The DIY Spirit: Knowing When to Tackle a Job and When to Call a Pro
Here in Traverse City, we have a pretty strong can-do spirit. Whether it's gearing up for a winter storm or making the most of our beautiful summers, we're not afraid to roll up our sleeves. That same spirit often extends to our homes. The satisfaction of fixing something yourself is huge, and let's be honest, saving a little money is always a plus.
But as a local building repair company, we've also seen what happens when a DIY project goes south. A simple fix can quickly turn into a costly, complicated mess. So, how do you know when to grab your toolbox and when to grab your phone?
Here’s our guide to help you decide.
Great Projects for a DIY Weekend
These are typically jobs with low risk and high reward. They don't require specialized tools or permits and a mistake isn't likely to cause major damage.
Painting Interior Rooms: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a space. With some painter's tape, drop cloths, and a little patience, this is one of the most rewarding DIY projects.
Patching Small Holes in Drywall: Got a nail hole or a small dent in the wall? Patching it with spackle, sanding it down, and painting over it is a straightforward fix.
Replacing Cabinet Hardware: Swapping out old knobs and pulls on your kitchen or bathroom cabinets is a quick, easy way to update the look of a room.
Minor Landscaping: Planting flowers, spreading mulch, and trimming shrubs are perfect DIY tasks that get you outdoors.
Stop and Call the Pros: When to Contact Traverse City Building Repair
For these jobs, the risks of going it alone far outweigh the potential savings. They often require deep expertise, specialized tools, and a thorough understanding of building codes to be done safely and correctly.
Roofing Repairs: A leak might seem small, but finding its source and fixing it properly without causing more damage is tricky. With Northern Michigan's snow and ice, a faulty roof repair can lead to major water damage, mold, and structural issues. Plus, working on a roof is a serious safety hazard.
Structural Work: If it involves a load-bearing wall, a foundation, or your home's framing, stop immediately. Removing the wrong wall or improperly repairing a foundation can have catastrophic consequences for the integrity of your entire house.
Major Plumbing Jobs: Sure, you can fix a running toilet or a leaky faucet. But when it comes to moving pipes, installing a new shower valve, or dealing with a sewer line, it's best to call a pro. A mistake can lead to extensive and expensive water damage.
Most Electrical Work: Other than changing a lightbulb or replacing a switch plate, electrical work is not a DIY-friendly zone. The risk of fire or electrocution is just too high. A licensed professional ensures everything is done to code and, most importantly, safely.
Siding and Window Replacement: Your home's siding and windows are its first line of defense against the elements. Improper installation can lead to drafts, high energy bills, and water getting into your walls, causing rot and mold.
Still on the Fence? Ask Yourself These Questions:
Could a mistake cause a major safety issue (fire, flood, structural collapse)?
Does this job require a permit from the city or county?
Do I own all the specialized tools required to do this job right?
If I make it worse, will the professional repair be much more expensive?
If you answered "yes" to any of these, it's a good sign you should call in a professional.
At Traverse City Building Repair, we respect the DIY hustle. But we're also here to take on the jobs that are too big, too complex, or too risky to handle on your own. If you're looking at a project and feeling out of your depth, give us a call. We're always happy to provide a consultation and help you keep your home safe, sound, and beautiful.
