8 Common Mistakes with DIY House Projects and How To Avoid Them
Do you consider yourself a DIYer (do-it-yourself) when it comes to doing home improvement projects? If you're like many DIYers, you may not think about everything that could go wrong. Here are eight of the most common mistakes with DIY house projects and how they can be avoided.
1. Underestimating the Cost of a Project
Probably one of the most common blunders DIYers make is underestimating how much a project will cost. In most cases, a job winds up costing more than what was expected. This is especially true when it comes to older houses that have been inhabited by several owners who have tried to make repairs over the years. The best way to prevent this issue is to have a home renovation specialist give you an estimate on what a project will cost.
2. Miscalculating the Time Needed to Finish
If you're like most DIYers, you may assume you can complete your project in a shorter time frame than what it actually takes. What most people fail to realize is that home renovation professionals work full-time instead of working only on weekends. Also, they don't consider how professionals have the specialized skills and experience required to complete a job sooner rather than later.
To avoid this problem, ask an expert how long your project typically takes or surf DIY message boards. Another idea is asking for assistance as two people working on a project can mean getting the job done quicker. An even better plan is hiring a professional.
3. Using the Wrong Tools and EquipmentÂ
Because materials for home improvement projects can be expensive, many DIYers hesitate to buy the proper tools and equipment, thinking their tools will work. An example is using a standard drill for a job when what's really needed is an electric hammer drill. That's why you should consult an expert at a home improvement store or let a professional do the job.
4. Using Cheap Materials
While you may want to cut corners, sometimes being too cheap can lead to low-quality work. Besides lacking aesthetic appeal, cheap materials can also be hazardous. For example, if you use inferior pipes, there's the chance your walls could be damaged or destroyed. Even worse, you could be liable for debris that falls on your neighbor's property. However, a professional uses the right tools, so these problems can be avoided.
5. A Lack of Preparation
Too many DIYers don't properly prepare before beginning a project. A typical example is failing to prepare a surface that's to be painted. For paint to be able to stick a surface must be clean, meaning all grease, residue other debris has been removed.
6. Rushing Through a Project
Too often, DIYers rush through home improvement projects when they should be stopping to ensure everything has been done properly before continuing to the next step. Many DIYers are inexperienced when knowing when to stop and evaluate a job, but home improvement specialists do have this knowledge.
7. Failing to Consider Safety Hazards
When working on a home improvement project, safety should be your main priority. If you fail to take safety precautions, accidents can easily occur. Some of the most common accidents homeowners encounter when trying to tackle home improvement projects include inhaling dust, misusing equipment, tripping over items and other safety hazards. Before starting a project, read safety blogs on the project you plan to do. Again, the best safeguard is letting a professional handle your project.
8. A Lack of Skills and Experience
Unfortunately, sometimes homeowners think they can tackle a home improvement job, but they don't have the needed skills and experience that's required. When this happens, a job can wind up being more expensive and time-consuming. What's more, it can be dangerous, such as a DIYer trying to solve an electrical wiring problem. When in doubt, it's always best to contact a professional who has the needed skills and experience.
Other Considerations and WarningsÂ
- Offer to help neighbors with their home improvement projects because this can be a good way to learn how to do your own projects.
- When in doubt as to what to do, always ask an expect.
- Before beginning a project, be sure to obtain a permit from your local building department. Failing to have one can mean having your project shutting down before it's finished.
- Don't use cheap paint for your painting projects.
- Always plan for the unexpected. For instance, when tearing down a wall, you could discover issues with rotted joists.Â
When choosing home improvement materials, quality matters. For all your home improvement needs, look no further than Worthington Millwork. Please visit us and check out our huge selection of high-quality American made architectural products.