What You Should Know About DIY Renovations

Many homeowners don't know that DIY home renovations aren't necessarily cheaper. There are many dangers involved, and mistakes are costly.

Are DIY Home Renovations Even Worth It?

When it comes to DIY renovations, the main issue is that time is money. Mistakes cost time. . . and even more money. Furthermore, it's too easy to overlook the time investment.

When you hire a company like Straight Edge Builders, they will save you time by:

• Ordering the materials

• Overseeing all subcontractors 

• Setting up a schedule and sticking to it

• Coordinating the deliveries and disposal

These are just a few examples.

There's a chance that you may not have all the tools:

• Demolition tools, such as a crowbar, sawzall, sledgehammer, and a voltage tester

• Basic tools, including a hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets, clamps, level, tape measure, speed square, pliers, stud finder, cordless drill, multi-tool, air compressor and nailer, and a sander

• Safety items, like safety glasses, respirators, work gloves, and ear protection

• Saws, including a jigsaw, circular saw, mitre saw, and a table saw

• Painting items, such as brushes, rollers, drop cloths, and lights

• Others, like a ladder, shop vac, extension cords, saw horses, and a truck

Even if you have all of the tools, you need the training to use them. Knowledge is essential for renovations. Things won't just start to make sense as you go.

You need to know a lot about scheduling a project, codes, permits, design, and space planning.

Then, of course, you require skills, and some home projects require a lot. HGTV and YouTube are entertaining, but they aren't the same as on-the-job training. For example, it's easy to forget essential steps, like turning off the electricity to a specific circuit.

These are all the professional remodeling skills needed:

• Demolition

• Electrical, plumbing and HVAC

• Framing, insulation, and drywall

• Tile work

• Installing cabinetry and flooring

• Carpentry

Codes and Permits

Some DIY home projects are illegal. If you don't acquire a permit, you won't be arrested, but you may get on the bad side of your local building codes division and have to demolish your project. Codes change frequently and vary in different locations.

DIY decks are one of the most dangerous projects and frequent violations. A permit will specify that you need to mark utilities before breaking ground, so you can avoid digging through an electrical cable. A permit also ensures your deck has all the required safety features and is attached to the house correctly.

You usually need a permit for structural changes, home additions, and roofing.

If your project involves tapping into an electrical system, you'll likely need a permit, like if you're:

• Adding electrical outlets

• Installing a central vacuum system

• Replacing circuit breakers

• Converting a kitchen range from electric to gas

• Installing or repairing a hard-wired electrical system

Jurisdictions are vigilant about electrical work because of the risk of danger. Furthermore, inspectors must look at electrical projects that are in-progress and completed to make sure there aren't safety violations. In fact, the biggest risks are fires and electrocution.

Additionally, there are many plumbing projects that require a permit:

• Adding a new plumbing feature

• Moving a plumbing fixture more than six feet

• Repairing or replacing pipes

• Replacing a water heater

• Installing or repairing a septic tank or dry well

Plumbing-related building codes are there to protect your community from mold, water damage, sewage backups, and blockages.

Lastly, in some jurisdictions, you require a permit to chop down trees. So, an arborist or tree removal service would be your safest bet.

Danger!

When it comes to DIY renovations, few homeowners consider the potential hazards. Nevertheless, there's no denying that DIY home projects are always potentially dangerous, especially when it comes to:

• Asbestos and lead paint, which experts must test and remove

• Lifting heavy items

• Wiring

• Nail guns

• Demolition

• Sledgehammers

Did you know that millions of homeowners working on DIY renovations end up in the hospital each year? 170,000 of these injuries are from ladders. According to a survey by Cinch Home Services, 1/10 of homeowners who attempt DIY roof repairs end up in the ER.

Needless Mistakes

There's a high potential to make a number of mistakes. Realtors and inspectors can tell if you did unprofessional work. If you make mistakes, your home value may decrease and you can scare buyers away.

The most common DIY mistake is under-budgeting. Furthermore, DIYers spend an average of $150-200 fixing their mistakes.

Additionally, refinishing hardwood floors is the most difficult DIY project. In fact, one in five homeowners have to hire outside help to finish the job.

Cinch Home Services surveyed 1500 DIY homeowners about the mistakes they made:

• 27% under-budgeted.

• 26% worked outside of their skill level.

• 25% underestimated how many tools and supplies they would need.

• 25% didn't set enough time aside.

• 24% made incorrect measurements.

• 23% skimped on materials.

• 22% made too many changes along the way.

• 21% neglected to prime or pretreat a surface.

• 20% didn't have a plan.

• 20% used the wrong paint.

• 17% didn't take safety precautions.

• 17% improperly stored or secured materials.

• 17% didn't acquire the proper permits.

So, if you live in West Michigan, count on Straight Edge Builders for your major renovations projects. We make the process easy and smooth, with transparent pricing and continual communication. Call 616-218-5444 or fill out our consultation form to book a consultation.

Save, time, money and your safety! 

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