This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.
09/21/2017 12:00 AMWith so many new home improvement shows on the air, as well as the countless number of boards devoted to DIY on Pinterest, it's no wonder that many homeowners feel they can easily tackle any project inside or outside of their home.
"They watch [a DIY project] on a TV show and they think, 'They've done it so I could do it,' but there is a lot of stuff that goes on that you don't see," says Steve Torino, vice president of operation at Torino Services in Northford. "When people start a do-it-yourself project, I don't think they realize the magnitude of what they're trying to accomplish. It looks easy because it's cut and edited into a half-hour TV show."
Torino notes that no matter what the project, it is important to research what is needed to complete it and follow all of the instructions. Andrew Page of Page Hardware in Guilford agrees that having the proper tools is another key to success.
"The homeowner needs to make the investment in the right tools or know someone who they can borrow them from," says Page. "What homeowners tackle on their own varies with their confidence level. We offer tools and materials for many home projects, we can offer advice and, if need be, the phone number of a professional."
Both Page and Torino concur that there are certain jobs that are better to leave to professionals, particularly plumbing and electrical projects with Page noting he's heard tales of homeowners who attempted to go it on their own often ending up "really wet or shocked."
In addition, Torino recommends contacting an arborist if tree work is needed.
While many people want to save money by going the DIY route, Torino says the best way to save money is to properly maintain a project that has been done by a professional.
"When you're having the project done, ask the questions about maintenance, ask how you keep the look going without spending an abundance of money," says Torino. "Don't invest the money if you're not going to take the time to properly maintain something. Once you've hired someone to do it, maintenance is the best do-it-yourself project."
As far as tasks on the easier side for homeowners to tackle themselves, Torino points out that weeding flowerbeds and landscaping is not only easy, but makes a big impact on the property's appearance.
In addition to taking on lawn and garden projects, Page adds that homeowners can successfully finish most painting projects as long as the proper prep work is done. He recommends washing surfaces first, removing any flaking paint, and allowing them to dry before being top-coated.
"Lawn and garden and painting give the homeowner a great opportunity to make a large change in and around their home with positive results," says Page. "Homeowners should entertain professional painters if they are uncomfortable on ladders or not willing to put the prep work in."
Being informed about the project as well as the prep work involved – not just painting – is imperative. When tiling or installing flooring, the age of the house can factor into the equation as older houses may not have level floors, making the installation much more difficult.
The knowledge also extends to what is needed to safely complete a project, such as knowing how to turn your electric box off or where your water shutoff valve is if you are dealing with electric or plumbing issues. Even taking on a basement cleanout on your own can turn into a bigger project than anticipated with hauling away old items or properly disposing of items like TVs or mattresses.
Of course, one of the biggest factors that plays into the success of a do-it-yourself project is a homeowner's experience and ability. Many times starting with a small project can lead to more DIY confidence, which grows with each completed project.
"Normally a successful project will create the enthusiasm to tackle a larger project as the confidence grows," says Page. "I am continuously impressed by what people can do. Anything is possible."