With the May bank holiday this coming monday, many homeowners may be planning to indulge in a spot of DIY.
If you’re planning on tackling that home improvement project this weekend, here are a few helpful hints to bear in mind:
- Get all the tools and materials ready to go before embarking on the project. There’s nothing worse than getting half way through the task only to realise you’re missing a key item at a crucial moment.
- Have a magnet to hand – it could come in very useful if you spill an entire box of small screw/nails etc.
- Don’t cut corners as it will only come back to haunt you! For example – don’t ‘guess-timate’ measurements or fail to follow the advice on product packaging.
- Always start with a clean, properly prepared surface. For example, don’t leave traces of existing wallpaper if you’re tiling or adding fresh paper to a wall.
- Try to tidy as you go to keep your workspace clear and organised – always have plenty of waste bags to hand.
- Be aware of any items that could become damaged. Make sure any valuable items are fully covered or removed from the vicinity – especially before painting.
- For larger, more ambitious projects – ensure you have the correct planning permission from your local council before you get stuck in.
- For jobs involving gas or electrics, it’s wise to call in the professionals. Gas appliances should always be fitted by a professional on the Gas Safe register.
- Be safe and always wear gloves, goggles and a dust mask where necessary and make sure kids and pets are kept outside of the DIY zone.
- A good rule of thumb is to always measure twice….then you’ll hopefully only need to cut it once!
- Don’t attempt too much at once. Try dividing your DIY project into smaller, more achievable goals and take regular tea breaks!
- Always turn off the power or water before dealing with wires and pipes.
- Use masking tape to ensure a neat line when painting and no unwanted paint on your skirting boards.
- If you decide to get in the professionals – see our post how to find a reputable tradesperson online
- Before undertaking a DIY project, it could be a good idea to check your home insurance policy. You’ll need accidental damage cover to be insured for a DIY disaster (which hopefully won’t happen). This is often an optional extra so may not come as standard with your policy.
Have a great bank holiday weekend and good luck with the DIY!
