Top Tips for the Novice DIY-er

What’s your new year’s resolution? Do you have a long list of things to do in 2019 or are you focusing on just the one?

If becoming more DIY savvy is on the list, now is the perfect time to pick up some practical skills and make some adjustments around the home. Whether you want to get better at re-decorating or you want to hang the new doors you bought months ago, if you follow these steps, you’ll go from DIY novice to expert in no time.

Stack wood letters as Do it yourself   By patpitchaya – Shutterstock

Popular DIY to Try

Firstly, as you’re new to DIY, start small then work your way up to the larger jobs so that you can build up your skills. If you’re trying to narrow down what you’d like to do first, here are some tips for straight forward DIY in the home.

  • Hanging wallpaper – start with a smooth surface before you begin to hang the new paper. Next, make sure the wallpaper is measured perfectly so it lines up with the walls, then add an even layer of paste to each piece of paper. To stick it to the wall and stop bubbles from popping up, use a dry paintbrush to press it into place.
  • Removing tiles – using a hammer and chisel, carefully chip away at the grouting. This will then make easing the tiles from the wall easier than if you try aiming a hammer at the middle of the tile.
  • Painting a ceiling – use some masking tape to line the top of the walls and to help create a straight line. Then, start at the edges of the ceiling and work your way into the middle with a paintbrush or roller. Once your first coat has dried, go over the space with a roller.   
Man drilling laminate with power drill on the table  By Zivica Kerkez – Shutterstock

Do Your Research

Before you begin your DIY odyssey, there are some steps to take to ensure things go smoothly. Choose the job you think you can comfortably take on then start thinking about how to go about it.

It’s important to do some research. Look at guides online and head to your local DIY store to ask questions to make sure you’re on the right track. Make a list of the tools you’ll need as you go along and pick these up before you begin. Always look for reputable brands and check reviews. Specialists such as SGS Engineering offer key equipment for every DIY job.

huge set collection of yellow blue and wooden diy hand tools isolated on white background
By stockphoto-graf  – Shutterstock

Safety First

Once you feel ready to begin, make sure you’re thinking of the safety precautions you need to take. From drills and screwdrivers to hammers and steamers, DIY tools carry their own risks and it’s important to know how to use them safely.

Other ways to stay safe while doing DIY include having goggles and gloves at the ready. If you need to use a ladder, always have someone on hand to spot you in case you slip. Even the smallest jobs carry a level of risk, so take all the necessary precautions to ensure you don’t get hurt.

Protective gloves boots goggles earmuffs on wooden board.  By mihalec – Shutterstock

What DIY will you tackle first in 2019?

Author: Courtenay

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