Home Repair and Maintenance: Should You Do-it-Yourself?

Most of the homeowners these days think or plan for home remodeling projects for one particular reason – to address an immediate need like conducting repairs or improving the value, or improving the comfort of the home. Well, any home repair project, whether it be a simple replacement of fixtures, or repairing exiting parts of the home (doors, windows, grab bars, etc.), may involve at least some pre-planning. Aside from that, there is also a need for the homeowner to invest financially in the home repair and improvement project.

There are times when one home remodeling repair inevitably leads to other unplanned repairs. An example is a recent drywall replacement that leads to mold removal and a minor roof repair.

Always note that some home repair and improvement can be like a Chinese puzzle of complexity, with interlocking portions that must proceed in exactly the right direction and order.

Planning, as you should know, is the key. It is also worthy to note that whether you want new cabinets, insulation or refinishing a deck, spending at least extra little time planning and budgeting before you launch your home repair project can no doubt make the process much smoother. This is an area where the Home Improvement Service can help you develop an estimated appraisal of your work. When this is done correctly, then the results are far more successful.

Here are the preliminary questions to ask yourself before hiring contractors or investing in building materials.

Is A Building Permit Needed?

As you may know, some of the home repairs or improvement projects may involve structural adjustments or elaborate re-workings of current electrical and plumbing circuits.

It is this permit actually that ensures that the home improvement plans meet certain building codes, and only those qualified workers (qualified, licensed master electricians, and master plumbing contractors) will handle the essential rewiring, electrical panel adjustments, and/or plumbing line installations refitting needs in the house. Contractors can then conduct minor repairs and adjustments.

Things you will need to consider:

How much of the work are you capable of performing on this home improvement project yourself?

For example, the contractor installed the drywall in one case, and the homeowner did the painting.

Will the home remodeling plan address the actual problem?

The truth is instead of investing a substantial amount of time and effort in a particular large remodeling project, which may resolve the entire dilemma, they tend to form several smaller improvements over time.

Is a large company always the best choice for small projects around your home, or will a smaller company focus on your repeat business a better choice?

If you have a friend or relative, or if you know someone who has recently made home remodeling similar to your own plans, I think asking the contractor’s name and contact information is worth considering.

Keys to Proper Planning

Here, I will discuss some helpful steps to help you plan your home improvement project. If you want it fast and inexpensive, the possibilities are pretty good that it won’t be high quality. The reason behind this is that it allows you to accurately anticipate costs, and after all, nothing is worse than stopping progress halfway through a home improvement project for the lack of funds.

Furthermore, it is often good to obtain at least three bids for the work from contractors or other home remodeling professionals. This bidding can be considered even if you plan to do some or all of your work.

Most experts said that obtaining bids from contractors and professionals can provide a homeowner with a feel for the work. It can even help you determine the potential savings of considering or doing your home improvement yourself.

Each task often requires knowledge and skills, from design and construction to wiring, plumbing, and finish work.

As most experts often suggest, the overall remodeling project might go far more smoothly if you hire a pro for certain job parts. Simply avoid intricate work or work that requires a high degree of craftsmanship unless you’re competent enough at the job.

Before you start working with your home improvement project, it is important to ensure that you have gathered on-site the tools, materials, and other resources you will need to complete the task.

Here are some key materials, fixtures, and appliances that should be scheduled for delivery:

  • Windows
  • Cabinets
  • Plumbing fixtures

Explore the Need for a Permit

If you have decided to obtain one, visit your city or county building department to find out whether permits are needed. Some cities out there require electrical and plumbing work handled and accomplished by a licensed pro.

There is also a great possibility that you will need a permit if you intend to change the roofline, reposition the plumbing fixtures, or move a bearing wall.

The point here is if a permit is required, don’t just proceed to do your work without it. It is typically a great idea for the homeowner to rent a dumpster and have it delivered before any major demolition starts in every major improvement project.

We have already tackled the preliminary questions and the basic steps for proper home repair and improvement planning. So, why don’t you consider home designing plans now?

Mas Broto

Written by: Mas Broto

Mas Broto is a small business owner with 30 years experience in the real estate industry. He is the founder and editor of theDailyThrive.net, the most comprehensive free home improvement website on the planet!