Sometimes we need help. I would recommend to consider all the logistics that need to be made. Are there obstacles in the way of transport, can you lift a 100 lb wood dresser you built, or do you have the capacity to hold a 20 lb piece of drywall over your head alone while you screw it into the ceiling?
There are so many considerations that I won’t and cannot name them all here, but will give you a few I recall:
- MDF/Plywood/Drywall are all not light. If you have more than a few to transport without a cart or help; it’s definitely going to take you awhile. Consider getting some help with it. They’re also not easy to handle while cutting on a table saw. Consider getting help or invest in some sawhorses or pedestal rollers that will help to keep them in place while you make your cuts.
- The same goes for small, but heavy items like cement bags, mortar, or even tile and wood flooring boxes, they may seem lightweight but when you have multiple to transport, they too, can be a workout. *Tip: Any time you have more than 10 bags to transport, check that your vehicle can support the weight. A single bag of cement weighs 94 lbs. If you need to transport 10 and your car is a small SUV, very likely you’re going to be putting too much weight on your tires because that’s 1000 lbs. At 94 lbs that’s like transporting a person and I’m sure your vehicle can’t transport the people in your car plus that extra 10 bags (people). Heavy duty trucks and vehicles may be able to support the weight, but check your weight load before you attempt it – your car will thank you.
- Adding upper cabinets? You’ll need to hold them in place or have someone help you to get them adhered to the wall. Someone may be able to do it alone because there are ways to add a 2x4 to the wall to support the cabinet weight while you get it screwed in but do some research for what you feel comfortable doing. Those cabinets can be awkwardly shaped and heavy so don’t just assume you can do it easily.
- If you’re building a built-in or a unit that you’ll need to put in place later; instead consider building it in place. Doorway openings, stairs, hallways or small pathways may be too small to get your finished product through. You are in control and you don’t have to make it more difficult than it needs to be. If you’re able, you can even bring your saws and tools there so that you’re not going back and forth unnecessarily.
- If you’re doing anything on the ceiling or have to work high on a ladder I’d recommend getting someone to help and spot you. Even being really young we assume we can do it alone, but you wouldn’t go to the gym and lift 200 lbs. without a spotter, so why would you do it at home? Ask a friend to just come over while you get it done or bribe her with some wine afterwards to help you out – don’t have her get wasted when you need help. LOL.
1. Is it Structural?
2. Does it require Demolition?
3. Know the Materials
4. Preparing Your Space
5. How Much Will It Cost?
6. How Many People Do You Need?
7. How Much Experience Should You Have?
8. Does the Weather Matter?
9. How Much Time Can I Commit?
10. Should You Delegate?
