As you write down your renovation checklist and start putting your dreams to paper, a lot of questions can come to mind. Do these projects need to be completed by a professional? Or can you DIY some of them on your own?
Budget is a big part of a home remodeling planner. You obviously want to be savvy with how you spend your money and are down to get dirty — just as long as the juice is worth the squeeze. In other words, if your DIY will turn out looking amazing, you’re all for it. But you’re not ready to sacrifice quality (or willing to risk safety) to save a few bucks. Sometimes it is truly best to higher a professional.
Let’s go through some of the common projects found on a renovation checklist and determine which projects you can tackle on your own and which should be left to the pros.
Kitchen
If your renovation project plan includes the kitchen, you will have more than your share of DIY projects. From installing ready to assemble cabinetry to a new kitchen backsplash, you will have no problem checking off a few of the projects on your renovation checklist yourself — with the right tools. But it’s not all smooth sailing. Here is what you might be able to DIY and when you’ll want to call in a professional.
Things to DIY:
- Cabinetry
- Backsplash
- Sink or Faucet Replacement
- Paint or Wallpaper
- Crown Molding
When You Need a Pro:
- Plumbing Installation
- Running a Gas Line
- Countertop Installation
- Electrical Work
- Knocking Down Walls/Changing the Layout
Bathroom
Bathrooms are one of the most popular places in the home to update. But since this renovation project plan can include a lot of tasks centered around plumbing, it’s important to outsource certain elements. Here is what can be DIYed and what needs a professional. Note that this is a general list and items can change depending on the complexity of your project. For example, some tile installation is better left to a professional — especially if your home remodeling planner includes an elaborate placement pattern.
Things to DIY:
- Vanity Installation
- Bathtub Refinishing
- Simple Tiling of Shower Walls or Floors
- Backsplash
- Sink or Faucet Replacement
- Paint or Wallpaper
- Crown Molding
- Mirror or Bathroom Hardware Installation
When You Need a Pro:
- New Bathtub or Shower
- Complex Tiling of Shower Walls or Floors
- Plumbing Installation
- Recessed Shelving
- Radiant Floor Heating
- Ventilation
- Knocking Down Walls/Changing the Layout
Basement
Converting an underused basement into an awesome home bar, gym, office or TV room is usually a top wish on a renovation checklist. This type of update can really add value to your home. Here are the basement additions you can DIY and those that need more professional attention.
Things to DIY:
- Drywall
- Paint or Wallpaper
- Crown Molding
- Cabinetry
- Tile Flooring
When You Need a Pro:
- Electrical Work
- Plumbing
- Air Conditioning
- Fireplace
- Wet Bar
Outdoors
We decided to include outdoor updates since many of our customers come to us when building an outdoor kitchen or bathroom. These can be great additions to a home with a spacious backyard. If you want to make the most out of your outdoor space, here is what you can do yourself and what is a job for the pros.
Things to DIY:
- Basic Wood Deck
- Storage Shed
- Fence
- Outdoor Cabinet Installation
- Tile Over an Existing Concrete Patio
When You Need a Pro:
- Pouring a Concrete Patio
- Electrical Work
- Plumbing
- Drainage
At The RTA Store we help make your dream home a reality with RTA (Ready To Assemble) and Pre-Assembled cabinets and accessories. Whether it’s your kitchen bathroom, laundry room, home office, bar room or TV room, we offer the same (if not better) quality you would find at any retail store, but for a fraction of the price. Stop by our website or give us a call and let us make your dreams come true with the help of our free room design tool!
