Making household repairs and improvements can seem intimidating. With some planning and research, you can do it yourself without frustration or extra cost.
Start small. Just like any skill, home improvement requires time and practice. If you try to make big repairs on your own, you may wind up with a bigger mess. Look for smaller projects that will help you develop your skills.
With each project you’ll improve and so will your home. Start too big, and you risk becoming frustrated or, worse, making a small problem into a bigger one. Be patient with yourself, and you’ll stay on the right track.
Victor, from modeles maisons en bois, told us that “It’s important to set goals for yourself. Decide not only what improvements you want to make, but how long you want repairs or renovations to last and how much you want to spend. Set a budget that’s realistic and stick to it! If you allow yourself to spend a little bit more than your budget, you’re setting yourself up to spend more and more”.
Similarly, decide how long your project will last and create a timeline to make sure you finish on time. Keep your goals realistic, and you’ll be able to finish your dream project on time and on budget.
When you bought your home, you spend time researching. Home improvement should be the same way. Use books, manuals, and online resources to plan your project. Know as much as you can before you purchase supplies or pick up a hammer. While reading instructions isn’t the same thing as actually building something, you’ll be much better off if you know all the theory before you try to put your new skills into practice.
Make a list and check it twice to make sure you have everything you need for your project. Gather your supplies and figure out what you’re missing before heading to the hardware store. You don’t want to realize you’re missing an important tool or supply once you’re in the middle of your project, so it’s important to know exactly what you need before you get started.
If you’re not sure what to buy, check your resources or ask at your local hardware store. Many employees are also DIYers who have personal experience with many household projects.
Some projects are easier and more fun with some help. Big projects, like painting, go much faster when you’ve got friends willing to pitch in. See if anyone is interested in joining you, or willing to pitch in exchange for dinner. You’ll have a better time, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your project is finished!
Be ready to get professional help if you need it. If you find you’ve made a mistake or can’t complete a project on your own, it’s better to hire a handyman sooner rather than later. Once you’ve goofed, bite the bullet and call in the pros. Otherwise you might find yourself with an even bigger and more expensive problem than you anticipated.
With a little practice, you can become your own handyman. Plan ahead, get the right tools, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
