Greetings, fellow creators and DIY enthusiasts! I’m here to share some wisdom and KNOWLEDGE.
Now, we all know that we’re a talented bunch, capable of transforming a drab room into a masterpiece with a few brush strokes or adding a regal touch with some crown molding. But let’s face it, some tasks are better left to the pros unless you have a peculiar fondness for voided warranties, insurance complications, and the occasional building code violation. So, let’s dive into the 16 home improvement projects where it’s best to dial a pro instead of risking your limbs, your life, or a hefty fine.
- Ever thought about swapping your electric range for a gas stove and doing the installation yourself? Well, unless you’re a fan of explosive surprises, you should reconsider. This task calls for a dynamic duo of professionals – a plumber to install the gas line and an electrician to tweak the electrical circuit. Trust me, this is one recipe you don’t want to mess up.
- Living in an older home? Your attic insulation might be playing host to asbestos, a toxic substance that’s as unwelcome as a skunk at a garden party. While you might be tempted to don your superhero cape and tackle asbestos removal yourself, it’s best to call in the asbestos Avengers instead. They’re equipped to handle the dangers and legalities of the job.
- It’s best to resist the DIY siren call when it comes to HVAC repairs or replacements. Freon leaks can cause dizziness, asphyxia, and other respiratory problems, which are about as fun as a root canal. Plus, manufacturers might void your warranty faster than you can say “Do-It-Yourself” if an unlicensed homeowner tinkers with the system.
- Installing or replacing a water heater might seem like a perfect weekend warrior project, but unless you’re comfortable dancing with 240 volts of electricity or flirting with gas lines, it’s best to leave this one to a licensed plumber. Trust me, the potential for carbon monoxide emissions and code violations isn’t worth the bragging rights.
- Septic tank work is about as pleasant as a root canal and requires specific equipment and permits. The only DIY step you need to take here is to dial a professional. Trust me, your nose will thank you.
- Got a furry freeloader in your rafters? Before you try to evict it yourself, remember that some critters carry diseases like rabies, and there could be legal repercussions if they’re harmed or relocated without professional help. So, unless you’re a fan of rabies shots, it’s best to call a wildlife control company.
- How about knocking down a wall to create an open floor plan? Before you channel your inner Hulk, remember that removing a load-bearing wall on your own could be a building code violation and a safety hazard. So, unless you’re fond of living in a house of cards, please, please, please, it’s best to call in a specialist. I can’t stress this enough after seeing some of the advice you guys get from non-professionals in the DIY Groups you belong to.
- If you plan to replace or add light fixtures affecting the electrical wiring, it’s best to call in an electrician. Otherwise, your insurance company might deny your claim faster than you can say “house fire” if something goes wrong.
- Installing a skylight might seem like a fun challenge, but unless you’re a fan of voided warranties and high-altitude acrobatics, it’s best to leave this one to the pros.
- Living in an antique farmhouse might seem like a dream, but removing lead paint can be a nightmare. Lead is deadly, so it’s best to call a qualified specialist unless you’re a fan of living dangerously.
- When it comes to cutting down large trees, it’s best to leave your inner lumberjack in the woods. Instead, call a certified arborist familiar with city ordinances and with enough liability insurance to cover any mishaps.
- Garage door springs need to be replaced over time, but unless you’re a fan of high-speed metal projectiles, it’s best to call a garage door installation specialist.
- Termite problems cost property owners more than $5 billion a year. So, unless you’re a fan of supporting the termite economy, it’s best to call an exterminator with access to the most potent products.
- While replacing a toilet or sink might seem like a manageable task, any changes to the plumbing lines should be left to a plumber. Otherwise, you might end up with a bathroom as welcoming as a haunted house.
- Before demolishing any structures on your property, check with the local building code official. Otherwise, you might end up with a bigger mess than you bargained for.
- Building a deck might seem like a fun project, but it requires a lot of structural planning, a permit, and inspections. So, unless you’re a fan of surprise visits from the building code office, it’s best to leave this one to the pros.
Remember, DIYers; there’s no shame in calling in a pro when the job calls for it. After all, we’re all about creating beautiful, SAFE, and code-compliant spaces. Happy DIYing!