Category: Backsplash ideas

Looking to start a home project this spring? Thinking of maybe doing it yourself?  While channeling your inner JoAnna & Chips Gaines could be fun, it also could cost you a lot more than you expect.

Here are a few tips to think about before you decide to DIY or call a professional!

Tip #1: How much is that Weekend Warrior Project really going to cost you once you figure in the time and labor?

Are you looking at switching out some old faucets or painting a laundry room? Maybe you are looking to update your back splash with some beautiful new glass tile? These are all project perfect for the weekend DIY’er. A few trips to the hardware store, a few hours of hard work yield amazing results!

But if you are looking to install/refinishing a hardwood flooring? Think about all of those extra’s: do you have a power sanders? Do you have a nail gun? Did you remember to add 10-15% overage due to defects in the wood? What about time? A project you promised your wife would only take three days is stretching into day five. Kids are walking all over the new wood, the poor cat doesn’t know what to think of all of the noise and mess…That is why jobs like these go a lot more smoothly when done by professionals. They have already invested in the quality tools needed to get the job done efficiently! They know how to estimate the proper amount needed to get the job done and they will do it as quickly and effectively as possibly!

Tip #2: Is this really something you can do?

“Sometimes there’s overconfidence. Dean Bennett, president of a Colorado-based design and construction firm, has seen many instances in which homeowners thought they knew everything, but fell short. Some things are just not as easy as you might think, he says. Say the idea is moving a wall to create some extra bathroom space. This could involve moving the plumbing in the basement, adding new floor framing, rerouting electrical wires, removing and replacing trim on the wall, matching the wall texture to the original, and painting.”*

A good rule of thumb is if it needs permits or requires inspection by licensed professional…..Don’t do it yourself. It is going to save you a lot of time and money if you simply have it done right the first time!

Tip #3: Are you really going to save much if you DIY?

After obtaining the correct permits, renting or buying the necessary tools…..are you really saving as much money as you thought? Before you DIY, call around and see about some estimates. Chances are you will be surprised at how little your savings would be if you did it yourself and the extra money spent is worth the time, effort and lack of stress!

So if you are looking to some flooring DIY, want to make sure you are saving time and money…..give us a call here at THE CARPET HOUSE, INC! As always we offer free measure’s and no-obligation estimates! Call us today at (815) 772-8846.