1. Safety is number 1.
I'm going to sound cranky about this one, but I only have your best interests at heart. The professionals wear hard hats and protective glasses, right? So what makes you so special that you don't need the same equipment? Depending on the sort of do-it-yourself home repair job, you should also use ear plugs, dust masks, and safety boots. Don't have any of them? Pay now, get the gear & use it.... or pay with the consequences of an injury. Believe me, you don't want a DIY-related injury.
2. Know Your Limits
Home improvement projects look so effortless in TV programs and are done in no time thanks to editing. And honestly, we're not wonder woman. Unless you're a professional, you have limited knowledge and skills. Get your friends or relatives for support if you lack the skills or need extra hands, and know when to hire a professional.
3. Plan, Plan and Plan Some More
Get organized and plan your project out. Chart out the methodology in your head, write it down on paper, review it carefully, ask others for input, then refer to your plan when you're doing the actual work. Determine which materials you need, and carefully calculate how much to buy and buy extra. Nothing worse than running back & forth to the store for more stuff.
4. Better tools, better experience & results
Determine the tools you need for the job and gather them together. And for Pete's sake, use the right tools! Don't be using a butter knife as a screwdriver! It's inefficient and dangerous. Power tools are faster than manual ones, and they should all be of the best quality and design for your needs and ability. Don't already have what you need? Buy the ones you see yourself re-using in the future, and rent the expensive, rarely used ones. Women should visit Karen and Tomboy Tools for female friendly tools and support.5. FINISH IT already!
Never leave your do-it-yourself home improvement project hanging. Finish it. If you can't complete it in one "go", then clean & tidy up, plan your next session, and DO IT! Don't start another home improvement project until you've completed the present one. If you don't stick to this rule, nothing will ever get done. LOL I know a lot about this one.
Wishing you exciting & successful adventures in home improvements!
Karen
