Before You DIY, Learn the FYI

Young or old, big or small, frenzied or relaxed – at some point, every person and every personality type is going to get the itch to do a DIY project. And that’s a good thing! Learning through personal experience is the best teacher that you can get.

That said, before you actually grab that chainsaw, there are a few steps you should take. Four corridors of thought include – start by learning about the basics, practice with your tools before you use them on a project, always try a smaller version of a project before taking on a larger one, and remember the three times rule.

Start Learning About the Basics
   

The Internet is going to be your best friend before you get started with your DIY project. Take the time and opportunity given to you to learn every aspect of what you plan on doing from the category of paint you intend on using, all the way through which types of washers to use. Watch some videos of people doing similar projects. Learn the language. Go to your local hardware store and ask questions. This is your first stage of development as a DIY person. Use your resources wisely.

Practice With Tools First  

If you’re not familiar with a coping saw, you should practice with it before using it on your actual project. If you need to, learn how power tools work and which ones are appropriate for what you’re working with. Then ruin some things. Break some stuff. Get it out of your system. Because once you start working on that bathroom cabinet for real, one little mistake can cost you a lot of cash. Become familiar with every single tool you’re going to use before you do anything else.

Do a Small Project Before a Large One

If you’re updating your entire kitchen, why not start with a smaller project first? One that isn’t so – visible. For example, fix some cabinets in the basement, or perhaps install a sink down there so you know the basics of how plumbing fixtures and such work. If you’re remodeling a master bedroom, trying doing a smaller version of things first on a guest bedroom. Be smart, practical, and sensible when taking on big stuff without the help of a contractor.

The Three Times Rule       

There’s a rule of thumb that says that a typical project will cost you three times as much as you reasonably expect, and will take three times as long as you reasonably expect. Take those threes into consideration when you’re planning your budget and your working timeframe. You’ll find that those estimates are frighteningly accurate, no matter how ‘reasonable’ those initial estimates may feel.

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