DIY can make for good entertainment. Type either “Room makeover” or “DIY disaster” into a search engine and you’re sure to get plenty of results. On a more serious note, however, it can be advisable to do some thinking before you decide whether or not to tackle DIY. If you do, then it’s advisable to do some more thinking on the best way to go about it.
Renters beware
Renters should generally avoid DIY completely unless they have explicit permission from their landlord. Simple bits of DIY may have a very low chance of going wrong. The problem is that if they do go wrong, you could find yourself in a whole lot of trouble with your landlord.
If you are going to ask your landlord’s permission, be very clear about exactly what you intend to do. Get permission in writing and then stick exactly to what was agreed. Make sure you’re clear on whether or not you can leave the changes in place when you move on.
If you can’t then think about the practicalities of rolling them back. For example, you may find it a lot easier to cover up paint than to take down even “renter’s wallpaper”, let alone traditional wallpaper.
People with old houses beware
Even if you live in a historic property, it’s probably fairly unlikely that you’ll find an oyster-shell wall or a fabulous wall mural in it. There is, however, at least the possibility of, literally, uncovering surprises, good and bad.
This means that if you’re planning on renovating an old house, you need to expect the unexpected and be ready to deal with it. That alone could be reason enough for home DIYers to leave well alone and just call in the pros.
The pros may also be in a better position to advise what materials can (or must) be used (or not used) in an older property. For example, some properties may require the use of traditional lime plaster to ensure breathability (and hence avoid condensation). In other cases, however, it may be appropriate to use modern materials but in a sympathetic manner.
Beware of your utility infrastructure
If you’re working anywhere near electrical wiring or plumbing (for gas or water), then you need to make sure that all the relevant supplies are turned off. Even so, you need to be very careful to avoid damaging them. The cost of putting right that damage could far exceed any savings you would have made by going down the DIY route.
If you’re tempted to attempt any DIY involving your utility infrastructure, then do your research thoroughly before you make a decision. Get it wrong and you could run into a whole world of pain. In fact, devaluing your home could be just one of a long list of problems you need to address.
Beware of working around windows
Take glass seriously. Even if you’re only doing something fairly basic like putting up a new curtain rod or installing shutters, you still need to protect the glass from both impact and vibrations. This isn’t just about keeping your window in one piece. It’s also about avoiding you (or anyone else) getting injured by broken glass.
Beware of working at heights
If you can’t reach something easily, get a ladder (or proper step stool). Do not just try to stretch or stand on a regular chair. Firstly you need to keep yourself safe. Secondly, if you’re going to do a job, do it properly. Raise yourself to a height where you can see and work comfortably and effectively.
Beware of paint cans
Spilt paint may not devalue your home, but it can certainly devalue your floor. Cover the floor properly. Pour as much paint as you need into a tray and keep that on a cover. Keep the lid on the paint can unless you’re actually pouring from it.