In Australia, DIY home remodelling is a considerable activity. In 2016, over 8 million Aussies renovated a room or their entire house, according to Roy Morgan Research. Now that more are staying at and working from home, this number may eventually increase.
You may be one of those DIY beginners. While the activity is fun and exciting, it can also be daunting, time-consuming and even expensive if you are not careful. How do you make it easier and more cost-effective? Here are four tips:
1. Invest in Tools and Equipment
Any DIY project is a breeze when you have the right tools and equipment. Take, for example, those cordless power tools you can order online. Many projects, like putting up picture frames or creating cabinets, will need drilled holes. The problem with other power tools is their cord may be shorter. You need to buy extension cords or bring supplies to areas with easier access to a plug. But that won’t be a problem if you have a cordless power tool in your DIY arsenal.
Other tools you need may include:
- Screwdriver set
- Wrenches
- Levels
- Hammers and nails
- Saws, such as circular and hand
- Knives, including utility and putty
- Tape measure
2. Begin with Your Skills in Mind
The internet is abundant with hundreds of building plans and crafting tutorials, but not all of them are suitable for all skill types. As a beginner, starting with complex DIY projects can be problematic for many reasons:
- You may struggle with completing it.
- When the task becomes more complicated, it may discourage you from pursuing others.
- The risks of injury increase.
- You may end up buying supplies and equipment that you don’t need.
Before you even consider a DIY task, assess yourself: what can you do? For instance, if you want to build a stool, you may want to know how excellent you are in measuring wood or whether you’re capable of sanding the materials. If you like to change the sink pipes, then you should learn the options in the market to see which fits best.
3. Know What You Cannot DIY
Just because supplies are available in the local hardware or an online shop doesn’t mean you can DIY your way to all remodelling or building projects. While Australian laws differ, the consensus is similar: only licenced professionals can do specific tasks. These projects may include:
- DIY jobs that will involve demolition work
- Removal of asbestos or lead pipes
- Changes in electrical connections or plumbing
The rules apply to you even if you believe you are qualified enough to do the project by yourself or a professional guiding you through the process. The penalties can be hefty, so to heed the side of caution, know the state or territory laws.
4. Consider Getting Certifications
If you have more time, you can improve your newfound remodelling and building skills with certifications. Some of them, such as cabinetmaking or joinery certification courses, are already available online. You can now learn at your pace.
Certifications may be advantageous since:
- You may earn income from your new hobby later on.
- You can learn how to do the steps correctly and keep yourself safe.
- You will discover hacks or techniques to speed up your projects.
If you want to enhance your creativity and save costs as well, then DIY home remodelling will appeal to you. These four tips will make the experience even more enjoyable, more fruitful and safer.
