Top 8 Commercial DIY tips – From Maintenance experts AM Planned Maintenance.

At AM Planned Maintenance, we know that keeping professional spaces such as shops, pharmacies, restaurants and pubs in good condition takes constant work. That is our business, after all. But we also understand that not every minor issue needs a professional call-out. Sometimes, a little targeted DIY can solve the problem quickly and save you time and money.

Here are our top 5 tips for tackling small maintenance jobs yourself:

1️. Use the right tool for the right job.
It sounds simple, but it makes all the difference. Having the correct tool not only makes the job easier and quicker, it also helps you achieve a safer and more professional finish. Even something as simple as using the wrong size spanner or screwdriver can result in chewed up/rounded fasteners, loose connections and headache. This is why our workmen arrive with a van full of tools, ready to take on any building maintenance jobs they are faced with – and even then, we often find ourselves heading off to screwfix to pick up a specialist tool or item.

2️. Create a DIY “Go-Bag”.
Keep a small toolkit on site with basics like screwdrivers, a hammer, tape measure, spare lightbulbs, sealant, and a utility knife. Having everything in one place means you can respond quickly to small issues before they become big problems. As with doing DIY in the home; you may end up spending half the time you set aside looking for a misplaced spirit level, and no the spirit level app on your phone is not a suitable replacement (trust us we know from experience).

3. Protect yourself.

Whilst it may not be the sexiest or most stylish, safety gear is essential when doing DIY, especially if attempting it yourself or asking a member of staff to do so outside of their usual duties. We recommend eye protection and suitable gloves as a minimum.

4. Set aside proper time.
DIY cannot always be squeezed in between customers or during a busy service. Make sure you have a quiet window in the day, or someone available to cover you, so you can focus and complete the task properly. I remember working in a bar and trying to find time to clear a blockage in one of the beer pumps, between serving customers – what should have been a 20-minute simple fix (if I had cover) became a 2-hour ordeal with irate customers and a still blocked pump as a result.

5. Measure twice, cut once.
Planning is everything and there is no undo button in real life. We have lost count of the times we have arrived at a job and found that an enterprising manager has had a go and made things worse. Before cutting, painting, or drilling, double-check your measurements and think through the finished result. Taking a little extra time upfront prevents costly mistakes later.

6. A lick of paint goes along way.

Looks are important. Often, the most battered or tired-looking item can be given a whole new lease of life with just a fresh coat of paint. A scuffed door, a scratched counter, or shelving that has seen better days may not need to be replaced at all. Instead, a little sanding, priming and painting can transform it into something that looks almost brand new. The key is to take your time with the preparation: clean the surface properly, smooth out any rough edges, and use the right type of paint for the material. Not only will this improve the appearance of your space, but it can also save you money and extend the life of your fixtures and fittings.

7. Keep track of your fasteners.

In DIY, every part has a purpose. If you take out six screws from a fixture, you need to put six screws back in. Here is a simple hack to make things easier; sketch a quick diagram of the item you are working on onto a piece of scrap cardboard. Each time you remove a screw, bolt, or fitting, push it through the matching spot on the drawing. This way, you keep all the parts in one place and have a clear guide to remind you exactly where everything goes when it is time to put it back together. This hack has saved me from loosing bolts, screws and other bits countless times

8. Know your limits.
DIY is great for the little jobs, but some issues require a professional. Electrical faults, major leaks, roofing problems or anything that could impact safety should always be left to qualified engineers. That is when and an expert Reactive Maintenance company offering professional property maintenance services can really make a difference.

At AM Planned Maintenance, we are here to support businesses of all sizes with both Reactive Maintenance and long-term property maintenance services. Whether it is a quick repair, ongoing upkeep, or an unexpected emergency, our engineers are only ever a call away. Taking care of buildings is what we do best, so you can focus on running your business with confidence