We've all been there. We've
all started a DIY project believing that not only would we be saving
money, but that we'd also be getting a huge sense of achievement
once it was completed. And then we've had to abandon it half-way
through (if we've got that far, that is), and we've either
left it until another day (which hasn't yet arrived), or we've
had to call in someone to finish it for us—and perhaps even
rectify what we've done already. So when it comes to DIY projects,
be realistic. Because in the hope of saving money, you could, in
the long run, pay three-fold for a job. And let's not even
touch on those unscrupulous builders who just might exploit any
desperation they sense on your part to get the job rectified and/or
completed!
There are some jobs that are well
within the scope of the average home-owner, however; and if you're
considering tackling one of these, then first get yourself a good
DIY manual that covers all aspects of the job, including any preparation
that's going to be needed. Also make sure you know what tools
you will need—and that you have them. Don't take short
cuts where tools are concerned and use a spanner if the work calls
for a pair of pliers. Not only do you run the risk of ruining the
job, but you could also cause yourself an injury.
Some jobs that you might want to steer
clear of include anything that's structural, e.g. removing
a wall between rooms to create one room. This job is particularly
hazardous if the wall is a load-bearing one, because then you risk
the ceiling falling in. This is where research will pay off. However,
if you have done your research and got everything in place (or are
carrying out the demolition with someone who's skilled in the
task), then this is one job you might enjoy as it can be quite therapeutic.
It can be physically hard work though, and might take some time.
You will need a protective breathing mask and safety eyewear as
it's a very dusty job.
Never rush a job as that's when
mistakes are easily made. Make-over programs might give the impression
that a complete remodeling of four rooms can be done in 48 hours
but what you don't see is everyone—including the whole
production team and any willing neighbors—working on it, and
not just the two dandy celebrity interior designers!
Painting is, however, one job that
can be tackled with the minimum of fuss. It might take you a little
longer than it would a professional but it's easy enough to
do. Read the instructions; if it says on the paint tin to apply
two coats then do so, otherwise you could end up with a very amateurish-looking
paint job. You should also use the appropriate brush for the job,
and ensure that all surfaces are prepared accordingly before starting
to paint. Again, it's important not to cut corners and rush
the job to get it finished quickly.
Work involving electricity is much
less straightforward though, and there's probably not a lot
that can be tackled in this area apart from replacing socket-outlets
and light switches. The majority of electrical jobs can only be
carried out by a registered electrician, so bear this in mind when
considering electrical home projects.
Providing you know where the shut-off
valves are—and you should!—then plumbing jobs such as
repairing/replacing faulty faucets, sinks, and toilet seats should
be within the ability of most homeowners. It's probably best
to leave anything that involves dealing with sewage to the experts,
though.
Restoring floorboards to their natural
state is another fairly straightforward job. You will need to hire
professional equipment for the job, and use a protective breathing
mask and safety eyewear.
And remember the golden rule when
it comes to cutting anything such as wood: measure twice, cut once.
It's much easier to make something shorter than it is to make
it longer!
