Home Renovations You Should Leave to Professionals

When it comes to repair, home renovations or simple home improvement, it should be clearly understood that some improvements are impossible without professional skills and special equipment. It is necessary to address to professionals with such improvement. There are certain projects that can be much more complicated than you might think, so before trying to do something yourself, ask a professional about it.

Removal of Asbestos and Mold

Any house constructed in the middle of 80th years or by order, can contain asbestos. In residential areas, asbestos can be found in drywall mud, ceiling loops, flooring, plastering, siding and vermiculite insulation.

Each renovation in a high-risk home should begin with a hazardous material inspection, as removing asbestos without proper protective clothing is dangerous. In addition, your home is an ideal temperature for mold growth, given, of course, the limiting factor of moisture. 

Threats when DIY:

• Health Hazards: Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Mold spores can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and neurological issues.
• Contamination Spread: Asbestos fibers or mold spores can spread to other parts of the house, increasing health risks.
• Improper Disposal: can result in environmental regulation violations and fines.

House Structural Changes

Many home renovations involves the demolition of walls and making structural changes. But before you decide to bring a hammer to the wall, ask yourself if you can identify the supporting wall. Since most of the interior walls in old houses act as the supporting structure of the house, it is very important that a home renovation specialist takes over this project.

Professionals will have a better understanding of the structure of your house and will be able to navigate the requirements of the code and permitting details to keep your house on its feet.

Threats when DIY:

• Structural Disturbance: Altering load-bearing walls without adequate support can result in floor sagging, ceiling collapse, or structural collapse.
• Damage to Hidden Utilities: Walls may contain electrical wiring, plumbing, or HVAC components. Accidental damage can lead to electrical fires, water leaks, or ventilation problems.
• Violation of Building Codes: This will result in court fines and complications in selling the property.

Repairing Windows

Installing windows is not an easy task. Working with a home renovation company that can install your new windows will save you a lot of headaches and money down the road. If the windows are not installed correctly, it can lead to hot and cold air leakage from the interior of your home, which will eventually affect your next bill for utilities.

In addition, improper installation can lead to moisture problems, which can lead to a new disturbance during renovation. Leave it to the professionals.

Threats when DIY:

• Energy Efficiency Loss: Improper installation can cause drafts, leading to increased heating and cooling costs.
• Water Damage and Mold Growth: Poorly sealed windows allow water infiltration, causing rot, mold growth, and structural damage.
• Injury Risk: Installing large or heavy windows without proper equipment can result in injuries from broken glass or falls.

Plumbing and Electrical Works

Certified employees are certified for a reason. You need advanced knowledge in electrical engineering to ensure that the electrical standards in your home are met. There are simply too many technical options for you to handle on your own, and the wrong technique can have terrible consequences for you and your home.

If you are trying to change the plumbing system, call a professional. Even the smallest leak can lead to damage of several thousand dollars.

Threats when DIY:

• Incorrect Plumbing Repairs can cause leaks, leading to water damage and mold growth.
• Faulty Electrical Work can cause short circuits, electrical fires, or electrocution.
• Unpermitted Plumbing or Electrical Work may violate building codes, potentially voiding homeowners’ insurance.

Floor Works

Removing an old floor and replacing it is not as easy as it seems, especially if you have not chosen a floor of the same thickness as the previous one. A thinner floor will leave you a gap between the floor and the skirting board. A thicker floor will leave you with extra work to remove all the skirting boards. And I’m sure you have not thought about leveling the floor before installing the new floor.

Threats when DIY:

• Incorrect Removal or Installation can damage the subfloor or structural joists.
• Inaccurate Measurements or Cutting Mistakes can lead to material wastage and increased renovation costs.

Conclusion

According to ANGI.COM statistics, 47% of homeowners spent more on do-it-yourself projects than they bargained for.
And if something goes wrong in the process and you have to redo it or hire contractors, you will pay twice.

Do not waste time on troublesome and sometimes dangerous projects and do not be afraid to give anything to a professional. This will not only save you money in the long run but will also deprive you of many troubles!