for a professional to fix your bodged attempt than it would have done to employ them in the first place.
- Be tempted to use cheap and cheerful supplies. When painting for example, a cheap paint will mean you need to apply more, the finish will be lacklustre and will need redecorating a lot quicker than a good quality paint will.
- Take shortcuts – try to get a good idea for how long a project may take you but if you find you’re running short on time, don’t rush. Rushing almost always results in a mistake or worse, an accident so pack up and finish when you have more time.
- Don’t mess with electricity or gas. Unless you’re qualified and certified to work in these areas, just don’t even think about it.
- Leave a mess. Keeping your work area tidy and free from clutter is a much safer way to work. Tools left lying on the floor can be a trip hazard or spilt liquids could cause a slip. Always be mindful of heavy objects being secure and never above head height.
- Don’t neglect your safety equipment. Protecting your welfare should be your top consideration so don those gloves and safety goggles. Keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in the house is a good idea to quickly fix any minor injury.
