Saving money by doing the home repairs yourself might seem tempting, but it’s not always the best option. Sometimes doing the work yourself can help you stick to your budget, but it can end up costing you more in the long run than working with a reliable contractor.  Additionally, professionals with a history of quality work can be very helpful, particularly for more complex renovation projects.

What are good examples of good projects that you can do yourself?

Do-it-yourself projects are typically the most flexible renovations. These are primarily cosmetic in nature or simple fixes with minimal supplies and do not require a permit.

  • Renovate front kitchen cabinet doors: According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a kitchen remodel is $ 23,723 or $ 150 per square foot, with most homeowners spending between $ 12,567 and $ 34,972. If you’re going to do this project yourself, be sure to research the best way to renovate specific materials and finishes.
    • Redo kitchen cabinet doors by repainting or staining.
    • Add new knobs to give a fresh feel to the high traffic area of ​​the home.
    • Add organizers and shelf units to pantries, cabinets, and under the sink to organize supplies.
  • Fix a leaky toilet: The toilets that leak can waste large amounts of water. To solve the problem:
    • Inspect the float and inlet valve: While discharging the water, raise the float arm until the water stops.
    • Tighten the screw at the top of the float so that the float level does not rise higher than the inlet valve.
    • If the water doesn’t stop in the first step, you may need to replace the float assembly.
  • Adding storage to a walk-in closet: You don’t need to work with a cabinet maker to give it a stylish look.
    • Install inexpensive pre-made options in a variety of shapes to create a custom look.
    • Add anything from pre-made open shelving, drawer lines, and hooks to organizing shoes, jackets, and bags.
  • Replace tile grout: Dirty tile grout can detract from the appearance of your home. To replace it:
    • Remove grubby grout with a grout rake or power tool.
    • Scrub the area with a stiff nylon bristle brush to remove loose debris.
    • Use a grout trowel to put fresh grout on the surface and in the joints.
    • After 20 minutes, clean the area with a grout sponge. Once the grout has dried, apply a waterproof sealer.
  • Add curb appeal to your home’s exterior: Are you eager to upgrade your front of house ? It is easier than you think. Even a few simple touches will make a good first impression on your visitor.
    • Repaint your front door or garage door.
    • Beautify with a garden that’s easy to maintain, or place potted plants near your front steps.
    • For larger projects that require new landscaping with solid materials or changing the soil level, the knowledge of a landscaping professional would be beneficial to you.
  • Drywall Repair: To quickly fix a hole in the wall:
    • Remove all loose cast behind and around the hole. Sand the edges of the hole.
    • Adhere a wall hole patch over the hole.
    • Apply the plaster patch to the patch and surrounding wall.
    • Sand the area once it is dry.
    • Spray the area with the wall texture sprayer (if needed) and add a coat of paint to match.
  • Apply new paint: A do-it-yourself paint job can be a great way to save money. Whether you want to repaint the bedrooms or just cover scuff marks in the hallway:
    • prepare surfaces before starting to paint;
    • In-store paint professionals can help you choose the ideal finishes for each type of room.
  • Replacing tiles: Replacing tiles in small spaces can be a fun project that gives incredible, instant results. When replacing tiles, be sure to purchase items such as tile cutters, adhesive, and a utility knife for professional-looking results.

What are examples of projects for which you need to hire a contractor?

Before starting any home renovation or loft conversion project, create a to-do list. With that list, you take a broad view of the entire project, from start to finish, taking into account factors such as material cost, resources, time and labor costs, and time frames. Also, consider whether it is worth the investment to have someone think strategically about the entire project. But before hiring, make sure you can spot a home repair scam to make sure your project ends as expected.

  • Bathroom remodels: Bathrooms are particularly difficult to renovate due to the small size and the many expensive components involved, contractors say. Even with a tight space, installing new plumbing and removing old fixtures can take several days. For a quick renovation, consider replacing lighting or adding additional storage to create a well-lit, uncluttered space.
  • Specialty Projects: If a large gas, plumbing, or electrical structural job is needed to repair or renovate your home, you should consider a professional because that type of work typically requires permits and possibly an inspector. For example:
    • Electrical repairs. If your outlets, switches, or electrical system are showing signs that the electrical installation is needed, an electrician can help with the project.
    • Lead paint removal. For homes built before 1978, a professional can help identify areas of your home that need lead paint removal and repainting.
    • Plumbing repairs.
    • Major structural repairs.
    • Roof repairs and replacement. A professional roofer can help you select roof construction materials that are designed to withstand severe weather conditions.