Ask these questions before you decide to dive into a new home improvement project.

YouTube, TikTok and Instagram are filled with spectacular DIY home improvement stories. However, the images presented don’t always tell the whole story. Some projects don’t last very long or result in damage that’s costly to repair. The following questions will help you determine if it’s a good idea to DIY your next project—or if you should leave it to the pros.

Are walls involved?

All walls are not equal. Load-bearing walls are integral to your home’s structure. Removing or modifying one can result in serious problems. Like a roof that buckles, a floor that sags or a whole-house collapse.

When your remodel involves walls, make sure you know the difference between load-bearing walls and those that aren’t. Call a licensed contractor for any work involving a load-bearing wall.

Will the update age well with use?

Many of us are drawn to instant makeover products for the home. However, many don’t hold up over time. For example, peel-and-stick floor tiles collect dirt in the gaps and can let water through. And vinyl adhesive paper on kitchen countertops can be damaged by heat.

If you need a short-term solution, some instant products may be suitable. However, if you’re looking for a long-term solution that will stand up to daily use and cleaning, it might be better to skip the quick DIY fixes.

Do you have what it takes to do the project?

If you have limited time, it’s better to let a pro do the job than to rush through it. Space is another consideration. For example, painted kitchen cabinets can be beautiful, but they require a multi-step process: removal of doors and hardware, sanding, priming and then painting. While the cabinets are disassembled, you need a place to work on them.

Speaking of multi-step processes, do you have the skills and patience to do the job well? Honestly assess your time, space and patience before tackling a DIY project.

Will it detract from your home’s value?

A poorly done DIY project can reduce your home’s value. When a prospective buyer sees shoddy work, they will either walk away or start calculating how much the price should be discounted.

Should you DIY?

To assess if it’s worth it to DIY, reflect on these questions:

• Do I have the desire to DIY? Not everyone has traits to be a DIYer and that’s okay!
• If the project doesn’t turn out as planned, do I have enough money to have the job redone by a pro? It’s not always cheaper to DIY.
• Is your time better spent on a DIY project or something else? Your time is a limited and valuable resource. 

If you need cash for a home improvement project, check out a Consumers home equity loan.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.