Homeownership is a dream for many but that dream also comes with a fair share of maintenance and repairs over the life of the home. The costs of which some homeowners do not prepare for, while others that cost can be mitigated by managing projects and maintenance on your own.
While tackling some projects yourself can save money and provide a sense of accomplishment, pride and joy, other repairs require professional expertise to ensure safety, longevity, and compliance with local building codes—especially in a region like Northwest Indiana, where harsh winters and humid summers can take more of a toll on homes.
So, how do you know when to grab your tool bag and do it yourself and when to call in the professionals? From roofing, siding, windows and more, here’s a breakdown of common home repairs to help you decide.
List of Home Repair and Maintenance Projects You Can DIY
1. Gutter Cleaning
Regular gutter maintenance on a home is crucial to prevent water damage and foundation issues. Each fall, or after a heavy storm with wind, is the ideal time to check gutters for leaves and debris that can clog down spots and cause water backups that can cause damage.
With a sturdy ladder, gloves, and a hose, most homeowners can clear out debris easily and quickly. Just be cautious of heights and slippery surfaces. If the gutter is too high to reach, you may ask for help, but a majority of people can clear gutters on their own.
2. Interior Painting
If you have the patience and time, painting a room is a straightforward DIY home project that can bring a lot of pride with the accomplishment. With proper prep—like taping edges and using high-quality paint—you can achieve a professional look.
Brushes are the trick. There are different brushes for painting and edging, so be sure to select both for your project as well as the right interior paint for the room – for example paint is specifically made for the kitchen and bathroom to help balance moisture.
3. Minor Drywall Repairs
Small holes and dents from daily wear and tear, pets and children happen. Most can be easily patched with spackle – be sure to really fill in the hole – and sanded smooth before repainting. For larger holes, you can pick up a drywall patch kit at a local home store to help restore your walls.
4. Caulking Windows & Doors
Over time, weather, drastic changes in temperatures, such as those in Northwest Indiana, along with consistent use, can wear down caulk around windows. Window sealing or caulking should be checked before winter and summer to prevent drafts in or out. Re-caulking around windows and doors is an easy and cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency leading to lower heating and cooling bills. A quality caulk gun and waterproof sealant can make a big difference in creating an easy DIY home project.
When to Call in the Pros to Help with a Home Repair Project
1. Roof Repairs & Replacement
Even small roof leaks can lead to major water damage, mold, and insulation issues if left unrepaired over a period of time, leading to a much more expensive repair and even replacement. Roofing work is dangerous, requires special skills, and must withstand Northwest Indiana’s unpredictable and diverse seasonal weather. A professional roofer ensures that proper materials are used and installed correctly. They can also advise on whether insulation needs to be replaced, and the job is done safely and correctly.
2. Window Installation
One of the greatest defenses a home has against the elements is its windows. Installing or replacing windows isn’t just about aesthetics it’s about energy efficiency and even sound reduction. An expert in window installation can ensure recommend the best window product and precise installation reducing the risk of leaks and drafts proper sealing and avoiding structural damage.
3. Siding Repairs & Replacements
Beyond the roof, siding is a significant guard to protecting your home from the elements. Damage to siding caused the elements, or time, can lead to cracks that allow water, even critters, to wreak havoc on the exterior of the home.
Incorrect installation can lead to moisture issues, rot, and higher energy costs which means it’s not an ideal home repair project to do yourself. A professional in siding replacement and repair can consult on the best siding products and make certain that the right materials and techniques are used for long-term durability and protection of your home.
4. Structural Repairs
Age, home settling, moisture and water can impact the structure and foundation of a home. Any project that involves your home’s foundation, load-bearing walls, or major structural components should be left to professionals. Homeowners who want to DIY often make mistakes in these areas, compromising the safety and stability of your home.
Only expert contractors and construction professionals can properly evaluate, diagnose and make recommendations for how to best repair structural issues.
5. Electrical & Major Plumbing Work
While changing a light fixture or fixing a leaky faucet can be DIY-friendly home projects that don’t take much time, it’s no laughing matter to attempt to deal with more serious issues. In fact, they can turn into more serious problems that can lead to even more serious problems such as flooding or fires.
All major electrical or plumbing repairs should always be handled by a licensed professional to ensure code compliance and safety. If you feel that the issue is beyond your scope, instead of checking YouTube, when in doubt call a professional.
Making the Right Choice
Before deciding to DIY or hire a pro, consider:
Time & Skill Level – Do you have the necessary specialized knowledge, experience and tools?
Safety Risks – Is the job potentially dangerous? This not the time to play Superman or Superwoman. Calculate the risk and put your personal safety first.
Long-Term Costs – A DIY fix might be cheaper now but could lead to costly repairs later. A patch job done poorly can cause much bigger problems down the road.
YouTube – While great for simple or small DIY home repair projects, most of the videos are created by experts who really know what they’re doing. When they say “Don’t try this at home” don’t try this at home.
So, while there are plenty of home improvement and repair projects that you can DIY without many problems, hiring a trusted professional and expert on houses ensures your home stays safe and secure through every season.
For roofing, windows, and siding repairs in Northwest Indiana, contact us today for a consultation!
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