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Planning a successful DIY project

Friday 31st Mar, 2023

With the coming of Spring, lots of us will have the urge to tackle those Do-it-Yourself projects that we’ve been thinking about through the long winter months.

Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned D-i-Y hand, it can be hugely satisfying to enjoy the results of your handiwork.  Often it can be a great way to save some money as well.

Always keen to help our members to make the most of their money, we’ve put together some top tips to help you to make a success of your Do-it-Yourself project:

 

Set an overall budget for your project

• Think how much you can afford
• You don’t want to overstretch yourself – your enjoyment will be short lived if you end up with huge bills that you didn’t expect
• Cost the whole project out, so there are no surprises
• Shop around – look on the internet to get an idea of how much things cost
• If it all seems too expensive, see if you could tackle your project in stages
• Could a Credit Union Loan help you by spreading the cost over a reasonable period?

 

Buy some decent tools

• It’s a mistake to go for the cheapest you can find
• If you are new to DIY, use simple equipment that does the job without complication
• And don’t dig out granddad’s century old tool kit! The tools may be sturdy and look good but they may be worn and not as sharp and effective as a new set.

 

Learn how to use your tools and equipment

• Follow the instructions – they contain sound advice on safety and good practice
• There are handy online tutorials that show you what to do
• Stores like B&Q have help available both for novices and the more experienced

 

Make a plan of the job

• Survey the DIY site and think of everything that will need doing
• Do you need to move a light switch or socket?
• Are there any pipes or cables in a wall that you’re going to alter?
• Where will you put the furniture and belongings while the room is out of use?
• Where will you do your sawing, planing etc?
• Write down your plan of action – step by step – together with an estimate of how long it will take

 

Buy everything you need before you start

• Get all you need at once, otherwise you may find it difficult to match it up, for example wallpaper.

 

Don’t rush it!

With some careful planning you’ll have the best chance of making your project a success with an outcome that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

 

If you'd like to spread the cost of your DIY project(s), why not take a look at our Home Improvement Loan, or Green Loan? With competitive rates and repayments tailored to suit your budget, you can't go wrong!

Home Improvement Loan

Green Loan

 

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