Resolutions for home renovators

No doubt the new year will feature renewed resolve by homeowners hell-bent on improving rooms they had no time (or inclination) to redo in 2004.

But like the more traditional resolutions to lose weight, acquire a new hobby or read more books, the best of home improvement intentions can fall by the wayside in a hurry for all the wrong reasons.

So here's a list of resolutions -- with caveats -- for the do-it-yourselfer at heart:

Plan, plan, plan. Surprises at any point in a project are not a good thing. Know what you want to do, how it should look, what it will cost, and how to handle special situations that are sure to arise such as pipes you didn't think were behind a wall you want to remove. You cannot plan or anticipate or ask "what ifs" enough.

Make sure your spouse is on board. Webster's ought to define home projects as "strife and stress caused by multiple sources." Among the causes: One spouse is all enthused about a project while the other is in the dark about why and how and when. Remember, you both have to live under the same roof. Communication is a critical project skill.

Ask for help. Plowing ahead blindly ruins untold thousands of home projects each year. There are professionals and skilled amateurs who know more than you do. Many stores and shops are only too glad to share knowledge. And best of all, much advice is free. There's no need to go it alone.

Get the skills you need. It's fun to try home projects that stretch your abilities. But the elation is short-lived when you realize you're in over your head. Experiment on scrap pieces with paint, wood working or tile cutting. Tool and equipment makers offer tips on use of their products. Home stores offer weekend "how to" seminars. Most important of all -- if a portion of the project is beyond your capabilities, there's no shame in hiring out work.

Create a budget. You get no bang for your bucks if you don't know what you'll spend on materials, labor and sundry other expenses. Computer spreadsheets will help. Comparison shop for materials before you start so your project won't stall once the checkbook runs dry. Use materials you can afford.

Create a materials list. Account for every gallon of paint, board or bolt of wallpaper. Shop and compare. Go online. You'll be amazed how many trips to the store you'll save. Know how much you'll need of a certain product and at what point it is needed in the project. If you delay special orders for some materials, your project may grind to a halt.

Be realistic. Before you go forward, take a step back. What are you really, really capable of creating? If you want a third bedroom but have only the means and abilities to repaint a room, paint to your heart's content. Projects started then abruptly stopped are frustrating. It may cost more to have professionals rectify your mistakes than hiring them in the first place.

Buy the right tools. You wouldn't use a hand saw to cut crown molding, so make sure you arm yourself with the right tools. Tell tool store managers what you hope to accomplish. They'll recommend the proper equipment. Many professional-grade tools are now in the lower price range of even occasional do-it-yourselfers.

Measure twice, cut once. Take your time to do the job right. If products come with instructions, read the manual. Don't wing it. Materials are expensive, so don't dig into your wallet for extra items because of mistakes made on the first batch.

Get the proper permits and licenses. If your project involves extensive wiring, plumbing, wood framing or extends beyond the foundation of your house, call your municipal building inspection department for their advice and suggestions. It's easier to ask ahead than to re-work or tear down your handiwork.

Be safe. Gloves, work boots and protective eyewear are a must. So is complete knowledge of your tools. Don't use dangerous solvents or potentially lethal chemicals or inhalants inside the house. Be respectful, too, when disposing of remnants of your construction activity.