With the popularity of home remodeling TV shows, a do-it-yourself project might sound appealing. But how can a homeowner be sure that taking on a DIY kitchen or other remodeling project is a good idea? The National Association of the Remodeling Industry suggests considering these questions when determining if you want to tackle the project yourself.
Do you enjoy physical work?
Are you persistent and patient?
Do you have reliable work habits—meaning that once the project is started, will it get finished?
Do you have all the tools needed and, more importantly, the skills required to do the job?
Will you be able to achieve the level of quality needed for this project?
Do you have the time that will be required to complete the project? Always double or triple the time estimate for a DIY project, unless you’re highly skilled and familiar with that particular project.
Is it OK if the project remains unfinished for a period of time?
Are you prepared to handle the kind of stress this project will create in your family relationships?
Do you know all the steps involved in the project?
Have you received any installation instructions from the manufacturer to determine whether this is a project you still want to undertake? Most manufacturers will send you installation instructions before purchase to determine whether the product will meet your needs.
Is this a job you can do completely by yourself? If you do need assistance, what skill level is required of your assistant? If you need a professional subcontractor, do you have access to a skilled labor pool?
Are you familiar with local building codes and permit requirements? Some jurisdictions require that certain work be completed by a licensed and bonded professional to meet code. It’s best to check these requirements before beginning work on the project.
Do you have a plan if the project goes awry? Most contractors are wary about taking on a botched DIY job.
Is it safe for you to do this project? If you’re not familiar with roofing or don’t have fall protection restraints, you may not want to venture into a roofing job. Similarly, if you know nothing about electricity—leave it to the professionals.
Some jobs can be fatal if not performed correctly. Your health and safety should be the primary concern. Never enter into a DIY project that would jeopardize either.
Will you be able to obtain the materials you need? Who will be your source of supply? Will they deliver?
If you’re attempting to do-it-yourself for financial reasons, have you looked at all of your costs, including the cost of materials, your time and the tools you need to purchase? If you are new to the DIY game, you may also want to look at the cost to correct any mistakes you may make—i.e., the damage factor. Will it still be a cost-saving venture?
If you’re trying DIY for the satisfaction of a job well done, can you ensure that the job will be well done? If it doesn’t come out right, how will you feel? Will you be able to afford to redo any unsatisfactory work?
The experts at NARI suggest that if you answered yes to eight or more of these questions, you might be in good shape to attempt a DIY project.
But before you run for the nearest hardware store, revisit the questions you marked no and carefully consider the potential problems you will face if you proceed with the project. Hiring a professional might be your best choice.
