Before you start, check your tools are in good working order. Tidying out the tool box is not such a bad idea. Have a magnet handy to pick up dropped small screws and pins that might be otherwise very difficult to see, especially on a carpeted surface.

If taking measurements is going to be part of the job, keep a small pad of sticky back notes, write the measurement on the note then stick it to the matching section of wood or door frame.

Talking of measurements, if you think a room is square but you are not certain, think back to those good days at school. Rather than measuring along all four walls just measure the two at right angles to each other. Make a note of the figures, then measure from one corner to the other. If, for example, you took measurements of three feet and four feet along the adjacent walls, the diagonal line across the room should measure five feet. If it does not then you will need to mark some points in a square before carrying on.

If you have decided to put up tiling in the kitchen or the bathroom, never tile over wallpaper, always remove the paper first.

One advantage of having shelving systems, storage racks, bookcases and other furniture primarily designed to store items in the loft is that they will easily fit through the entrance to the loft in their flat-pack form. Another benefit of this is that, should you wish to move house in the future and assuming glue has not been used, the furniture can be broken down again and reassembled in your new home.

If the furniture is destined for the living room, bedroom or kitchen, then it is probably best to carry out the assembling of the furniture in your workshop. This is especially important if glue is to be used and accidental staining of the carpet to be avoided.

Take care not to rush the job, careless mistakes from being in too much of a hurry can sometimes lead to damage to part of the units that will be impossible to repair. If glue and dowels are to be used be sure to wear appropriate safety gear such as a face mask. Also make sure the work area is well ventilated. Be sure to take regular breaks from the job, even if it is only for a few minutes to have a cup of coffee or stretch your legs.