Before the internet arose, there were two types of people in this world. There were those who were mechanically inclined and fixed things and then there were those who weren’t and would call someone. Information was not as easy to come by.
When you needed something outside what those around you knew, you could go to the library and spend hours, or you could hire someone. Those days are gone. The internet has opened up a whole new class of people. There now is a third category; they are ones who don’t know how to do something but use the internet to give it a try. You can do just about anything on the internet nowadays from learning DIY’s to buying kitchen appliances to furnace repairs.
If you have ever seen a child with an iPad, you know that they likely can figure out apps and other computer related things quicker than you. Why is that? Likely it is because they don’t have a fear of technology. Not being afraid to mess something up, or to break it, they are continually pushing the limits of technology to see what it can do for them. The internet has opened up a new world for those who aren’t fearful of technology and do-it-yourself projects.
They key to being a successful do-it-yourself is not to be afraid of the consequences of giving it a try. If you have the right mindset, know where to get the information you need, and follow these five simple rules, completing any home improvement project is not only within your capability, it can be done for a fraction of the price. The Internet is the perfect resource to do just about anything possible around the house, but you must weigh the benefit versus risk to ensure that you aren’t going above your mental pay grade and outpacing yourself for the market.
Make a list of tools needed
Almost all home improvement projects are going to need the right tools. There is an old saying that any job can be done with the right tools. The problem with tools is that they are not cheap. Before you set out to do your own home improvement project, it is important to weigh the cost of materials and tools needed, against having a professional do it. There are times when the materials are going to cost more than just hiring someone else to do it will. Don’t rationalize that you will own the tools in the end. Likely if you purchase expensive tools, you won’t be using them again, which makes it money wasted.
Safety first
There aren’t many things that you can’t do by yourself, but there are things that may just be too risky and dangerous for you to do on your own. There is no shame in not wanting to put yourself in danger to complete a home improvement project that a professional can do safely. If you are doing a project, and there is a component that may put a risk to you or your home, it is okay to find the right professional to come in and complete just one step. For instance, if you do a remodel and don’t hire an electrician, not only can you harm yourself, if not done correctly, you could put your family at risk for a future house fire. Know your limitations and abide by them. Even if you think it is humanly possible, know when to say when.
There are some aesthetic things that may be out of your realm. Things such as drywall taping or masonry are more like art. If you hire someone to do it, it may cost more, but the finished product will be much better looking and add to the value of your home. There is no sense in taking on jobs to increase the value of your home if you make them look unprofessional. If you don’t do it right the first time, you will probably have to hire someone to fix your mess, or devalue your home by making it a home improvement project for the next family who occupies it.
The internet has opened the potential for homeowners to do almost anything on their own. The key to home improvement projects is always to know what your limitations are and to weigh when it is cost beneficial to do it yourself, and when the fix is likely going to cost more than it is worth if done wrong. Think smart, and ahead, to make good choices about your do-it-yourself projects.
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