Don’t DIY: Three Home Improvement Projects Better Left to the Pros

There’s no doubt that home improvement projects are a sure way to boost a home’s aesthetic appeal. While they can be costly, homeowners invest so much time and money into making their homes a place of comfort and satisfaction. One example is the rising popularity of hardwood flooring, such as Mountain Grove Hickory hardwood flooring to add a touch of elegance to any space.

The emergence of home makeover TV shows and YouTube tutorials made many people feel confident to rely on their own skills and knowledge to tackle renovations. DIY projects can help save a lot of money, but the problem is that they could cost you dearly when done the wrong way. In fact, a study shows that failed DIY jobs can potentially decrease the house value.

While most projects are safe and easy to tackle, some are too serious or complicated for an average homeowner to perform. So when faced with these problems, it’s important to leave the job to the professionals. With that in mind, here are some home improvement projects to leave to the pros.

Plumbing jobs

While bathtub drains and clogged sinks are easy to tackle by yourself, any issue worse than these calls for a professional. We’re talking about the larger projects, such as fixing the main pipe, installing water heaters and sewage tanks, and even replacing the toilet or showerhead. These projects require hours of training to execute the most complicated repairs correctly.

If done poorly, plumbing jobs can cause leaks, water damage, and even flooding, which can cost you more expensive repairs. Some can even cause fires or damage to the foundation of the house.

The internet has thousands of resources to help you find a professional plumber online. You can also try Google listing to search local plumbers within your area. You can also request multiple quotes from different websites to hire the right service provider for your plumbing needs.

Electrical issues

Electrical work is one of the most dangerous DIY projects. Most homeowners think that fixing the wiring or updating electrical systems is simply a no-brainer. The truth is, any electrical work is more complicated than you think.

Any DIY repair involving running new cables or working with electric circuits is something you should leave to a professional electrician familiar with safety protocols and risks involved.

The most minor mistakes can result in faulty connections or burning appliances, but the worst scenarios can lead to fires and electrical hazards. According to the National Safety Council, electrical hazards are causing thousands of injuries every year. Thus, electrical councils have established strict codes when it comes to the installation of electrical outlets, switches, and appliances. This is one of the services we offer here at Handyman Connection and would be happy to give you an free estimate.

Damaged roofing

Replacing or repairing a damaged roofing system is a common DIY project that comes with plenty of risks. First, it takes one loose tile or wrong step to have you rolling down the ground. In fact, falls from roofs are among the main cause of construction fatalities.

The roof is one of the key features of the house. It protects everything underneath it, including its occupants. A damaged or deteriorating roof can severely affect the house value, so it’s not surprising why roofing projects are costly.

Some homeowners attempt to patch a roof to save on service costs, but this type of repair also requires specialty and knowledge. Besides safety issues, an incorrectly repaired roof leads to bigger problems, such as mold, water damage, fire hazards, and high utility bills because of loss of insulation.

Structural changes

Any renovation involving structural chances requires the expertise of a licensed professional. Home renovation TV shows have made us think that major home projects are simple to take on. But renovations recorded on TV shows are done by licensed contractors and skilled workers and not an average homeowner.

Many issues can happen when performing structural changes. The idea of tearing down walls can be thrilling, but doing it the wrong way could weaken the foundation of the house and can cause severe damage and safety risks. Even tackling minor building projects or repairs involving gazebos and decks can result in hefty fines. While hiring licensed contractors can be expensive, employing a professional can prevent unforeseen complications and higher costs. Wen can help you pull permits and arrange for a structural engineer if one is needed. Estimates are free.

While fixing the house can be a satisfying experience, remember that one wrong mistake can lead to grave consequences. Even the most minor mistakes will hurt your wallet, your safety, and the integrity of the house. So before beginning any DIY project, always make sure of what you’re getting into.