Simple Do-it-yourself Repairs That Anyone Can Master
The DIY craze has expanded enormously in recent years
. Much of the blame can be put on modern do it yourself stores, who bend over backwards to make their products accessible to everyone, from the professional contractor to the amateur householder. On top of this there are an endless array of TV programs, magazines and internet forums, all dedicated to showing you how easy this whole DIY thing is.
The term do it yourself means different things to different people. For some, its doing essential household repairs and maintenance, while to others its decorating, tiling or laying their own carpets. However, many DIY projects become started-and-left-it chores, largely because the householder didnt do the groundwork. A new light fitting may look beautiful in the glossy magazine, and a cinch in the instruction leaflet. Yet if you dont know the basics of safe wiring and installation, you could quite literally - have a very nasty shock indeed.
The best do it yourself stores have how to pamphlets with clearly worded instructions; help desks manned by helpful, intuitive staff, and navigable internet sites with video tutorials and downloadable software. We at Wickes DIY have all these. Theyre backed up by a range of high-quality hand and power tools, fittings, safety equipment and basics like glue and tape. On top of that, we have health and safety pamphlets on a range of methods and products.
The best do-it-yourself outlets are equally accessible to both the first-time amateur and the seasoned professional. However, if youve never done DIY before, you need to start off small. Leave things like electricity and plumbing to the professionals for now, and concentrate on things like decorating and simple repairs.
So, what tasks can a novice do it yourself person accomplish? Much depends on how well equipped they are, so first you need to arm yourself with a good set of basic tools. An electric sander, stepladder, paint-brushes, rollers and a Workmate or papering table will see you through most home decorating tasks. A paint-stripping gun and paint kettle might be useful as well.
Most people would say an electric drill and saw are home essentials, although they need using with care. Basic hand tools hammers, pliers and screwdrivers will pay dividends.
Until youve had a bit of experience, stick to quick, easy jobs. Most homes have a leaky tap washer or loose hinge that needs replacing, so look at those jobs youve been putting off for a rainy day and do them.
As far as enhancing your home goes, the list is endless. Plug sockets, taps, light switches, curtain rails, dado rails, blinds, doors and door furniture all are within the scope of the do it yourself novice, and can transform your home. Then there are the weekend projects: retiling the bathroom, decorating, installing fitted wardrobes and more.
You could also think of ways to enhance the exterior. A new door knocker and letter box is only the start. How about a new workshop in the garden?
by: Emma McCann
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