Don't paint yourself into a corner... watch out for these common mistakes.

The best part about tackling a DIY project is the satisfaction you get from finishing something you could have paid someone else to do. But beware! Few DIY projects are without their pitfalls—even for the most seasoned do-it-yourselfer.

Here’s a list of common DIY mistakes that can compromise your project, your safety, and your pocketbook.

An inadequate job site
When you jump in the shower, you generally have what you need at arm’s length by the time you turn on the water. Same logic applies to the start of a DIY project.

You want everything you might possibly need (and then some) nearby so you’re not forced to stop your momentum to grab a tool or find your tape measure. Making sure you adequately prepare your job site will cut down on work stoppage, eliminate mistakes, and make for a much safer job site.

Sorry, you’re not qualified
Plumbing, lighting, and door hardware manufacturers have done wonders simplifying the installation of their products. But some projects are still so out of our reach that we might find ourselves struggling to complete the task.

Whether it’s because we think we can do more than we’re capable of, or we want to learn on the spot, it’s common to get over our head trying to do a home improvement project the DIY way. From using the wrong tools, applying inaccurate measurements, or just not having a clue, sometimes we’re just not qualified to tackle certain jobs. Sometimes, it’s just a good idea to hand the torch (or wrench or circular saw) over to a professional.

Under budgeting
Planning for and keeping a home improvement project on budget is hard enough when you’re hiring a professional contractor. When taking on a project by yourself, it can be even tougher.

DIY’ers are notorious for underestimating how much they’ll spend on a project. Some studies show that homeowners NOT in the construction or building industries can underestimate the cost of a remodel by as much as 40 percent. Even though you might not think you need to at the time, plan and budget for unexpected expenses while you’re mapping out your DIY project. If you don’t spend that extra money, great! And if you do, you’ve already budgeted for it.

Not taking out required permits
Certain projects at home require that you obtain a permit from the city or county. It might not seem like a big deal at the time, but things can quickly spiral out of control if you don’t.

Whenever an agency needs to get involved (whether it’s acquiring a permit or doing a home inspection), always take them up on it. You might spend a little more up front (or it might be free), but any extra cost can easily be dwarfed by additional costs and/or fines you might amass if you don’t do things the right way.

Buying the wrong materials and tools
You’ve planned your project and mapped out the materials and tools you need. So, do you maybe spend a little more on the right tools and materials or do you cut corners and go for the cheap stuff? How many times have you heard, “You get what you pay for?” Oh, if only we had a nickel…

Whether you’re updating your tool arsenal and materials or buying them for the first time, don’t skimp by purchasing cheap. Using inadequate tools could not only lead to a job that’s done poorly, but it’s also an easy way to injure yourself (and possibly others). And emergency room visits can get pricey.

Flying solo
Some DIY tasks are designed for one person. Easy lifting, using basic hand tools, and doing things within your ability scope are all valid reasons to go solo. But when heavy lifting is involved, it’s a good idea to have someone right alongside you to help.

Don’t try to be a superhero and do the job all by your lonesome if you have any doubt. Injuring yourself or breaking something you’re installing is a huge price to pay for not checking your ego in at the door. Projects like installing a chandelier, toilet, or a kitchen or bathroom sink are all projects that usually require a helping hand. It’s times like this when flying solo can be a big no-no.

Painting problems
This is arguably the one DIY project that most Average Joes and Janes are capable of doing. And even though it seems perfect feasible, there are still some missteps that can happen along the way—but they’re easily avoidable.

Failing to prepare whatever it is you’re painting or selecting the wrong paint are both common (and preventable) mistakes. When you’re choosing your paint, talk to a professional so you can be assured you get just what you need to do the job right from start to finish the first time.

Not planning for the unexpected
Nobody likes to wait. It’s just in our culture that we like things to be done and done NOW! But some pieces of a home improvement puzzle are completely out of our control. And it’s a good idea to plan a little of the unknown into any project.

From the smallest little project to the grandest, most elaborate job, the unexpected could arise. No one ever plans to run out of materials when they’re in the middle of a project. And, really, who wants a blizzard to delay the shipment of a product? Try to be patient, budget some glitch time into your plans, and, if you can, move along in your project while you’re waiting for that delay to get resolved.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!

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