DIY Disasters To Avoid To Save Money

Every DIY-er has experienced disaster at some point in their creative life; setting off on a project too enthusiastically and not getting the expected result. There’s something unbearably depressing about having to re-do a project over twice but when things go wrong, there’s simply no choice.

Aside from the stomach-churning frustration there’s also the financial cost to consider. Who wants to have to pay out for supplies twice?! Getting it right first time is just as important for your bank balance as your morale. 

Sometimes you don’t know you’re flirting with catastrophe until it’s too late so we’re going to give you a little helping hand. Here’s a few DIY disasters that many of us have suffered…and more importantly, included are tips on how to avoid them in the future!

Keep reading to discover how to save money by avoiding these DIY disasters...

Paint Which Bubbles and Flakes

You’ve diligently applied the paint in smooth even strokes, cut in carefully around the edges and left to dry. When you return to inspect your handiwork - disaster! The paint has bubbled up and is flaking off… As you sob quietly into your cup of tea, you wonder where you went wrong…

This problem is due to a lack of prep - diving in too quickly without getting the surface ready. Slathering on paint isn’t always enough to get a flawless finish; if you’re painting on new surfaces such as plaster or wood, you’ll need an undercoat and primer first. 

You’ll also need to check that the paint you’re using is intended for the surface; if you’re using metal paint on wood, it’s never going to end well. 

Don’t ever be tempted to try and line things up by eye. You might think your vision is accurate enough to guarantee an even result but it only takes a centimetre for things to start sliding

Damaging Pipes and Wires

How hard can putting up a shelf really be? A simple piece of DIY, if you can insert the brackets in a straight line, you’re onto a winner, right? 

However, the humble shelf has some nasty surprises in store because when you drill into that wall you’ll need to make sure you’re not about to hit a wire or pipe. If you hit the wrong spot, the results could be not just expensive to fix, but also dangerous. 

Rather than playing Russian roulette when you pick up your drill, head back to the DIY store first. There’s a simple device which can detect wires and pipes; use this and you won’t risk damaging your electrical cabling when you’re drilling the holes in your wall. 

Those Pesky Shelves

While we’re on the subject of shelving, even if you manage to avoid the wiring in the wall you’re still a long way from assured success. 

Don’t ever be tempted to try and line things up by eye. You might think your vision is accurate enough to guarantee an even result but it only takes a centimetre for things to start sliding. 

Once your shelf is straight and on the wall, the threat of disaster still isn’t over. If your shelf isn’t secure it could suddenly fall down, breaking items and potentially hurting someone too. Getting bashed on the head by a shelf is going to hurt!

The problem comes when the right fittings haven’t been used. For a shelf to remain firmly fixed you’ll need screws, bolts or other fittings which are the right length. If they’re too short they won’t grip in position and will gradually loosen, sending your shelf tumbling. 

If you have DIY disaster on your hands and you can’t figure out what’s gone wrong, sometimes it’s better to let the experts take over. Home Logic can assist with all kinds of DIY and home renovation jobs, both big and small!

The Leftover Screw

If your task is more about fixing something that’s broken, don’t make the mistake of plunging in too quickly. Have you ever repaired something only to end up with a pile of extra parts at the end? You know it’s only a matter of time before you’ll have to do the repair again. 

The trick to making sure you manage to get the steps right in reverse is to take photos as you go. No matter how simple the job seems, or how easy it seems to be, snap pictures as you remove parts and you’ll be able to work out how to put it back together much more easily…without those dreaded leftover parts!

When All Else Fails…

If you have DIY disaster on your hands and you can’t figure out what’s gone wrong, sometimes it’s better to let the experts take over. Home Logic can assist with all kinds of DIY and home renovation jobs, both big and small. 

Whether you’re looking for the latest home products or professionals to do the work, give Home Logic a call today on 0800 1700 636, or click the button below to get your property prepped to perfection today!