As a homeowner you may opt to fix things around your house yourself to save money, or hold onto your pride. Either way, some DIY home improvement projects can be dangerous to you and harmful to your home. To be safe, make sure you don’t attempt any of these 8 DIY home renovations.
1. Roofing
Perhaps the biggest concern with fixing the roof yourself is not that you might do a terrible job (unless you know nothing about rooftops), it’s that you risk falling from a great height. Don’t fall or injure yourself. Reach out to a professional instead. If you insist on doing it on your own, at least don’t go on the roof when you’re alone.
2. Tree Removal
If you don’t want to end up with an accidental skylight in your home, don’t attempt to cut down trees or remove them. We’ve all seen the videos on “America’s Funniest Home Videos” of trees falling in the wrong direction.
3. Windows
Windows need to be well insulated and secure to defend against inclement weather. Unless you have the proper tools to do both, hire a professional or you might just end up with a disaster on your hands like air and water leakage. Oftentimes, the place you purchase your windows from will offer installation for a small fee.
4. Paving
This project may seem simple in theory, but it actually requires perfect positioning and measuring. The tiniest slip up could ruin the whole project. Just call a pro and don’t worry about messing up.
5. Electrical
There are some electrical projects you can tackle easily on your own like installing a new ceiling fan, or overhead light. Bigger projects require you to follow proper code, so call a professional and then call it a day.
6. Plumbing
The smallest leak of water can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. So any large project, like modifying your existing plumbing system, should be left to a professional. Smaller projects, like changing a shower head, or even installing a new toilet, you could probably manage, just don’t get in too deep.
7. Gas
Unless you want a potential explosion to happen, you should steer clear of working on any of your appliances that utilize gas. Connecting or hooking up gas lines can be hazardous if done incorrectly. Rather than risking a potential fire, gas leak, or carbon monoxide poisoning, call a professional.
8. Siding
Siding protects your home against weather. If siding is installed improperly it can be ripped off by wind, or water could seep in and potentially harm the foundation or frame of your home. Get it installed right the first time and it should last for years to come.
Is it worth it?
In every DIY home renovation project you have to ask yourself, “is it worth trying on my own?” Only you can determine that answer. If not, call a professional, pour yourself a drink, and relax.
What DIY home improvement projects do you recommend skipping?
