Everyone likes a nicely done home improvement project. But very few know what it takes to pull it off. Many times a project hits a roadblock because of an unexpected issue. This is why the best professionals and DIY enthusiasts are always learning and improving their craft to avoid such situations. So let’s look at 8 home improvement lessons that will keep your project from turning into a disaster:
Lesson 1 – Think it through!
According to Phil from Atkar, results in the design and construction industry are achieved via proper planning. You need to clearly lay out the design of your project instead of jumping right into action. It might feel more productive to start the “real” work quickly, but it pays to think it through and plan your home improvement project in the beginning.
Lesson 2 – Create separate zones for work
Before you kick off your home improvement project, you need to set up adequate barriers to properly differentiate the work zone from living spaces. Rick Clark from Electricians Today insists that this safety measure is important for protecting your family members (and anyone else who shares/visits your home).
Lesson 3 – Shield the surrounding area
No, this is not lesson 2 again. This is about preparing your work site which can affect the surroundings, like paint splattering beyond your work area. In this example you’ll need to use drop cloths to protect the floors, carpets etc. to protect them from paint. You get the idea.
Lesson 4 – Make sure you have the right tools
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to get your home improvement job done without the proper tools. For instance, fabric scissors aren’t supposed to be used for wire cutting and you shouldn’t be using a sledgehammer to put carpenter nails into a drywall. You might feel too lazy and avoid that trip to the local supply store. But it’s best to get the proper tools for the job. It’ll help you complete your project efficiently and safely.
Lesson 5 – Don’t skimp on materials
Having the right tools isn’t enough. You also need to get the right materials. For instance, if you’re doing a plumbing job and the design calls for a certain type of pipe, don’t listen to your inner voice telling you that you can just use a cheaper option. You’ll risk bursting that pipe and flooding your entire house. Ultimately, it will end up costing you much more than getting that right kind of pipe that you deemed too expensive.
Lesson 6 – Consider kenneling
Got pets? Tamara Paulin of Love That Pet recommends kenneling your pets during the time you’re working on your home improvement project. Especially during the noisy part of the project. Try to spend a little quiet time with your pets so they don’t get too aggravated during the job. Throw in some kind of comfort toy when Spot is confined.
Lesson 7 – Check out some pre-fab options
If you’re looking for extra room, remember to check prefabricated possibilities. According to John Chesterfield of Melwood Industries, prefabricated sheds and cabanas are much more affordable compared to full blown construction, and are also much easier to install.
Lesson 8 – Don’t forget maintenance!
As Gary Dodd from Total Kooling highlights, proper maintenance will save you money. Remember that the different seasons and changes in temperature impact your house. It doesn’t make sense to spend a fortune on fancy home improvements, and then neglect maintenance later. Unless of course for some reason you like writing big checks for repairs!
So there you go – now you know how to approach your home improvement project more smartly and safely. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, keep these lessons in mind and you (and your home) will be alright.