You just bought an older home or cottage that needs some fixing-up now and major renovations in the future when time and budget allow. Life would be easy if you had the extra cash to just pay a contractor but you don’t and some friends who have started this “do it yourself” (DIY) thing claim to be saving lots of money and having fun doing the work. Maybe you could become a DIY property owner too?
The first step is to start small with an easy project to build some experience and confidence. Renovating the entire bathroom is not starting small, try replacing that unsightly blue toilet first. You need a plan even for replacing a toilet. What kind of toilet do you want, single or dual flush, pressure flush? What height and what colour? Look at the existing toilet and note whether the water hook up is soldered copper with flexible compression fittings and if there is a working shut off valve. Does it look like you have leakage where the toilet seals on the floor? If you are confused and not sure what you are looking at then get your trusty digital camera and take a few shots.
Now take your notes, digital camera and your to the building supply store nearest you and seek out some help from a knowledgeable staff member. If you have selected a good store you will leave in half an hour or so with a new toilet, hardware required to connect it to your supply line and drain, any necessary tools, good advice and a receipt. If this is not your experience then leave the store empty handed and try another one.
Now go home, confidently install that toilet and admire your first successful DIY project. File your receipt in a new envelope labeled “DIY PROJECTS” and congratulate yourself on having now joined the club.
In the Parry Sound, Mactier and Georgian Bay area visit Mactier TIM-BR Mart at www.doidgetimbrmarts.ca for expert advice and a wide selection of building supplies and tools to meet your needs.