Home improvement reality shows and Pinterest can give the impression that DIY home renovations are easy to accomplish, but there’s a lot more to it than just buying tools and supplies. Many projects require specialized knowledge that you may not have, and even minor missteps can cost you a lot more money than hiring a professional.
The DIY movement is more than just a trend; it’s become an integral part of our culture. This inclination towards self-reliance was prompted in large part by wartime rationing, where households had to learn how to do more with less. Then, in the 1960s and 70s, DIY became a countercultural phenomenon that promoted homemade goods over consumer products.
Now, more than ever, the DIY movement is fueled by online tutorials and how-to videos that make it seem possible for just about anyone to perform home repairs and upgrades. This temptation is especially strong for homeowners who are considering a full-home renovation.
Some home improvements are more structural than cosmetic, and they can’t be completed without a significant amount of rewiring or resizing. The cost of these major home repairs can easily exceed the recoup value of the home, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making that decision.
Smaller improvements, such as refinishing hardwood floors or painting over old wall colors, can be more DIY-friendly and don’t require any special knowledge or tools. You can find a lot of information and instructions on how to do these tasks by researching online or looking up local home renovation companies.
A big consideration when it comes to any home renovation is safety. Some projects, like balancing on a ladder or removing and replacing a garage door, are extremely dangerous and should only be done by a professional who knows how to work safely in the home.
Hiring a professional to handle a full renovation can also save you money in a few different ways. First, they have a good understanding of how much a project should cost and will try to stay within your budget. Plus, they may have relationships with suppliers and receive discounts for being regular buyers.
Another way they can save you money is by purchasing materials in bulk or from wholesalers, which can be cheaper than retail prices. Additionally, they might have access to discounted materials through their trade affiliations or through years of experience working on homes in the same area. And, of course, they’ll be able to get any permits or other paperwork that’s required for your project. All of these savings can add up to a significant amount of money. When weighing the pros and cons of diy renovation, it’s important to consider how long you can afford to be out of a room or your entire home while the work is being done. For larger projects, this could mean crashing with family and friends or staying in a hotel for a week or two.