DIY solutions are all the rage in renovations, but they can wind up costing the homeowner more than they ever imagined. Mistakes happen all the time, and the homeowner might install materials the wrong way or even break them. Here are common mistakes that homeowners make renovating their own home and how hiring a professional contractor can save you money, time and frustration (below article brought to you by HomeAdvisor):
DIY
Homeowners assume that they have the right skills to complete a lot of the basic tasks involved in the renovation. After all, they are handy with a hammer, nails and other tools. They assume that they will save thousands on the home renovation. The fact is that their skills are not on par with a professional contractor. Numerous things can go wrong. This leads to lengthy delays and extra cost in the long run. Have a professional install fixtures and take care of the plumbing and electrical wiring.
Cheap Material
Purchasing cheap material to do a home renovation seems counter-productive. Homeowners assume that they save money by purchasing less expensive material. However, the cheap materials generally lessen the value and the look of the completed project. Thus, complicating matters and adding more problems to the home’s resale value. Cheap materials will also break and wear down sooner, making it more expensive in the long run for replacements.
Use The Wrong Tools
What is the difference between a hack saw and a drywall saw? What is the difference between a flat head screwdriver and a Phillips screwdriver? Knowledge about typical hand tools and power tools is important to complete the renovation properly. Many non-professionals use the wrong tools and botch the job. Even if you know the difference and believe you are doing it right, professionals have all the extra tools to get specific jobs done that most homeowners won’t have.
Cost of Remodel
A professional contractor has plenty experience judging and calculating the cost of the typical home renovation project. However, a homeowner might set a basic budget and quickly discover that they’ve extended their budget several thousand dollars or more. This is commonly due to improper research and changing direction in the middle of a renovation job.
Codes and Permits
A professional contractor has expert knowledge on the codes and permits required to complete a renovation. However, the typical homeowner does not. They may end up in the middle of the renovation before discovering that they require permits, and the work must meet certain codes. This might cause numerous headaches and frustration.
The above article provided by HomeAdvisor is a great example of why hiring professionals can be worth the investment. There are some projects that you just shouldn’t do yourself. Contact Coast to Coast Restoration to see how we can save you time, frustrations and money.
