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Should I do it myself? 

 

DIY—Do It Yourself—More and more homeowners are becoming self sufficient when it comes to home improvement projects.  Home improvement stores offer helpful tips and advice, through the product lines they carry and by one-on-one discussions with their trained staff, as well as by offering free courses at the store on a wide array of topics that run the gamut from replacing faucets to installing tile to building a gazebo for summer family gatherings.  So what should you consider when deciding whether or not to do it yourself?

 

Your Fitness Level

 

Talk to the store about what physical demands the project might require.  Consider issues such as lifting the materials in or out of your vehicle, including the weight, size and maneuverability of the components.  In some cases, you may be able to have the store load the materials for you, and then break bulk packed items apart to remove from your vehicle.  For example, if the store offers assistance in loading a box containing a self-assembly shelf unit, but you are unable to lift and carry the entire packaged unit, open the package and carry one or two shelves at a time, potentially saving a delivery charge in addition to what you are saving by assembling the shelves yourself.  Seems simple, but it works.

 

If a contractor is involved in any component of the project, ask him to pick up heavy items at the store for you.  Let’s say for a bath redo, you contact a plumber to install your new sink.  At most home improvement stores, you can select your new sink, pay for it, and the store will hold it until the plumber picks it up en route to your home.

 

Special Physical Demands

 

Ask the store how many hours are usually involved in each component of the project, and keep in mind that your lack of experience may increase that time.  If installing a new tile floor in your bath generally takes about four hours, remember that you will spend those four hours (or more if you are a novice) on your knees.  A simple purchase of kneepads may solve the problem, but if you have trouble bending and crouching, you may need to hire an installer.

 

Also, consider whether the task can be broken down into steps that can be done across several days, which may make the physical demands more reasonable.  You may discover that you can do one or two components of a task, and still realize a savings.

 

Other physical demands may include climbing, reaching above your head, or wearing a particulate mask for several hours at a time.

 

Equipment Required

 

Do it yourself savings can quickly be eclipsed by the purchase of equipment.  If your first DIY project might be your last, consider renting or borrowing equipment until you decide if DIY is right for you.  What you ultimately rent and what you buy will vary, depending on the cost of the tool, how many more tasks might require it, and available storage space.

 

The Value of Your Time

 

If you are retired, you might approach a DIY project with relish, deriving great satisfaction as each part of the task is completed.  But if you are still working, the cost of your time may be too high.  In that case, you might be able to save by carefully picking your projects based on your experience and skill level.

 

Potential Tradeoffs

 

Networking with other DIY’ers may allow you to barter and trade services.  You might be able to help a friend paint his family room so that he can assist you in laying hall flooring.

 

Tell us what you think in the comment box below:

 

Is it worth trying to “Do It Yourself” or should you just go ahead and hire someone to do it for you?

 

What was your worst “Do It Yourself” disaster and how can others learn from it?