In today’s world many of us are venturing out into the world of DIY. While it can be exciting and fun, it can also be overwhelming and exhausting. Sometimes it can also end up costing you more in the end. It all depends on your personal home improvement skills and know how. This article addresses some of the topics you may want to consider before deciding to tackle a home project on your own.

Being a designer/remodeler myself, I love to take on personal projects, but I also know when to lean on my team for additional assistance. There are some things that are just meant for the professionals!

Here are a few things to consider before starting your next renovation.

1. Finding the right subs for your project. This is a task in itself! Who is reliable, but has a good price, but is also insured, but will actually do a good job?!?!?!? All the things to think about before deciding who to use! It can be exhausting! AND. . .  which parts of the project will you be taking on yourself and which parts will you be subbing out? WHEW! I’m already tired and I haven’t even started the project.

   The good news is most designers, contractors, remodelers have already gone through the process of finding the right people for the job, and have established relationships with these crews making the process smoother. The job will be completed, done right, all with insured professionals who have collaborated on countless other jobs.

2. Coordinating your crews in and out of your house in the proper order needed to complete your renovation. In some circumstances, certain subs will need to return to the house multiple times and having your designer/contractor schedule this out for you is a huge headache taken off your plate. Many times, your designer or contractor is happy to oblige if there are certain parts of the project you would like to complete yourself. This can help cut your costs but still give you that pristine finish you are looking for. 

3. Being prepared to address the minute details with the subcontractors you’ve chosen to work in your home. For example. . . what type of grout is best for your tile selection. Would you need a sanded or non-sanded option. How large of a grout line would you like? Many homeowners are choosing an 1/8” or 1/16” grout line for most applications today. What about picking that exact paint color to tie everything together? Or knowing the correct offset for your kitchen cabinet installation? Some DIYer’s are completely equipped and ready to respond while others are totally overwhelmed and intimidated at these questions.

Whether you choose to go it alone or contract out your renovation, it is important you do what’s right for you, just know when it’s time to call in the professionals.