Common Home Repairs that Should Be Done Professionally (And Why)
In an effort to save money on maintenance and repairs, many homeowners attempt to do the handiwork themselves. While some projects are suitable for DIY projects — like painting, fixing a leaky faucet, or cleaning gutters — many require precision and specific know-how, which should be left to the professionals. When facing major home repairs that require specialized knowledge, you should consider hiring professional help and be prepared to pay for the costs.
Here are some projects you should leave to the experts:
1.Electrical
Whether it’s re-wiring, installing electrical switches, installing new light fixtures, replacing outlets, putting in new appliances, inserting new circuits, or doing some demolition where there are live wires, you should hire a licensed electrician. One wrong move could potentially harm you or cause a fire. Most serious projects that involve electrical work require a permit and the knowledge of a licensed electrician. Costs for electrical work don’t typically cost a fortune. For example, the average cost to install electrical switches, outlets and fixtures in the Tulsa area only ranges from $121 to $431.
2. All Roof Work
Resist the urge to make any repairs or maintenance to your roof on your own. A simple repair done wrong can lead to severe damage to your roof. Not to mention, if you’re not familiar with roof work and don’t have the right tools, the result can be serious injury to yourself. A professional would be able to keep the integrity of your roof intact.
Whether you need a roof replacement or repair, a pro here is definitely warranted. Roof repairs can prevent interior water damage, mold, and deterioration of the entire roof. The averageroof repair costs $300-$1,100, which doesn’t hold a candle to the costs that mount if the problem remains unfixed.
3. Demolition
It’s easier to destroy than to build, but resist the urge to take your sledgehammer to your walls and cabinets. Many people erroneously believe that they can save on the demo by handling it themselves. The problem is what lies beneath. There are many unknowns, and unless you’re a seasoned DIYer, you may not know how to be prepared and what to look for. Some problems that arise during demolition are:
- Asbestos
- Lead-tainted dust
- Wiring
- Plumbing
- Unstable and flammable materials
- Damage to load-bearing walls
- Contaminated sites
Demolition costs vary from project to project. However, undeniably, the costs outweigh the risks.
4. Plumbing
Small plumbing issues can lead to big repairs or replacements. Further, a poorly done repair or issues left unattended can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in water damage to your home. You will want to have one or two plumbers you can call for average repairs (i.e. clogs or leaks) and for large repairs (i.e. replacement of pipes or remodels). Save for plumbing costs, whether you’re doing a simple repair or remodel. A licensed plumber may charge $45 to $100 per hour plus costs for travel, materials and urgency foraverage repairs, and $100-$1,200 per fixture for remodels.
5. Remodels
Basic rule of thumb, if a remodel requires a permit, hire a professional to do the job. Depending on the scope and size of the project you will want to consider hiring an architect to design the plans (average cost: $50-$200 per hour), a designer to work with you on choosing materials, design, floor plan, and budget (average cost: minimum fee, $50-$200 per hour), and a contractor to implement and oversee the project (average cost: set fee based on materials plus labor, depends on project).
If you’re a DIYer, you can leave your mark on your home in many ways, but some projects are best left for the professionals. If a repair or improvement could kill or injure you, destroy or severely damage your home, or requires a license or permit, you should hire an expert. The costs associated with hiring a professional are worth avoiding the costs associated with the risks and ensure the job is done right.
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