Done right, a DIY home improvement project can be an enjoyable experience that saves you money and ensures that the results meet your specific requirements.
If not properly completed, however, DIY projects can eat up your spare time, drain your wallet and even lower the market value of your home. DIY jobs that require technical expertise or extensive training are best left in the hands of professionals. According to home remodeling experts, these are the top ten DIY projects that you should not undertake on your own.
1. Plumbing Leak Repairs
An improper plumbing repair can quickly lead to a flood of problems, especially when trying to locate and fix a leaking pipe or drain on your own. Professional plumbers use non-invasive tools like in-line video cameras that let them find leaks without knocking holes in your walls or flooring.
2. Roofing Repairs
A DIY roof repair is not only inherently dangerous but can also damage the roof further if not completed properly. To protect your home’s structure, you need secure, water-tight repairs that can stand up to strong wind, heavy snow and torrential rain. For safety’s sake, stay on solid ground and leave roof repairs to the pros.
3. HVAC Replacements
If you have DIY experience working with your home’s electrical systems, it may be tempting to replace an outdated central heater or air conditioner on your own. That can be a costly mistake. To work efficiently, HVAC equipment needs to be sized right and paired with a carefully balanced air distribution system.
4. Outdoor Kitchens
Installing a full outdoor kitchen typically requires hooking up components to your home’s electrical, plumbing and gas lines. Professional installers not only have the skills to get the job done but can ensure that the project meets building codes and inspections as well.
5. Carpet Installations
Unless you relish hard labor, have a lot of time on your hands and have access to specialized equipment like knee-kickers, carpet stretchers and seam rollers, carpet installations are best left to the pros. The learning curve on carpet installation is steep, and mistakes can mean costly do-overs.
6. Knocking Down Walls
Avoiding making structural changes to load-bearing walls is just the first challenge when removing a wall in your home. Hidden behind walls are electrical wires, gas pipes and plumbing lines that need to identified and relocated before taking the first swing with that sledge hammer.
7. Waterproofing Basements
It’s easy enough to fill in cracks caused by excessive moisture in basement walls and flooring. Permanent solutions, however, require addressing and resolving water invasion at the source. Foundation repair specialists offer water management systems that protect your home’s structural integrity and protect you from costly future repairs.
8. Window Replacements
Having new windows professionally installed not only ensures that you’ll reap the energy-saving benefits that today’s well-insulated windows offer but that you’ll qualify for federal tax credits too. The experts have the specialized tools and the know-how to make sure that your new windows remain weather-tight for years to come.
9. Tree Removal
It takes careful calculations to ensure that a cut tree falls in a safe location. When there’s no room for error, trust the job to a professional. Tree removal contractors make quick work of the job and cart off the debris for you as well.
10. Adding Attic Insulation
A well-insulated attic can cut your heating and cooling bills by as much as 30 percent. Each attic is unique, however, and enlisting help from a professional can ensure that you choose the type of insulation that will deliver optimal savings.
Derek is currently blogging for Nationwide Windows & Siding, a New Jersey roofing and home improvement company. Derek enjoys providing tips and advice for homeowners who are going through renovations or home improvement projects.