There’s nothing more satisfying than a successful DIY project, but that doesn’t mean you should handle everything yourself. It’s more than okay to ask for help sometimes, and it’s also necessary in some cases to ensure you don’t hurt yourself or cause bigger issues down the road. Let’s dive into which home repairs you can probably handle on your own and which require the pros.
1. Unclogging a Drain
Chances are, you can handle minor clogs on your own—plungers and drain snakes often clear simple blockages, and natural options like baking soda and vinegar can tackle stubborn build-up. Recruit the pros for massive leaks or no running water, though.
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2. Painting Rooms
In most cases, painting is more of a nuisance than a job for the pros. Certain issues like sun damage or cracked paint usually mean it’s time for the professionals, but trust yourself to handle simple rooms. Better yet, you can find tips online to ensure you do it right.
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3. Fixing Leaky Faucets
Most leaky faucets are due to old washers or O-rings, which means you should be able to handle them. With a few simple tools like a wrench and screwdriver, replacing those parts is fairly straightforward.
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4. Replacing Toilet Handles
Our toilets are nothing without a handle, so don’t wait to replace yours. The good news is that it doesn’t take more than a new one a couple of minutes to make the swap—not all are created equal, but you should be able to find a simple replacement at any hardware store.
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5. Changing Air Filters
Have you ever noticed that most HVAC companies ask about the air filters? That’s because you can handle the replacement yourself! Not only is the switch simple, but it’s important to learn as you’ll need to change the filter once every couple of months.
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6. Repairing Screen Doors
Small screen door rips call for DIY solutions, many of which you can handle on your own. You can patch tears with nail polish, repair kits from a hardware store, or even replace the door yourself—replacing takes more time but also isn’t impossible.
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7. Shelf Installation
Floating shelves can usually be installed at home. So long as you take proper steps to measure and install them correctly, the job is oftentimes straightforward. At the end of the day, shelves are akin to IKEA furniture!
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8. Fixing Loose Shower Heads
If you have a wrench and a hankering to fix something, loose shower heads should be in your wheelhouse. With a bit of simple tightening, you can probably knock out the job at home, especially since it doesn’t require any replacement parts.
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9. Simple Drywall Patches
Some spackle, a putty knife, and a bit of sandpaper will get those walls right as rain—so long as the hole isn’t too big. Oftentimes, small holes in drywall can be sanded and painted over so guests are none the wiser.
10. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is not only fun, but easy for DIYers, too. The only hiccup is its cost as the average pressure washer can run you a few hundred dollars. On the bright side, it’s worth it for some homeowners as power washing can scrub any stubborn stains off the property.
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That said, as satisfying as DIY projects are, some jobs are best left to the professionals.
1. Pest Control
Rodent infestations can wreak havoc on your property—raccoons may be adorable, but that doesn’t mean you should try to make friends with them. Contact a professional to ensure any critters are dealt with humanely and safely.
2. Roof Repairs
Roof repair involves a lot of dangerous elements like working at a height, so the proper know-how to ensure a job well done. The last thing you want is a shoddy roof job, which not only endangers you but also lowers the property value.
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3. Removing Asbestos
Asbestos is no joke, so call someone if you’ve got it. Proper removal is paramount to your health and the professionals have all the tools and training required to get rid of it. You also won’t have to worry about safety regulations either.
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4. Window Installation
If you can replace a screen door, surely you can replace a window, right? Well, not exactly. Proper window installation ensures energy efficiency and weatherproofing, two things you shouldn’t leave to chance. The right person can prevent drafts and leaks, too.
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5. Tree Removal
Given that trees can interfere with power lines, it’s best to call a professional for removal. They’ll have proper equipment and expertise for safe extraction, but they also have access to safety permits. Trying to handle removal by yourself can result in serious injuries.
6. Restoring Water Damage
Significant water damage needs significant TLC, which is where professionals come in. Let a qualified pro come in to thoroughly dry out affected areas, prevent mold, and ensure no bigger issues arise.
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7. Foundation Repairs
Never handle foundation repairs unless you know what you’re doing—a strong foundation is integral to a home’s structure and poor repairs can mean catastrophe. Not only that, but trying to handle these repairs on your own can leave you liable to safety risks.
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8. Appliance Repairs
Don’t tackle major appliance repairs alone. Fridges, ovens, or washing machines need professional know-how to ensure you’re not stranded with faulty appliances, or worse, privy to serious injury.
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9. Floor Installation
Though some people prefer to try their hand at flooring, it’s best to call in the pros. Specific types of flooring, like hardwood or tile, need precision for that perfect finish. You’ll also get peace of mind with the right subfloor prep and installation.
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10. Ceiling Fan Installation
Ceiling fans shouldn’t come at the cost of your safety—a professional has all the tools and expertise to guarantee a job well done. Trying to install a fan yourself can result in injury or significant property damage.
