Not matter if you’re building a garden shed from scratch or just designing a new storage system for your garage, all DIY projects must follow the same set of rules. These rules will make life a lot easier for you, and they’ll reduce the chances of something going terribly wrong. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY veteran or an absolute newbie, you’ll benefit from following these essential rules:
Rule 1: Always wear protection
Regardless of the DIY project, you must wear protection at all times. The type of protection you wear can vary, but a mask is usually required. Masks help block dust and paint fumes from going up your nose or into your mouth, which can cause respiratory issues. Likewise, wearing ear protection can stop you from damaging your hearing when using loud power tools. Even a simple hard hat can come in handy if you’re working in a room where there’s a chance things can fall from above. Stay protected, and you’ll avoid injuries.
Rule 2: Make sure the power is off
If you ever need to do any DIY work around electrical equipment, then ensure the power in your home is switched off. The last thing you want is an electrical issue that ends up frying your brain. It can be very dangerous, so always work with the power off whenever wiring is involved.
Rule 3: Know your limits
We all want to be DIY experts, but this won’t happen overnight. There will be things that you simply cannot do. So, know your limits, and don’t attempt things that you really have no clue about. If you don’t understand anything to do with wiring and electrics, then call an electrician to help you out. If you’ve no concept of plumbing, then bring in a plumber – and so on. Do as much as you can by yourself, but don’t be afraid to call for help. It will save you from potentially endangering yourself or creating issues that cost a lot of money to fix.
Rule 4: Carry spares
Will all of your DIY projects be a roaring success at the first attempt? The chances are you’ll run into small problems along the way. For example, you accidentally saw through a piece of wood at the wrong angle. Now, that piece of wood is useless, and you can’t use it. So, make sure you always carry spares! This doesn’t just apply to wood, it applies to any materials or things you use when completing a project. Spare nails or bolts are also useful – you should have a mini stockpile of DIY tools and materials to call upon if you’re in need. This saves time as you don’t have to then go out and buy the replacements.
It doesn’t matter what you’re working on – or what skill level you possess – these rules will help you get through all your DIY projects. Think of them as the four commandments of DIY, the things that should guide you through everything. Ultimately, they help you avoid any nasty injuries and slip-ups while ensuring you manage the job with relative ease.
