Home Improvement Q&A
Should I Do It Myself or Should I Leave It to the Pros?
One of the greatest things about being a homeowner is tackling your own home improvement and repair projects. Very few things give you a better feeling than doing for yourself something you’d always imagined you’d have to hire a pro for. YouTube is a fantastic place to find how-to videos and there are books and articles aplenty available on all types of home repairs. However, there are a few repair projects that are probably better left to the pros. We're here with a Home Improvement Q&A to help you navigate those decisions a little easier.
The Most Important Question
Q: Which home improvement projects can I tackle myself and which should I farm out to the pros?
A: It’s tempting to want to do everything yourself, but it isn’t always the best choice. Here’s how to know when to do it yourself and when to leave hire professionals.
DIY Worthy Home Improvement Projects
According to an article from PlyGem.com, the small projects listed below are fairly common and easy DIY projects for most homeowners.
- Cosmetic improvements. This includes painting, wallpapering, wood staining, installing adhesive carpet tiles and replacing the hardware on cabinets and drawers. Check out tutorials on YouTube for useful tips, tricks and hacks.
- Minor plumbing jobs. Almost anyone can snake a clogged toilet, and most people can handle fixing a minor faucet leak or changing a shower head. Maybe even installing a toilet. Again, YouTube is your best friend when it comes to DIY adventures.
- Minor electrical work. You can probably install new light fixtures and change your light switch plates without much issue.
- Install tiles. Think a new back splash for your kitchen, new tiles for your bathroom floors and walls, and new floors for your kitchen and foyer.
Questions to Ask Before Tackling a Home Improvement Project Yourself
- Have I done a project like this before? If this isn’t your first time doing a project like this, you can probably handle it now.
- Do I have a reliable resource to turn to with any questions that may arise? It’s best to be prepared in case you run into trouble mid-project. Get that contractor friend on speed dial!
- Will this project involve any structural framing? It’s best not to tackle projects that involve cutting through walls without professional guidance.
- Will this job involve any electrical, plumbing or HVAC work? If your project involves cutting through pipes and wires, it’s best to call in the pros.
- Do I have the resources to complete this job? Make an estimation of how much the job will cost you in time and money before you begin.
- Will this job risk personal injury? Don’t risk your safety on a project that should really be left to the pros.
Paying for a Home Improvement Project
Home improvement projects can be expensive, but have no fear. Members of Harvester Financial have financing options available to them. For larger projects, consider tapping into your home’s equity through a home equity loan or HELOC to help you pay for them. You can learn more about those options here. If your home improvement projects are smaller and you need a little cushion, we also offer personal loans. Learn more or apply online for a personal loan here.
