Fixing your own home is probably something you have considered or maybe even done. Sometimes, it just makes sense financially or can be fun to take on a new challenge. But before you do, ask yourself if you have the skills to do it safely and properly. Also consider the necessary time investment and whether or not the guidance of a skilled professional might simply make your life easier.

There are certain areas of the home where you really should consider hiring a professional even if your first thought is that the job is one you can tackle on your own. Alair Homes Edmonton has met with many homeowners with do-it-yourself success stories and failures. Here are some of the most common areas that, in hindsight, homeowners might have benefited from professional support.

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Structural Components

Structural components in your home are best addressed by a professional. This includes adding or removing walls, adding a home addition and making major modifications to your ceiling. A mistake resulting from work on any one of these components can cause serious damage to your house.

Electrical System

Proper electrical wiring takes skill and experience. A mistake here could eventually lead to fires or other serious damage. Electrical work includes making modifications to your breaker box, adding or moving an outlet, rewiring lighting in your home or making major changes like adding a second AC unit and furnace. Many home renovations include electrical work. A professional general contractor will hire licensed subcontractors to complete these projects safely and efficiently.

Roofing

Even if you have the skills to properly repair your roof, have a professional look at the job first. Roofing work is notorious for taking longer than expected, and you should never start a roofing job unless you can finish it in a few days because nature’s elements can damage the underlayment. It is also important to properly assess the damage in order to determine how the roof needs to be repaired or if it needs to be replaced.

Plumbing

Many plumbing repairs can be done by novice handymen, such as unclogging a drain or a toilet. But other jobs can be more time consuming than you expect. This includes relocating plumbing lines, installing a tub or toilet and changing out faucets and other fixtures. A professional plumber has the tools to get these jobs done correctly and in a timely manner. Their expertise can also make it easier to determine what work needs to be done and how to complete the project in less time and for a significantly lower cost.

Insulation

At first blush, installing insulation may seem like a perfect do-it-yourself project. But it takes special skills to do it properly and safely. Also, insulation materials can be very expensive if you buy them at retail prices. You may end up spending more money than if you hired a contractor to help.

Carpentry

Just because you took a woodworking class in school doesn’t mean than you are a carpenter. Proper carpentry takes lots of skill and experience, and you also usually need very specialized tools. Professionals can almost certainly complete the job faster and more effectively.

Masonry

Masonry work looks easy, but it is seldom a job for a novice. It is skill that takes many years to perfect. Bricklaying is heavy. Materials like concrete and mortar can be particular. Hiring a professional is the best way to get the finished product you are after.

Wallpapering

Wallpapering is another job that seems perfect for do-it-yourself homeowners. However, it is deceivingly exacting and time consuming. If you do not do perfectly, everyone will notice.

Tiling

Installing tile is harder than it looks. It takes a lot of preparation and planning, and if you do not do right, grout can crack, tiles appear uneven and the entire room can take on a less than professional appearance.

Painting

Everybody can paint, but that does not mean that everybody should paint. It takes a lot of preparation if you want to do it right. Uneven lines, discoloration and unwanted paint on the ceiling or floor are some indications that the job was completed by a homeowner instead of a professional.

A good general contractor can save you lots of time, money and frustration when you are making improvements or even building a custom home. If you are in the market for a seasoned professional, Alair Homes Edmonton welcomes the opportunity to earn your business. Contact us to schedule your complimentary, no obligation consultation.