Hey, DIYers! We know you're excited to take on that home remodel project yourself. But before you grab your toolbelt, it's important to understand when it's safe to DIY (do it yourself) and when it pays off to work with an experienced contractor. Let us walk you through some popular remodels and explain when - and why - choosing a professional contractor is the way to go!
When to Hire a Professional
Here are some common home improvement projects, considerations for each, and why you should call a professional:
(Re)Moving Walls
If you are looking to change the layout of your interior, there are many ways to go about it. If your remodel requires moving or removing walls, you must hire a professional to determine which walls are load-bearing or structural and whether they are safe to move. Hire a structural engineer to verify whether the walls are OK to move, and then you can make an intelligent decision about whether you can do it yourself or not.
Verdict: Have an inspection before you make a re/move.Plumbing Projects
Ask yourself: Are you pulling a permit or not? The number one factor when it comes to many remodeling projects is determining whether or not it requires a permit. Now, if you are just replacing a faucet, you can DIY it. However, if you are moving existing plumbing within a wall or adding a new bathroom, it will require a permit. As a homeowner, you are allowed to pull permits yourself, but you will be held to the same standards as a professional when it comes to passing an inspection. Passing an inspection is required to determine whether your home is “up to code”, which means it complies with your local building code. Every jurisdiction is different, with different zoning and building requirements, and it’s not wise to open yourself up to risk because you’re not sure. Some places may even require you to take a “homeowner test” to show you are qualified. If you choose to go this route and fail the test, they may tell you you must have a licensed plumber to do the work.
Verdict: For renovations, don’t risk it. Hire a licensed plumber.
Electrical Work
When it comes to electrical tasks around the house, DIY isn't a good idea. Electrical work and plumbing are similar in that the first thing you’ll need to determine is whether a permit is required. If you are changing a lightbulb, you don’t need one. If you are swapping out a fixture, you can do it yourself. But remember, ALWAYS TURN OFF THE POWER before touching anything electrical. On the other hand, if you are rewiring your home or wish to make other major changes, it is up to your local jurisdiction to determine whether you are permitted to make the changes yourself. So, you’ll have to investigate first. One small mistake could lead to electrocution or fire and put you and your loved ones in danger. So why risk it? Hire a licensed professional instead - they know what they're doing and will make sure you get the job done safely - and correctly.
Verdict: Don’t get zapped! Always hire a licensed electrician.
Running Gas Lines or Installing Hot Water Heaters
Hiring a professional plumber to install your gas lines and water heaters is the safest way to ensure no accidents happen. We’ve heard horror stories from families attempting to do this on their own and not living to share the experience. We don’t want anyone else taking that risk.
Verdict: Don’t let a horror story be your own. Hire a licensed plumber.
Installing HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Similar to plumbing/electrical projects, you will be held to the standards and codes when installing HVAC systems. If your work requires more than sticking an A/C in a window, call a professional. This goes for installing your furnace as well. You need to be licensed to handle certain materials.
Verdict: Be cool. Call a HVAC professional.
Drywall
If there’s one project people are fooled into thinking they can do, it's drywall. Don’t do it yourself! Hire a professional. Drywall work is an art form. The professionals do it day in and day out, and therefore, have perfected their craft. Plus, it’s dusty work and they are much cleaner at it.
If you don’t know what you’re doing, it will show. If you think you can hang, tape, mud and finish drywall, your lack of practice will definitely show! Don’t get stuck staring at mistakes for the rest of your life. Because when you paint or wallpaper over it, your mistakes will be emphasized and constantly reminding you, “I should have hired a professional.” So do yourself a favor and save your time, money and aggravation… see verdict below.
Verdict: Hire a professional drywaller. Period.
Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Laying your flooring down may seem easy enough. But if you’re using an expensive material like hardwood that needs to be sanded and stained, it’s simply too expensive to risk messing up on your first time. Prefinished hardwood is less risky, if you insist on doing it yourself. But why risk the price of your flooring with novice installation mistakes?
Read about different flooring options and our favorite materials in last month’s flooring blog: The Beginners Guide To Flooring.
Verdict: Save yourself money and a headache. Hire a professional.
Installing Carpeting
We’re not talking about area rugs here, but full wall-to-wall carpeting. There is a skill to lay the pad and carpet correctly so it is tight. Unless you have a stretcher, your carpet could end up loose, wavy and a tripping hazard. And depending on the room size and shape, seaming carpet pieces together may be necessary. Do you know how to do that? You only have one chance to cut that right.
Verdict: Hire a professional.
Basement Remodels
Basement remodels require permits. If you fail to pull a permit, the new square footage of your basement will not be on record with the county. This means it will also not be on your homeowner's insurance. If there is no mention of this extra square footage or a basement, it will not be covered in your plans. You could be opening a can of worms. Phone insurance anytime you’re considering adding more footage. The last thing you want to do is put tens of thousands of dollars towards a remodel, then experience a flood that won’t be covered.
Verdict: Call a contractor and alert your insurance!
Landscaping (Call Before You Dig)
General landscaping projects like planting a garden or placing outdoor furniture are easy and safe to do on your own. But, there’s a hard rule known to all contractors: Call before you dig! Make sure you know what utilities are underground before using your spade shovel in yard. Check your jurisdiction and call for professional inspections before breaking any ground. Colorado homeowners can call 811. Colorado 811 is an incredible, FREE resource that makes it easy for homeowners and professionals who are going to excavate to do so safely by submitting a utility locating ticket request online. Doing this beforehand protects you from any potential damage. They will come mark utilities and inspect the area so you know where it’s safe to dig. The best part is, even if you hit something they missed, you’re covered. It’s on them. Don’t risk the $10,000 fine, cutting phone lines, septic issues, or in some scenarios, bodily harm.
Verdict: ALWAYS call 811 before you dig.
Roofing
Do you really want to climb a ladder? There is too much risk with roof work. Leave this one to the pros! A professional roofer can help ensure your roof is installed correctly, especially with the wind, hail and sun damage here in Colorado. Also, give yourself peace of mind, knowing that any liability falls on them and not you.
Verdict: Don’t get in over your head! Let a professional roofer handle it.
You may be very savvy, but if you are not a professional and/or licensed contractor, you may not be aware of the required codes and any changes that have occurred. Even if you check resources, they could be dated and there could be new standards at the building department or other governing entity.
If you choose to DIY, you should also check with your insurance that they will cover your work and their requirements. Will they cover you after the fact if you didn’t pull a permit?
When is it okay to DIY?
If you’re still feeling ambitious and ready to tackle your next home project, we get it! Here are some projects you can DIY and helpful reminders for doing it safely:
Safety first - Wear PPE (Personal protective equipment) such as safety glasses and gloves when doing any home projects!
Replacing a faucet or fixtures - Replacing a light fixture doesn't require a permit - but remember to turn off the power beforehand! The same goes for minor plumbing work, like installing a new faucet. Turn off the water so you don't get soaked!
Painting walls - Go for it! Paint all day long to your heart’s content. If you make any mistakes, you can redo it.
Installing tile - If you’re confident in your skills, go ahead and do tiling yourself! There are plenty of video resources on YouTube or TikTok to show you the way. We do not recommend installing carpeting or finishing hardwood yourself. However, think twice before tiling a shower. For this, I would recommend hiring a professional tiler. You want to be sure your water space won’t leak, especially the shower pan!
Installing prefinished flooring - If you chose prefinished hardwood or LVP flooring and you feel capable, go for it! Follow installation instructions to a “T”. Learn more about flooring materials: here.
Window Air Conditioner Installation - If you're dealing with anything more complicated than installing an A/C in a window, it's time to call in the professionals. If you choose to install a window unit yourself, just make sure you're following all the rules and codes - remember, safety first!
Landscaping - Want to plant flowers? Add some lawn decor? Have fun! But remember, if you’re going to dig, call 811 first.
In conclusion, DIY projects can be fun. But at the end of the day or regular work week, is it worth your time, resources and skill level to tackle the work? Will you be frustrated with how long it may take you to complete the project? Did you really save money while losing precious time from family and friends?
It's important to know your limits and when to work with an experienced contractor. If you’re not sure, don’t do it yourself. Stick to interior decorating and leave the heavy lifting to us.
At Maverick Home Remodeling Inc., we have the knowledge and expertise to make sure your remodel goes as smoothly as possible and meets requirements – so you don't have to worry about any costly mistakes! Contact us at 303-978-0602 or via email using the form online to discuss what’s safe to DIY and schedule a free consultation. You can also contact us below!
