Home improvement projects can be exciting. But they can also be nerve-racking if you don’t have the skillset or know-how for DIY. That’s why it’s important to make the right decisions when tackling a home improvement project. Here are a few tips on how to get it done right.
Start with the planning phase. You need to have a clear plan in place before starting any work. Outline the scope of the project, set a budget, determine the timeline of the project, and design a layout. Make sure that your design and plan take into account both the structural and aesthetic elements that you’ll need to consider.
Know your skills. DIY home improvement projects may seem like the cheaper option, but it’s important to know your capabilities. If you’re not technically savvy, you may end up making costly mistakes. There’s a reason why professionals exist – you might need to hire one after all.
Research your materials. Not all materials are created equal and don’t forget that they’ll influence the outcome of your project. Make sure to compare options and weigh in on their quality and durability. Don’t settle in on aesthetics alone.
Safety first. A safe home environment should always be your top priority. Make sure all the involved materials, tools, and equipment are up to safety standards and the proper permits are obtained for any construction or electrical work.
Stay organized. One of the easiest ways to blow your budget or timeline is not being organized. Keeping records and documents is vital. As your project progresses, take photos or make notes of any changes you make and how it affects the project.
Recheck your plans. Measure twice and cut once. When it comes to home improvement, having an optimistic attitude but accurate plans is key. Before you start any physical work, you’ll want to rehearse and retest your engineering process a few times so you can be sure that you have the right parts and blueprints.
Next, you’re going to want to make sure that you’re familiar with local building codes and regulations. It is imperative you know the rules around safety, energy efficiency, and zoning. Not adhering to the regulations could end in costly fines or even worse.
You’ll need to think carefully about where to get your materials. Buying from a local hardware store tend to be more expensive and doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality. Try exploring online for discounts and reliable materials. Ask your local building inspector or neighbors for recommendations of leading local vendors.
Besides accurate measurements, you should also get in the habit of measuring twice. Not only will this avoid costly mistakes, but it’s also a great way to test your math and make sure that what you’re doing is correct.
When it comes to repair work, it’s sometimes best to replace, not fix. We’ve all heard the phrase, ‘Don’t fix it, if it isn’t broken’—but when it comes to home improvement, repairing old and damaged items can turn into a costly and risky venture. Consider replacing any old or damaged items.
After all the materials are in-hand, it’s time to start building. Proper tools are essential, and you should make sure you have the necessary equipment such as drills, ladders, saws, hammers, and other basic tools to complete the job.
You should also make sure that you minimize waste by purchasing the correct amount of materials. Measure the area you’ll be working on properly and calculate the amount of supplies you’ll need for the job. Not overbuying will save you money in the long run.
A smart way to save money on your project is to find ways to reuse items, like cutting up old flooring tiles into shapes and using them as accent pieces. Reusing paint when possible is also another great way to save.
You should also be prepared for anything unexpected. It’s not uncommon to come across some surprises when working on a home improvement project. Unexpected costs can arise. Having a contingency budget already planned will help you buffer any surprises.
Finally, take the time to properly clean up after the job is completed. Dispose of any debris or leftover materials properly and take the time to repair any areas that are damaged from the job. A clean and orderly home environment will make for a happy and healthy home.
Consider these few tips in mind the next time you embark on a home improvement project. With the right knowledge and approach, your home improvement project will be a success.