DIY types need to take home improvement safety precautions to lessen the risk of property damage and bodily injury. While it’s perfectly okay to tackle a home improvement project, you need to do so in a safe, thoughtful manner. You’ve probably been thinking about a project but keep putting it off time and time again. But now, you have the motivation to take the initiative to get it done. However, home improvements aren’t risk free and you need to take some important safety precautions.

DIYers: Take these Home Improvement Safety Precautions

Before you begin a home improvement, you should know what to expect. First, do not believe what you see on TV. Now, you probably know there’s a lot left on the proverbial editing room floor. But, just how much is far more than you’d guess. You should know time is one of the single largest factors you’ll deal with. Everything takes longer and more effort. You should also know there’s a good reason big box home improvement centers sell a gazillion tools — because there’s a specific tool for every purpose.

“Accidents can happen. You need to be especially careful when you’re working at heights; with power tools or sharp blades; with heavy, awkward, or toxic materials; or with electricity or natural gas. Think about the Big Picture: It simply isn’t worth it to do your own home improvements if you run a high risk of seriously injuring yourself. By employing proven safety techniques, you can greatly reduce your risk of danger or injury.” —Home Tips.com

Likewise, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll probably come across something you’re unfamiliar with. When you do, it’s alright to reach out to someone with experience or hire a professional. Additionally, factor in a contingency fund between 15 to 20 percent of the total cost. After all, even DIY budget-friendly home improvements can hit the wallet hard. But, before you pull the tools out and start buying materials, you need to take the following home improvement safety precautions:

• Take time and don’t rush. A majority of accidents occur when people are in a rush. It’s just not worth it to jump into a project and even worse to rush your way through the process. If you cut corners, use a tool you’re unfamiliar with, or try to use a tool for a purpose that’s not intended, you’ll probably won’t be pleased with the results. Be sure to take your time and do not rush through any part of the project.
• Have the proper protection. When you’re working on a home improvement project, always wear the proper safety gear. These include heavy boots, gloves, eye protection, ear protection, and more. Also, place protective coverings over furniture, fixtures, and elsewhere to keep dust and debris off.
• Keep children and pets away. The construction area, no matter how small, should always be off-limits to children and pets. There’s really no reason to allow curious kids and pets in the area. It simply isn’t worth the risk and at the least, children and pets can easily get in the way.
• Do not attempt to go past your skill set. When you encounter a situation that calls for more than your skill set and goes outside of your comfort zone, do not rationalize your way into doing it on your own. Here again, it’s just not worth the risk and you’ll get better results if you hire a pro.
• Have ready plans for different emergencies. While it’s not inevitable something will go wrong, it’s still a distinct possibility. You should have plans ready to go in the event of different emergency situations. Also, let everyone know about what to do in the event of an emergency.

If you’re going to sell your home in the near future and buy a new house, please don’t hesitate to phone me at 407-616-7286, I’ll be happy to speak with you.