Anyone with a home has likely run into situations in which they could use help with repairs. But although both DIY and professional repair jobs have pros and cons, it’s a good idea to be aware of which jobs you can do yourself — and which ones are best left to the experts.
If you’re not familiar with which is which, here are a few ideas to help you decide what tasks fall into which category.
5 Home Repairs to DIY
When making DIY repairs, it’s important to make sure that you’re practicing safety first. If you’re unsure about how to handle a tool or are uncomfortable using it, do some research online to learn more about the tools required for the job.
It’s also important to make sure that you’re using the proper materials for the task; if not, your repairs might end up doing more harm than good. Here are five home repairs you can handle yourself.
1. Fixing a leaky faucet
A leaky faucet is one of the most common household problems, but it’s easy to fix. With a screwdriver and a wrench, you can have a new faucet installed in just an hour or two. Simply shut off the water supply to the faucet, disassemble the faucet, replace the worn-out parts with new ones, and reassemble everything.
2. Repairing a hole in the wall
Holes in the wall only need an easy patching job. Simply measure and cut a piece of drywall to fit the hole, screw it up so it’s flush with the studs in the wall, apply joint compound over the patch and scrape it smooth. Once the compound dries, paint over the patch and you’re done!
3. Replacing a broken windowpane
Window panes are often damaged or broken, but they can be easily repaired. To fix the broken pane, simply pry it out of the frame with a flat head screwdriver, remove any putty on the edges of the frame with a utility knife, and replace it with a new pane. Once the pane is in place, apply putty around the edges to hold it firmly in place.
4. Installing new cabinet doors
Cabinet doors can become damaged or need an update, but if you’re not looking for a complete kitchen remodel, replacing the cabinet doors is a great way to give the kitchen a fresh new look. Replacing cabinet doors is fairly easy and can be finished in a day or two. Some people prefer to paint their cabinets and doors separately before installing them, but this step is optional.
5. Changing your toilet seat
For a more comfortable experience when going to the bathroom, you can change your toilet seat. This can be done by unscrewing the seat off of the base and screwing it back on again with two screws inserted into each side of the toilet bowl rim.
5 Home Repairs to Leave To the Pros
While it’s always great to be able to take care of your home repairs yourself, certain jobs require the help of an expert. Some jobs will take up too much time, others might be dangerous for do-it-yourselfers. Here are five jobs you should leave to the professionals, for your safety and theirs:
1. Replacing roof shingles
Replacing roofing shingles is one job that should be left to the pros, as roof shingles are heavy and difficult to handle. That’s why you should contact roof replacement services for the job because anyone trying to do this should have a few years of roofing experience under their belt.
2. Installing a new furnace
When it’s time to replace your old furnace, call in the professionals. While you may be tempted to try replacing your furnace yourself, it is a difficult job that may end up costing you more money if mistakes are made. Plus, most furnaces come with special instructions for installation, and if you don’t follow the instructions exactly, their warranty may be voided.
3. Doing electrical work
Dangerous electrical wires, especially when they’re hidden behind the walls, should always be left to a professional electrician. Never try to do any sort of electrical work yourself, even if it’s just replacing a light switch. Electricity is very dangerous and should only be handled by professionals who know what they’re doing.
4. Replacing a water heater
A water heater is a big investment and there’s no reason to try to do the job yourself. That’s why you should hire a plumber for any water heater issues that come up. A professional will be able to install or repair your water heater faster and with less trouble than if you tried to do it yourself.
5. Installing a gas line
Some homeowners like to be self-sufficient and may feel tempted to install their own gas lines. While it may not be a huge job, it’s still one that should always be left to the professionals. That’s because gas lines pose danger and homeowners who try to install them themselves could end up doing more harm than good.
From fixing a broken window to tackling an unfinished painting job, it’s important to know when DIY projects can be done and when it’s best to call in a professional for the job. This way, your house will always be in good condition, free of any damage that could have been caused by an amateur.
