Interior Design

Occasionally all of us get tempted to opt for a DIY home improvement project, rather than hiring an expert. This does save money. However, there can be some potential safety threats.

The article enlists eight home improvement projects than can be a safety threat if a pro is not hired.

Unsafe DIY Project # 1: Installing an overhead electric fixture (like a chandelier or a ceiling fan)

This type of DIY home improvement projects has made to the list of the unsafe DIY projects for two reasons. First, both of these projects involve electrical wiring, which can be a potential safety hazard if a person knows little about it. Second, the overhead fixtures require special attention while installing because no one can afford the ‘fall’ of any overhead fixture.

Unsafe DIY Project # 2: Repairing the main switch or wiring of an electrical appliance

This project too involves electrical works. So, this should also be better left to the pros. If the project is not taken up properly, it can be detrimental to the electrical appliance/device. In addition, it can be a potential safety hazard if the wiring of the appliance burns. The situation can get even worse if the appliance blows up.

Unsafe DIY Project # 3: Gas pipe extensions and/or multiplication

The gas pipe extension or multiplication seems to be a very simple project. However, it is regarded as an unsafe DIY project because it may lead to gas leakages. The gas leakages are dangerous to the extent that they can kill people if gone unchecked.

Unsafe DIY Projects # 4: Installing a roof window

The nature lovers usually love the roof windows. So they can easily be lured to install them by themselves. However, if they are not experienced enough, the roof may develop cracks, which can lead to water seepage, leakage, and overall building weakness.

Unsafe DIY Projects # 5: Handling huge glass or mirrors without help

My husband hurt himself while trying to handle a 4 square feet piece of glass! Actually many a time the glass or the mirror edges are not blunt. When they are not properly carried, they can pierce right through the skin. Do not handle huge pieces of mirrors or glass alone even when they have blunt edges. In case it breaks, the tiny (or not so tiny) glass pieces can cause severe bruises.

Unsafe DIY Projects # 6: Cutting a tree

It is safe to cut the branches of a tree using an electric saw after a little practice. However, do not try to cut the tree without hiring a pro. Many people make wrong estimates regarding the direction of the fall of the tree. The tree, if fallen in a wrong direction, can damage your or neighbor’s property or may also injure someone.

Unsafe DIY Projects # 7: Any project involving heights (when you are afraid of heights)

Never underestimate a project even with a little height (say 6 to 8 feet) when you are afraid of heights. Pruning of trees or cleaning the gutters is never regarded safe for people who are afraid of heights.

Unsafe DIY Projects # 8: Any project involving chemicals

Many a time there are seemingly easy projects that just require a chemical spray (for example termite protection etc.). However, usually very strong chemicals are used for these projects.Some people think that the ordinary gloves and masks will do fine without knowing that the pros have heavy duty work gloves and masks (and of course better tools). Without proper protection and techniques, there is a chance that someone might inhale the chemicals. It is also not safe if any part of the skin is exposed to those chemicals.

So, hire a pro; be safe.