Did you know that 57% of Americans took on a home improvement project when the pandemic began? While that sense of initiative is impressive, not all home improvements are DIY material. In fact, some DIY mistakes can result in costly repairs or dangerous situations.
Read on to learn about 5 home improvements you shouldn’t try yourself — unless you’re a professional.
1. Let the Pros Tackle Your Roof
What happens if you fall off your roof? Don’t set yourself up to find out. When you need to replace shingles or check the chimney flashing, hire out the job.
Roofers have shoes with enhanced traction, hard hats, and harnesses in some cases. They also understand the safest ways to reach your roof and efficiently address the problem. And reputable roofers will be covered by insurance in case they sustain an injury on your property.
2. Steer Clear of Electrical Work
Some electrical issues only require changing a faulty fuse or swapping out a lightbulb. But for anything more complicated, hire a qualified electrician. You don’t want to risk electrocution or a poor rewiring job that leaves your home prone to electrical fires.
Electricians must obtain licenses and pass a journeyman exam for a reason. They know how to work with electrical currents and install or repair systems.
3. Avoid Garage Door Fixes
Did your garage door stop working? Avoid the temptation to figure out the problem through a DIY home improvement project. For starters, the door could slam down suddenly, or a part could dislodge from the machinery.
Don’t attempt to adjust the torsion springs, which consist of a tightly wound spiral. They can launch out of place, and you could sustain an injury. Garage door installation is better off in the hands of professionals. Also, you can prefer wooden stairs that make your interior or exterior more attractive.
4. Leave the Plumbing to the Experts
The best home improvements are those that are done properly and hold up over time. If you try to fix a leaking pipe or clogged garbage disposal, you could worsen the problem. Choosing the wrong pipe or overtightening a bolt can lead to bigger leaks or burst pipes later.
Further, any leaks that involve sewage are hazardous to your health. After fixing the root problem, these situations will require sanitization processes that should be left to professional cleaners.
5. Don’t Mess with Gas Appliances
When your gas stove starts acting up, don’t take matters into your own hands. Likewise, don’t attempt to fix or replace a gas furnace. The last thing you want to do is unknowingly cause a life-threatening gas leak.
Do an internet search for home improvement services near me. Look for HVAC technicians who have the expertise to replace a problematic furnace part without causing a gas leak.
Get Help with Home Improvements
When you’re tackling home improvements, know your limits. Don’t take on electrical rewiring or gas appliance replacements unless you have the necessary training. And stay away from garage doors, roofs, and burst pipes that can cause injuries.
Ready for more tips to keep your home safe? Check back for new articles!