Home Improvement Projects You Might Think Twice about DIYing

DIY projects are not always for the faint of heart, if I’m straight up not comfortable doing something, even if I SHOULD do it and SHOULD be capable of it, I have no problem calling in a pro. Sometimes calling a professional just to get a quote and a opinion can be all we need to be able to tackle it ourselves. They have a lot more experience then we do and can be really great about giving advice and guidance on projects depending on the situation!

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

There are so many great projects you can tackle yourself. The internet and YouTube have given us a fantastic resource to learn all kinds of new skills, and hopefully have a blast doing it. But there are a few reasons you might want to give some types of projects a miss and call in licensed, bonded, and insured professionals.

If, for example, you have a physical disability, don’t have time to learn what electrical, plumbing, and gas hazards to look out for, or maybe just aren’t in great shape, you might want to contract out for physically demanding jobs like demolition.

There’s no shame in it.

Set yourself up for success by starting with projects that look like fun and will give you a sense of accomplishment every time you look at them. Here are some jobs to think about long and hard before tackling yourself, unless you already have a lot of remodeling experience.  

Jobs with Environmental Hazards

If your home improvement includes work like asbestos abatement, removing lead, or getting rid of toxic mold, call in the pros. Don’t even think about doing these kinds of jobs yourself.  You don’t want any accidents with these substances. This is definitely a time for a licensed, bonded, and insured professional.  

Roofing

Roofing is very physically demanding, it’s dangerous, and the consequences for getting it wrong are really high. These are all factors that tell you it might be best to leave it to the pros. Plus, if you need a new roof because of hail or storm damage, some roofing companies are experts at working with insurance companies to make sure your claim is processed quickly and correctly.  

Tree Removal

This is another job with the same combination of factors. It’s difficult, it’s dangerous, and it can be disastrous.  Unless you are an expert at working with a chainsaw, have an expert partner to man the ropes, and have a very high tolerance for risk, skip the DIY on these projects and leave it to the professionals.  

Tile, Paving, and Masonry

These jobs can be gratifying to do yourself. But how much you will enjoy them varies depending on your personality. Before you decide to do it yourself, know that correctly installing a pattern can be difficult. If you tried zentangle back in the oughts and it wasn’t for you, installing tile or brick might not be either. And, of course, bear in mind that masonry and paving, in particular, can be very physically demanding.  

Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC

Yet again, we come to very high stakes projects. You really don’t want to face flood, fire, or freon leaks. There is a reason these are all specific trades with years of training and apprenticeship involved. It may be simple enough to install a new showerhead, change a light fixture, or put in a thermostat, but if you are going beyond those types of routine tasks, think about hiring someone who really know their onions, so to speak.  

With any project, make sure you have a good idea of what you are getting into before you get started, especially if your main living areas will be impacted. Ensure that you have time to complete the project instead of living with it half done for months and months. And know that, though it may be frustrating at times, if you pick the right projects, you will look back on them and realize you had a blast. 

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)