Trying to save money - DIY sinks, taps etc

Daisyinthedesert · Sep 12, 2014 2:03 pm

Hey everyone - I want/need to save money - before I go to pre-start next week, for instance I want to put in my own vessel above counter sinks which are only $110.00 at Bunnings but $500.00 odd via my builder - will most builders let you do that/is it difficult to do yourself/have you done this yourself etc. Also, I adore a particular kitchen tap from Ikea that there is no equivalent to via my builder and it's a good price too, so could i ask the builder to just connect everything but leave the taps off and instal it later? Any advice, comments welcome!

Daisy

PanRaptor · Sep 12, 2014 2:22 pm

The builder doesn't give you a huge credit for removing the tap ware. The reality is, it costs them next to nothing to buy the taps in bulk, so when they remove it from the contract, it's disappointing to say the least.

My advice would be to stick with the standard range and replace it down the track. Taps are easy enough to install with a basic level of handyman competence.

The sinks are another matter. I would be hesitant to install these. I'm not sure what kind you are after, so I can't say for certain what is involved. All I know is that some 'money saving' exercises can be very costly! My father is a plumber and he has plenty of horror stories of DIY jobs gone wrong!

At the end of the day, you have to be be honest about what you are capable of doing and make a judgement call. Good luck!

archetto · Sep 12, 2014 5:16 pm

A problem with the bunnings sinks etc is that the builder won't warrant them, so it could end up being a costing mistake just to save a few dollars, that's if they even let you put it in, in the first place.