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Home Repair: Which Projects Always Require a Pro

By Bret Engle | DiyGuys.net
bret.engle@diyguys.net

Which Projects Always Require a Pro

Home repair projects are a huge source of stress for homeowners, in part because of the financial commitment involved. They’re also intrusive, especially big projects that require a lengthy timeline to complete, and if you attempt a DIY project without proper research or knowledge, you risk making a mistake that could cost you thousands of dollars to fix. That’s why it’s so important to know when to call in a pro for your home project, and how to plan for the expense. Doing a bit of research will go a long way, especially when it’s time to hire a contractor.

Home buying doesn’t come with an instruction manual, so there’s no one right way to take care of home repairs and renovation projects. However, there are many things you can do to ensure they get done the right way the first time, which will save you money, time, and energy. Keeping safety in mind is a big priority, so anything related to plumbing or electricity should be reserved for a professional.

Here are a few things you’ll want to consider when it comes to home repairs.

Banish pests

Even the cleanest homes can be invaded by pests; from cockroaches to termites, there are many different creatures out there that can do serious harm to your home. Unfortunately, this is one problem that can’t be handled in a DIY fashion; rather, it’s important to call in a pro, for safety reasons and to ensure you thoroughly mitigate the problem. Use the search tool at Homeadvisor.com to find a local pest control expert who can get the job done. When choosing a company, make sure you read reviews and get multiple estimates.

Plumbing

While some plumbing issues can be simple DIY fixes — such as a drain clog — others require extensive pipe work and special tools to complete. Busted pipes, sump pumps, and leaks are all best left to the pros, but you can do your part by keeping an eye on things and doing routine maintenance. The longer you live in your home, the older your pipes get, which increases the risk of an issue. Check your hot water heater every month for signs of a leak to prevent extensive, costly problems down the road.

Electrical work

Just like plumbing, there are some simple electrical fixes that most homeowners can do themselves. Replacing an outdoor light fixture is a common one. However, the concerns with DIY electrical work are the safety issues involved; even if you think you know what you’re doing, there could be unforeseen complications that can lead to serious injury. Even something as seemingly simple as installing a ceiling fan can be dangerous. Leave any wiring work to the professionals, as following directions doesn’t always ensure safety.

Roofing

If you’re a homeowner who is unafraid of heights, it’s possible you can inspect your roof after a storm has come through to check for broken or missing shingles, but you don’t want to attempt anything more complicated than that. Roofing is serious business that not only requires physical strength and balance, but also the knowledge of what to do when you find a major problem. You might get up there and discover rotten wood that needs to be carefully pulled out, or an infestation of pests. Look online for roofers in your area, and read the reviews before you settle on one.

Home repair can become overwhelming very quickly if you’re unsure of how to tackle a problem, so don’t think you have to attempt a DIY project if you’re uncomfortable with it. In some cases, it may be less expensive for you to hire a pro than it would be to try it yourself and risk making the issue worse. Do your research before making any decisions, and keep up with routine maintenance to prevent any major problems down the road.