{"id":12736,"date":"2017-11-02T10:36:27","date_gmt":"2017-11-02T10:36:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/?p=12736"},"modified":"2019-09-19T17:01:10","modified_gmt":"2019-09-19T17:01:10","slug":"the-dos-and-donts-of-diy-a-guide-for-homeowners","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/the-dos-and-donts-of-diy-a-guide-for-homeowners\/","title":{"rendered":"The do\u2019s and don\u2019ts of DIY: a guide for homeowners"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<!-- SEO Ultimate Plus (https:\/\/seoultimateplus.com) - Code Inserter module -->\n<script async>(function(s,u,m,o,j,v){j=u.createElement(m);v=u.getElementsByTagName(m)[0];j.async=1;j.src=o;j.dataset.sumoSiteId='b68b392479b5981b8acf46565e9fe32a0734fc21a1f7c1e60121eaa6ca1a1c64';v.parentNode.insertBefore(j,v)})(window,document,'script','\/\/load.sumo.com\/');<\/script>\n<!-- \/SEO Ultimate Plus -->\n\n<p class=\"Normal1\"><strong>Whether fixing a leaky sink or rewiring a light switch, DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-mn5nxww4bpsvvjanevlpew7r7nicw5l7\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span> can require experience. Read more for tips on keeping you and your <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-n13z4x5cmkbaoy4vhkxrwhhl9w0nem38\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/home\">home<\/span> safe!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">So, you\u2019ve decided to take care of that leaky toilet yourself. Maybe you need to install some kitchen cabinetry. Doing repair work yourself is a fantastic way to save money while taking pride in the work you do!<\/p>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">Sadly, over <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pressreader.com\/uk\/daily-express\/20170524\/282059096943045\"><span style=\"color: #1155cc;\">one-third of British homeowners lack the basic DIY skills<\/span><\/a> (like measuring flat-pack furniture) that were commonplace a few generations ago. With millions of homeowners running into substantial disaster each year, it\u2019s incredibly important to go through the necessary steps to ensure your safety \u2013\u00a0and sanity. Rather than immediately call expensive professionals to do your dirty work, follow our surefire tips for DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-ryvpmh6x58ucegy06dyyazq8spnciot8\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span>!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>Do your research<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">With the decline of basic repair work skills in younger generations, we recommend typing a few words into Google before starting. Ask yourself, is it fairly straightforward? Is it more complicated than previously thought? Remember: a minor undertaking can do major damage should you swing a hammer or tighten a lug nut the wrong way.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">If you discover that your planned <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-c7miffouqbhpap8wjqfav3plxp0lxw7s\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">project<\/span> requires a zoning expert, be sure to contact the correct authorities rather than continuing with the work. They will assist you in determining the best course of action. Load-bearing walls, for example, are there for a reason. Professionals can keep you from injury and stiff government fines for conducting illegal work.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">Turn off the power<\/h2>\n<p>We cannot stress this enough: when working with \u2013 or around \u2013 electricity, turn off the current. If you aren\u2019t sure how to do this safely, speak with a trained professional or someone with extensive experience working with electricity.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019ve decided to carry out electrical work yourself, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.independent.co.uk\/property\/house-and-home\/tradesmen\/diy-electrical-work-an-expert-s-opinion-8548135.html\">be sure that you follow the necessary electricity regulations<\/a>. Drilling into an electrical line that\u2019s buried in the wall can send you straight to the A&amp;E! With that said, rewiring a socket or installing a light switch are simple tasks, but if you\u2019re uncertain, call a professional.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">Measure twice, cut once<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">The old adage rings truer than ever: with any <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-ezgzuackcvyo5tagyl1hdfnu8999yaoo\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">project<\/span>, don\u2019t eyeball measurements. Be sure that everything is precise and perfect before cutting. This cuts down on extra costs associated with improperly measured materials.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">Don&#8217;t rush yourself<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">How many times have we started a <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-7y1afm86c3u8axxe4dh1fycpd3pydnbi\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">project<\/span> that\u2019s remained unfinished for months? Much of this comes down to underestimating the time it takes to complete a job. A good rule of thumb is to conduct basic internet research that gives you a better idea of time requirements, then tack on an extra 50%. Should you encounter any minor obstacles, you should still be on track for finishing on schedule.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">When we rush through jobs, we make careless and dangerous mistakes. This is evidenced by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sashwindow.com\/the-sash-window-workshop-blog\/home-renovation-tips\/300-uk-homeowners-spend-an-additional-42-million-on-diy-disasters\"><span style=\"color: #1155cc;\">\u00a342 million per year wasted yearly by homeowners<\/span><\/a> who end up fixing their DIY bungles. Shockingly, about 30% of homeowners bring in experts to finish or rescue repairs, costing them more than if they\u2019d hired professionals in the first place! Take your time to do things accurately.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">Choose the right tools<\/h2>\n<p>Firstly, <a href=\"https:\/\/lifehacker.com\/how-to-build-the-essential-toolbox-for-every-level-of-d-510463658\">every homeowner should own a toolbox<\/a> and understand what each instrument is used for. Next, while you\u2019re planning your <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-2k6c0waz81shijbslcjqhfylbtv6pg3w\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">project<\/span>, be sure to keep a checklist of everything that you have and everything you need to obtain. There\u2019s nothing more deflating than setting up for a solid day of DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-stsr22eghzb0avdzckzldawm35sd7bgt\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span> and realising that you\u2019re missing a desperately needed tool!<\/p>\n<p>Rather than purchasing elaborate or expensive pieces of equipment that you\u2019ll <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-vxikzf1k5tuy58z5nwciiho2h8fpy1zt\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/use_law\">use<\/span> only once, enquire with your local hardware store about the possibility of hourly or daily hiring options. <span>While there, ask an employee to demonstrate the proper use of these instruments, and if there are any specific recommendations they have for your project. This is particularly helpful for chainsaws and other types of saws which may seem complicated at first glance. Robert from Inspire, Design &amp; Create <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/inspiredesignandcreate.com\/best-chainsaw-reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/inspiredesignandcreate.com\/best-chainsaw-reviews\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1568309207299000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHwM6IxwjPfoL_EFaKpHiu787Vx0A\">has a useful guide<\/a><span> for how to find <a href=\"https:\/\/sawfinder.com\/best-chainsaw-under-300\/\">the best chainsaw online<\/a> if you have a more involved project and are ready to bring home your very own equipment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Learn how to recognise asbestos-related dangers<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">Around 50% of British <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-r7u82nhf69bo88dk3zaoklzb8hs13mkh\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/home\">homes<\/span> built before 2000 contain asbestos, and innocent DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-d5v2gxk21ouqxjcjv00tynb3kqzfcnev\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span> can disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). When damaged, these materials transmit airborne asbestos fibres, which are quickly inhaled. With fatal illnesses linked to construction and unprotected workers, identifying ACMs can mean the difference between life and death.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">If you intend on tackling DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-amuhiudreyojej2951siabu6pho6tzpe\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span> in an older residence, it is recommended to take an <a href=\"https:\/\/bainbridgeelearning.co.uk\/\"><span style=\"color: #1155cc;\">asbestos awareness training course<\/span><\/a>, which will instruct you on where asbestos is found, how to identify it and what to do if you encounter it in your <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-kmqc2idpmww24th0z6e2osh6w20am1o7\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/home\">home<\/span>. Most programmes can be attended online, and provide invaluable support to their students.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">When in doubt, get a second opinion<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">If you come across a situation that doesn\u2019t look or feel right, immediately stop what you\u2019re doing. With about 7% of British citizens bringing themselves into A&amp;E each year for DIY-related injuries, there\u2019s no reason you should become a statistic. Understanding your limitations and calling a professional is an excellent course of action.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"Normal1\">Plan safe, stay safe<\/h2>\n<p class=\"Normal1\">Completing DIY <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-r6toc3ul1y3zh2t8d5xg97f9q64ki9di\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">projects<\/span> not only improves our living spaces, but it also makes us feel proud about what we\u2019ve accomplished on our own. It\u2019s an incredible feeling, and we hope that we\u2019ve inspired you to tackle a <span class=\"textannotation disambiguated wl-thing\" id=\"urn:local-text-annotation-wxl7qw8fap7czfj0fk2pk9a9issrh5y4\" itemid=\"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/entity\/public_housing\">project<\/span> that\u2019s been shelved too long. When you do, follow our list to make it as easy and safe as possible. Good luck!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether fixing a leaky sink or rewiring a light switch, DIY projects can require experience. Read more for tips on keeping you and your home safe! So, you\u2019ve decided to take care of that leaky toilet yourself. Maybe you need<span class=\"ellipsis\">&hellip;<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"read-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/the-dos-and-donts-of-diy-a-guide-for-homeowners\/\">Read more &#8250;<\/a><\/div>\n<p><!-- end of .read-more --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41,"featured_media":12739,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wl_entities_gutenberg":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","spay_email":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"wl_entity_type":[602],"modified_by":null,"_wl_alt_label":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/DIY-Image.jpg","wl:entity_url":"http:\/\/data.wordlift.io\/wl0502\/post\/the_dos_and_donts_of_diy__a_guide_for_homeowners","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12736"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12736"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12736\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20717,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12736\/revisions\/20717"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12739"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12736"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12736"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12736"},{"taxonomy":"wl_entity_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thehouseshop.com\/property-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/wl_entity_type?post=12736"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}