5 Ways to Prepare for Your Spring DIY Projects Now

Over the winter months, you might have noticed parts of your property starting to degrade. Or, you might have big dreams for your backyard that you can’t wait to start working on. When you love DIY projects, it’s hard to wait for the winter to end. But, the recent warm weather serves as a reminder that sunny days are just around the corner. While you might still have a few weeks to wait before you can dig into your project, you can take steps now to prepare for your upcoming springtime renovations.

Start With An Overview of Your Project

Now is a great time to start creating strategies for your spring projects. Whether you’re planning a small update such as hanging string lights or a major landscaping overhaul, getting a plan in place helps you know what arrangements you’ll need to make in a few weeks. This is also a good time to brush up on any skill sets that the project requires. Reviewing how to sand wood or install a water feature gives you a head start on your seasonal updates. Since you’re starting out early, consider putting the plan into writing. You can also draw a general outline of what you plan to accomplish. Bringing your outline with you when you shop for supplies helps you get everything on your list.

Recruit Assistance With Heavy Lifting

If you’re planning a large-scale project, then you might need assistance as you work. For instance, building a shed could involve lifting heavy panels or boxes. Take a moment to review your plans and identify any areas where you might need help. Then, reach out to your family, friends and others who might be able to assist you with doing the work safely. As you work through this process, you might also need to connect with special service providers such as electricians.

Prep Your Truck For Hauling Materials and Tools

Owning a truck makes these kinds of projects easier, and you’ll be able to leave rental vehicles out of your budget. Yet, you’ll also want to consider how your project can impact your truck’s value. If you plan on hauling branches, heavy materials and other supplies for your project, then now is a good time to make sure the bed is up to the task. Choosing a truck bed liner requires thinking about your preferences for the final results, and you’ll be glad you put in the effort to update your vehicle when it’s time to throw heavy tools in the back.

Determine Your Preferred Disposal Method

If you have a solid truck bed liner in place, then you might be able to haul away trash and debris on your own to save on disposal costs. But, you might also prefer to contact your local trash services company to find out if they pick up large objects on specific days for free or if there are any community clean-up days hosted by your HOA that offer this service. If not, then you can also explore dumpster rentals for bigger projects such as tree removals that you know will generate large amounts of debris.

Establish Safety Protocols at the Project Site

After you have the main plan in place, you’ll be ready to finish up by focusing on a few of the easier details. For instance, you might want to pick up some caution tape, cones or other safety warning signs that let people know to stay away from the area while you work. This is especially important if you share the yard with children who might be curious about what is happening during the project. If your plans involve pouring concrete, then erecting barriers can also ensure that no one accidentally walks across the new surface until it is fully dried.

Taking some time now to plan for your spring projects helps you to break through the winter doldrums with thoughts of sunny weather in the future. You’ll also enjoy knowing that you have time to tackle smaller projects that are better to do before you begin the bigger ones. From maintaining your tools to updating your work truck, you’ll be ready to get to work on the first spring day with perfect weather for working outside.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Brumleve Industries