Taking on home repairs and projects yourself can save a lot of money, and there’s a real satisfaction in fixing things with your own hands. But you need to make sure you’re doing it right – certain mistakes could be expensive or dangerous. Below are a few common DIY blunders that you should try to avoid (and what to do instead).
Mistake #1: Working on live wires
Tackling any electrical work without first switching off the power is a bad idea. Even changing a light fixture can go very wrong if the circuit is live. Make sure you’ve switched off the correct breaker at the panel and use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off. You also need to be very careful when drilling or nailing into walls, as accidentally disturbing live wires can commonly lead to electrical shocks .
Mistake #2: Duct taping leaky pipes
While you can use duct tape to temporarily patch up leaky pipes, it shouldn’t be used as a permanent fix. It typically won’t hold forever and any corrosion to the pipe will continue beneath the tape. Calling out an emergency plumber to replace the pipe is recommended – especially with major leaks. For minor leaks where there is no corrosion epoxy putty can be used.
Mistake #3: Overtightening plumbing connections
Another common plumbing mistake is overtightening plumbing connections. Tighter is not always better – it’s often possible to crack components and cause leaks by doing this. After hand-tightening, you may only need to use a wrench for a small additional turn in many cases. Calling out a plumber can help you avoid such damage if you’re not sure of how tight to go.
Mistake #4: Painting over unprepared walls
Slapping paint over dirty, glossy or flaking surfaces leads to peeling, streaks and an uneven finish. Before painting, always clean walls to remove grease, dust and smoke residue. Scrape and sand peeling areas to make them smooth, and consider using a primer when painting over dark colours or stains. Adopting these prep habits will help to make a budget paint job last much longer.
Mistake #5: Applying the wrong sealant on cracks
Not all sealants and caulks are the same. Using the wrong product could lead to mildew or cracks returning. Check labels to determine what a sealant is designed for – with interior trim and gaps around baseboards, you should consider a paintable latex caulk, while silicone caulk is better suited for wet areas like bathrooms. Materials that need to stay flexible will need their own sealant.
Mistake #6: Climbing a tall ladder alone
The dangers of this mistake are obvious, and yet many DIYers risk it anyway. It only takes a small wobble or overreach to cause a nasty fall. Get someone to help hold the ladder and pass tools – especially if you’re working outdoors or on an unstable surface.
Mistake #7: Using dull tools
Dull blades and drill bits force you to push harder and can increase the risk of slipping. This has been the cause of many DIY injuries. Regularly sharpen and replace saw blades, drill bits and utility knife blades. A good tool should do all the work for you – if you’re straining, it usually means something is wrong.
