As we all know having work done on the house can become expensive. With a little knowledge, and some research, most home repairs can be done without having to hire an outside contractor. Some things, like replacing windows, may seem complicated at first, but after the first couple it will become a piece of cake. Just make sure that you have all the tools and materials that you will need before starting the project. You will be in the doghouse if you must leave a hole in the wall while you run to the nearest hardware store.
Doing things, yourself is the best way to approach repairs, until you get to the point when it is not safe. There are a few projects that you should never tackle yourself due to the danger and household safety.
- Electrical Repairs-The one job that should never be done by anyone except a licensed electrician is anything that requires wiring or fuses. In other words, if it is not a simple fix that requires you to turn a breaker off, hire someone that knows what they are doing to come in and complete the task. As an example, if you want to change out a light fixture for one that has a fan in it, feel free to do so. Just turn off the fuse to the room. But, if you find that the wiring must be replaced, hire a pro. You will be amazed how much money you can safe when repairs are made, so the investment is well worth it. Check with iSelect if you want to compare some of the savings.
- Basements-Remodeling a basement may seem like an innovative idea, and it probably is. You might as well make the area more usable. But you need to understand that the basement is an integral part of the structure of your home. Removing beams or walls may cause the entire house to fall in on you. If you want to experience your own buried alive survival scenario than feel free to ignore this warning. If not, at least hire a licensed contractor to come in and direct you with your remodel. Better yet, hire them to do the job.
- Plumbing-Even simple plumbing fixes can be a hassle and can lead to bigger repairs that will cost you more money. It is best to simply hire a licensed plumber when any type of work needs to be done that involves any pipes or appliances that use water and drains. It may seem simple to replace the trap under the kitchen sink, but if you do not seal the fittings correctly you will have leaks. Leaks which can damage all the wood around it, and even the floor underneath if it was not caught in time.
- Gas Fittings-This is another project best left to certified contractors that know what they are doing. The gas must be turned off before making any of these types of repairs, and then the lines need to be bled to prevent gas inhalation. Sounds easy when you think about it, but if you do not get the repairs done correctly it could have a leak. Even a small pinhole can release enough gas to cause everyone in the house to get lung poisoning, or your house could explode if flames are used for anything. The point is, let a professional do all the work involving gas and gas fittings.
The best thing that you can do is to use your common sense. If the project seems dangerous, it probably is. Hire a licensed and insured contractor to do them. On the other hand, if it is a simple repair that does not require a specialist feel free to get at it. There is nothing like being able to say that you fixed the problem that has been plaquing the people in the house for months, or years.
