When you imagine your do-it-yourself (DIY) bathroom overhaul, you visualize all your hard work coming together. Your dream clawfoot tub sits against the clean-cut lines of your new subway tiles and favorite paint color. Fresh, luxurious towels hang in a perfectly complementary tone, and you have every accessory to organize your toiletries.
With this fantasy in mind, you probably don’t picture your bathroom project ending with you sitting in a hospital emergency room, bandages clutched against a deep cut in one hand. In the other, your phone, as you search for installment loans online to cover the unexpected cost of stitches you can’t afford. Stitches aren’t cheap, after all!
As long you get coverage in the waiting room, it’s easy to compare and apply for online installment loans from your phone. Loans by phone are a convenient option in an emergency when you can’t handle the cost of an unexpected medical expense.
But no matter how convenient online loans might be, getting one because you hurt yourself doing something ill-advised with power tools is frustrating and embarrassing. It’s better for your health and finances if you never have to go to the hospital in the first place.
Here’s how you can do it yourself without injuring yourself.
1. Be Prepared
Before you start any task, research it! Understanding the steps involved with a renovation can help you learn the skills and acquire the tools you need to complete the job.
The Internet is a great resource for inspiration but be cautious of using Insta-renovators as your only source of information. You can’t always trust the poster on YouTube is a skilled and experienced handyperson, and influencers can obscure the truth. Always double-check that the ideas you see online are practical by going to the library and reading DIY books. If you still aren’t sure, you can usually run your ideas by someone at your local hardware store for a second opinion.
2. Don’t Rush
Accidents happen when you rush through things, as you don’t give yourself the time to focus on the task at hand. Don’t start jobs unless you have ample time in your day to handle them. And remember, most tasks take longer than you anticipate, so always give yourself a buffer.
3. Wear the Appropriate PPE
Accidents happen even when you’re organized and attentive. That’s why the pros wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). Safety goggles, steeled-toe boots, thick pants, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves are just some of the safety equipment you should consider wearing.
4. Work with a Buddy
Some small tasks are a cinch for a single DIY-er, but you should ask a friend or loved one for help with larger tasks. Having a second pair of hands will save time and frustration, but more importantly, your reno buddy can save your life when they spot you on a ladder.
5. Know Your Limits
Be realistic with your skills, equipment, and time constraints. There’s no shame in admitting a project is well beyond your skill level. In fact, it can save your life.
DIYers without professional training and experience should avoid complicated tasks, especially if they involve plumbing or electrical systems. Instead, call the professionals. These licensed and experienced specialists can do these complex jobs faster, better, and safer than you.
The Takeaway:
Don’t be scared to pick up your hammer or turn on the bandsaw; just be prepared. Planning ahead can help you renovate your home and stay safe.
