About 47% of the time, DIY projects help people learn new skills. Data also shows that 62% of the time, they are money-savers and a welcome idea for many homeowners. Despite all the seemingly good things about a Do-It-Yourself project, the repercussions can be dire when you get it wrong. This article is in no way discouraging DIY. On the contrary, it advocates the need to apply more caution by avoiding certain mishaps like the following.
1. Using the wrong or inadequate tools and supplies
Some DIY project supplies come as unassembled pieces. Others would require you to visit the local hardware store to buy some tools. When you assume that your current supplies are enough, you may feel frustrated with the project after finding out otherwise. Incomplete supplies prolong the project and leave you in a fix.
For instance, if your DIY project involves cleaning the swimming pool, items you will need include a skimming basket, power washer, or extra bottles of chlorine. Unless you have them, you will be better off engaging seasonal pool maintenance services. For other projects, it helps to ensure that your nails, screws, adhesives, cords, etc., are in ample supply and good shape even before starting the project. Indeed, the type of DIY project will determine the required tools. As a solution, it helps to list and ensure you have all you need.
2. Failing to read or understand the manual
Reading and understanding the instruction manual is the first step to completing a DIY project. Reading it only contributes little to the project, which explains the need to fully understand the content of the manual. Unfortunately, statistics indicate that 40% of DIYers skim through the instruction page(s) just once. Thinking they already know how to carry out the project, they start immediately. Research has also shown that some DIYers skip crucial processes, hoping to figure it out during the setting up process.
It is a different case if you have worked on the same DIY before. Experience and memory play vital roles in that regard. Even with that, you may find it beneficial to read the manual again to ensure nothing has changed. However, if you never have, hoping to figure it out only increases the risks of damaging essential parts needed for the project. According to experts, in addition to understanding the manual, it may be helpful to watch DIY videos of the same project before commencing.
3. Pushing through with a DIY project even when stuck
The risk of committing costly mistakes sharply increases when you push through a failed DIY project. Knowing your limits can save you costly repairs in the future. It may seem pointless to seek a professional’s help when you could have done so from the beginning. However, it’s better late than never.
According to houzz.com, many DIY mistakes are because the persons involved fail to acknowledge when to stop. Asking for help when tackling a project is nothing to be embarrassed about. On the contrary, acknowledging your shortcomings can save you from costly repairs, possible injuries, and time wastage.
