DIY is also a terrific way to reuse things and create things that are unique to you. It’s also an opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint. DIY helps you save a tonne of cash but also do your bit for the environment.

It may not come naturally to everyone to pick up a drill, put up a shelf, or repair, sand and paint a window frame. But it sure is quicker and definitely cheaper than waiting for someone to come and do it for you. 

Get tooled up for DIY

Not having what you need to start a project is a barrier to us all. If you are undertaking a job that needs larger tools there are a few options to think about.

• Borrowing the tools from someone you know
• Renting the tools you need
• Think about buying the tools second hand
• Only buy new tools if you really need to

Team Rumage would always go for second hand or rental first if borrowing it not an option. There are some great places you can rent from. Mainstream Brands like HHS Hire or Travis Perkins are an option, but you can rent from individuals as well.

Make money from rental.

If you do plum for buying new or second hand you can use them to top up your income by renting them out at RentMy. Research by RentMy shows it’s eco-friendly to rent. The more we rent, the less carbon is produced from manufacturing and shipping.

What to watch out for when buying second hand power tools;

1. It’s best to stick to good quality brands. If the build quality is better they will last you longer.
2. Look for tools not older than 2 years, especially if it’s cordless, requesting a serial number is a good idea which you can look up and get a manufacturing date.
3. Ask if anything has been replaced or repaired, if so is it with brand replacements or cheaper equivalents?
4. Look for signs of overheating around air vents and steer clear if it smells “hot”.
5. If buying online you can request to see a facetime video of it working and a view of the plug, you are looking for original plugs and that all the safety guards fit. 
6. It needs to look clean, dust free and well maintained, if it looks too loved then it probably has been.

Here are some common DIY tools we found on Rumage…

Black and Decker Sander

Wallpaper Steamer

Makita Drill

Get the DIY help you need.

That does not mean you have to get someone in. We can learn how to fix just about anything, without leaving home (unless you need some bits and bobs for the job) and there are videos out there to guide you through ‘How to’ do just about anything. Here are some practical ones and some a little out there!

• Remove an air blockage in a Nespresso machine
• How to fix a tap   
• How to put up a shelf   
• How to strip and prep a wall   
• Finish a floor without sanding

Break the job down.

If it breaks down into parts, aim to complete one part in one sitting. Then you can see progress and clear up if you need to, before starting the second part. It’s good for morale to complete something.

If you can find a friend to help then all the better; either for holding, measuring, making the tea or just plain laughing if you end up stepping in the paint tray! When you are done you can enjoy the warm glow of success!