DIY Remodeling

Some homeowners enjoy doing parts of a remodeling project themselves. The important question is not whether something can be DIY—it is whether the work fits the homeowner’s skills, tools, time and the risks involved.

Good candidates for homeowner involvement

Depending on experience, homeowners may be comfortable with planning, product research, painting, simple finish work or other limited tasks.

Know when professional work matters

Structural changes, complex waterproofing, major plumbing or electrical work and projects requiring permits or specialized knowledge deserve particular care. Mistakes can be expensive once work is concealed behind finished surfaces.

Do not let DIY work break the project sequence

Even when homeowners perform selected tasks, those tasks need to fit the construction schedule and coordinate with the work of other trades.