Spring is the perfect time to tackle DIY projects, but experts warn there’s one crucial mistake that can ruin your renovation before you even start
Spring is one of the best times to spruce up your home, freshen things up and even kick off any DIY projects. Home renovation and DIY experts agree, but before you dive in, it’s crucial not to rush in and botch tasks before they’ve even begun.
DailyExpress.co.uk recently had a chat with DIY enthusiast and Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh, along with Wickes experts, at the launch of her new paint collaboration with Wickes, to discuss all aspects of home renovation. When talking about the most common mistakes people make when embarking on a new project, they seemed to be in agreement.
It’s so common, everyone will make it at least once. It all boils down to preparation, or rather, the absence of it. Eager DIY novices can get too carried away when initiating home renovations, reports the Express.
The key, according to Kimberley and the experts, is to take your time before plunging into a new task. They concurred that it’s all about the preparation, which Kimberley credits to her husband, Justin.
She confessed to DailyExpress.co.uk: “As much as it pains me to say it, my husband’s right about prep, you have to do it. It kills you a little bit, because you want to just see the end product, but it’s so worth doing the prep then the painting is the easy part.”
The singer admitted that there have been instances when she hasn’t taken the time to carry out the vital preparation steps, like sanding, priming walls. It’s overlooked tasks like these that can shorten the lifespan of your renovation and decorating efforts.
Kimberley reflected on the experience of redecorating her house 15 years after she first bought and renovated it, recalling some embarrassing moments. She shared: “So when I first decorated my house 15 years ago, I was able and capable, but I didn’t have the experience that I know now.
“So now when I go around painting, I’m like ‘oh my god, did I do that? I didn’t paint that properly, that’s why it didn’t last.’ It’s actually quite funny, because I’m blaming somebody, but that somebody’s me.”
Lewis Janes, Head of Decorating & Storage at Wickes, reiterated Kimberley’s advice on preparation. Lewis said: “One of the most common mistakes people make when renovating or doing DIY is underestimating preparation – skipping steps like cleaning surfaces, sanding, or measuring accurately can affect the final result.
“To avoid this, make a checklist before you start and tackle each prep task carefully to ensure a smooth, professional finish.”
Kimberley’s new interior paint colour, Soft Honey, and new garden paint, Pale Clover, are now available to by at Wickes. Find the Kimberley Walsh by Wickes collection here.
