There are plenty of remodeling projects that you can do on your own or with a friend in a couple of days with limited expertise. Projects like painting, installing basic flooring, or changing out knobs and fixtures shouldn’t be too difficult.
The following is an excerpt from the fourth chapter of our new FREE eBook, Remodeling Your Home.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), more than 30% of all jobs home remodelers perform come from failed do-it-yourself (DIY) projects.
Before you decide to take on the project by yourself, be sure to think it through. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Have I ever done anything like this before?
- Do I know all of the potential roadblocks and costs that could arise during the course of this project?
- Am I familiar with the current building codes and permits that I will need?
- Do I know what safety precautions I need to take in order to create a work environment that is safe for my family and myself?
- Do I have the necessary skills to perform this job?
- Do I have the time to dedicate to this project?
Simple DIY projects can be fun and will usually save you time and money. If you want to take on a project that is a little more involved, you may need some additional training. Many home improvement stores offer classes from time to time that will help you learn the necessary skills to complete some simpler projects on your own.
Of course, the most important thing is that you stay safe. If you’re planning on doing some work yourself, it is a good idea to invest in protective goggles, ear protection, gloves, boots, and a first-aid kit.
Even if you’re doing large parts of the remodeling project on your own, there are some instances when you should hire an expert for safety reasons. Unless you have specific training, you should always hire an expert for the following types of work:
- Structural elements
- Electrical updates
- Roofing
- Plumbing
- Masonry
We hope this helps you decide whether to take on a remodeling project yourself and some things to keep in mind throughout the process. If so, please download your free copy of our eBook to learn more about the remodeling process.
