Viral Now - When to DIY or Hire a Pro for Home Repairs

When something goes wrong in your home, it can be tempting to try to manage the project yourself. While this might be appropriate on certain occasions, other repairs should only be managed by a professional. Before risking doing further damage to your home, consider these tips to decide if this is something you should take on yourself, or if it is better to leave it to the experts.

Cracks in Walls or Floors

Over time homes shift and settle. This can lead to cracks in walls and floors, especially in older buildings. While it may be tempting to try to cover the problem by filling the cracks yourself, structural repairs should not be trifled with. Even a small crack could be a sign of a larger issue- one that potentially could be dangerous.

If you ever have doubts regarding the structural integrity of your home, it is best to bring in a professional to assess the damage. Not only will he/she be able to tell you the source of the crack, which is the real problem, but what it will take to fix it. Often, these services provide free consultations and an estimate. That way you can plan accordingly for the necessary repairs.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues vary dramatically in nature. Maybe an outlet isn’t providing power, or maybe it is starting to smoulder. You can also experience similar issues with lighting and switches. If an outlet, light, or switch simply isn’t working, then you can do a few DIY checks. For example, it may just be a sign of a blown fuse. Simply check your fuse box and make sure they are all properly set. If not, flip the switch back and see if it resolves the problem.

For problems that don’t relate to the fuses, if the fuse is triggered repeatedly, or any time when smoke or fire has been detected, you may have a larger problem. Whether it is faulty wiring or fixtures, this is the time when hiring a professional is wise. Working with electricity comes with a high level of risk, and the consequences can be deadly. This is no job for an amateur.

Clogged Drains

Here’s another situation where the cause of the problem will decide your route. Once you notice a problem, feel free to try a few basic DIY solutions. You can purchase drain cleaner from a local store. If you feel particularly confident, you may even try a hand-powered auger. When the problem persists, or if sewage appears to be backing up into the line, you should reach out to a professional. Larger plumbing issues can be catastrophic, so don’t risk a burst pipe to try to save a few pounds.

Roof Damage

Working on a roof comes with inherent risk even on the simplest projects. Being high in the air puts you at risk for a serious fall. The greater the pitch, the more risky the project becomes. In some cases the pitch can be so steep that you would need special harnesses to avoid falling off. Whenever you suspect a problem with your roof, contact a professional. The roof is a main point of protection for the rest of your home, so repairs should be made promptly and correctly.

Flooring Changes

Certain flooring materials are relatively easy to prepare for and install. Certain laminates can be installed by people with basic home repair skills, and tiling may also be possible, but before you begin the project you must make sure you understand all of the required steps. In most cases, you won’t simply be installing the new floor over the old one. You may also need to add base layers before actually setting the floor. Not having the proper foundation below the flooring can cause issues and may result in additional damage.

If you are uncertain about the installation of flooring then contact a professional. While it may be more expensive, it can also be completed more quickly. Plus, they can make sure your subfloor is in suitable shape and that all materials are included in the plan.

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