When you think you’re ready to get some home DIY projects completed, hit pause on that idea. While you hope it’ll be a success, it’s best to protect the downside in case something goes wrong.
Accordingly, here are three tips to protect you from mistakes or errors.
Get the Necessary Permits
Permits are required from the city office for different works depending on the city and state. For instance, while building your own deck for the garden is no big deal, it may require a permit if it’s over 30 inches above ground level. And some states require a permit issuance for a deck, regardless.
The most common permit requirements revolve around building additions or demo work, changes to windows or door openings, plumbing or electrical work, building siding or an HVAC installation or modification. If projects overlap in any of these areas, then it’s a good idea to check with your local city council for what you’ll require approval on first. The fines are considerable if permits are not issued ahead of time.
Calculate Projects to Control Quality and Scope
Remodeling costs vary from state to state. Depending on what you’re getting done, you might be in for a shock about the actual likely costs.
While you might question what money has to do with home DIY disasters, it hits on the subject of quality materials and workmanship. Many DIY projects fail when shoddy materials are used, or a contractor is hired to complete certain works and their references aren’t checked because they’re hired on the cheap.
By knowing how much money you have available, costing out a project is an opportunity to make good decisions before going ahead. These can include doing fewer renovations but using higher quality materials and/or with a more pleasing design. Some other projects can be pushed back to another year to maintain a higher quality of workmanship on this project. This ultimately can lead to a more satisfying outcome too.
Protect Floors, Furniture and More
Depending on whether you’ll have a paintbrush, roller, drill or another tool in your hand, the amount of debris sprayed around will be surprising. And it gets into everything you can possibly think of too.
Protect the floors from dust, old plaster, paint, and water spills by installing a smart grip drop cloth on the floor. It’s slip-resistant, soaks up water well for minor spills, and will keep your floors or carpets in good condition. Don’t make the mistake of trying to complete a project without a protective floor covering. It’s something that many homeowners regret later when dealing with the fallout.
Also, ensure you’re wearing protective overalls and a face mask if you’re planning to mess with plaster or paint to avoid breathing it in too.
For home DIY projects, most turn out just fine. However, you should want to avoid the disasters because while comical after the fact, they tend to be expensive and time-consuming to fix at the time. And no one wants that.