Home improvement projects are a necessary part of homeowning, but how do you know when to call a professional? Professionals have the knowledge needed for a major project as well as countless hours of practice. Although tackling home improvement yourself seems like the affordable and convenient option, it might be best to do an in-depth analysis of your own skills before beginning. Consider the following before starting your new home project on your own.
Do Some Research
Can you find at least three examples of the project online? If so, then you’ll most likely be able to recruit the help of other DIY-ers via YouTube videos. Watch carefully and take note of any suggestions offered that could be beneficial to you. Observing others complete the same project successfully is definitely a good sign; by learning from others, you can get a sense of how approachable the project really is. If you can’t find examples, it’s most likely a home improvement project that is out of your league and a professional will need to be contacted.
Set Realistic Expectations
Before beginning a home improvement project, one of the most important considerations is time. If time is on your side and you have the necessary resources to complete the job, then you’re all set. However, if this project interferes with other priorities, then it might be best to hire a professional. It’s also imperative to think about all the steps that will go into this project. For example, even if the job is “just” putting down new hardwood floors, take into account that there is still the removal of the materials currently in place. Installment is never as easy as slapping down epoxy and placing the intended material over it. You will need to level the subfloor before adding new material, acquire the appropriate tools to correctly measure and line up the planks, and ascertain that the new wood is laid precisely in order to avoid gaps in the flooring. There are a lot of factors involved with a project like this, so having the time and resources to complete it is essential. An incomplete project paused due to lack of time can be more disappointing than if one never began. If you feel uncomfortable with the steps or simply don’t have the time for your home improvement project, a professional can likely complete the project quickly and efficiently.
Know Your Limits & Respect the Skills Learned
Take a second to think about your background versus a professional’s. Do you have experience with major electrical maintenance? Are you familiar with HVAC upkeep? Would you know what to do if you came across foundational and/or structural issues in your home? These are common examples of issues that could emerge during a home improvement project. In these cases, a professional should get involved to fix any potential problems during your project. However, not all home improvement adventures are taxing; assembling a home entertainment system with a powerful surround sound or installing a storage upgrade in your laundry room are easy examples of worthwhile projects. Knowing your limits is critical before home improvement plans are made.
Overall, home renovations can offer the promise of a new beginning for your home, but if problems arise, you can feel discouraged. If you feel satisfied with your prior knowledge and skills before initiating a project, then go for it! On the other hand, while it’s great to learn new skills yourself, it might be best during extensive projects to save some money and reduce stress by relying on professionals. 
Demi Morelock
Home & Yard Magazine
