While every homeowner loves a good DIY (Do-It-Yourself) upgrade, not all home renovation projects are beginner-friendly, especially when it comes to your outdoor space. DIY is cheaper, but if you make a mistake, it can actually cost you more in the long run. The home’s exterior and backyard are often a prime location where DIY projects can go wrong. If you’re considering any of the following home additions or improvement projects, you might be better off consulting with a professional first.
Roofing Repair or Replacement
Roofing projects are some of the most dangerous types of work out there. Professional roofers are even prone to deadly falls or injuries. Even if you’re just fixing a shingle or two, the position and height of the roof can turn small mistakes into major ones. Professional roofing services may come with a cost, but it’s for a good reason—they’re mitigating that risk instead of you. Falling isn’t all of the concern, either. A poor roofing job can lead to major leaks or water damage that can affect your entire home’s structure. You may even void certain warranties with a poor DIY roofing job. It’s much better to budget for a roofer.
Outdoor Deck
A decent deck space can help you extend the usage of your backyard and relax outside year-round. Many homeowners build decks themselves, but a lot can go wrong with a poorly-built deck. Improper sealing of the wood can cause splinters or rot very quickly. Poor support can cause collapses and dangerous falls. Gaps in the boards or poorly hammered nails can also lead to severe injury. If you’re building a deck higher up off the ground, working from these heights can present similar dangers as roofing injuries. Hiring a deck builder can help you create a safe and stylish deck without the risks. I sourced a local deck builder near me that offered very reasonable rates. Unless you know what you’re doing, DIY deck projects are more hassle than they’re worth, especially if you’re adding a built-in pool to the mix.
In-Ground Pools
While an above-ground pool is a beginner-friendly venture when following installation instructions, an in-ground pool installation is a much more labor-intensive project. You’ll need to know how to excavate, pour precise concrete, work with thousands of gallons of water, and install maintenance equipment properly. You’ll also likely be working with chemicals like bleach to ensure the water is safe for use. If you want a permanent pool fixture in your yard, you should contact professional pool builders. A leak or crack in the concrete can cause major home damage and make the pool unsafe for use.
Siding
Like roofing, a mistake in installing the home’s siding can present a major issue. Siding protects your home from elemental damage, particularly water, pests, and wind. You need to have a professional expertise in the proper tools, precise measurements, and general installation techniques. Poor DIY jobs can increase your energy bills and carbon footprint, as well as make your home vulnerable to leaks and pesky pests. Installing or painting siding requires working from ladders, scaffolds, and other heights; you can easily fall and injure yourself unnecessarily.
Windows
While installing a window may seem like a straightforward process, many potential issues can come up with amateur installation. You need to be very precise with measuring and installing to avoid large gaps or leaks. You need to know how to weatherproof and insulate windows before installing them. You also have to take building codes into account, which can be confusing to an average homeowner. You don’t want your window to cause mold damage or massive energy bills in extreme temperatures.
Major Outdoor Wiring
It’s one thing to hang up string lights in your patio, but if you’re rewiring your electrical system to change your outdoor space, you’ll want a professional electrician. Not only is it difficult to adhere to electrical codes when rewiring, it’s also very easy to make a mistake that can affect your entire home’s—or even your neighbors’—power supply. Handling wires can also be very dangerous and can cause electrocution or electrical fires. You also need to know how to weatherproof your electrical system outside efficiently. Call the electrician; handling major wiring projects alone isn’t wise.
Hardscaping Projects
If you want to pour concrete to make a patio or pathway in your yard, you may think it’s a smart DIY project. If you’re experienced with concrete, you can likely handle this project yourself, but you’ll want to be careful. A lot can go wrong with concrete. Large hardscaping projects or concrete pours are more easily done with professional tools and equipment. Concrete requires professional grading, curing, and structural integrity, especially when it comes to projects like retaining walls. You’ll want a nice, clean pour without major mistakes that can lead to drainage concerns or collapse. Mistakes with wet concrete can be disastrous and very expensive to fix.
Large Tree Removal
If there is a large tree in your yard that you want gone, it’s easy to underestimate how difficult such a project can be. Not only can a fallen tree damage nearby structures—including your home—above ground, but there may be underground utilities you can damage with the intricate root systems of mature trees. You can also injure yourself with the fall or the power tools required. It’s also incredibly difficult to remove the stump when you’ve handled the rest of the tree. Consult with a tree removal company for the safest and cleanest removal option. The last thing you want is a tree-sized hole in your roof!
Conclusion
While DIY projects are an excellent way to save money and put a personal touch on home renovations, you want to be careful which projects you handle yourself, especially regarding your home’s exterior. Major landscaping or roofing projects can be very dangerous for everyone, even professionals. You don’t want to take the risk of damaging your home, property, or yourself. Don’t be afraid to consult with a professional; even if they cost more upfront, you’ll save money by avoiding expensive repairs or hospital visits!
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