5 Common DIY Mistakes People Make: From Lighting to Painting
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According to a recent study, two out of five people cannot fix a household problem without visiting Google. Also, men and women under the age of 35 cannot complete basic DIY tasks, increasing the reliance on tradespeople for general maintenance.
Even if you try to complete various tasks in the home, you might make simple mistakes that might damage your property. If you want to improve your DIY skills, learn about the five common DIY mistakes people make and how to avoid them.
- Installing the Wrong Light Fittings
While electrical work should always be completed by a qualified electrician, homeowners can replace light fittings when necessary. Yet, you must select the right lighting for your specific needs. For instance, don’t make the mistake of believing all downlights are the same.
If it is too small, it might illuminate a room, but it will likely appear out of place in its socket. For this reason, browse the many wholesale electrics to quickly find the correct light fitting for your property and budget.
- Buying Low-Quality Tools
As paint and wallpaper can be expensive, many homeowners choose to buy cheap paintbrushes, rollers, and other decorating tools. Yet, this is a big mistake, as low-quality tools often lead to low-quality results. For instance, budget brushes have fewer bristles and molt much more than mid-range alternatives. Pay a little extra to avoid pulling bristles out of your paintwork and enjoy faster, smoother coverage.
- Taking Incorrect Measurements
The smallest mistake when measuring wood, carpet, or wallpaper can destroy a DIY project. If the measurement is too short, you could ruin a room’s visual appeal. If it is too long, you could waste your hard-earned income on excess material while slowing down the project to remeasure.
Stop the above from happening by following the rule of thumb of measuring twice and cutting once. Also, use the same tape measure or ruler throughout the project for more consistent measurements.
- Choosing the Wrong DIY Tools
Using the wrong tools for a DIY project will make a task more complex and less safe. It is vital to choose the correct tools for the job to speed up your working time, prevent injury, and enjoy the best quality results. For instance, it is much quicker to paint exterior walls or fencing with a paint sprayer instead of a paintbrush.
If in doubt, visit your local home improvement center for advice, and you could even rent expensive equipment to complete a project at a faster rate and in a safe manner.
- Skipping Essential Steps on a Project
Have you ever painted a door without sanding and priming the surface? If so, it likely had an uneven finish and even peeled or chipped over time. Skipping essential steps in a DIY project is never a good idea, as it will not provide long-lasting results. Understand the important steps in every process and ensure you have the appropriate tools for the job.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be able to ensure your next DIY project is a success.
