There is a certain satisfaction in performing a home repair yourself, especially with the DIY trend that is dominating the media. Everywhere you look, a home repair show is showing a fabulous makeover, or an online video is explaining how with a step-by-step video.
While DIY repairs may be good for some things, it may spell imminent disaster for others. There are some things that just should be handled by a professional…like these:
Electrical
Electrocution occurs more often in the home than anywhere else, states a study by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), and dangers from shock or fire can result in damage to a home or life. If you must work on anything electrical, such as replacing a ceiling fan or an outlet, or rewiring, make sure the power is off before you start. Invest in a volt meter to test wires for power. There are also building codes to consider; the government has strict rules on safety. Rule of thumb: if the job requires a permit, it requires a professional.
Plumbing
Minor repairs, such as changing a faucet or showerhead, or even replacing a toilet can go on the weekend project list. But leave larger jobs such as replacing pipes, extending hot water lines, or re-routing drainage to the experts. If equipment other than your plumber’s wrench is needed, such as a blow torch to fuse copper piping, call a plumbing professional. Errors in plumbing can lead to huge repair bills if not done correctly.
Gas
Mistakes from accidental carbon monoxide leaks killed approximately 400 citizens in the US in 2015. Natural gas is used for heating, cooking and appliances like your clothes dryer, but like water, will find a way out if there is a leak. Even as something as seemingly simple as moving an appliance to make a floor or paint repair, or replacing a gas oven or water heater can require meticulous care in uncoupling and re-hooking up gas connections.
Roofing
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 76% of the fatalities in the roofing industry result from falls. And the steeper the roof incline, the higher your likelihood of injury. Although replacing shingles or gutters isn’t a difficult job, the dangers lie in traversing the ladder while carrying supplies, or in walking the roof itself. It only takes one slip to spell disaster. Never work alone, always work with a spotter who can hold the ladder, transfer supplies, and be on hand to assist.
Asbestos
Asbestos is still found in older construction, often used in the insulation during the building process. Although naturally-occurring, asbestos has also been proven to be toxic, and its use was banned in 1989 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Laws exist now concerning the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. If you know your home has asbestos siding or insulation, it is best not to disturb it, as this can release particles into the air that can be easily ingested. Hire a professional to mediate the problem.
If you insist on doing a home improvement project yourself, be sure to acquire the correct tools and safety equipment before commencing work. Check to see if permits are required, and don’t hesitate to get an inspection from a competent home inspector to ensure that your work is up to code.
In addition to creating potentially-hazardous conditions, DIY projects can end up being far more costly than hiring a professional in the first place—especially if the project goes wrong. You may think you’re saving money, but in the long run, it may cost you more—in time, money or even your life.
Hire Först Consulting Group
Först Consulting Group offers a range of services to homeowners that includes construction consultation, assistance in choosing a contractor, construction safety, and home inspections. As owners of a separate construction business ourselves, we can help you determine what you need and estimate costs of repairs. If you do hire a professional and question their work, we can help there also with construction project management, inspections, documentation, and litigation support.
Contact Först Consulting Group today.
