Even in these leaner times, it is vital to maintain the upkeep of your home. And while you're about it, you can make changes to add value to your property too.

However the old adage that a job worth doing, is worth doing well, is never so important as when doing up a home.

With many people currently counting the pennies, DIY is increasing in popularity, but with this come reports from FMB builders that they are being called in to finish or re-do DIY projects which have overrun the available time, become too complicated or gone badly wrong. Sadly, this type of damage control often costs far more than hiring a professional from the outset. Unfinished projects can be dangerous and reduce the value of your home.

Careless DIY also brings with it the chance of injury - more than 200,000 people are injured every year whilst carrying out DIY activities to upgrade or maintain their property, according to the FMB. It's also worth checking your home insurance for accidental damage cover before you embark on any home improvement.

Do remember that professional tradespeople spend many months at college learning individual skills, so don't underestimate a home improvement job.

No Way!
Gas and electrics should always be left to the experts, as should plumbing. Whether it is installing underfloor heating, moving light sockets or mending a leaking loo, it is vital and - in the case of gas and electricity - the law that you involve a professional.

In terms of value, extensions and loft conversions add the most value to your home but neither of these should be undertaken as DIY projects. New kitchens and bathrooms are next on the 'adding value' list, and although complete rooms should not be undertaken as DIY projects, easier DIY repairs include replacing mouldy sealant around a bath or cabinet doors to spruce up a tired room.



Best Left Alone?
Unless you know what you are doing, undertaking most building jobs yourself is likely to be a false economy.

Conservatories:
DIY stores sell DIY conservatories and lean-tos, but don't be fooled. They always take far longer and are more complicated than you first imagine. Talk to a reputable local builder to compare project costs before considering these.

Flooring:
Choose the flooring yourself and you can even do the preparation too, but if you want an even, level and neat floor surface, get a professional in!

If You're Really Determined
If you are determined to DIY, then painting and external maintenance might be the best place to start.

Wallpapering and painting:
Keen DIYers with time and patience can take on wallpapering and painting, but the key to success is preparation, having the correct tools and knowing what you are doing.

• Make sure you have allocated sufficient time and resources. It is unrealistic to expect that you can look after 3 children and wallpaper the hall in a weekend.
• Not quick and dirty, be slow and methodical! Don't cut corners - do all the preparation well, such as thorough cleaning and sanding of surfaces and apply the correct number of coats of paint.
• Finish the job properly. Bodged wall papering, painting or unfinished tiling just looks a mess, so if in any doubt about your abilities, get a professional in.

Outdoors: Simple demolition of a fence or wall, tree pruning and external maintenance may all be DIY jobs, but make sure you hire a skip for debris and do not touch anything which is linked to gas, electricity or water supplies.

If in any doubt, contact a local builder. Find reputable, local tradespeople at www.fmb.org.uk/findabuilder.