Amy Matthews got her first taste of home improvement as a young adult repairing homes for needy families with her church youth group.
Years later, Matthews is still a fix-it queen, but now she uses basic know-how to empower other people to conquer their remodeling fears.
Television viewers know Matthews as the host of “Bathroom Renovations,” and “Stud Finder” on the DIY Network. In her new show, “10 Things You Must Know,” this native Minnesotan details insider tips everyone should know before tackling a home-improvement project.
Q: How do you know when to complete a home-improvement project yourself or hire a professional?
A: Manage your projects between what you have an interest in doing, what you have time to do, and whether you have the tools to do it. Call a pro for the rest. You’ll still save money and enjoy the process because you can take ownership of those parts of the project you completed yourself.
Q: What’s your best insider tip, no matter what kind of home project someone wants to do?
A: I really think planning is the most important thing you can do. You may think that people do it all the time since they have to figure out their budget and choose a design. But more times than not, people just start tearing up stuff. I’ve had people tear up a bathroom and realize later that the sink they wanted is on back order. Now they don’t have a working sink. Inevitably, a chrome faucet with nickel handles will show up and you have to send one or the other back. There is always a little bit of troubleshooting needed for every project, so the more you plan ahead, the easier it will feel.
Q: Do you think viewers watch home-improvement shows to be educated or entertained?
A: Both. The most important thing any show can have is credible information that gets (viewers) excited about doing their own projects. I want people to be able to watch my show while eating popcorn, and then visit the website (DIYnetwork.com) to get details later on.
Staff writer Sheba R. Wheeler can be reached at 303-954-1283 or swheeler@denverpost.com.
