There are plenty of house projects that are both interesting and easy to do yourself. You can fix leaky faucets, paint bedrooms, and unclog garbage disposals without calling a pro. But for the big stuff, you’re better off leaving it to the industry professionals. Read on for five home repairs you shouldn’t try to DIY.
Roofs
Whether you want to fix a leak or lay down new shingles, don’t climb up there and do it yourself. This task is remarkably dangerous, and you can worsen the problem if you’re unsure what you’re doing. For example, haphazard shingle placement can interfere with the way rainwater flows off your roof.
HVAC Systems
While many heating and air conditioning units make it easy to replace something like an air filter, stop and call a contractor before attempting any actual repairs. Hiring an HVAC contractor offers homeowners many benefits because they have the skills and equipment necessary to fix leaks and other bigger problems before they grow catastrophic.
Electrical Wiring
Any home repair involving electricity is, by its very nature, going to be more dangerous. Don’t fiddle with circuitry unless you are a licensed electrician! Messing up your wiring could cause a house fire or even a deadly electrical shock.
Gas Appliance Work
When you buy a new hot water heater, you may look at it and think, “I can install this myself. It looks pretty intuitive.” Stop right there and call a professional! An improper repair or installation can lead to gas leaks. Call an expert to avoid accidentally poisoning your household with carbon monoxide.
Major Plumbing
While many people can handle minor repairs like leaky faucets, messing with your sewage system or hot water piping is an entirely different ballpark. While DIY plumbing mishaps are less likely to cause bodily harm than fiddling with electricity, they can damage your home with flooding and water damage.
As a homeowner, it’s wise to know your limits regarding what you can and can’t fix yourself. Be familiar with which home repairs you shouldn’t attempt yourself, and remember to contact local professionals who can help when something breaks down.
