If you’ve grown bored of seeing the same four walls over the last 18 months you are not alone. And with a sense of normality slowly returning, you can finally complete some home upgrades. Without fear of changing circumstances. Before you do, though, it’s vital that you equip yourself with the right action plan.
There are plenty of potential pitfalls that you could fall into. Avoid them with the following questions and your project will deliver far better results.
What is the main purpose?
If your home upgrade doesn’t have a sense of direction, it’ll be very difficult to unlock the desired outcome. If you want to make a room look bigger, increasing the natural lighting may be your answer. If you’re hoping to create a relaxed sitting room vibe, you’ll be looking at a furniture store to see what items can make that happen.
Similarly, if you want to transform a garage or spare room into something else, your plans must focus solely on that aim.
When the results leave your family smiling, that is truly the only thing that matters.
DIY or call a pro?
The times, costs, and quality of work must all be considered before starting a project. And the question as to whether you should take the DIY route or call an expert is a rough one. It will be determined by your skill level and personal circumstances.
Completing a job for yourself can deliver an extra layer of satisfaction, but you mustn’t run the risk of causing damage. As a rule of thumb, most cosmetic jobs like painting can be done by you. If you have the patience.
However, anything that impacts the structural elements should be left to a pro.
Are there more pressing jobs at hand?
As soon as the prospect of a home upgrade enters your mind, you’ll dream about the big luxury purchases. However, adding a swimming pool or creating a home cinema should probably wait if other jobs are required.
Adding thicker windows, home security, or a new boiler should take priority. Likewise, if you’re struggling to sleep at night, new blinds and a better mattress may be required. The right upgrades will add far more value to your life.
Your list of projects will probably never end. Doing them in the right order is vital.
Will it be easy to maintain the results?
It’s one thing to create a better home design, but it counts for very little if the results aren’t maintained. It is one of the reasons why a growing number of people opt for artificial lawns in the garden.
Meanwhile, adopting minimalist interior designs and utilising other low-maintenance will serve you well. Crucially, you’ll want to focus on upgrades that make rooms easier to clean. When the home looks tidy, it will be healthier and happier for all the family.
The fact you’ll encounter less damage should promote increased longevity too.
When a successful task is followed by sustained results, it will signal a job well done.
Welcome to Pikalily, an award-winning food, travel and lifestyle blog. We are Nial and Helen, a happily married couple from Northern Ireland, who share a passion for food and travel among many things. We became parents to our beautiful boy Lewis in 2017. Follow our adventures through the blog.
