The pandemic has brought more time and opportunity for some homeowners to learn new skills and take on DIY projects. And, besides, DIY projects are much more affordable in some cases. Plus, it’s fun and improves confidence. Hence we see more people buying materials for home improvement projects more often these days.
However, not every issue in your house can be easily solved with DIY solutions. Unfortunately for some home improvement concerns, DIY solutions could make the problem worse, causing further damage to your home.
So, when should one do the projects themselves, and when to call for professional help? If you’re unsure, here’s a list of home improvement projects you will need to leave in the hands of professionals instead.
Brick or Block Laying
Brick or block laying may look easy as we see many service providers look like they’re just playing. However, this job is actually far from easy. You need a lot of experience to set the bricks out, get your levels, tooth in, and more to ensure your project’s quality.
You also need some knowledge about how you can do it right, especially because of the fact that it is there for everyone to see. Thus, it needs to be done properly. So, before you start your project, make sure to hire a seasoned worker instead.
Carpentry
Carpentry actually covers a lot of areas of work. Thus, there are projects that you can do yourself, such as building a simple wall shelf and revamping your front door.
However, there are also tasks that require professional help. This includes installing a kitchen, window frame, stairs, as well as building a gazebo or pergola, to name a few.
These major home improvement projects are best left in the hands of professionals as they require seamless quality. Of course, these projects also need high-quality results to not compromise your safety.
Roofing
Many homeowners like to do the roof cleaning themselves too. However, seasoned roofers from Stay Off The Roof say it’s better to leave the job to a professional. This is because aside from the possibility of causing further damage to your roof, you could also get injured if you get up there without proper gear.
Yes, doing the maintenance by yourself can save you some money. But, in the long run, you’re better off by leaving it in the hands of pros as they can spot any damage right away and prevent it from worsening. Additionally, they have the right equipment that will prevent accidents from happening.
Landscaping
Landscaping also seems like an easy job that you can do yourself, especially with the help of countless design inspirations from the internet. The tasks also seem a lot easier when you’re physically able to do all the lifting and digging here and there.
But, just like with roofing projects, it would be much more ideal if you’ll seek professional help, especially if you’re dealing with a bigger space. Hiring a landscaper may appear pricey, but they can get the job done faster. Plus, they know which layout will work best for your space to achieve the right aesthetic balance.
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning your home is also best left in the hands of cleaning specialists. Yes, cleaning seems like a basic task. However, not all of us always have the time and energy to do it the right way.
But, if you were to hire professional cleaners, you can get the job done in no time and use that extra time of yours to relax instead. Hiring cleaners will also save you money from purchasing pricey pieces of equipment and other cleaning solutions as they will already come to your doorstep well-prepared.
Electrical Jobs
Unlike other home improvement projects, it’s highly recommended that you call an expert for any projects in your home that involve electrical circuits.
This is because electrical jobs have high risks. If you don’t have prior knowledge in the field, your faulty connections or appliances could end up fried – that is, if you’re lucky, though. If you’re not, any error could result in worse cases, such as fires and electrical shocks. This is why strict codes are in place on where and how electrical outlets, switches, etc. should be installed.
Plumbing
Some plumbing works can be easily fixed by yourself. With guides online, you’ll be fine with unplugging your drain or fixing your leaky faucet. However, major plumbing works shouldn’t be DIYed.
Larger projects like water heaters and sewage tank installations should not be done by anyone without prior knowledge in the field. This is to prevent damages that can be expensive to repair.
However, even simple DIY plumbing projects can also end up wrong. This could result in leaks, flooding, or worse issues that could also cost you a lot of money. If you want to play it safe, hire a plumbing specialist even for simple projects.
Major Structural Changes
Repainting your home and small carpentry works can be done with DIY guides. However, if you’re planning to go for a major structural change, such as knocking out walls, you should call for an expert’s help. This way, your home’s safety is ensured and the necessary permits are prepared.
This is also for your safety during the renovation. Contractors have the right equipment to do the job.
Pest Control
We often see tips on how you can control pests such as cockroaches, ants, rodents, etc. in your home. Sometimes, a quick spray of insecticide on insects can do the job and keep insects away. However, in severe cases, a mere insecticide isn’t enough to do the job.
If your home is infested with pests, it’s best to call a pest control specialist. With their help, the problem source can be solved faster without compromising your health with the chemicals that they use.
DIY projects have become a trend this year, especially due to months of quarantine. While learning a new skill is great, let’s not forget that some projects are best left in the hands of those who are experienced in the field to prevent costly damages.
