We’re facing a prolonged period of time at home, and for many, the prospect of being indoors may have rekindled a love affair with DIY. Whether you’ve finally got time to get around to doing those jobs that have been on a to-do list for months, or you’re looking forward to rediscovering a hobby, it’s crucial to know your limits. While many jobs are suitable for keen amateurs, there are some that should always be off-limits. Here are some dos and don’ts to bear in mind.
DIY Dos
DIY is a very popular pastime, and if you’ve got skills you can flex, this can save a lot of time and money. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, here are some jobs you can tackle at home without putting your health and safety at risk:
Painting and decorating
Painting and papering walls can make all the difference to the look of a room. If you’ve got time on your hands and you fancy sprucing up your interiors, arm yourself with a roller, some dust sheets, pots of paint, trays and masking tape. Prepare the walls before you paint to ensure a smooth finish, make sure you’ve got enough paint to cover the area and apply at least two coats and let the first layer dry before applying the second. If you’re papering, and you’re not experienced, it may be a good idea to follow a video tutorial online.
Hanging shelves
If you’re on a decluttering mission, or you’ve had a unit lying in the garage for weeks, now is the time to hang your shelves. Use a spirit measure to make sure your shelves are straight, and enlist the help of a willing assistant to hold your tools while you position the unit on the wall. Secure the brackets carefully and take care when using the drill.
Upcycling
Upcycling is a hugely popular trend, and it’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and to turn trash into treasure. If you’re creative and you know how to use a paintbrush, a hammer and a saw, you can convert old chests, tables and chairs into brand new pieces of furniture.
DIY Don’ts
DIY is fun and it gives you a sense of satisfaction, but it can also be dangerous. Here are some jobs to leave to the professionals:
Drainage problems
If your drains are overflowing or you’ve noticed unpleasant odours, the best thing to do is look for a local company that specialises in drain blockages. Ask neighbours, friends and colleagues for recommendations and read ratings and reviews. If your drain is damaged or blocked, attempting DIY repairs may do more harm than good.
Roof repairs
Roofing is hazardous, and as a result, repairs should be left to expert roofers who have the relevant experience and access to protective equipment. Don’t attempt to scale ladders or walk around on the roof to try and save money. Accidents happen, and injuries caused by falling from height tend to be severe.
Electrical issues
Electrical injuries can be debilitating and even life-threatening. If you’re looking to fit new sockets, change light fittings or update the wiring in your home, call an electrician. Any work that is carried out should be done by a qualified, certified professional.
Many of us may be thinking about flexing our DIY skills in the coming weeks. If you’re planning to get your toolkit out, make sure you know your limits.
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