That honey-do list keeps getting longer. There are those little niggly projects like washing the windows, updating your lightbulbs, switching out a light fixture or adding a garden.
When do you Do It Yourself? And when you should call in a pro?
A short answer is to hire a professional when you need a break, when you have more money than time, when you don’t want to do the job yourself or you don’t know how, or when the outcome will be reviewed by an inspector.
When it comes to household projects, if you are knowledgeable and safe, you can DIY. Here are
some projects and tips on when you want to do it yourself:
Painting
Yes, but be careful with elevation, said Patrick Caton, founder and president of Caliper Engineering Services.
Working with ladders, staging, and especially when you are on a roof, keep safety in mind. Also be sure to get the right type of paints and be careful with solvents.
“They have warning labels for a reason,” Mr Caton said. Be sure you have the right equipment, including protective gear.
Changing a light fixture
“Well,” said Tim Augustus, founder and principal consultant at Novum Solutions, “it depends on the fixture!”
Understand that if it is not the exact same fixture, you will most likely have to change some of the components. For example, Mr Caton said you cannot install a dimmer switch on LEDs or any fluorescents as it is a fire hazard.
Hire a pro if you’re even a little bit uncertain of what to do.
Hacking furniture
This is a resounding yes. Not only can you learn new skills while you’re doing a project for your own home, this can evolve into a nice side hustle for those who are so inclined. As long as you are not altering the structure or loading of the piece, you are fine, Mr Caton said.
Fixing countertop appliances
If you have a systematic, inquisitive mind, sure! Mr Caton shared that he was the type of child that took lots of things apart (got some licks while he was at it!) but got to the point that he could put things back together and they worked. Trial and error once more comes into play (scars and burns, anyone?), so he encourages safe exploration during this process. If you’re hesitant for whatever reason, take it to a professional. Safety always comes first.
Updating electrical
“Oh my goodness, no!” they both exclaimed. This is an “always hire a pro” situation unless you are a qualified electrician yourself.
There have been sufficient “spaghetti-mess” situations to have them both solid in this answer. With our stone and cinderblock walls, this can be a particular challenge.
“Our building codes exist for a reason,” Mr Caton laughed. “They stop you from bursting into flames or falling apart.”
For the sake of public knowledge, look up the building safety codes if you want to do a DIY project. Look up the International Building Code online for any structural projects, the National Electric Code is available for any wiring jobs, the BOCA Code is there to look up any plumbing work, and more.
Safety first
So when should you always hire an expert? Basically, anything that comes to life safety. This includes foundations, roofing and, in case you’ve forgotten, electrical.
Also remember that when you have a permit to conduct your work, the inspectors are your friends: they are not picking on you.
“They want you to live,” Mr Caton said. Take advantage of their expertise so you can get the job done right. For example, have someone look over your drainage network as sewer gases are a major hazard.
Nothing is off limits, depending on your ability, but you should temper your enthusiasm on the more dangerous things. Consider the safety of others as well as yourself.
“This is the difference between installing a landscaping or hardscaping project and putting up a structure,” Mr Augustus explained.
“One has a lot more safety issues to consider than the other.”
Both men have seen people build an entire house from the ground up with no papers, so it is crucial to recognise your skill level no matter what the project.
Ask for help
Local charities and organisations can offer advice, but Mr Augustus and Mr Caton recommend “YouTube University”.
“This Old House on PBS has some of the better, more methodical techniques for one to follow,” Mr Caton said.
“Fine Homebuilding and a lot of the building trade magazines have good structural stuff on their websites as well.”
Don’t forget Pinterest!
If you are going to DIY, share as much information as you can with the person you are purchasing from. Mr Caton named Karolina at Rowe Spurling Paint and Kenny at Masters Ltd as great advisers, but insisted most stores are happy to help.
To sum it all up, know yourself. Be safe. Call a pro when needed and DIY when you can. Enjoy!
