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D.I.Y. projects can be incredibly rewarding, but it's easy to make mistakes that can cost time and money. By avoiding a few common pitfalls, you'll ensure you get a great result.
Here are some of the most frequent D.I.Y. mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
Don’t skip preparation work
One of the biggest mistakes people make is diving right into a project without taking time to prepare properly. Whether painting a wall or putting up shelves, skipping steps like cleaning, measuring, or gathering the right tools leads to poor results.
Always prioritise preparation. For painting, make sure surfaces are clean, sanded smooth, and taped off neatly. For building projects, measure everything twice before making any cuts. It'll save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
Want to master project planning? Dive into this essential article on Project planning 101.
Use the right tool for the job
It's tempting to use whatever tools you have lying around, but this can cause more harm than good. Using the wrong tool can damage your materials, slow down the job, or even result in an injury.
Make sure you're using the right tools for the job. If you're unsure, ask one of our expert team members at your local Bunnings store or hit the Ask a question button here on Bunnings Workshop for advice. As an alternative to purchasing a tool for a one-off job, Bunnings offers a wide range of tools for hire.
Struggling with tool selection? Discover the ultimate guide on How to choose tools for your toolbox.
Allow for unexpected problems or costs
Most D.I.Y. projects end up taking longer and costing more than expected. Trying to rush things or cut costs with cheap materials often leads to mistakes that require even more time and money to fix.
Give yourself extra time and budget to allow for any unexpected issues. If you think it will take two days, plan for three, and buy some extra material to avoid running short. You'll thank yourself later if something doesn't go to plan.
Tight on cash? Check out this article on Kitchen makeovers & renovations on a budget.
Ensure safety
We can often overlook safety, especially when you're keen to get a job done quickly. Skipping protective gear or ignoring safety precautions with tools can lead to accidents.
Always wear the proper safety equipment, such as gloves, safety glasses and ear protection. Don't cut corners with tools—follow the instructions and take your time to avoid any mishaps.
Before you start take a look at our top tips on How to stay safe during D.I.Y. projects.
Carefully follow instructions
We've all been guilty of trying to wing it instead of following instructions. But ignoring the manufacturer's guidelines or skipping steps often leads to problems later on.
Take the time to read through the instructions before starting your project. It might feel tedious, but following the right steps will save you from many headaches and help you achieve a professional finish.
For step-by-step guidance, explore the comprehensive How To articles available on the Bunnings website.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the D.I.Y. process. Remember, if you have questions about your project, don’t hesitate to ask the community for help.
