Advice from Julie Sussman and Stephanie Glakas-Tenet, authors of Dare to Repair: A Do-It-Herself Guide to Fixing (Almost) Anything in the Home (HarperResource, $10.50, www.amazon.com)

First read the instructions from beginning to end and make sure you have all the tools, materials, and know-how you need. This is critical; otherwise you may realize halfway through the process — like when you’ve taken apart your toilet and turned off the plumbing — that you didn’t purchase a necessary part or can’t interpret some of the instructions. Often manuals take basic steps for granted. If you’re a beginner, you may leave out those steps and find yourself in trouble. And don’t assume that the instructions are right — many mistakes just keep getting passed on. It’s always good to check other sources, such as a home-repair book. The manufacturer’s customer-service line may be able to fax you more detailed instructions or walk you through the repair over the phone. Check its website too.