Digital media have made it easier to call a technician to repair even the most mundane of problems in your house. The same innovations have also given birth to do-it-yourself sites dedicated to teaching you how to replace your metal piping with PE pipe fittings or rewire your house for optimum electrical consumption.
Some jobs remain best left to professionals, but some can be accomplished by your own hands, including:
Refinishing Hardwood
A simple enough job, refinishing hardwood won’t necessitate the help of pros. You’ll need tools to do it, but you’ll be able to make your hardwood surfaces sparkle on your own. Bigger equipment such as buffers can be rented for a fraction of the cost of hiring professionals as well. Refinishing jobs can be done without sanding, as recoating and screening can restore the luster of the wood.
Replacing Pipes
Fixing leaky pipes is a task you can do on your own. Loose showerheads are easy to fix: Just encase the wobbly part of the showerhead with expanding foam to lock it into place. Replace leaking pipes and fittings around showers and bathtubs, in drains, sinks, and toilets, with the right material and tool. Buy a new vent boot to replace rotten rubber or replace nails with rubber-washed screws.
Jammed Faucets
Restoring the normal flow of faucets or showerheads is a simple enough job. Close the drain pipe, remove the aerator, and soak it in vinegar before scrubbing away the debris. Non-aerator related problems can also be resolved by disassembling the parts in order for easier assembly later, and figuring out which part to clean or replace.
The availability of home repair instructions online, in text, graphic, and video form, makes it tempting to think that you can do every repair job. But as you’ve read above, some jobs require the hands of pros who have dedicated their lives to doing that job. These jobs include:
Gas Lines
Electricity and gas are two aspects of your home you’re likely to have no expertise in. Problems with gas can be dangerous in a matter of minutes if an amateur tries to have their hand at it. If you suspect a gas leak or similar problems, it’s best to have a professional look at it.
House Painting
Comfort with ladders does not factor into this one. Hiring a professional house painter can save you money and your home’s exterior. These professionals will help you determine the best type of paint for your home and do extensive work for trims, rake boards, sidings, and other home accessories. Most house painters will also do the work on your roofs. Extensive outdoor work can be risky for amateurs, so hiring a professional is more practical in this case.
Sticking Windows and Replacing Doors
Cleaning windows, patching holes in the glass, or refinishing your doors are jobs that you can do using just a few products. Replacing a whole door or unsticking a window requires professional help, especially for beginners who do not have much experience with power tools.
The rule of thumb when it comes to deciding between DIY and hiring the pros is whether or not you have the skills to do the job in the first place. Save more money by being honest in assessing your current skills.
