DIY Tips Every Beginner Should Know

 

Become a home improvement whiz with these handy DIY tips for beginners from B&M. No DIY job is too difficult thanks to these great tips and step by step walkthroughs. Read on to learn how to:

• Invest in the Right Tools
• Search Online for DIY Tips
• Be Aware of Your Limitations
• Keep Your Surroundings in Mind 

Home improvement tasks can be daunting for a DIY beginner, and it’s tempting to call in a professional even for simple DIY projects. While you should take care when approaching challenges, don’t be afraid to try out more straightforward tasks yourself.

By following the DIY tips below, you’ll be able to improve your experience gradually and build the confidence to take on more complex DIY jobs. This will save you money in the long run and leave you with a great sense of achievement.

Here, you’ll find a simple guide to attempting almost any DIY task.

Invest in the Right Tools

Before you head to the DIY store, make sure you know exactly what you’ll need to get started. 

Tools that serve multiple purposes are often best, including adjustable spanners, wrenches and multitools.

The hand tools you’ll need include a hand saw and hammer, crosshead and flathead screwdrivers, a crowbar, a utility knife and pliers.

Your collection of power tools should include a cordless drill, impact driver, jigsaw, sander and nail gun.

You’ll also need a tape measure and ladders or a step stool. 

B&M Top Tip: Be sure to pick the right materials for the job. For example, wood requires specialist wood paint and sometimes primer too, while walls and ceilings require emulsion.

Search Online for DIY Tips

You’ll find great tips and step by step videos online for absolutely free. Pay attention and compare information from multiple sources for best results.

Take sponsored videos with a pinch of salt, as they usually exist to sell a particular product rather than showing you the most effective method.

B&M Top Tip: Carefully follow all the instructions in detail - including the recommended safety equipment needed.

Be Aware of Your Limitations

If a job seems too complex - or if you have a physical condition such as a bad back that could be exacerbated - don’t feel you have to take the risk yourself.

DIY specialists exist for a reason, so give them a call if it’s within your budget. Otherwise, look for a simpler solution that suits your requirements.

B&M Top Tip: Don’t attempt heavy or difficult jobs alone. Instead, work with a friend - ideally one who has some experience!

Keep Your Surroundings in Mind

Messy or dusty jobs like painting or sanding should be undertaken outside to prevent damaging furniture, fittings, walls and floors. If that’s not possible, protect everything you can with dust sheets and painter’s tape.

You need to know the locations of cables and pipes when drilling into walls  - and, if removing a wall, you need to check whether it’s load-bearing. With matters of this kind, it may be best to call in a professional.

B&M Top Tip: Analyse the risks involved before you start. For example, spray painting can be particularly messy if not done carefully, and glitter and gems get absolutely everywhere if you don’t handle them properly!

These DIY tips for beginners should help you to feel confident taking on your first home improvement project. You’ll find plenty of affordable tools and materials with which to equip yourself in B&M’s DIY section.

Are you a DIY whiz? Share your favourite hacks with the B&M Community via Twitter, Facebook or Instagram!