If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have a list of home improvement projects you’d like to get done, but the question is whether to tackle them yourself or hire a professional to get them done. While a project may seem easy on the surface, there may be things you can’t see that can complicate it or expertise required to do the job properly, so DIY is not always the best route to go. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether to do it yourself and likely save some money or hire a professional and know it’s done properly.
Time Required
While DIY projects on the surface may seem like a cheaper alternative, one thing that people don’t factor in is the time needed to accomplish it. You may not charge yourself an hourly rate like a pro, but your time is just as valuable. Is using time that could be otherwise spent with family or doing something you enjoy worth it? You also need to factor in the time your home and life may be disrupted by home improvement projects. For example, tiling a bathroom may take a professional a few days to a week, but with other commitments, you may only be able to work on it on weekends and therefore have to stretch it out over several weeks. Is having a bathroom you can’t use for an extended period of time going to work for you and your family? When looking at a home improvement project, consider the time you have available, how long a project will take, if doing it yourself is worth taking up precious time in your schedule, and if you are OK with the inconvenience that may arise with extended projects.
Material Costs
Before tackling a project on your own, create a detailed plan that includes all materials needed and price everything out. Just as the pros do, you will want to factor in overages to ensure you don’t run out of materials midway through the project. And, because amateurs typically use more materials than a professional, you will want to factor in about 10% more than a pro. So, for example, if a professional is using 20% as their overage, you should do 30% to be safe. Once you have your DIY cost, compare it to the cost of a professional, either by getting a bid or through online research.
Equipment Needed
As part of your detailed plan, list all equipment you may need to accomplish it, and go through your tools to determine if you have everything or if you may need to buy or rent additional items. Factor the cost of any equipment you don’t have and will need to buy or rent into your cost analysis. You may find that adding equipment costs may not make DIY as cheap as expected. Even simple projects like painting can become more expensive if you don’t already have brushes, tape, drop clothes, and other basic tools needed.
Permits
Some bigger projects, such as finishing a basement, require a permit, and with permits come inspections. If you are not well-versed in the work you are doing and the requirements of the city or other jurisdiction that oversees such items, you could run into issues passing inspections. This will not only delay your project, but it can add unexpected expenses for items that you weren’t aware you needed or items that need to be redone to meet codes and pass inspections. Generally, anything requiring a permit is best done by a professional that has the expertise and knowledge to get the best results and ensure the project is done in a timely and efficient manner.
Expertise Needed
Speaking of expertise, there is a reason that general contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other such trades are required to go through formal training, pass tests, and maintain licenses. Structural engineering and home systems can be complex, and even the smallest mistake can compromise the structural integrity of your home or damage one of the systems in it. If you don’t have the proper experience or expertise, it is better to leave these things to the professionals that do. That quick DIY project that causes structural issues or damages one of the main systems of your home could cost thousands of dollars to repair or replace it, not to mention the inconvenience of it being broken and the stress created by the situation.
Safety
Depending on the scope of the project and the size of the project, safety is a factor to consider. Some projects just aren’t safe for a homeowner to do, either due to lack of expertise or the sheer size of the project. If there is a chance a project could harm you, a professional really is the only option. You also want to consider the overall environment for your family. If a project is being done over an extended period of time, is that a safe environment for you and your family to be in? Are there hazards that will be created by tools and materials left out or unfinished projects?
Quality
It’s a simple fact that a professional with years of experience and hundreds of projects under their belt are going to deliver a higher quality finish than a DIYer can achieve. If you are OK with “good enough,” then DIY is an option. However, if you are a perfectionist that will be bugged by not-quite-perfect finishes or your goal is to add value to your home for resale, a professional is a better option. Studies show that homeowners consistently recoup their investment or more on professional improvements.
Good DIY Projects
So which projects may be good options for DIY? Painting, basic drywalling, trim work, basic tiling, installing flooring, hardware installation or changes, landscaping, and other similar projects are great for DIYers. If a project involves a home system, involves removing walls, or is more complex in nature, it’s best to hire a professional.
Looking for your dream home? Liberty Homes has been building new homes in Utah for nearly 30 years. We take pride in our trade, crafting each home as if it were our own. Our quality, affordable homes are energy smart and thoughtfully personalized for your active Utah lifestyle. We currently have townhomes available in Salt Lake County, single-family homes in Heber City, and 55-plus single-family homes in West Jordan. Contact us today to find your dream home.
Want home decorating and maintenance tips, craft ideas, recipes, and more delivered right to your inbox?
Sign up for our monthly newsletter:
