Every homeowner about to renovate needs to ask themselves: First, “Do I have the skills to take on this project myself?” and second, “Do I have the time?”

Are you really willing to take the time away from your day to day routine or possibly spend time doing physical labour? Taking an active “hands on approach” to your home renovation can be rewarding. It can also be extremely frustrating and time consuming when things don’t go as planned.

 

Here are some realistic DIY projects that you may want to consider when renovating:

–Purchasing your own materials, equipment, and appliances. These may include such items as tiles, cabinetry, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, lighting fixtures, doors and paint.

–Cosmetic changes that don’t require building permits. Don’t be afraid to paint but make sure you do your research first and apply the right type of paint for its intended use on a properly prepared surface. Always follow the manufacturers recommendations to the letter.

On the other hand, call a professional:

–If you need to demolish anything. Taking down things like unwanted cabinets, appliances, fixtures, tile work, and moldings or pulling up floorboards or carpeting is taxing. You need to know whether the walls you’re removing are load bearing. Ceiling tiles and popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos. It’s best to have professionals deal with these things.

–If you encounter black mold. Black mold is toxic and it can be a real health hazard for yourself and your family.

–If your house was built before 1990. Older houses will contain asbestos which can be deadly if inhaled. Asbestos becomes dangerous once it has become disturbed and becomes air born during the renovation process.

–Gas, plumbing, and electric work should all be done by a qualified professional. Your home insurance will be void if you attempt these repairs. If something goes wrong, your life could be at risk and those of your family and even your neighbours … even years after the fact.

If in doubt always call a professional or you could call FairTradeWorks at 604 264-7366 and we’ll do that for you. We provide peace of mind while allowing you to enjoy that renovation.

Written by:

Mike Kervel, Business Expansion Representative

Photo Credits: domain.com.au