Do-it-yourself projects let you customize your space, provide a savvy way to save money on home upgrades, and elicit a swell of pride when the final product turns out just the way you envisioned. But even with the most meticulous step-by-step instructions, DIYs don’t always go to plan.
According to a recent survey conducted by the home services website Angi, nearly 80 percent of homeowners make a mistake while attempting to tackle a project themselves, which can result in expensive property damage, serious injury, or even a home disaster. DIY projects are best done right the first time, and there are a few key steps you can take to avoid a costly and potentially dangerous error.
Taking on Too Much
More than 40 percent of individuals find DIY projects more challenging and expensive than they expected, according to the survey, which involved 1,000 American homeowners who had tackled at least one DIY home improvement or renovation project since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. By taking on a task that requires more time or skill than you can handle, you risk ending up with a big mess and an unfinished project. Plus, the costs of materials, power tools, safety gear, and other essentials can quickly add up, and mistakes can be costly to fix.“It’s important to think about why you want to DIY and what you’re hoping to get out of it before committing to a big project,” said Bailey Carson, a home care expert and head of the Book Now service at Angi, in a press release. “If you’re doing it just to save money, you might want to reconsider. Without the time, tools, and talent to do it properly and safely, mistakes may cost you more in the long run than simply having a pro come in to help from the beginning.”
Using the Wrong Tools
A third of the survey respondents admitted to using the wrong tool for a DIY project, which can make the job more difficult and less safe. Many tools are designed for specific uses and materials, and employing them for other tasks could result in injury, longer working time, or poor-quality results. Make the job run smoothly and safely by choosing the proper equipment. This is especially important if your project calls for specialty tools, such as a certain type of power saw.Not Prioritizing Safety
DIY mistakes can be not only costly but also dangerous. Of the survey participants who experienced a “major” mistake during their DIY projects, 47 percent noted that the incident involved serious injury, while 44 percent mentioned starting a fire or falling off a roof or ladder. Safety is paramount when completing any DIY project, and taking all the recommended precautions can help you avoid accidents.Neglecting Necessary Codes or Permits
Home improvement projects are often subject to regulations and requirements that help ensure safety. It varies from city to city, but building permits are typically required for projects that involve changes to your home’s structure or mechanical and plumbing systems. Neglecting the codes and laws in your area can delay your project and result in hefty fines.Getting Measurements Wrong
Even a small discrepancy in measurements can throw off the entire project, but this common DIY mistake is easily avoided. Taking the time to measure, mark, then measure again can help ensure you have the right fit the first time. Keep in mind that the actual dimensions of your purchased materials might be slightly off, so it’s best to measure everything yourself to ensure accuracy.How to avoid this mistake: To keep your measurements consistent, use only one tape measure or ruler throughout the entire project. Be sure to keep the tool straight and at a right angle to the surface you’re measuring. Always double-check your measurements before continuing.
