Sure, there is plenty of DIY information on the Internet. Any newbie can build a cabinet if the information on YouTube is followed to a T. But there are also times when doing DIY can end up in a disaster. Instead of saving on labor costs, you might end up spending more on materials and labor. Not to mention, it’s a waste of time to fix a DIY project gone wrong. So the question is: when do you call a contractor? The short answer is that you call one right away when you are unskilled at home renovation projects.
If you cannot even handle plasterboard tools and equipment, then what are you doing trying to turn the basement into another room? If you cannot even handle a saw without injuring yourself, then what makes you think you can build a tree house for your kids? You alone know your limitations. There’s nothing wrong with admitting that you need help from a professional contractor.
When You Need to Work with Different Tradespeople
For your current home renovation project, you need to work with different tradespeople: a plumber, an electrician, a carpenter, etc. What makes you think that you want to deal with such a stressful process? You are not used to negotiating with these skilled workers. You cannot evaluate the quality of their work because you don’t have the qualifications to do so. Why would an electrician, for example, believe what you read about on the Internet? On the other hand, a contractor already knows these people. The communication will be easier.
If Permits Are Required
Permits are required for renovations that will change the structure of the property. If your project can also affect your neighbor’s property and the community’s value, you’ll have to talk to the homeowners’ association, too. A contractor is more familiar with these legal requirements. The process can be confusing and cause a lot of delays. Let a contractor help you secure the permits, which can take anywhere between two and 16 weeks.
When It’s an Extensive Home Project
Obviously, an extensive home renovation project will require more time and skill. If you are working during the day, this means that you’ll only have the time to do the project during evenings and weekends. When do you think the project will get finished with the limited time you have for it? Are you and your family ready to live in a renovation zone for weeks? Clearly, it is impractical to renovate a home when you have only two to three days a week to work on it.
If You Are Stumped
You don’t know where to start. You don’t know what you want to do. In your kitchen, do you want to remove the center island? Do you want a splashback? You have no idea what exactly looks good for this little renovation project. This is a sure sign that you need to call a contractor—someone who can advise you on the best course of action.
Nothing’s wrong about admitting that you cannot DIY things in your house. Plenty of people grow up fine without learning how to use a hammer or a power tool. You should not be ashamed of this lack of DIY skills. Learn to accept that in this particular aspect of your life, you need to trust someone else to do it for you.
