DIY Renovation Tips 

Home renovations are on the rise.

Eight out of 10 homeowners have tackled at least one DIY project since the start of the pandemic, a recent Angi survey found. There’s often a need—77% of primary residences require minor or major renovations, according to the poll. Other homeowners rolled up their sleeves since they noticed things about their house that they’d like to change while spending a lot more time at home the last two years.

Thinking about taking on some home improvements yourself? Here’s how to avoid a DIY renovation mishap.

Set a (realistic) budget. Staying on budget is one of the most challenging aspects for renovating homeowners, according to the 2021 Houzz & Home Renovation Trends report. The key is to set a budget from the outset that takes into account the costs of all materials and equipment required for the job.

Drill down to specifics. For example, if you’re laying new tile in a bathroom, price out how much the tile costs. And, for any DIY project, it’s a good idea to set aside an additional 10 percent to 15 percent in cash to accommodate hidden expenses. (Renovations rarely go exactly as planned.)

Choose the right project. If you don’t have a lot of renovation experience, start small. Instead of remodeling your entire kitchen, for instance, replace old kitchen cabinet knobs and drawer pulls with modern hardware.

As you gain new skills, including learning how to use different equipment, you can take on more complex projects.

Leverage free online resources. There’s no shortage of renovation tutorials and DIY advice from home professionals. You can find how-to videos on YouTube, the DIY Network’s website, and HGTV’s site. Home improvement stores like The Home Depot and Lowe’s also offer tips online for DIY-ers.

Know when to call in the pros. Some home renovations are simple and low risk, but there are some home renovations you should avoid because they pose a safety risk. Take certain electrical work for example: installing a new electric appliance may seem simple at first, but you run the risk of electrocution or starting an electrical fire.

Bottom line: Leave plumbing, electrical, and structural home improvements to the professionals.

Are you planning to hire a home contractor? Check out our article on how to find the right contractor for your project.

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