Preparing for a home renovation project? Here are the must-knows

Home renovation as a hobby has had a huge surge in popularity over the past few years.
And while projects can range in difficulty – from adding some coving to a roof, knocking down a wall, or converting a space for open living –  it’s clear that the trend of more and more homeowners getting proactively involved in home improvement isn’t going anywhere.
With that in mind, it is important to ensure that newcomers to the hobby set off on the right track.
We have covered some of the key must-knows to ensure that you are able to plan, stock and execute a great home renovation project.
There are guides for just about everything
In the internet age, you do not have to – and should not – go into a project blind.
DIY is now a huge community, encompassing skilled professionals, highly experienced hobbyists, and even dedicated DIY content creators. There is a huge amount of knowledge, with lots of specific guidance that can be applied to even the niche-est projects.
So, when planning a project, make sure to look up what you’re after and find as much relevant guidance as you can. Know what tools you need, what and how much materials are needed, and don’t forget a rough estimate of how long the project will likely take.
If you are at all unsure of what you should be doing, there are forums that are incredibly helpful and very active, such as /r/DIY where you will be able to troubleshoot and discuss ideas.
You need a strong vision
Building on the previous point, you need a specific idea of what you want and how you are going to achieve it.
Before you lift a single tool, make a solid plan that covers your entire project from beginning to end.
It’s best to work backwards, so make Pinterest your first port of call. Whether it’s shelving or hardwood flooring, there will be some imagery on Pinterest that you can put together to set out a strong vision.
Then it’s off to the guides. Pick two or three, pull all the steps relevant to your project and merge them into a single Google document with steps that can be ticked off.
Now you have a custom step-by-step checklist with detailed instructions – look for “top tips” specific to the steps you have just created by using advice on forums.
Lastly, make an inventory that includes both tools and materials on Google Sheets.
Thanks to the wonders of good old copy and paste, this process may only take an hour or two and will leave you with a more comprehensive step-by-step plan that a lot of professionals will have to hand on a project!
Fast, Good, Cheap – the two that DIYers must pick
It’s good and cheap. Wherever possible, do not do any DIY projects under time pressure.
Really focus on quality and ensure that everything that you’re doing is done correctly. If you see advice on so-called clever ways to cut corners – ignore them!
This is your home, and quality is key. While a professional could find a quicker way to carry out certain home improvement jobs, they will understand what’s needed to ensure safety. As DIYers often only do a project once they don’t have that same experience, so should always do things the ‘right’ way.
The project will be cheaper than bringing in a contractor, as oftentimes their costs factor in materials – so even when buying your own materials, a DIY project is much cheaper. With that being said…
Don’t cheap out on the stock
Never cheap out on the stock for a project. Simply put, cheap tools will break and could even prove dangerous, and cheap materials won’t last. This is especially the case if it’s an exterior project that has to stand up to rain, wind, and snow
Again, materials will likely be factored into contractors’ fees, so you will be making a saving regardless.
If you’re planning to make a hobby of DIY work, it’s worth building a relationship with your local suppliers.
While you might not be able to get trade deals, there are a lot of great builders merchants out there who will go above and beyond for loyal customers.
That could include good deals, helpful advice on stocking up a project, or even ordering in specialist materials if you’re planning a more uncommon project.
Comfort makes a real difference
It may sound silly, but make sure you are comfy while doing DIY work.
There is good reason why just about every tradesperson wears work trousers with kneepads in them.
Make sure that DIY isn’t sore. It can be physically demanding, but it should not hurt – so if anything is hurting, look and see what you can do to change that.
Know when to consult a professional
While DIY is good fun, and while there is a lot that can be done by a skilled DIYer, some jobs require seasoned professionals.
Whether that’s a bit of rewiring or some new tiles on the roof, once things become potentially dangerous, get a professional. Try to get a Trusted Trader and be sure to read reviews that are available online.
Good luck with your 2025 projects!
If you have caught the DIY bug you’ll find that it can quickly become costly and time consuming, but your home will be yours and you will pick up lots of incredibly useful skills.
Good luck with future projects!
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