It’s not a crime to renovate or remodel a certain space of your house with your own hands, especially if you want to save up on hiring a professional to do it for you.
But while you may want to spruce up the place to match your desired aesthetics that you envisioned, it is a rather risky endeavor to undertake especially if you don’t have any background or experience in construction, contracting or carpeting. And by risky, we mean that there are more chances of you coming out of this injured than unscathed.
But you don’t have to be a professional contractor in order to give your space the facelift it deserves, not as long as you follow the home renovation safety tips that we have listed below just for your convenience:
1. Do Your Research First
DIY projects can range anywhere from painting a single wall, to something more elaborate like making a new patio. But if you’ve been soloing it for a while now, then you might be able to pull it off in the end. However, each project requires a different set of skills as well as knowledge. That’s why we suggest taking the time to do some research before getting started.
Do some research on the project online, consult a remodeling book for some guidance, or talk to the staff at your local hardware store.
2. Go Through The Instructions
Another primary objective that you must undertake for renovation safety is by going through the instructions. It may feel like you’re part of a boring science lecture in an elementary school, but this is how you’ll be able to avoid potential accidents and injuries before you start renovating.
Of course, online tutorials are also a thing, but instructions are also essential when it comes to installing, putting together or using dangerous or heavy equipment.
Don’t think that just because your home improving instincts are kicking in, doesn’t mean you’re too good for spending a couple of minutes looking through the instructions from the manufacturing team.
3. Be Cautious Of Your Work Area
If you’re going to start working in the space that needs renovating, you must take heed of the little details that could lead to potential accidents. These details come in the form of hazards that are lying around in your work area that can cause a person to slip, trip or fall. Ensure there are no electrical wires (the naked ones especially) lying around or even silica dust or grinding particles.
Learn more about the dangers of silica dust exposure.
Even after you’re done, you should put away all of your tools and supplies so that they don’t end up becoming a tripping hazard for you. If there are children in your house, make sure the toolbox is completely out of their reach and is securely locked away.
4. Inspect Your Tools
Ensure that every tool you have for the job is in perfect working order. A power tool like a power saw or even a wood router that hasn’t been properly maintained or inspected for any damages could lead to possible accidents. That’s why you have to ensure that all the tools are working well before using them. Even if there’s a small issue with any of your tools, it’s not worth the risk to use them.
5. Get A First Aid Kit
Sharp objects, heavy materials, and power tools are the perfect ingredients for a major catastrophe if you’re not careful. And that’s why we have first aid kits in case we make a mistake with our tools.
Even if you have the most proficient construction skills and have barely injured yourself, there’s nothing that a couple of disinfectants, burn ointment, bandages and a gauze wouldn’t fix when that spotless injury-less record finally shatters.
6. Don’t Forget The Safety Gear
Like having to go through a powerful blizzard oh, you have to have the right gear for home improvement safety. Even if you were a seasoned DIY-er, you should know better than to leave yourself exposed to shards, dust, or any other type of debris that may fly around and get inside your nose, your eyes or your mouth or fall on your head.
Please ensure that you have the following items before you pick up the hammer:
- Eyeglasses
- Special gloves with reinforced palms
- A dust mask
- A hard hat
- Earplugs or earmuffs
- Flame-resistant coveralls
- Electrical tape
- A safety rope and a harness for any roof work
- Closed-toe, non-slip shoes
7. Ensure Proper Ventilation
If you’re painting indoors, you have to have proper ventilation in your house. Keep doors and windows open or use a fan to reduce irritation that comes from the paint’s chemical fumes. Commercial paint products contain volatile organic compounds (VOC) which are emitted as gases. These gases can cause dizziness, lung irritation and headaches in a relatively quick fashion.
8. Mind Your Limits
No one is doubting your determination or your skills, but sometimes you need to mind your limitations and call in the professionals. Yes, you may have wanted to go it on your own to reduce cost, but if you’re not used to it, the unpredictability factor could end up costing you even more.