If given the option to hire a remodeler or complete a home renovation themselves, most homeowners would prefer to trust a professional over taking on the job on their own. However, there are always a select few that are up to the challenge. Depending on the size of the project, DIY remodeling may be an achievable task, but it’s a good idea to consider the risks involved before jumping in.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself before opting to remodel on your own:
1. What size is your project?
Most homeowners are comfortable taking on small-scale projects that do not require significant experience or craftsmanship. These types of projects might include replacing an old faucet or installing a light fixture – the kind of projects that might have simple step-by-step tutorials available on YouTube. A good rule of thumb is that if the total cost is expected to be under $1,000.00, it’s most likely a small enough job to handle on your own. Keep in mind this is only the case if you are comfortable with the work and understand each step of the process. If you have fully reviewed available tutorials or read through several how-to’s and you still feel unsure, calling a professional would definitely be the safest route to take.
If you think your home remodeling project will exceed $1,000.00, it might be wise to reconsider doing it yourself. Even if you think you could handle the actual work, sometimes certain materials require special care during installation. A fragile backsplash tile, such as onyx or marble for example, can be scratched or damaged if not installed properly. If these materials need to be replaced, you can end up paying a lot extra for additional supplies.
2. Do you have the required skills?
Ambition is a great characteristic to have, but sometimes the want-to isn’t enough get the job done. It’s important to think about the “what-ifs.” For example, what if there is an unexpected problem inside the wall you are about to tear down? Would you have the actual skill and knowledge to replace rotten wood or repair a leaking pipe? Could you safely relocate electrical wiring? It’s important to be honest with yourself about your capabilities, as your personal safety and the safety of your home depend on it!
Hiring a professional, like Medford Remodeling, can ensure every part of your project is completed correctly and is to code. We also guarantee a warranty on our work. So if something does break or an issue arises, you won’t be paying again for the exact same work to be done.
3. Do you have the right tools?
As mentioned before, a big contributor to the overall cost and quality of a DIY remodeling project are the materials used and how they are handled. Certain materials require certain tools, which can really add up if you have to rent or buy them. In addition, some tools simply are not readily available to just anyone other than contractors, which can really make it difficult to complete a remodel on your own.
4. Are you mentally prepared to take on the project?
Ask yourself if you have the patience to complete the job yourself. Larger remodeling projects can take several weeks or sometimes months to complete, even with a team of workers. Once you begin the demo process, there’s no turning back. If you have trouble staying motivated or struggle to finish other projects in a timely manner, DIY remodeling will likely be the same way.
It’s also wise to be aware of the cluster of emotions that come along with this kind of project; it can be stressful, frustrating, and exhausting. If you have a lot going on in your life or don’t handle stress well, it’s probably best not to add in the emotional toll that comes with managing your own remodel.
While DIY home remodeling is not impossible, it is a much bigger job that what most homeowners think. If you feel uncertain or if you have a project in mind that is larger than what you can complete on your own, Medford Remodeling would be happy to help!
As a Design-Build firm, we can handle every aspect of your home remodeling project; from creating a cohesive design to order your materials, obtaining permits and inspections, and completing the project with quality construction. We manage your project from start to finish, and keep you involved every step of the way.
So if you have your heart set on a remodel, but are having second thoughts about doing it yourself, contact us today!
Warm Regards,
The Medford Remodeling Team
