Top 10 Mistakes of DIYers
The standard rule for do-it-yourself projects is that it will take at least twice as much time and three times as much money as you planned for, or maybe it’s the other way around. Either way, the reason always seems to be the same. DIYers make mistakes and sometimes lots of them. The good news is that you can learn from those mistakes by keeping mind the top 10 oversights that DIYers make.
1. Not getting the required permits. Sometimes considered a "bother" by many do-it-yourselfers, permits actually serve a purpose beyond just raising money for the government – to make sure a job is done right and that no one gets hurt in the process. Also, some insurance companies require that you have a permit in order to receive coverage. The best rule of thumb for figuring out whether you need a permit for your project or not? If it is anything other than painting or wallpapering, ask. 2. Starting a job without supplies. Nothing will cost you more downtime that not having all the
materials and tools you need on hand.
3. Inadequate preparation of the job site. If you are doing an addition, you will be having
suppliers deliver materials. You need to prepare for where you will store these in an orderly fashion out of the weather.
4. Skimping. DIYers try to save as much as possible and sometimes skimp where they should not – like using 1/4" drywall where you need at least 5/8" drywall. The same rule applies to plywood for sub-floors.
5. Using the wrong paint. Painting can make a place look wonderful. Flat paint should be used
for ceilings only. Interior paints should have at least a satin finish so you can clean the surface. Outdoor decking will be exposed to all kinds of weather such as rain and sun damage. Use a linseed-oil-based stain that delivers pigment into the wood and preserves it.
6. Improper prep of walls for painting. A good paint job starts with good preparation. Clean the walls, and sand and patch all holes before painting. A coat of primer is often recommended if you are covering oil-based paint, stains or painting a lighter color over a darker color.
7. Unsafe job conditions. Nothing will hurt your return on an investment quicker than a trip to the emergency room. Wear proper eyewear when using power tools and hard hats when working under others or on scaffolding. Open windows for ventilation. Wear gloves when handling wood, rock or metal.
8. Inaccuracy. You’ve heard it before and it is true – measure twice, cut once. It is very important for tasks like hanging drywall, and cutting baseboards or counter tops. If you are unsure, err on the long side. You can always make something shorter but you cannot make it longer.
9. Working beyond your limits. Everyone has limits. Yours may be plumbing, electrical or
roofing. Don’t stand on the top step of a ladder and don’t try to work beyond your reach.
10. Failure to get a clue. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or offer to assist an experienced friend with their project so that you can learn.
Water in our Veins–Meet Lake James Real Estate
Please call us if we can help with any of your real estate needs at Lake James – who better to help you than people who live, play and work here!
Polly Leadbetter – Owner/Broker P/ 828-584-9999 C/ 828-443-5407
Shane Cook – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-3205
Rhonda Edge – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-6595
Amanda Hotchkiss – Sales P/ 828-584-9999 C/ 828-335-3001
Marc Parham – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-1337
Denice Rechtiene – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-432-6976
