What’s Worth Paying For?
If you’re a homeowner in Hamilton, ON, chances are you’ve considered tackling a renovation project yourself. Home renovation shows and social media make DIY projects look so easy, it’s tempting to try to save money by doing it on your own. A simple task like painting a room or installing a new light fixture can be cost-effective, but not every project is worth tackling on your own. Knowing when to DIY and when to hire a professional contractor can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.
The reliable, expert team at EPI breaks down the tasks worth doing yourself, and what’s worth paying a contractor for.
What’s Usually Safe (and Smart) to DIY
Painting and Cosmetic Updates
Adding a fresh coat of paint to walls and trim is one of the most common DIY projects and for good reason. With proper preparation and patience, homeowners can freshen up their space with great results. All you need is some good paint, the right tools, and a steady hand. At EPI, we generally prefer Benjamin Moore products. They’re great quality and come in a wide variety of colours and finishes. The Benjamin Moore website has tips and tricks on how to get the best results when tackling a DIY painting project.
Other cosmetic DIY-friendly projects include:
- Replacing cabinetry hardware
- Installing shelving
- Hanging mirrors or artwork
- Taking care of minor caulking or drywall touch-ups
DIY works here because these projects are low risk and won’t impact on your home’s structural integrity. They’re also easy to fix if mistakes happen.
Simple Flooring Projects
Click-together laminate or vinyl plank flooring can be DIY-friendly, even if it is a bit more advanced than painting or hanging artwork. You can install these flooring types in a square, small room with little expertise or experience. We do recommend proceeding with caution on DIY flooring installation as uneven subfloor, stairs, or complex layouts can quickly turn a simple flooring job into a frustrating one.
What’s Worth Paying a Contractor For
Structural Changes
Any project like removing walls, adding beams, or altering layouts will affect the structural integrity of your home. These projects should always be handled by professionals, as structural mistakes can compromise the safety of the home, leading to costly, long-term damage. Structural changes to a home also require building permits from the municipality, which makes this type of project best left for a professional contractor.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Swapping a light fixture or faucet may seem simple but most plumbing and electrical work should be left to a licensed professional. A licensed contractor will ensure that the work is code compliant, that proper permits and inspections are obtained, and that the work is safe and functional for long-term use.
DIYing plumbing or electrical work can lead to leaks, electrical fires, insurance issues, and costly repairs.
Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations
Kitchens and bathrooms are the most complex rooms in the home to renovate. They involve:
- Plumbing
- Waterproofing
- Electrical
- Cabinetry
- Precise finishes
One small error, like improper waterproofing, can lead to thousands of dollars in damages. Hiring a contractor will be more expensive up front but can save you money and the headache improperly completed work.
Tile Work and Waterproofing
Tile looks straightforward and the viral social media install videos make it look like an easy, even fun process! But achieving level surfaces, clean grout lines, and proper waterproofing requires skills, experience, and the right tools.
The Hidden Costs of DIY
One of the main benefits of a DIY project is to save money. But homeowners will often underestimate the cost needed to complete a DIY project. It’s not just about the material and time spent, there are other costs a homeowner may not consider:
- Tool purchase or rental
- Material waste from mistakes
- Time off from work
- Costs of fixing errors later
The philosophy of “buy once, cry once” can be applied to home renovations. Hiring a contractor will be more expensive up front, but once that project has been completed and paid for, you have the peace of mind knowing it was done right. And any good contractor will guarantee their work for an extended period, giving you even more confidence in the work they completed.
Why EPI Renovations is the Contractor of Choice for Hamilton Homeowners
The experts at EPI Renovations have been renovating homes across Hamilton and the surrounding area for decades. From century homes to modern builds, we understand the local building codes, permit requirements, and construction challenges unique to the Hamilton region.
We help homeowners make smart decisions, like when a DIY makes sense and when bringing in a professional will save time, money, and stress. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, basement renovation, or a full home transformation, our team manages the details, so you don’t have to.
Thinking about a renovation in Hamilton, Ontario? Contact EPI Renovations to book a consultation and get expert guidance before starting your project.
