Four Important Things to Never Leave Out of a Home Improvement Project
Whether you plan on replacing your in-sink garbage disposal, adding onto your bedroom or installing a new ceiling fan, getting the most out these DIY home improvement projects starts with you using the right tools, materials and techniques. But no matter what DIY home improvement project you’re considering performing yourself, be sure that you don’t leave out these four important ideas and you can be sure that no matter the project-it’s going to go as smoothly as possible.
Call Before you Dig
This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised at how many times I’ve gone on an estimate to someone’s home because they unwittingly destroyed their underground utility lines. Even if you’re just planning on installing a new mailbox-call before you dig! A quick call to your local electric, sewer, phone, water and cable company can prevent more serious (and costly) repairs from taking place. In most cases, underground utilities will detect and mark their underground lines for free.
Read and Follow Manufacturers Instructions
Another no brainer, right? Wrong! Many times, I have been guilty of this home improvement mistake. Even when you’ve used similar materials before-if it’s new to you-read the instructions first. More often than not, improper installation will void the warranty of the materials. Whether it’s a new paint you’re using or a new door handle you’re installing, read and follow the attached instructions to ensure your warranty remains intact long after the product has been installed.
Use the Right Tool for the Job
If you wanted to, you could cut down a tree using a sledgehammer. It would be tedious and difficult, but it’s not impossible. That’s why it’s so important to use the right tools for the job on your next DIY home improvement project. Using a pair of rusty needle nose pliers to install a plumbing fixture is going to cause complications in the installation, if not damage to the materials themselves. If you don’t have the right tool-buy it. And if you’re only going to need the tool once (or it costs too much to buy)-rent it.
Shut it Down!
Would you stick your finger in an electrical outlet to see if the power is on? No you wouldn’t, so you shouldn’t install a ceiling fan with the power on either. But many homeowners often do make that mistake. No matter what home improvement project you’re working on-if it uses plumbing, electric, cable, etc.-disconnect them from their source, shut them down or turn them off to prevent serious damages to yourself, your home improvement project and your home.
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