If you are an accomplished DIYer at home improvements, you already know what it takes to plan, implement and complete a project. However, nearly 80% of homeowners make mistakes when attempting to tackle a home improvement on their own – mistakes that can be costly and dangerous.

According to Worthington Millwork (https://blog.worthingtonmillwork.com/8-common-mistakes-with-diy-house-projects-and-how-to-avoid-them/), these are eight of the most common mistakes with DIY house projects and how they can be avoided.

8 Common DIY Home Improvement Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Underestimating the Cost of a Project: Probably one of the most common blunders DIYers make is underestimating how much a project will cost. In most cases, a job winds up costing more than what was expected. This is especially true when it comes to older houses that have been inhabited by several owners who have tried to make repairs over the years. The best way to prevent this issue is to have a home renovation specialist give you an estimate on what a project will cost.

2. Miscalculating the Time Needed to Finish: If you’re like most DIYers, you may assume you can complete your project in a shorter time frame than what it actually takes. What most people fail to realize is that home renovation professionals work full-time instead of working only on weekends. Also, they don’t consider how professionals have the specialized skills and experience required to complete a job sooner rather than later. To avoid this problem, ask an expert how long your project typically takes or surf DIY message boards. Another idea is asking for assistance as two people working on a project can mean getting the job done quicker. An even better plan is hiring a professional.

3. Using the Wrong Tools and Equipment: Because materials for home improvement projects can be expensive, many DIYers hesitate to buy the proper tools and equipment, thinking their tools will work. An example is using a standard drill for a job when what’s really needed is an electric hammer drill. That’s why you should consult an expert at a home improvement store or let a professional do the job.

4. Using Cheap Materials: While you may want to cut corners, sometimes being too cheap can lead to low-quality work. Besides lacking aesthetic appeal, cheap materials can also be hazardous. For example, if you use inferior pipes, there’s the chance your walls could be damaged or destroyed. Even worse, you could be liable for debris that falls on your neighbor’s property. However, a professional uses the right tools, so these problems can be avoided.

5. A Lack of Preparation: Too many DIYers don’t properly prepare before beginning a project. A typical example is failing to prepare a surface that’s to be painted. For paint to be able to stick a surface must be clean, meaning all grease, residue other debris has been removed.

6. Rushing Through a Project: Too often, DIYers rush through home improvement projects when they should be stopping to ensure everything has been done properly before continuing to the next step. Many DIYers are inexperienced when knowing when to stop and evaluate a job, but home improvement specialists do have this knowledge.

7. Failing to Consider Safety Hazards: When working on a home improvement project, safety should be your main priority. If you fail to take safety precautions, accidents can easily occur. Some of the most common accidents homeowners encounter when trying to tackle home improvement projects include inhaling dust, misusing equipment, tripping over items and other safety hazards. Before starting a project, read safety blogs on the project you plan to do. Again, the best safeguard is letting a professional handle your project.

8. A Lack of Skills and Experience: Unfortunately, sometimes homeowners think they can tackle a home improvement job, but they don’t have the needed skills and experience that’s required. When this happens, a job can wind up being more expensive and time-consuming. What’s more, it can be dangerous, such as a DIYer trying to solve an electrical wiring problem. When in doubt, it’s always best to contact a professional who has the needed skills and experience.

High Value, Low Cost Home Improvements

The two costliest rooms in a house to renovate are kitchens and master bathrooms. RE/MAX Metro realtor Estelia Mesimer has first-hand knowledge in home renovations. She was the general contractor for several successful personal home renovations. Questions? Call Estelia and let her help you to decide which improvements will bring you the most value.

Bottom Line: Home improvements do not need to be complicated or expensive. Experts recommend limiting DIY home renovations to cosmetic improvements, such as painting, landscaping, and changing out fixtures, improvements that can help you get the most value whether you are planning to stay or sell your home.

Related Links:
DIY Projects and Ideas
21 Budget Home Improvement Ideas

St. Petersburg Communities

If you’re interested in any of these of communities or live in one of them and are thinking of selling, call Estelia today at 727.686.2859

Allendale Terrace
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