SOURCE: Home Bunch
As an interior designer I’ve seen more than my share of DIY projects. Some are from previous homeowners who have made a mess that needs to be upgraded but some are done thoroughly and impress even the best contractor. There are plenty of good reasons as to why a homeowner engages in a DIY project – the cost savings, the enjoyment of it or a lack of trades. There are also plenty of reasons to be cautious about some types of DIY. I’d even go as far as to suggest it’s a bad idea. Of course there are aesthetic reasons to avoid some projects without professional assistance but safety is also a massive factor.
WHICH HOME PROJECTS REQUIRE A PROFESSIONAL?
The biggest consideration before you tackle a DIY project around your home is the cost. We tend to compare what it will cost to hire a professional versus what it will cost for us to do the work. Instead, consider what it will cost if you make a big mistake and need to call in the professionals after the fact. This can cost more than it would have to hire them in the beginning. When work is done incorrectly, there’s a fair amount of work just to neutralize the problem before the updates can even begin. Be sure that you are 100% comfortable and knowledgeable before tackling any home projects.
1/ WINDOW REPLACEMENT
SOURCE: Pinterest
How hard can it be, right? Well in the case of windows it can be really hard. It can also leave you with a stream of cool (or hot) air flowing into your home if not done correctly. There are a lot of puzzle pieces to include in a window installation or replacement. The exterior cladding, wood and vinyl all have to be expertly installed to make the window snug and efficient. What seems simple can turn into a bigger project than anticipated and you could cost yourself more in the long run.
And just to be clear, this extends to skylights as well. This one may seem easier since you’re likely not trying to fit the window into an existing frame. If you do this incorrectly you could be leaving your home vulnerable to all kinds of leaks and weather-related problems.
2/ SANDING AND REFINISHING FLOORS
SOURCE: Studio McGee
Wood floors are a great investment because they allow you to sand and refinish as opposed to replacing flooring. It may seem like a simple job but if you’ve ever seen or operated a floor sander you’ll know that they’re beasts. They’re heavy and hard to manoeuvre and if you’re not in complete control you can end up damaging your beautiful wood floor. Or worse, you’ll sand too much of an area and will need to replace some of the boards. Avoid the headache and hire a professional.
3/ DRYWALL INSTALLATION AND FINISHING
SOURCE: Domino
I’ve seen more than my share of homes with drywall improperly installed. It’s obvious the second you walk into a room because the walls can be wavy, uneven and may have a glaring outline of a patched area. Drywall installation and finishing is actually a skill that’s acquired after years on the job. And it’s honestly one of the messiest parts of any renovation. Unless you have worked as a finisher don’t attempt this one on your own. The money you save will not be worth the aggravation and mess you’ll create.
4/ PLUMBING
SOURCE: Jean Stoffer Design
Do I even need to mention this one? If you’re not a professional plumber, don’t do it. Plumbers are trained for years to be able to do what they do and the reason for that is simple – plumbing is complicated. There’s no arguing that plumbers can be expensive but what’s even more expensive is a plumber having to backtrack and correct poorly executed work.
The only plumbing related project that is safe for a homeowner is to switch out faucets in your kitchen and bathroom.
5/ REMOVING POPCORN CEILINGS
SOURCE: Farmhouse Living
The dreaded popcorn ceiling is something that so many homeowners are frustrated with. And while I support you in your desire to get rid of them, this is not a DIY project. Removal starts with spraying a softening agent onto the entire ceiling. Once the popcorn is softened you start scraping it away and this is going to lead to a lot of small divots being created as you go. You’ll need to fill those before you can sand and then you need to prime and paint. All of this needs to be done on a ladder with your head held in an odd position which will create neck tension. Oh and did I mention the mess you’re going to make?
6/ INSTALLING AN ELECTRICAL PANEL
SOURCE: Pinterest
It’s one thing to tackle switching up a light fixture and I think a lot of us can handle that DIY project. Messing around with the electrical panel is not a joke. You could leave your home vulnerable to a fire if it’s not installed correctly. There’s also local building codes that need to be followed and if they’re not you could be forced to rip out your DIY work and have a professional correct it.
7/ ROOF REPAIR
SOURCE: BHG
Aside from the danger of falling off your roof there are other good reasons to leave that to the professionals. Roof shingles that aren’t installed correctly could end up down the road from your house at the first big storm after you’ve installed them. The biggest shock may come if your insurance company refuses to compensate you because it was a DIY project. Better not to risk the damage or the costs.
HOME PROJECTS FOR THE DIY ENTHUSIAST
It might seem like there’s nothing left that you can tackle on your own but that’s not the case. There are plenty of projects that can keep the DIY enthusiast busy. These are generally considered to be safe for all levels.
1/ Paint
2/ Wallpaper
3/ Hang Curtains
4/ Replace Door Knobs
5/ Update Cabinet Hardware
6/ Switch Light Fixtures
7/ Add Under Cabinet Lighting
8/ Add Drawer Liners
9/ Install Shelving
10/ Hang Art
What are your thoughts? Are you a DIY enthusiast or do you prefer to leave the work to professionals?
If you’re considering a change in your home, contact me to find out how I can help you with your project.
If you know your design style but you struggle with which paint to use, take a look at my Made-For-You paint palettes. They take the guesswork out and give you the confidence to get started.
