Old Mate’s DIY Tips

By June Ramli

Sydney, July 3: In an exclusive interview with DailyStraits.com, we spoke with Marco C, a Victorian-based fabricator, bricklayer, and TikTok content creator known as Old Mate.
As an influential voice in the DIY community, Marco shares his insights on tackling simple home improvement projects, the risks of more complex tasks, and how to navigate the process of hiring qualified tradies.
Whether you’re a first-time DIY-er or a seasoned homeowner, Marco’s advice will help you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls in your home improvement journey.

What are some simple DIY projects that homeowners can safely tackle on their own?

When it comes to DIY projects, it’s all about knowing where your limits are and what experience you have.
For first-time DIYers, simple painting jobs or tasks like gardening are reasonably safe as they can be relatively inexpensive. However, these are two of the jobs homeowners say are most likely to go wrong.
If you want a perfect finish, and for the job to be done right the first time, it’s always safer to call in a professional tradie.

What are the risks associated with taking on more complex DIY projects without professional help?

There are a few risks associated with taking on a complex DIY project without the help of a professional.
For example, the quality of work. A first-time DIY-er is unlikely to achieve the same level of work as a qualified tradie who does the job on the daily.
Another example is legal consideration. Jobs like plumbing, electrical work and structural work all require proper licensing and permits. Without this, you run the risk of breaking the law and not complying with local regulations.
And of course, there’s safety. Without the proper gear and not knowing how to use it, could lead to injuries.

How can homeowners research and assess whether a DIY project is within their skill level?

You can look online for price guides, speak with tradies and familiarise yourself with what is involved in a project to determine what you can and can’t do yourself.  
For any major work, learn what restrictions and regulations apply to your local area as this will vary from state to state.

Can you provide tips on what homeowners should look for when hiring a tradie?

The first step is to determine what trade you need by researching the job. And when it comes to hiring one, make sure they are licensed in your state and well-equipped for the task at hand.
Looking at reviews from previous customers is another great way to find a trusted tradie. If they have a hipages profile, all of this information will be on there.

With the current cost of living pressures, is it more economical to try DIY projects yourself? Why or why not?

DIY has its place in helping Aussies build their dream homes, especially considering the cost of living.
However, there is a level of risk involved. For example, the average cost of a DIY repair gone wrong is $500 – that’s on top of the original cost of the job. So it can be more expensive in the long run.
There should be a balance between DIY and engaging tradies for any big project.

What are some common mistakes homeowners make when attempting DIY projects?

According to research from hipages, the most common DIY jobs gone wrong are painting (43 per cent), landscaping and gardening (33 per cent). 
But what’s concerning is that many homeowners are attempting the jobs of specialist trades such as plumbing (26 per cent) and tiling (18 per cent).
This is ultimately the biggest mistake homeowners can make – assuming you can do everything yourself. 

Which home improvement tasks should always be left to professionals, and why?

Absolute no-gos including anything to do with plumbing, electrical, roofing or waterproofing. 
These jobs are not only expensive to fix but can be extremely dangerous for homeowners to attempt. 
Multiple safety elements need to be considered that only a qualified tradie will recognise.

How can homeowners ensure they get a fair price when hiring a tradie?

Homeowners can ensure they get a fair price when hiring a tradie by researching all options on the market. Checking cost guides is an easy way to do this.
However, the best practice is to always get quotes from tradies to help you compare prices.

Are there any warning signs that indicate a tradie may not be trustworthy or qualified?

To ensure a tradie is trusted and qualified, there are several key factors to check. First, make sure they have insurance to protect you in case of accidents or mishaps. Experience is crucial; an experienced tradie will work faster and more competently than someone new to the job. Reputation is also important, so look for proof of quality work through reviews. Additionally, a business licence or ABN can provide details about the tradie’s business operations, including how long they have been in operation.