Do-it-yourself home improvement projects are becoming increasingly popular and can help you save money, increase the value of your home, and build your skills in a variety of home improvement arenas. But it takes more than a few tools and a desire to get started; it takes smart strategies, techniques and tips to ensure your project lands in the “success” column. Here are some of the smart tips you need to stay on track and ensure success with your home improvement project.
Start with a plan: If you conduct home improvement projects without having a plan in place, chances are that you’ll not only miss potential savings opportunities, but you might also run into trouble further on in the project. To make sure everything goes as planned, create a list of tasks, determine what the budget will be, and talk to a home improvement professional to make sure you can complete the project safely.
Prepare the area: Make sure the right materials and tools are ready and that you can work safely in the area. Lay down thick drop cloths, wear the right protective gear, and don’t forget to practice safety first. Having the correct materials and tools on hand when you start the project can end up saving you time and frustration in the long run.
Do research: Don’t guess when it comes to certain aspects of the project. It’s better to take the extra time to research the exact steps you need to take to ensure a successful result. It’s also important to be on the lookout for potential pitfalls that could add time and money to the project, or reduce the quality of the outcome.
Set expectations: Before you start swinging the hammer or mixing cement, it’s important to set your expectations. With a large project, unforeseen problems may emerge somewhere along the line, so it’s smart to plan for some level of additional spending or timeline extensions.
Know your limit: Not every home improvement project can be tackled without a professional. If you encounter a project that exceeds your comfort limit or level of expertise, consider bringing in the help of a professional, and let them do what they do best. Chances are the investment in their services will be worth it in the end.
Ask for advice: Before starting, it’s best to seek advice from an expert or a friend who’s successfully completed the same type of project. Chances are they’ll have valuable tips on how to stay on budget and timeline and keep materials and tools organized throughout the project.
Stay organized: Finally, never underestimate the value of keeping everything well-organized throughout the project. Not only will it make everything go smoother, it will also help you identify any tool or material you’re missing or that needs to be replaced.
Materials
When it comes to materials, you want to make sure that you purchase top-notch materials that will last, regardless of the task. But you don’t want to spend too much either. To avoid overspending, create a list of materials prior to shopping, and check online stores, warehouse stores, and home improvement stores for special deals and discounts.
Tools
Tools are another key ingredient to successful home improvement projects. Having the right tool for the job can make all the difference in the final outcome. Before purchasing any tools, make sure that you’re well-informed about the best brands and models that are suitable for the job.
Time
Time is of the essence for any successful home improvement project. To save precious time, create a manageable timeline and prioritize tasks having in mind the order in which tasks need to be executed.
Team
Some projects, such as painting, are best tackled solo, while others require more hands-on deck. If you think the project is too much for one person, consider reaching out to family or friends to help.
Safety
No matter how great your home improvement project is looking, remember to always practice safety first. Ensure that you’re taking all the necessary precautions, such as shutting off the power or using a ladder properly.
Accessories
Once you’ve completed the project, don’t forget the finishing touches by adding accessories. Just little things like a new coat of paint, some window treatments, or a new rug can make a world of difference in the overall look and feel.
Windows
Windows are not only important for the air circulation in the room, but they also serve as an elegant source of natural light. Before replacing any windows, make sure you are aware of the correct measurements and listen to the advice of your home improvement professional.