The DIY home improvement market is projected to climb by 4.2 percent in 2022. It appears that many are choosing to complete projects on their own. Most use video tutorials online and other sources for any number of work around the house. Although you’ve enough resources that make home projects easy, some improvements don’t turn out the way you hope.
When Savings Turn into More Costs
A home improvement project will cost money, whether you do it yourself or hire a designer and contractors. A general rule of thumb is to always add 20 percent to your budget when you plan to redo the kitchen, the living room, or any space in your home. Some projects could cost over P300,000 for work that involves construction. So it makes sense to do it alone to save some money.
But when your DIY leaves you with damaged wiring, floors with two different types of tiles, or kitchen drawers that open into each other, you’re bound to spend more. The cost will depend on the extent of the mistake. If you end up busting down a wall that turns out to be load-bearing, for example, you’ll have to call a contractor to fix it. Otherwise, you’d be looking at a serious structural issue.
Your Qualifications Don’t Match the Job
Professionals, such as carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, have done the training to know what they’re doing. They’ve also obtained the necessary credentials to take on projects according to regulations. Unless you’re some type of “renaissance man,” you’re not likely to have the kind of knowledge and skills needed to complete certain projects.
Of course, some minor improvements can be made through a video tutorial. For example, if your rented condo in a high rise allows you to paint cabinets, you can try to customize them to suit your taste. But for more involved projects, such as retiling the bathroom or adding recessed lighting in the kitchen, professionals would be a smarter choice.
Time Is Critical to Every Home Improvement
How long do you think a bathroom renovation would take? Then, think about how much time you’re willing to put in to get it done. When you work, your home improvement project is likely scheduled for weekends and holidays. A renovation that takes more time than necessary could get costlier. The materials you need could go up in price.
In addition to the cost, consider the inconvenience to your daily routine. Whether you’re redoing the bathroom or the kitchen, prepare for disruption. And improvements that only take place when you’re not working will mean a longer disruption.
This is not to say that working with a professional for your home improvement will be stress-free. Some inconvenience may still occur. You may have to section off certain areas in your home to contain the dust. You’ll also need to make sure that you choose the right contractor and get your agreement in writing. The right type of contract ensures that your project goes according to plan.
DIY improvements in your home can be tempting with available resources. But consider the advantages and whether they’ll outweigh the disadvantages before diving in. With the right choice, you’ll soon see renovations that could pay off in the future.