LIVE YOUR DREAM Be a Smart Homeowner

Have the right tools. Ensure you have the right tools for the job at hand. It pays to invest in a handyman’s toolkit.

Don’t panic. Stay calm and relaxed when making repairs. Rash actions can turn a small problem into a disaster.

Act quickly. Take care of problems as soon as you notice them. Don’t, for example, ignore a leaking roof; it could damage your furniture and floors, and therefore, cost you more.

Work methodically. Be orderly. Follow instructions. Measure twice, cut once. When you take something apart, set the pieces neatly at a safe place. Label them if you don’t think you will remember where they came from.

Don’t make assumptions. Some of the most frustrating and dangerous do-it-yourself experiences happen when you assume things. For example, don’t assume the power is off before you replace a light fixture. Don’t assume a lock is a certain size; measure before you go to the hardware shop or take the sample with you.

Pay attention. You can never tell what piece of information might be important, so as you work, notice details. Are the electrical outlets you are replacing two pronged or three pronged? How big were the screws?

Be safe. Some tasks are dangerous, and things like electricity and chainsaws can kill or maim you.

Many nuisances around the home can be solved with patience, research, and elbow grease; don’t be intimidated by replacing a light fixture, but be willing to call in a specialist for dangerous or complicated projects.