DIY home remodels and construction projects might seem a little intimidating at first, but with some easy DIY tips and tricks from the pros, you can be a DIY hero. From staying on top of your remodeling budget to making sure your surfaces are protected, Ram Board is here to help.
Tips for a Successful DIY Project
You might be sitting there wondering “Where do I start when renovating a house?” Or maybe you’re building a space for those tools you have on your wishlist. Whether you’re starting bathroom renovations, remodeling the kitchen, or building a shed, here are some great tips for making your project successful:
1. Make a plan (and a budget)
The first step is to sit down and figure out the size of the project, what materials you’ll need and any costs that go along with them.
Rent tools – Will you be renting tools from your local hardware store, like a tile saw or paint sprayer for home renovation projects or a nail gun for that man shed of your dreams? If so, make a plan for when you’ll need them during your project. Often, tools are rented at an hourly, daily and weekly rate, so plan accordingly.
Supplies – An estimated cost of raw materials should be tallied up before you start your project. You may end up buying too much or too little, but if you can estimate the cost ahead of time, you won’t be in for any nasty surprises.
Permitting costs – Research what permits you’ll need for your project and what costs are associated. Which brings us to our next tip…
2. Pull your permits
If you’ve hired a contractor in the past, they’ve pulled the permits needed before starting the work. You may be tempted to do a DIY project without a permit. Short answer: don’t. It might be a headache to apply for permits and have your work inspected, but it saves you even more headaches in the long run.
Permits make sure the project is done to code. You may think installing more electrical outlets in your garage is a breeze, but you might be on the line financially if an inspector finds the work when you’re trying to sell. Protect the time and money you put into a project by pulling all the necessary permits.
3. Keep the dust contained
Furniture and carpet can hold a lot of dust, and it isn’t always easy to clean. Prepping your space during DIY home remodels with plastic sheeting, drop cloths, dust containment enclosures and Ram Board can make clean up easier.
While we’re on the subject of dust, be sure to wear a mask. For jobs that require sawing, cutting, drilling or grinding, tiny dust particles can be dangerous. Wearing a proper face mask during these jobs keeps you safe.
4. Keep things organized
Nothing worse than getting an early start on your DIY project and realizing you didn’t put your tools back the night before. You’re searching for the one tool you need, and it is nowhere to be found. Where did that 10mm socket run off to this time?
Now you’re headed to the hardware store to buy a replacement, just so you can get to work. Do yourself a favor by keeping your workspace organized and putting your supplies away every time.
5. Protect your surfaces
Last, but definitely not least, protect your surfaces. Here at Ram Board, we know just how important this step is.
Accidents can happen during indoor DIY construction projects. The paint can tips or you drop your hammer, and suddenly you’re searching the internet for DIY tips to fix your floor. Here are a few products we suggest for jobsite protection:
Ram Board® – Our flagship product is tough enough for any job. Engineered with Vapor Cure and Spill Guard technologies, it provides temporary surface protection like no other. It rolls out fast and is reusable and recyclable.
Ram Board Home Edition® – Home Edition is lighter than our original roll, but it still offers the same great benefits. It’s breathable and water resistant and is perfect for DIYers looking to protect their hardwood floors, tile, linoleum, concrete, laminate countertops, or carpets.
Ram Jamb® – Ram Jamb is a door jamb protector that is easy to install and protects your doors from scratches, dings and dents during construction or renovation. Just pop Ram Jamb over the door jamb and slide into place.
Make Your DIY Project a Winner
DIY home improvement can seem like a big undertaking, but by following a few simple tips, you are on your way to a successful project.
And if you’re looking for more jobsite protection, check out Ram Board’s full line of temporary surface protection products.