8 Home Repairs You Can DIY—And 8 You Should Always Hire a Pro For

Home repairs can be a daunting task for many homeowners. Some repairs are simple enough that you can easily handle them yourself, while others require professional help. Knowing the difference between the two can save you time, money, and effort. In this article, we will discuss eight home repairs that you can DIY, and eight repairs that you should always hire a pro for.

8 Home Repairs You Can DIY

1. Painting. Painting is one of the easiest home repairs that you can do yourself. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can transform a room or an entire house with a fresh coat of paint. Make sure to prep the area by cleaning it thoroughly and protecting surfaces that you don’t want to paint. Invest in quality paint and tools, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Don’t forget to wear protective clothing and use proper ventilation.
2. Installing light fixtures. Changing light fixtures is a relatively easy DIY task. Make sure to turn off the power to the circuit before you start, and always use the proper tools and materials. If you are not comfortable working with electrical wiring, consider hiring a pro.
3. Replacing faucet and toilet parts. If your faucet or toilet is leaking, you may be able to fix it yourself by replacing the worn-out parts. Most hardware stores carry replacement parts that are easy to install. Make sure to turn off the water supply before you start, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
4. Unclogging drains. A clogged drain can be a nuisance, but it’s usually an easy fix. Start by trying a plunger or a drain snake. If that doesn’t work, you can use a chemical drain cleaner, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully and wear gloves and eye protection.
5. Patching drywall. Small holes in drywall can be patched easily with spackle or joint compound. For larger holes, you may need to cut out the damaged area and replace it with a new piece of drywall. This requires more skill, but it can be done with some practice.
6. Installing shelving and storage. Installing shelving and storage units is a great way to maximize space in your home. Most hardware stores carry ready-to-assemble units that are easy to install. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the proper tools and materials.
7. Sealing windows and doors. Sealing windows and doors can help reduce energy costs by preventing drafts. You can use weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealant to seal gaps around windows and doors. Make sure to clean the area thoroughly before you start, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
8. Cleaning gutters. Cleaning gutters is an important maintenance task that should be done regularly. You can use a ladder and a pair of gloves to remove debris from the gutters. Make sure to work safely and avoid standing on the top rungs of the ladder.

8 Home Repairs You Should Always Hire a Pro For

1. Electrical work. Working with electrical wiring is dangerous and requires specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a licensed electrician for any electrical repairs, including rewiring, adding circuits, or installing new outlets.
2. Plumbing. Plumbing repairs can be complex and require specialized tools and knowledge. Always hire a licensed plumber for any plumbing repairs, including replacing pipes, fixing leaks, or installing new fixtures.
3. HVAC repairs. Heating and air conditioning systems are complex and require specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a licensed HVAC technician for any repairs, including installing new units, repairing ductwork, or fixing leaks.
4. Roof repairs. Roof repairs can be dangerous and require specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a licensed roofing contractor for any roof repairs, including fixing leaks, replacing shingles, or repairing flashing.
5. Structural repairs. Structural repairs can be complex and require specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a licensed contractor for any structural repairs, including repairing foundation damage, fixing a sagging roof, or addressing structural issues with walls or floors.
6. Gas line repairs. Working with gas lines is dangerous and requires specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a licensed professional for any gas line repairs, including installing or repairing gas lines for stoves, water heaters, or other appliances.
7. Window replacement. Window replacement is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and tools. Always hire a professional window contractor for any window replacement, including removing and installing new windows, replacing frames, or repairing damage.
8. Mold remediation. Mold remediation is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Always hire a licensed professional for any mold remediation, including identifying the source of the mold, removing the mold, and repairing any damage.