05/11/2026
Blog Post # 1
May 11, 2026
Topic: DIY TIPS
Hi everyone and welcome to my new blog! I will be posting monthly and talking about all things Home Improvement related. Have a request? Email your ideas to [email protected]
Here we go! Tips for your DIY Projects
• All projects need to start with a scope of work and before you can develop a complete scope, you need to measure the space and do a scaled drawing using ¼” scale graph paper. This will help with space planning and make sure that what you want to do will work. Drawings are also needed if you will be applying for a permit.
• As you are putting your scope of work together, I find it helpful to think the project through step by step and build the scope by first in and then go in order. For example, if doing a complete kitchen renovation, I always schedule the plumber to come in and do the disconnects first, then demo. Putting it all in order helps with scheduling.
• After you have your scope of work complete, you will need to estimate the cost associated with each item. If you are using sub-contractors, such as plumbers or electricians, send your scope of work, drawings and photos of the space to them via email, in order to get a firm price.
• Big Box stores will let you build a list of needed materials and save the list as a job quote; you can even forward your list to others. It’s a good idea to have your partner who will be helping with the project check over the items and quantities.
• Order all materials and have them on hand before beginning. Some things (like plumbing fixtures, tile or windows) may be special order with lead times of 2-6 weeks or more.
• Schedule your project, allowing enough time for each activity, and don’t schedule more than one activity at a time. Having multiple things going on at once is a recipe for disaster! Schedule the work from start to finish, and don’t start until you know what the end date is! A full kitchen or bathroom renovation will take 4-6 weeks!
• Have a dumpster or dump trailer on site for construction debris. Big Box stores offer a heavy duty bag that will be picked up by Waste Management, called Bagster for smaller projects.
• Have a dedicated area for tools and materials to be stored, close to the work area (like in the dining room, if you are doing the kitchen) and cover the floor in this area with heavy duty paper such as Ram Board (available at Big Box Stores) or painters’ canvas.
• Clean up at the end of each day! I like paper lawn and leaf bags available at Big Box stores, because they stand up making it easier to fill them, and they decompose in the land fill.
• Recycle metal, cardboard and plastic items.
• Donate reusable items! The Re-Store and the DAV will even pick up your big items like cabinets.
Good luck with your projects! Stephanie
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