All-Time Top DIY Tips

Should KnowEvery Homeowner

All-Time Top Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

By Phil Vandermeer

Your Dallas Handyman

A Really Quick Introduction

I think you’ll find that the tips here really are simple, common sense tips. Good ideas we should know already, but often forget when we become anxious to get started and complete our DIY projects.

These 7 DIY Tips are useful regardless of what project you are inclined to work on. From install-ing a dishwasher to framing a mirror, these tips apply. And they could save you thousands of dollars. It IS possible!

So, as a reminder of their importance, I offer them here. This is a quick read and I know you’ll benefit from it, even if one or two are just a reminder.

Let’s get right to it...

Phil VandermeerYour Dallas Handyman

Tip #1 - Read The Instructions First. If you’re like me, you may not want to take the time to read the instructions, but this is where millions of dollars are wasted each year by improperly constructing, repairing or installing new gadgets, fixtures and appliances. Not to mention the time that it takes to redo something because you failed to read a critical instruction! You could also void a warranty or shorten it’s life by not performing a critical step.

Tip #2 - Make Good Plans.If you’re going to start a big project, develop good plans. Know your costs and the extent of your abilities. Only you can de-termine if you’re able to see it through. Make sure your ideas work on paper before you tear down a wall, or worse….and if you need help, hire someone in your area you know you can trust.

Tip #3 - Read the Label.When was the last time you really read the product label be-fore using it? Safety is the first and most important concern, but what about specifications and limitations? Paint won’t cure below around 45 degrees, and you’d better use the right notch size in the trowel you use for installing stone and tile or you may find yourself with an early repair job that isn’t necessary.

Tip #4 - Building Code Basics.Consider this: you can always do a job better than what is re-quired by code. It will cost more to raise the standards set by the city (which is typically minimum), but you can improve the quality, durability and longevity of your project dramatically by surpassing material, safety and installation standards set by code. Codes are basically set as a minimum quality standard to follow.

Tip #5 - Watch Out For Hidden Hazards.Unlike the game, real hidden hazards are no fun. Older homes are filled with hidden hazards like asbestos and lead. Animal poop, skeletons and other would-be hazards are waiting for you too.. You can get sick or even die from exposure to things you may not even be aware of. Lead can be in clear varnishes as well as paint in old houses. Crawling around in a dusty at-tic can make you sick if you breath in the wrong things. Always wear adequate protective gear to minimize or eliminate the negative impact of potentially hazardous materials.

Tip #6 - Don’t Fall For “Save Money” Gags.Have you ever been in a home improvement store and some-one walked up to you to sell you siding or insulation or some other major work to help you “save money”? Wait! Stop! Let’s think that through; if you have to spend money first, then the savings won’t start until after the amount you’ve saved pays for the cost, plus any interest that goes along with it. Make sure you calculate when the savings will actually start, and how much you’ll really save, carefully. And, if you have to borrow money to save money, it can go from bad to worse.

Tip #7 - My Biggest Homeowner Tip Of All..Regularly Scheduled Maintenance is key to a lifetime of proud home ownership. If you always take care of your home, it will always take care of you. Never neglect your home. It is no less than life support for you and your family.

If you don’t know where to start, start by cleaning! A clean home is easier to maintain and lowers stress levels. Projects go smoother when you are organized and clutter free. You can find several articles on cleaning and cleaning supplies at ourYour Dallas Handyman website.

RESOURCES:

Your Dallas Handyman (YDH website homepage)

Your Dallas Handyman on Facebook (please “like” our facebook page)

Your Dallas Handyman On Pinterest (Pinterest is just for fun.)

“Declutter Fast” Sales Page (small cost but worth every penny) - Or just get on Mimi’s free newsletter. It rocks!

Home And Garden Makeover (partner site with tons of great information!)

My email Send me a note (only for friends of Your Dallas Handyman)

Disclaimer:

The information contained in this guide is for informational purposes only. Any advice that I offer is my opinion based on my own experience. You should always seek the advice of a professional whenever your situation warrants it. Any amount of savings disclosed in this guide are never guaranteed. Please understand that there may be some links contained in this guide that I may benefit from financially.

This guide may include information, products or services by third parties. Third Party Materi-als comprise of the products and opinions expressed by their owners. As such, I do not as-sume responsibility or liability for any Third Party material or opinions.

Publication of Third Party Material is simply a recommendation and an expression ofmy own opinion of that material. No part of this publication shall be reproduced, transmit-ted, or sold in whole or in part in any form, without the prior written consent of the author.

Copyright © 2015 Your Dallas Handyman.com - all rights reserved.