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Around seven million Brits are living with a never-ending renovation drama, according to research by a home insurance provider. It found that while Brits love to tackle DIY home renovation projects many of us can`t finish the job whether it`s due to time pressures, financial constraints, or a lack of interest or ability.

There are some golden rules that must be followed before tackling any home decorating or renovation project. You should evaluate the job carefully – if it`s too big then seek help from a professional. Most people underestimate the cost of a project by 20-30% so make sure you a contingency just in case. Also remember that certain remodelling projects work better than others. According to a home improvement website, remodelling a kitchen or bathroom usually yields an 80% return on an investment compared to 68% for replacing windows or converting a bedroom into an office.

Don`t change functions of rooms or the layout of a property without good reason – if you`re going to sell then converting a room or changing the layout can limit the options for a buyer and could even place your property in a niche market.

Choose the right supplies

If you`re going to tackle a project you`ll need the right supplies and typically it is well worth investing in quaility, durable products as they will last longer and give a better finish. Whatever your budget, here are some tips:

•    Paint brushes – Buy the best quality brush you can afford and avoid uneven and coarse bristles. Look for those that are densely packed, have longer bristles and return to their original shape when bent. Many manufacturers now produce brushes that don`t shed bristles and it can be well worth paying a little extra for this. Quality synthetic brushes usually give the best results with water-based paints. Think about the handle too – you`ll need something comfortable for extensive jobs.

•    Abrasives – Used to shape or finish a product they are often available as pastes, powders or creams. Choose an abrasive that doesn`t contain any harmful materials and is safe to use around children and pets. Ensure you follow instructions carefully and don`t overuse them as they can cause damage.

•    Paints – Choosing colour is a matter of personal taste and, broadly speaking, you`ll need to choose between oil- and water-based paints with different finishes, such as gloss, satin, eggshell and matt. Oil-based paints have a hard, smooth finish and a relatively slow drying time. When using these you`ll also need to use white spirits or turps to clean your brushes. Water-based paints are typically used on interior walls although some can also be used on interior woodwork and exterior woodwork and walls. They have a quicker drying time, less odour and are more environmentally friendly. Brushes can be washed clean in soap and water.

•    Decorating tools – Don`t pay for expensive tools you`ll only use once, consider renting these items instead. Read the manufacturer`s instructions thoroughly and don`t get anything that is difficult to handle - it`s really best left to a professional.

•    Rollers – If you are using oil-based paints, choose a roller made of natural fibres if possible, likewise use a roller made from synthetic fibres if you`re using water-based paints. Pick a handle that is made of steel and comes with a plastic grip that can be threaded as this will allow you to fit an extension pole for areas that are typically hard to reach, like ceilings or above staircases etc.

•    Dustsheets – A dustsheet performs a straightforward task – protecting furniture, carpets, etc, from paint and damage. Use multiple sheets if needs be, rather than risk damage.

•    Work-wear – Many people simply throw on some old clothes for painting and decorating but for renovating tasks it can make life easier to buy some specific work-wear with large pockets or a tool belt. If you are painting a ceiling using a roller, wear goggles to prevent paint splashes from going in your eyes.

How to stay safe

According to Zurich home insurance, Brits collectively spend £1.5billion a year rectifying DIY mishaps. To avoid making a claim remove all furniture and breakables from a room before beginning awork and use a detector to check for electrical wiring or pipes before hammering or drilling into walls. Read the instructions on tools thoroughly before use and have someone with you at all times to help out if necessary. Turn off the electricity supply if you are doing any work that may increase your risk of shock or electrocution. Also ensure you have suitable home insurance with accidental damage cover just in case.

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