Homes regularly require repairs but the cost of it all puts most homeowners away with most opting for a DIY service than hiring a professional. Choosing between hiring a professional or using DIY is a choice most homeowners are already making; however, without the right information.
With a lot of home improvement videos and video tutorials on the internet, the temptation to fix all home issues has never been stronger. However, before you go ahead to roll up your sleeves for that repair, you should know the differences between them. You should also know which tasks require a professional and which ones you can handle. This somewhat straightforward idea is the difference between a successful repair and one that leads to even more damages.
Benefits of DIY
Doing home repairs yourself comes with many benefits, this is evident as more homeowners take to DIY fixes. More homeowners will utilize DIY repairs especially with more tutorial guides on the internet. Some of the primary benefits of using these fixes yourself are:
- Saving Cost: by far the most obvious reason people use DIY processes. It saves the cost of hiring professional repair personnel. Since, you’re doing the work yourself, you wont need to pay for labor anymore, this figure adds up in the long run.
- Customization: you can explore your creativity when you DIY by customizing each repair to your specifications.
- Fulfillment: the feeling of completing repairs at home is unquantifiable. DIY fixes leaves a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in the homeowner
- Immediate Fix: instead of waiting for a professional which can sometimes take days in peak periods, you can enjoy an immediate fix when you DIY.
When To DIY: Assessing Your Skills
Typically, you can fix regular home repairs like painting a wall, fixing minor leaks and replacing damaged light fixtures without the need for a professional. However, this is highly based on your skills, time, and tools available.
Start by figuring out your skill level. How proficient are you doing DIY? Check the type of projects you’ve completed and their complexity. All these will help you know your level of expertise. If you’ve only completed DIYs like small painting, you may struggle with fixing a broken shelf.
Before you get into any of these, you also need to have the required tools for the project. While there are general tools most regular home fixes require, each issue is different. Some tools a DIYer should have for home repairs should include a power drill, a set of screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, and a wrench. These simple home repairs can be completed without the need for a professional if you have the required tools, expertise, and time. Otherwise, even these basic tasks should be left to the experts.
When To Hire a Professional
You may need to call in a professional for certain home repairs. DIY work may be fun but it is vital to know your limits. Some repairs are better left to the experts because of their complexities, especially as they come with high repercussions if you get it wrong. Here are some tasks you should call a professional:
- Electrical Works: it is always vital to leave every electrical repair to the professionals due to the risk of electrocution and potential fires if you get it wrong.
- Roof Repairs: Climbing the roof can be dangerous so it is better to leave these repairs to trained personnels.
- Structural Repairs: You should call in an expert for repairs on load bearing structures, walls, and pillars as mistakes can lead to collapse. Practicing DIY here without the required skill can endanger the lives of those living in your home.
- HVAC Maintenance: running any form of maintenance on your HVAC system requires certain skill sets that the average homeowner does not possess. The risk of damaging your ventilation or air conditioning systems is high with expensive replacements.
Final Thoughts – DIY Vs Professional Hire
DIY home repairs are perfect for basic tasks like painting a wall and replacing light fixtures.if you have the right tools and experience, you can even handle some more complex tasks like minor drywall repairs and carpentry work. However, it is essential to know your limitations to avoid a higher cost of repairs in the future and jeopardizing the safety of those living in the home.
More complex tasks like roof and electrical repairs and fixes on load bearing structures should be left to the experts. You will save time and money in the long run as the cost of a damaged building or injuries far outweigh the money you’re trying to save on labor. Keep your home in the best possible shape and ensure your safety by knowing the right time to DIY or call in a professional repair service.
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