Part of being a skilled DIYer is avoiding common, easy-to-avoid pitfalls of home renovations. When you take on a large home project, there will be enough headaches without adding a self-inflicted injury to the mix. Here are three common DIY mistakes to avoid if you want to keep your sanity.
You fail to get the proper permits
Many homeowners think that since they own their home, they can make whatever modifications they want to it. This is only partially correct. You can usually do what you want to your house, but not without dealing with some red tape now and then.
There are no federal regulations for home renovation permits, which means that things are handled at a local level. This also means that rules concerning which projects need permits vary from place to place. It’s vital that you do your research, talk to local officials, and figure out whether you need a permit for your specific DIY project before you even pick up a hammer. If not, you could face fines and could lose valuable time and money halfway through a project.
A good rule of thumb is that any project that requires you to alter the basic structure of your home will require a permit. But in reality, if you’re doing anything more than painting, landscaping, or replacing the flooring, it’s better to check and be safe than not check and be sorry. Here’s a good guide.
You fail to get help when you need help
The stubborn DIYer is a common breed. Don’t be that person.
Even the most experienced DIY enthusiasts often need help with certain projects. It can be something as simple as getting help moving items, like large pieces of furniture, to and from storage, to hiring an electrician to completely rewire a section of your home. A good rule of thumb is that you should call a professional if any of these three scenarios arise: you feel like the task has overreached your skill level; the task at hand could injure you; or you aren’t comfortable with using the tools required to complete a job.
Apart from that, you also may need to ask for help if you’re unable to complete a project in a reasonable amount of time. Sure, you could spend a month remodeling your kitchen and live in a construction zone, or you can hire help and get it done in a week. Consult your family when making this decision.
You try to muscle through a project with the wrong tools
Many DIY projects require specific tools that will not only make the project easier, but it will make it safer too. Without the proper tools, your final product may suffer greatly. DIYers with previous experience may think that they can “make it work” as they try to save money on tool rental fees. This is a mistake that could wind up costing you way more than any tool would cost.
“Using incorrect tools is not only a sure way to ruin a project, but it also can be dangerous, since you might use excessive force or do something that causes further problems in the long term. Always use the right tool for the job! If you can’t afford to buy the needed tools, rent them at a tool rental center or borrow tools from a friend or family member,” says TodaysHomeOwner.com.
There will be enough unexpected curveballs during your next DIY project without you making a boneheaded mistake. Avoid these three common pitfalls and you’ll be well on your way to home improvement success.
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