We all want to save money when it comes to maintaining our homes. Completing repairs and maintenance on your own is a great way to do so, and most projects are pretty easy to accomplish without professional help. However, if you are not careful, the following DIY projects could end up costing you much more than hiring a pro.
Controlling Damaging Pests in Your Home
Most bugs are just a nuisance to deal with, but if you think you may have a termite problem, you most definitely need the help of an experienced professional. Termites are small but mighty, and they can do major damage to the structure of your home. Preventing and controlling termites takes some expertise, so you will want to use an online tool from Home Advisor to find reliable help from termite control professionals in your hometown.
Repairing Problems with Your Home’s Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of protection against the elements. If your roof is faulty and you do not take the proper steps to repair it, you could be in for some serious future issues. Some small signs to watch out for include unexplained stains on your ceiling and any mold growth around your roof. If you notice any of these conditions, or if your area has experienced a recent hail storm, you may need to call a roofing expert ASAP. Look for roofing professionals who are licensed and bonded so that you know your home will be protected in the future.
Cleaning Your Home with a Pressure Washer
You can rent a pressure washer from hardware stores for little money. However, operating these complicated machines properly takes some level of experience. Pressure washers can be dangerous if used incorrectly, and you can even cause damage to your home. It may seem convenient to use this tool to clean your roof or windows, but pressure washing these areas is a bad idea. So, if you need to have your home’s exterior clean, it’s so much safer to hire a pro.
Undoing Serious Plumbing or Pipe Issues
Plumbing can be pretty expensive, especially if you need to hire a licensed pro. Homeowners can expect to shell out at least $100 just to have a plumber inspect an emergency leak or problem, and then an additional $100 or more an hour depending on the scope of the repair. While there are some DIY-able plumbing repairs, such as unclogging a toilet, others should be handled by bonded professionals to prevent extensive water damage from leaks.
Removing Lead Paint Without Safety Concerns
Plumbing issues can be a bummer, but finding out you have lead paint can be even worse. It’s a potentially expensive issue to remedy in your home, so you may be tempted to remove it on your own. However, federal lead paint laws are extremely strict regarding the methods and precautions that need to be taken to get lead paint out of homes. Failure to follow these laws could result in grave health risks for anyone who spends time in your home. If you discover lead paint in your home, you should opt to have it safely removed by professionals.
Updating the Wiring or Electrical Systems in Your Home
Lead paint can be damaging to your health, but faulty wiring can threaten your home and your life. Swapping out wires or electrical connections in your home may seem like a simple DIY job, but bad wiring is one of the most common causes of house fires. All it takes is one mistake to produce a spark that can destroy your home in a matter of minutes. If that fire damages a neighbor’s property or causes an injury, you could also be legally liable. For your safety and the safety of those living around you, always opt to have a licensed electrician complete any rewiring or repairs around your home.
Saving money with DIY home repairs is smart for any homeowner, but if those DIY projects put your home or your health in danger, the savings are just not worth it. Be prepared to call the pros for serious home projects so you can protect your home and your family.
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