The Top 5 Mistakes DIY Builders Make - and How to Avoid Them. Build smarter, not harder - especially the first time around.

shelterkit4
4 days ago
3 min read

There’s something incredibly satisfying about building your own home or outbuilding. Whether it’s a cozy cabin, a backyard guesthouse, or your forever dream home, DIY building puts you in the driver’s seat.

But let’s be real - it also comes with a learning curve.

Over the years, we’ve worked with hundreds of first-time builders, and we’ve seen the same few mistakes pop up again and again. The good news? Every one of them is avoidable, and we’re here to help you do just that.

Let’s dive in:

1. Underestimating the Time Needed for Permitting

Permitting can feel like a mysterious (and slightly intimidating) process, especially if this is your first time tackling a building project. Some folks wait until the last minute to apply, only to realize there are inspections, surveys, zoning requirements, or even architectural approvals that take weeks — or longer.

Avoid it: As soon as you know you’re serious about a project, call your local building department. We’ll provide you with the kit specs and documentation they’ll need to approve your build. Don’t wait - your future self will thank you.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size or Layout for Future Use

We’ve all heard the phrase “measure twice, cut once.” But when it comes to home planning, we’d add: “Visualize twice, design once.” One of the biggest regrets DIYers share? Not leaving enough room for storage, guests, or evolving needs.

Avoid it: We’ll walk through your goals, lifestyle, and long-term vision, and help you choose a Shelter-Kit that grows with you. You can even customize the layout or upgrade components based on what you know you’ll need.

3. Not Prepping the Site Properly

Leveling the ground, pouring a proper foundation, and ensuring drainage might not be the most glamorous part of the project, but it’s foundational for a reason. Cutting corners here can lead to structural issues, delays, or extra expenses down the line.

Avoid it: We’ll give you site prep guidance tailored to your chosen design. And if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, this is one area where hiring a local pro is a wise investment.

4. Trying to Do Everything Alone

DIY doesn’t have to mean “solo mission.” Many builders assume they have to go it alone, only to end up burned out or overwhelmed.

Avoid it: Our kits are designed for people without building experience, but having a few extra hands makes the process faster (and a lot more fun). Grab a friend, a family member, or that neighbor who owes you a favor and will work for pizza, and we’ll provide the instructions that make it all manageable.

5. Buying a Cheap Kit and Getting Stuck with a Cheap Result

We’ve heard the stories, someone orders a “kit” online, and it shows up as a stack of mismatched, low-grade lumber and zero guidance. It ends up being way more work, far less sturdy, and nowhere near code-compliant.

Avoid it: Shelter-Kits are the real deal. Precut, precisely labeled, and designed for DIY builders, our kits are built to meet(sometimes exceed) code, withstand tough weather, and actually last. You won’t just build a structure, you’ll build something you’re proud of.

Build With Confidence - Not Guesswork

DIY building should feel empowering, not exhausting. With Shelter-Kit, you get: