DIY home renovation projects can be an excellent way to put your personal stamp on your living spaces in a cost-effective manner. However, if this is your first time undertaking such a project, you might not know where to start.
To help you get going then, here are eight tips to guide you through the process. If you follow these steps, you’ll go a long way towards ensuring the success of your project.
1. Plan Properly
You might be familiar with the phrase ‘Perfect Planning Prevents Poor Performance’. Well, this is especially true when it comes to DIY renovations.
The better you plan for your renovation project the more successful it is likely to be. So, take the time to create a detailed blueprint for it.
Work out exactly the scope of the renovations you want to do, for example, undertaking a complete bathroom makeover or replacing a kitchen benchtop and cupboards. You should also determine aspects like the layout, colour scheme, and what fixtures and fittings you want to include, as well as how long the project will take.
Additionally, be mindful of how you will be able to cope with potential issues that might occur if you intend to knock down walls.
2. Set a Well-Defined Budget
Budgeting for your project is very important because without maintaining one, you could end up spending a lot of money unnecessarily.
Try to create a well-defined budget that includes all the expenses you will incur, as well as a contingency fund which you can use should anything go wrong.
As a rule of thumb, overestimate your costs. It is better to have funds left over once the project has been completed, as opposed to running out of money mid-way through it.
3. Source the Right Tools
When undertaking your DIY renovation project, it is important to work with the right tools. Doing so can significantly impact the success, quality and speed of the work you do.
If you don’t currently have a good set of tools, you should consider buying or renting them. It’s worth seeking the advice of experts at your local hardware store to determine which ones you will need for your project.
Once you have procured them, make sure you maintain them properly.
4. Prioritise Safety
For any renovation project, it is important to prioritise safety because not only will it prevent accidents, but it will also enable you to work more confidently and efficiently.
Always wear safety gear such as glasses, gloves and dust masks. Additionally, make sure your workspaces are free of clutter and well-lit.
It is also important that you fully understand how to operate each tool you use safely and responsibly.
5. Gain Relevant Knowledge
Renovation projects often require you to have several DIY skills, so it is within your interest to learn or brush up on them before you start the refurbishments.
A great way to do this is to watch YouTube videos, as they will give you a visual guide to work with. Alternatively, consider attending workshops where you can benefit from more hands-on teaching or reading How To Guides such as our piece on how to cut wood to size.
6. Call in the Experts
As much as you might want to save money or do all the work yourself, it is important to leave some jobs to experts.
For instance, electrical wiring, asbestos removal, plumbing or roofing should all be done by professionals who have the tools, safety equipment and expertise to do these jobs efficiently and to code.
Before hiring them, make sure you get three quotes that outline the full scope of the work which needs doing.
You shouldn’t just pick the cheapest. Instead, work out who offers the best value for money. It’s also worth reading Google reviews about the company from previous customers.
7. Upcycle
A great way to save money during your DIY renovation is to upcycle materials. By repurposing wood scraps, old furniture, jars and materials you will not only significantly reduce your costs, but also add a unique design touch to your living spaces.
You can find plenty of ideas for upcycling online via sources such as blogs, Pinterest and YouTube.
8. Remove Rubbish
DIY renovation projects can get messy, especially if you are knocking down walls, lifting up floorboards or increasing floor space.
For this reason, it is important to consider how you will remove the debris and rubbish that will naturally occur.
While you can do this yourself, it is a labour-intensive process to do it responsibly. Particularly when you consider that some items, such as toxic paints, will need to be disposed of at specialist places.
For this reason, it is a good idea to outsource the rubbish removal of your DIY renovation project to a professional company. You can click here to find out more about what this involves.