DIY is becoming a popular past time amongst many UK homeowners as a way of taking care of those home improvement jobs that pop up around a property. It can save money and is also very satisfying to sit back once completed and enjoy the fruit of your own labour for years to come. However, if not planned properly it could end in disaster. Here are a few tips to help create a DIY design success…
Knowledge is power – To achieve the perfect design you need to arm yourself with enough knowledge to ensure the end result is one that you are proud of and want to show off. The only way to gain this knowledge in by researching into various techniques, be it paint styles, feature walls, floor finishes or window treatments. Fill your head with lots of inspirational ideas which you can source online, from Home Decor Magazines or from watching your favourite interior show on TV. From here you can make an informed design decision on the look that you want for your home.
Know yourself – Think about how you are as a person and how you live your life then try to fit your interior to your character and that of your family. For example, if you have a brood of mini tornados tearing around your home causing havoc and mess in their wake then opting for a light carpet might not be the best choice. Laminate floor or floorboards would probably be more suited. Similarly if your trying to create a tranquil and calming environment where you can relax and read a good book then Plantation Shutters could present the perfect solution as the slats can be positioned in such a way to control the amount of natural light that enters the room.
Don’t skimp on materials – When you’re tackling a DIY project, it can be tempting to try to minimise cost – but that old saying “you get what you pay for” holds true when it comes to the tools and supplies you’ll be working with. So if you are going to tackle a DIY project it is worth investing in quality tools and materials. Selecting a window treatment specialist or reputable flooring supplier to purchase your materials will ensure you’re getting a premium product manufactured to the highest standards.
Know when to call in the professionals – This should be your first concern before you tackle that “simple” project on your own. What seems like an easy fix could leave you scratching your head. In general, we would suggest structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, roofing and replacing windows are tasks best left to the pros. Of course, only you know what you’re comfortable with and if one of the enhancements you want to undertake is a window treatment such as Plantation Shutters then we are always on hand to help guide you on the best option for the room in question and can help install them for you should you feel their installation is beyond your DIY capability.