Home improvement projects are among the most common to-do’s in most people’s homes, and they can often prove to be a do-it-yourselfer’s nightmare. Unfortunately, many common mistakes are made in the process, leading to wasted time, subpar results, and unfulfilled expectations. With that in mind, here are 7 ways to avoid the most common home improvement mishaps.
1. Don’t Overreach~ A popular mistake is trying to take on projects well beyond one’s skill level. Be honest with yourself in terms of determining how much you can safely do and when it’s best to call in a professional. It is far better to pay for a professional to get the job done right the first time than to spend a great deal of time and effort only to be left with more work to do.
2. Don’t guess when Estimating~ Oftentimes, the cost of a home improvement project gets out of hand because of underestimating the materials and/or labor necessary to complete the job. Take time to research the costs of supplies and tools and get firm estimates on any tradesman work required.
3. Stick with a Plan~ Successful home improvement projects require a plan detailing materials needed, measurements, and other specifics. Without such, the job can quickly get off track or take far more time than necessary. Have a plan and stick to it.
4. Take Measurements twice~ Even with clear plans, nothing can ruin a DIY project more than ordering incorrect or inadequate materials. Measure twice and order materials once to avoid costly and frustrating mistakes.
5. Take Safety Precautions~ Rushing into a DIY project without taking the right safety precautions can have serious or even deadly consequences. Be sure to have safety gear on hand and read the instructions before attempting any kind of project.
6. Check Permits~ Before starting any home improvement project, particularly one that changes the structure of the home, be sure to check with your local municipality about requiring permits. Failing to do so can lead to costly fines and even more costly changes or undoing of work.
7. Consider the Unforeseen~ Obviously, it’s impossible to plan for every single circumstance that could arise during a home improvement project. However, it’s wise to realize that no one knows a home and its components better than a previous or current owner. Have a back-up plan in case of unexpected obstacles.
Home Improvement projects, in addition to providing a great sense of accomplishment, can also help homeowners add value to their homes. These 7 tips should help prevent time-consuming, costly, and frustrating mistakes.
Section 2
1. Evaluate Your Current Situation~ Before beginning any project, homeowners should make sure their current system is working properly to begin with. This evaluation process requires an understanding of your decision-making criteria and the best options available to you. Understanding the resources available, such as materials, time, financial considerations, and whether or not professional help is needed, helps ensure a successful project.
2. Invest in Quality materials~ One of the most important steps on any home improvement project is the selection of materials. Opt for quality, branded materials that offer the best value for your money, and that will stand up to natural elements and usage over the long-term.
3. Beware of DIY Kits~ DIY home improvement kits are often advertised as a quick and easy way to complete a project. While they may seem more cost effective upfront, it is important to remember that some of these kits can be of lower quality. Not all features offered may fit into your desired outcome, and it may be more beneficial to select the specific materials you will need yourself.
4. Test paints and finishes~ Before beginning a paint, stain, or finish job, take time to test the product in question on a small area. You don’t want to choose a finish that looks great on the store shelf only to find that it does not work in the environment where it is not intended to be used.
5. Seek Professional Advice~ If you are unsure of your skills or the type of supplies you’ll need, it is always wise to ask for professional advice. Often times it can be difficult enough to simply understand and follow instructions, and seeking out help from an expert can be just the thing you need to get off on the right foot.
6. Use Your Space Wisely~ Home improvement projects often involve remodeling, rearranging, or simply reorganizing a space. Make sure to consider the extent of the project and how it will fit into your specific space. Work with your existing infrastructure, and make sure to create a living space that serves its purpose.
7. Take Your Time~ Many people become so eager to begin a home improvement project that they rush through the process. While the thrill of starting is exciting, taking your time to measure, plan, and execute the project will help to ensure success. Don’t take on something brand new without practicing it a few times and test out all of the steps before you begin the real deal.
In short, home improvement projects can be both rewarding and frustrating. Taking the right precautions can help you avoid the most common mistakes while ensuring your home improvement projects provide the desired results. Remember, caution, research, and a dose of common sense are key components to a successful project.