Many people associate improperly about what DIY means. Sometimes people associate it with doing a job “on the cheap”. Like perhaps, I don’t have enough money to pay someone or the overall cost of material is also too expensive to do the job properly. This of course can be true in some cases but it really depends on the specific subject. For example if you are replacing a face-plate to a wall outlet. I guess there you can do it on the cheap. However if you are replacing a door molding you should not go there. Get the proper materials to get the job done properly.
6 Specific Points To Help You Decide: is “DIY” Is For You?
- Can the Job be done in one day?
- Risk physical and property?
- Can I obtain the skills to do the job?
- Do I have the Tools?
- Cost of contractor to do the job is not un-obtainium.
Can the Job be done in one day?
This is an important step in a DIY as time is a critical factor. For example, because us humans typically have day jobs, school, family events etc. etc. all of these factors come into play on the amount of time we can dedicate to a job. My general rule is focusing in on jobs that can be achieved in one day. The thought process here is focusing in on completion. Especially if it is in an area that is used often (like the kitchen). You don’t want the kitchen down for a couple of days. That becomes a problem for you and the family.
The last aspect is weather. Does something I am doing potentially go beyond a day that exposes the house exterior and frame to rain/snow/wind that could pose a problem if I can’t finish up the job. Similar to our lower roof issue that we repaired a while back. I was able to replace the plywood board that was damaged and finished replacing the roof.
Is there a general time constraint that you have i.e. I need it done by the weekend?
So can the job be done in one day or one that could be done over a weekend? If not, hire a contractor to handle the job.
Does the job Pose a Risk to you Physically or Your Property?
Many times you can get yourself into a job that has heavy objects that are more than you can handle. If you have a spouse or kids that can help, perhaps this could help you with this type of job. My rule is, can I handle many of the steps without their help. Can I have them help me for 15 minutes or less. IF yes – we are all good to go if not. Hire a contractor to handle the job.
All of this to say, it is important to tackle things you know nothing about. Use simple resources like Youtube. There is always someone who has had a question and or given instructions on how to do something on there. Millions of contributors. So set stretch goals but also know your limits. This is how we go about our projects. And keep in mind, if you do have a project that you do and it is not perfect you need to live with the imperfection (even if it is only in your mind). SO get over yourself.
We hope these thoughts, help to guide to DIY or not.
Until next time.
