Do-It-Yourself (DIY)
Whether to save time and money or for the enormous feeling of satisfaction that comes from DIY, you may take on a specific job yourself. Before you do that, there are some things to consider.
Understand the problem
Before starting any work, understand what is wrong, what needs to be done to fix it and whether you can do it yourself (you may need a helper or indeed an xpert!). Make sure you know what you want. There are many online websites which can provide you step-by-step advice.
If this is the first time you have really tackled DIY before you take a big leap, try some small projects and accomplish them first. This will then help you decide if this is really the way you want to go.
Make sure you know all the things that need to be done - you may want to list them so that you don't miss a step. Don't be daunted by big tasks. Break them into smaller tasks and do them in manageable chunks. So if you are painting the stair case, paint one section at a time.
Measure carefully and double or triple check so you don't have to do it twice or waste material. Draw lines, mark with strings or take photos. For example, if you are putting up shelves, measure the wood carefully so you cut it to the right size the first time.
Make sure you don't need planning permission for your intended project by checking the planning portal.
Have the right tools
Once you know what needs to be done, ensure you have the right tools for the job. They make the task much easier, safer and faster. These could be anything from the right step ladder or scaffolding to nails and screws to power tools like a drill. If you are not sure what you need, ask for help in a DIY or building store or check online.
Nails tend to disappear or roll away, wires get in the way and big tools can be dangerous. Make sure you keep all the tools and equipment safely and put them away in the right place. Keep chemicals in their original container only.
Keep tools clean and in good repair. Get a magnet to find all the pins and nails that may have escaped.
Also don't forget to read any instructions you have and follow any manufacturer's guidelines. It is worth taking the time to do some research on the project. The library or the internet are always good sources of information on DIY projects.
Protect yourself
It is very important to be safe when doing any DIY.
- Read all instructions before using a tool or product
- Handle even small equipment like knives, screwdrivers and spanners carefully as they can cause injury (knives are the top cause of DIY accidents)
- When dealing with electric appliances and fittings, be sure to disconnect them from the power source or switch off the mains power and wear rubber gloves and shoes.
- When working with chemicals, wear gloves and masks and make sure you store the chemical products safely.
- Be careful with heavy material such as paving stones, bars etc.
- At all times, keep children and pets away from the workplace.
- Dont be in a hurry. Take your time.
- For gas related work, think carefully about whether you should be calling out the experts that are certified under the Gas Safety Register.
Stay clean
Always consider the spills, dust and general mess that the task may create and protect your house by using dust sheets to cover furniture or hardboards to cover carpets or floors. Keep trash bags handy for any rubbish. Be sure that none of these get in your way.
Call in the expert
Lastly, if the task seems beyond your ability or comfort and you need help, call in the experts by posting your job on xpertfind.com! xpertfind can find up to 3 local rated tradesmen for you who are qualified and ready to do your job and it's free.