DIY: The things you need - and need to know - before you start
The beginner's guide to DIY
The most inexpensive way to remodel your home - whether that means painting the guest room or putting up new shelving - is to do it yourself.
It's not just a question of money. A completed DIY project can give you an enormous sense of satisfaction. It also means that you can experiment with the look of your home until it's just right for you. Doing everything yourself will also give you complete control over the project, from the time it takes through to the money you spend.
So if you want to give your house a magical makeover, you'll need to know some DIY basics, from what projects you can (and can't) attempt yourself, to the tools you should keep in the garage. Work through the tips in our beginner's guide and you'll be ready to tackle your first home improvement.
Tip: Safety First
DIY can be dangerous, but only if you ignore some basic safety tips:
• Wear protective clothing - goggles, gloves and dust masks should all be a basic part of your DIY tool box.
• When painting or using any potentially toxic materials, or when there's lots of dust in the air, make sure you keep the area well ventilated.
• Ladders are a major cause of DIY accidents. Follow manufacturers' instructions and never lean to one side.
• Know what you can and can't do, and if in doubt, get qualified help. Gas and electrical work is best left to registered professionals.
• Invest in good-quality tools and always use the right tool for the job. Store tools, paints and chemicals out of the way of children and pets.
• Plan ahead. If you're unprepared, you're more likely to make a mistake.
Tip: Have The Right Tools
The tools you need will depend on the job you're taking on, but every DIY enthusiast, whether beginner or expert, should have a basic tool box. This should include all the tools you use most of all, and all those you need to be able to put your hands on quickly in case of a DIY emergency.
Buy a secure tool box, and remember to store it in a safe place. Tools should include:
• tape measure
• small adjustable spanner
• set of screwdrivers
• insulated pliers
• electrical test screwdriver
• torch
• hammer
• handsaw/hacksaw
• drill and drill bits
• Stanley knife
• spirit level
If you're going to be doing a lot of painting, it's also worth investing in a good set of paintbrushes, and a roller and tray.
Tip: Planning DIY Jobs
Successful DIY is all about planning. If you plan carefully, there's very few everyday DIY jobs that you can't tackle, and you'll be amazed at the difference you can make to your home in just an occasional weekend.
• Know Your Objective
So you have a vague idea that you want to redecorate the living room. Fair enough, but what do other members of the family think? Canvas opinions on what should be done to make it cosier, or give it more space, or make it feel lighter. Get ideas from magazines and websites, and collect colour charts or wallpaper samples from the local DIY shop. Most importantly, know exactly what you're going to do before you start. Making important decisions when you're in the middle of a job can be a recipe for DIY disaster.
• Be Realistic
We can all do most basic DIY tasks, but if there's anything you're unsure of, ask a DIY enthusiast friend or neighbour for advice. The helpdesks at major DIY stores are also happy to talk you through anything you're not confident about. DIY books, websites, magazines and the 'how to' cards or leaflets available from many DIY shops are also good ways to pick up the skills you need.
• Tool Up
Get your tools and equipment together. You may have most of them in your tool box, but if you need special tools, get the best you can afford. They'll do the job better (and probably quicker) and can last for years if treated properly.
• Allow Plenty of Time
Writing a work schedule is a good idea to help you keep on top of a project, and to stop you becoming confused about what needs to be done and when. Write down all the jobs in the order they need to be completed, with rough timings next to them. As a general rule - especially if you're a DIY beginner - allow more time for a job than you think you'll actually need.
• Don't Forget the Wine!
It's not a traditional DIY tool, but don't forget a bottle of wine for the moment when you can sit back, put your feet up, and admire your handiwork, basking in the glow of a job well done.
