DIY projects are a part of homeownership. For some, taking care of their home is a source of pleasure and pride. For other homeowners, DIY projects are a way to reduce costs. Either way, if you own a home, you've probably taken on more than a few renovations without hiring a contractor.
While there are many benefits to DIY projects, there are also disadvantages. Many people start projects at home only to realize they lack the expertise or tools to do the work. Ultimately, many DIY projects cost more than planned and don't go as well as anticipated.
If you're considering a DIY project, it's important to be prepared and informed. Conducting research in advance and considering all potential risks can help you determine whether DIY is the right choice. When in doubt, hiring a capable contractor is always the safest bet.
Homeowners choose to do their home improvement projects for many reasons. Below are some of the advantages of doing the work yourself.
Perhaps the number one reason that homeowners choose to DIY their home improvements is to save money. According to the most recent American Housing Survey, the median cost of professional home improvement projects in 2023 was $8,131, while the median cost of DIY projects that same year was $2,695.
Doing it yourself can save on labor costs and overhead. If you have the tools, knowledge, and means to do the work yourself, you may save thousands on home maintenance.
Some people like to work. If you're a problem-solver who enjoys caring for your home, you may enjoy the home improvement process.
If you have construction knowledge, maintaining your home can help you keep up your skills. The more you do it yourself, the easier future projects will be.
DIY projects can be fraught with problems, from safety concerns to unexpected costs. Here are some examples of problems homeowners encounter when they do the work themselves.
Tools can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While some homeowners save by purchasing budget-grade tools, quality tools often do the job better, faster, easier, and safer.
Either way, if you don't have the right tools for the job, this purchase could increase the cost of your remodel by several hundred dollars or more. The cost of tools must be factored into the total project cost, in addition to the cost of materials. This reduces savings realized from doing the work yourself.
It's easy to make mistakes when you don't have professional training. DIY mistakes can be expensive, especially if the work has to be done all over again to get it right.
Contractors know how to evaluate material quality and suitability for each project. Homeowners, often, do not. Choosing the wrong material could lead to a failed project. A contractor can present you with options and give you the information you need to choose the material that's right for your home.
Construction is one of the most dangerous professions in the United States. Good construction workers use personal protective equipment and follow OSHA regulations to stay safe and avoid workplace accidents.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are unprepared to protect themselves during home improvement projects. DIY-related accidents are common, and some are fatal.
The most dangerous projects often involve roofing, electrical work, gas lines, load-bearing wall removal, and large tree removal. If you're considering a DIY project, don't overlook the safety aspects of your task. Do your research and know when to admit that the project is beyond your ability.
Some projects, when done incorrectly, can cause long-term damage to your home. Whether it's a leaking plumbing line, a faulty roof job, or something else, some mistakes don't reveal themselves until the damage is extensive.
Contractors work in teams and have experience that makes them efficient on the job. Whatever the task, an experienced contractor can almost always do the work faster than a homeowner - often by days. Big projects taken on by a single homeowner can extend for days, weeks, or even months beyond the time it would take a contractor to do the same thing.
DIY projects can lead to big regrets. Here's what you can do to ensure your project finds success.
Learn what's involved step-by-step. Watch videos from reputable sources or read DIY books from industry professionals you trust. Make a plan to determine whether a DIY project is right for you. Make a list of tools and safety equipment required. Research the prices of tools and materials to learn the real cost of your job, then make an informed decision about whether to DIY.
Some low-risk projects make good DIY projects. Here are some examples:
These projects tend to be low-risk and low-pressure and are unlikely to lead to expensive accidents or mistakes.
Ultimately, the best way to avoid a failed home improvement project is to hire a professional contractor. Hiring a contractor you trust can ensure the project will go efficiently and smoothly - with no last-minute trips to the hardware store for tools you didn't realize you needed.
Hiring the right contractor for the job is important. Meet with multiple contractors to get bids. When you find the contractor that you want to hire, check references and Connecticut licensure.
Want more information about hiring the best Connecticut contractor for the job? Download the Litchfield Builder's free guide to hiring a residential contractor.