by Vincent Jones

Created on: February 06, 2009   Last Updated: April 04, 2010

One of the leading causes today of divorce are DIY home improvement TV programs. Well, that may be a tad overstated, but as a remodeling professional on a number of occasions I have been called in to "fix" a husbands DIY project by a wife who has lost her sense of humor. The husband began the project thinking "how hard can it be?" only to discover later how hard it is. Couple this with the fascination tools hold for most men and well, you can insert your own Tim Allen Home Improvement joke here.

When tackling a DIY project heed the words of Dirty Harry "A man needs to know his limitations." Consider the following check list before tackling a project on your own:

1) Do you really have the skills to pull it off? It takes years of labor and learning by doing to become a professional craftsman. Consider your skill level realistically.

2) Do you really have the right tools for the project? Professionals have spent years building their tool collection, often possessing tools they have modified for specific applications.

3) Most importantly do you have the time to complete the project. Many a homeowner has sold themselves on the idea when tackling a big job that they will work on it weekends and nights after work. You will burn out if you try this. You work hard at your job, probably much more than "40" hours a week. Everyone needs downtime which isn't possible when your home is in the midst of a remodel you are doing yourself. Soon you will find your job suffering because you are not only tired but distracted thinking about what has to be done tonight at your second "job."

So what type of projects should a "weekend" contractor tackle? Having a basic collection of tools and limited time you can:

1) Interior Paint: Nothing freshens a room like a coat of paint. Tackle one room at a time and use drop cloths.

2) Exterior Paint: Go slow here. Make sure you patch, prep and prime before applying a fresh coat. Lay out the house in sections. Finish a section before moving on to the next.

3) If you have basic plumbing skills and tools you can replace a kitchen faucet or bathroom vanity, sink and faucet. Do not reuse water supply lines unless they are in very good condition.

4) Replace the vinyl floor in your bathroom.

5) Replace the trim in your bathroom: Towel bars, TP holder and medicine cabinet.

6) Replace a ceiling fan in an existing location.

7) Replace your garage door opener.

8) Replace existing interior/exterior light fixtures. (Remember to turn off the power for all electrical projects)

9) Replace the casing (moulding) around interior doors. Think ahead and do this before painting.

If you have had some experience in construction or remodeling expand your range of projects to encompass that experience, but always be realistic about how much time you can really devote. If you do this you will wrest a great deal of satisfaction from completed projects and, most importantly, you will keep a smile on your spouses face.

Turn to professionals to tackle the big jobs or small ones that require specialized skills or tools. In the end you and your family will be happier and you can focus on what really matters, your family and peace of mind. Be sure to rely on the remodeling and home improvement social network in your area for referrals and guidance. Happy Building!

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