Homeowners rely on DIY methods to save money, do their own work and get the job done quickly. But it’s important to consider whether a DIY approach is appropriate and safe.
Most homeowners have some experience with diy projects, but there’s a wide range of skills and capabilities among people who choose to do a project on their own. Some homeowners prefer to hire professionals for larger remodeling or design projects. Others like to take on smaller diy tasks, such as painting a room or replacing cabinet hardware.
There’s no shortage of diy home improvement ideas and step-by-step instructions for these projects. Pinterest, HGTV and other decor and remodel blogs and websites are filled with ideas for decorating and remodeling projects that can be easily completed without hiring a contractor. The internet also has tutorial videos for many DIY projects, making it easy for even novices to learn the necessary skills.
DIY projects can be great fun and a way to add a personal touch to a room. But they can also be very expensive if you make mistakes. A simple mistake can turn into a bigger problem, such as accidentally ripping up plaster when removing an old towel bar. Alternatively, you may not have the right tools or supplies for the task at hand. In addition to the expense of additional materials, it can be time consuming to go back and redo your work.
In some cases, it may be cheaper to hire a professional instead of trying to do the project yourself. But the decision should be based on an honest assessment of one’s own skill level and how much time to spend on the project. It’s important to avoid doing any work that isn’t within a person’s abilities.
When it comes to diy home improvement, a little bit of caution can help keep everyone happy and the project successful. For example, homeowners should think twice about directing exhaust fans and furnaces to an attic or garage, as this can promote wood rot or mold problems, according to Family Handyman. Similarly, if a home has improperly sealed vents at the roofline, air can escape into the house and trap toxins, dirt and moisture.
While smart sellers will double down on inspections and disclose any diy work to prospective buyers, some DIYers are overconfident in their own abilities. In fact, four in 10 homeowners in a recent NerdWallet survey confessed to botching a DIY home project. And that can cost them thousands, particularly if the botch is a structural issue that requires a permit or a major renovation. NerdWallet advises consumers to carefully weigh the pros and cons of going the do-it-yourself route before tackling any major home improvement project. It’s also a good idea to check your home insurance and homeowner’s policies to ensure you have the protections you need in case something goes wrong. This is especially important for older homes or those with complex plumbing and electrical systems.