Chris Ashmore, Sales Director for Barratt Mercia, said, “DIY disasters can be a thing of the past when you buy with us because a new home is exactly that - new - so there’s no need to embark on any kind of home improvement.
“All our properties are built ready to move into and depending on the build stage you can even choose your preferred finishes such as tiles and floor coverings. We paint the walls in a neutral colour and the homes are fully fitted with bathroom suites and most kitchen appliances. Better still all new build homes come with a 10 year NHBC guarantee for added peace of mind.
“So we’re calling for homeowners to put down their tool box and use the bank holiday weekend to take a look around one of our developments and see how you could swap DIY for DNA – Doing Nothing at All!.”
But if doing it yourself is still appealing Barratt has some advice on how to stay safe when embarking on DIY projects in the home.
Chris Ashmore continues, “Despite the advantages of living in a new home we all like to make our mark and DIY is somewhat of a national obsession, with many homeowners treating it as more of a hobby than a chore. So to avoid an unnecessary disasters follow our simple advice.”
Plan every project in advance, too often people rush into jobs that they can’t complete or loose interest in.
Always read instructions and warnings on products before opening even if you think you know how to use them.
Never wear loose clothing and be sure to remove jewellery before hand. Don’t forget to tie long hair back and put on sensible footwear.
Remember the ‘out one, four up rule’ when using a ladder, i.e. match every single measure from the wall with four vertical measures to get the safest angle. And don’t forget to check the latch is closed when using a stepladder.
Don’t cut corners. For example always turn the electricity off at the mains before beginning an electrical job and don’t adjust electric tools while they’re still plugged in.
Make sure your tools are clean and well-maintained, loose heads or handles will definitely spell disaster. Either buy a new one or get it fixed professionally.
Keep children and pets well out of the way, for their own safety as well as yours. The last thing you need is distractions.
Beware not to overload a socket with lots of plugs and adapters.
Don’t over estimate your capabilities, for instance gas and electric work should really be left to the experts.
Finally always tell people what you’re planning, especially if you’re home alone and keep a fully stocked first aid kit to hand just in case!
Chris Ashmore concluded, “Common sense will go a long way but if in doubt at all, speak to a professional, it’s much less embarrassing to ask than explain your resulting injury to the paramedic!
“But if you’d rather avoid potential injury then join our amnesty and spend your DIY-free bank holiday looking around one of our fantastic new developments.
“We’re currently offering a great range of moving incentives including part exchange, where you can literally trade in your DIY demanding dwelling for a pristine property. Come and speak to our experienced sales negotiator to find out more.”
Barratt Mercia is building a wide selection of brand new, DIY-free homes at its Shropshire development.
Ellesmere Grange
Ellesmere Road
Shrewsbury
SY1 2EN
Tel: 01743 364318
Ellesmere Grange currently offers two-bedroom apartments from £123,500 and three-bedroom homes, with prices from £189,950. The sales office is open daily, 11am to 6pm.
Alternatively, call the sales hotline on 01676 525 410 or log on to www.barratthomes.co.uk.