You have bought a home that’s in need of some love – and by love, we mean complete redesign and renovation from floor to ceiling. You were excited when you found the property but now that you are the official owner, you’re feeling a little daunted about the work ahead.
Worry not. After you have set your budget, look at our DIY tips below, to help you transform a fixer upper into a beautiful home.
Consider the Timeline
Before starting, it’s a good idea to sit down and think about how long the project will take. Consider how you will complete the work – for example, will you be doing it at the weekend or after work? And will you be renovating alone? These factors will increase the time it takes to complete the work, so be realistic with your goals.
Create a Blank Canvas
Now it’s time to begin. Firstly, if there are any items in the house, these must be removed. After this you can move onto step two: pulling up outdated carpets and stripping wallpaper. If the walls are in bad condition, they may require further attention. Drywall could be the perfect solution, as it’s quick to install and reduces noise pollution – check specialists like CCF for a range of drywall for different rooms.
One Room at a Time
When the walls and ceilings have been prepped, it can be tempting to go through every room, painting and decorating. However, it might be a better idea to tackle one room at a time. This is because a project can seem overwhelming if little jobs are done in different places. Instead, work on completing an entire room as this will allow you to see your progress, keeping you motivated.
Cut Your Costs
Even though you have established a budget, it’s good to save where you can. This leaves extra funds in case unexpected issues occur, or to add more lavish furnishings at the end. For example, can you sand and varnish the existing floors? Could you salvage any of the tiles? Or can you create a DIY kitchen by painting cupboards and installing new worktops?
Bring in the Experts
While you have decided on a DIY approach – which will reduce spend by cutting labour costs – there will be times you need expert help. For areas like plumbing, electrics and structural issues, always bring in the experts. That way you can make sure everything is finished safely without the risk of dodgy electrics or knocking down a structural wall.
Carrying out a DIY renovation can be tough. However, it can also help to save you money, allowing your budget to stretch further, as well as provide you with a greater sense of satisfaction when the work is complete. Hopefully these tips help you on your DIY journey and reduce your stress levels.
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