DIY (Do It Yourself) home projects can be small and finished in just a few hours or they can be large and take months or even years to complete. DIY projects are a great way to get the whole family involved in an planning and executing a project. DIY home projects can teach children project planning, math skills, and working together as a team in a fun way.
What is your DIY Skill level?
Basic considerations for any DIY project should include skill level, budget, equipment, and your timeline. Knowing your skill level can save you a lot of headaches when you tackle DIY home projects. Here is a brief description of DIY skill levels:
Beginner – May or may not be familiar with tools and how to use them. Likes quick and easy projects that can be done in one day.
Advanced – Has some knowledge of tools and how to use them. Ready for a challenge and can handle a project that can take 1 or 2 days to complete.
Skilled – Has expert experience with power tools. Has completed other DIY projects. Can handle projects lasting 3 or more days.
DIY Home Projects To Tackle By Skill Level
Beginner DIY projects include:
- Painting (walls, furniture, doors, etc.)
- Wallpaper removal
- Hanging pictures and mirrors on walls
- Planting a flower bed or garden
Advanced DIY projects include:
- Pressure wash walkways and decks
- Building a backyard fire pit using sand and landscape pavers
- Aerating and seeding a lawn
- Erecting a pre-made fence to your yard
Skilled DIY projects include:
Planning Your DIY Home Projects
- Plan out step by step. Think about all of the steps you will need to complete for your project. Having a full understanding of what the project entails will make your project go smoothly. Assign tasks for your project based on skill levels.
- How Much Can You Spend? Create a project budget before you start your project. Include equipment rental, materials, and disposal fees prior to beginning any project. Do you have enough money in your budget to cover any unforeseen costs? Better to plan more project costs in your budget than less. Don’t get stuck halfway through your project because you ran out of money.
- Use The Right Equipment. Planning ahead to ensure the availability of the correct equipment or machinery for the work to be done is critical. First think carefully what tasks need to be performed, what tools or machinery is suitable for each stage in the process and how, when and where it will be used. CHILDREN SHOULD NEVER BE ALLOWED TO OPERATE POWER MACHINERY.
- Understand how to use project equipment. Not knowing how to use project tools and/or power tools can waste materials and time. If you are unfamiliar with the tools and equipment that you will be using, read the operating instructions thoroughly and ask questions before using. There is nothing more frustrating than having to stop, tear out and redo a project step because the tools or equipment was not used properly.
- Ask for additional help when you need it. When you are planning your project consider whether you will need additional help. You may not need everyone one hand for the the whole project however, you may need help at times lifting or holding materials in place. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends or family for help when it is needed. If you try to do it on your own you may run the risk of injury.
- Make a list of missing items. Lists are a DIYers best friend. If you missed getting a piece of equipment or materials from your original project plan, making a list will help reduce work stoppage to make trips to shop for additional supplies and equipment. Whether you use a block of wood, a piece of cardboard or a notebook, always have a pencil and something to write on so you can keep track of the materials, tools and supplies you’ll need to bring the next day.
- Add additional lighting. If your project is indoors or in a dark part of your yard, make sure you have plenty of light for your work area. Adding light will not only keeps your work area safe, it will also make it easier for you to read instructions and see markings for cutting.
- Wear protective gear. Safety is important. Invest in good quality safety gear. Wear eye and ear protection when cutting, nailing, or working overhead. Gloves will protect your hands from blisters, splinters, and cuts. Wear shoes to protect your feet.
Have questions about DIY home projects? Contact us and we will help you make your DIY project a success!