There are some jobs around the house that everyone should know how to do. Fixing a minor leak, unclogging the toilet, and caulking the gaps around doors and windows are some of these things. However, there are some tasks that always need a professional touch. Below are five instances when you need to call the pros first to get the job done.
Major Plumbing Modifications
There are plenty of plumbing problems that can be solved by a novice. If you’ve got a leaky faucet or you need to install a new toilet, for example, you can probably watch a quick video and feel confident about not messing the project up. If you’ve got to do anything that involves moving or modifying pipes, though, you need to work with a professional plumber. Poorly connected pipes can lead to major leaks and water damage, and these might not be noticed right away if they’re beneath the floors or in the walls.
Anything Electrical
Electrical systems are more dangerous than they are worth when it comes to DIY jobs. If the job is more difficult than changing out a lighting fixture, it’s worth both your time and money just to call an electrician. Not only will this help to ensure that the job gets done right, but it will help to keep you and your family safe. Even if you can do the job without hurting yourself, a poorly set up electrical system is a major fire hazard down the road.
Major Roofing Repairs
Simply put, the amount you’d save by working on your roof by yourself isn’t worth the amount of time or danger that comes with working on a roof. While you can probably replace a shingle or two by yourself, the fact that roof work usually involves going up high and working on an unsteady angle makes it just too dangerous for the average homeowner to attempt. Unless you have roofing experience and the proper tools and safety gear, leave it to the pros.
Any Structural Changes
If you’ve got a structural problem, you need a professional’s help. While it might seem like just anyone can pick up a sledgehammer and take out an old wall, the truth is that demolition needs a light touch. Taking out the wrong wall could lead to structural issues in the rest of your home. If you have any problems with structural aspects of your house, you’re going to need a licensed and bonded professional to come out and help you.
Anything That Outstrips Your Handyman Ability
Finally, you should avoid doing any repairs that you know are outside your own level of skill. One of the biggest reasons people hire a handyman isn’t because the jobs are too complex or too dangerous, but rather because the individuals doing the hiring don’t trust themselves to do the job correctly the first time. Messing up the job likely means you’ll have to call the professionals in later to fix your mistakes, and many people simply don’t want to deal with that. If you don’t trust yourself to do a DIY job—or even if you simply don’t have the time—there’s no shame in calling in help even for a relatively simple job..
Don’t be afraid to get help when a job is beyond your ability to complete. If it involves a major system of your home, you will probably be better off getting a professional to complete the task. Not only will it be faster, it’s safer, and calling in professionals will save you the embarrassment of later having to explain exactly why you don’t get the job done right the first time.
