DIY or Hire a Pro for Home Improvement Projects?
Home improvement projects can range from simple tasks such as painting walls to complex ones such as installing a new roof. Some homeowners choose to tackle these projects themselves, while others prefer hiring professionals.
Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a professional depends on several factors, including your skill level, budget, personal preferences, and the specific requirements of the tasks. If you want the benefits of home improvement with convenience, work with a professional. On the other hand, if you enjoy working on home improvement projects, then DIY might be the way to go.
How To Know Which Way to Go?
As home inspectors, we've seen outstanding quality on home improvement projects. Unfortunately, we've also seen home improvement disasters. In our experience, it works best to do the job right. Otherwise, you'll need to make repairs before you sell. You can also cause costly damage to your home for poor completion of projects.
We recommend hiring a professional for certain circumstances.
Major or technical projects
Unskilled homeowners
A high risk of injury or damage
Costly repairs or upgrades
For example, installing a new roof is costly, requires skill, and has a high risk of injury. For a roof replacement, work with a trusted professional.
On the other hand, painting a bathroom is inexpensive, requires little skill, and usually doesn't involve much risk of injury. Painting a small bathroom is a perfect DIY task.
Questions to Consider Before You DIY
Is the Project Safe?
Consider the risk of injury to yourself or your family. Is there any chance that the project will result in structural damage to your home? Does the project require climbing ladders or scaffolding? Do you have adequate insurance coverage?
Electrical work can cause immediate injury from electric shock if you don't have the proper knowledge, equipment, and skill. Installing a gas line can lead to poisoning the people in your home if not correctly sealed.
Are There Any Special Requirements?
Some projects are more challenging than others. Also, many home improvement projects require a permit and building inspection. You don't want to pay to fix mistakes and waste money in the long run.
For example, building a home addition requires inspections at different construction process steps. If you don't understand the requirements, it's best to work with a professional.
What Are Your Skills?
Do you know how to use tools safely? Do you have basic carpentry skills? Have you ever installed plumbing pipes or electrical wiring? Can you read the blueprints?
If you're unsure about your skills, consider getting training or hiring a professional. You don't want to install your new replacement windows incorrectly and cause damage to your home or new windows. You also don't want to cause water damage to your home because you installed plumbing incorrectly.
What are Home Improvement Projects that are Easy to DIY?
Doing home improvement projects save money and build your skill. Don't be scared to try easier and less risky projects. You can improve your home and your confidence!
Painting
Replacing faucets
Basic landscaping and yardwork
Upgrading cabinet hardware
Installing smart home features, like a doorbell camera or thermostat
Changing the HVAC air filter
Replacing light fixtures
These are only a few DIY ideas. Home improvement can be fun and help you create your dream home on a budget.
Invest in Your Home
At Kenco Home Inspections, we see the value in home improvement. Before you DIY, consider whether hiring a professional is the best option. Otherwise, roll up your sleeves and tackle those easy-to-do projects.
Contact Kenco Home Inspections to schedule an inspection for your Southeast Florida home.