DIY vs Contractor
Know when to tackle a project yourself and when to call in the professionals. Making the right choice saves money, time, and headaches.
The Decision Framework
Before deciding, ask yourself these questions:
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1
Do I need a permit?
Permitted work often requires licensed professionals. Check your local building department.
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2
What's the cost of failure?
A botched tile job is fixable. A structural error could harm your family.
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3
Do I have the tools?
Factor tool rental/purchase costs into your DIY budget. Sometimes hiring out is cheaper.
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4
How much is my time worth?
A pro does in 1 day what might take you 3 weekends. Is that time worth more than the labor cost?
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5
Am I physically capable?
Roofing, concrete work, and drywall are physically demanding. Be honest about your fitness.
DIY-Friendly Projects
These projects are generally safe and cost-effective for homeowners with basic skills:
🎨 Painting (Interior)
Walls, ceilings, trim. Low risk, significant savings.
🪵 Flooring (Click-Lock)
Laminate, LVP, engineered hardwood. No special tools.
🌱 Landscaping (Basic)
Mulching, planting, simple garden beds.
🔧 Fixture Replacement
Light fixtures, faucets, cabinet hardware.
🚪 Minor Drywall Repairs
Patching holes, nail pops, minor damage.
🛒 Caulking & Weatherstripping
Sealing gaps around doors, windows, tubs.
🚧 Deck Staining/Sealing
Pressure washing and refinishing existing decks.
📑 Tile Backsplash
Small areas, no structural concerns.
Always Hire a Pro
These projects require licensing, specialized equipment, or carry serious safety/legal risks:
⚡ Electrical Panel Work
Service upgrades, new circuits. Risk of fire, electrocution. Requires license.
🔥 Gas Line Work
Any gas pipe installation or repair. Explosion risk. Always requires license.
🏗 Structural Changes
Removing walls, adding openings. Requires engineer. Can collapse house if done wrong.
🏠 Roof Replacement
Major fall hazard. Warranty often requires professional install.
💧 Major Plumbing
Main line work, water heater install. Flood risk and code requirements.
❄️ HVAC Systems
AC installation, ductwork. Requires refrigerant license and specialized tools.
🚒 Foundation Work
Cracks, settling, waterproofing. Structural integrity of home at stake.
⚠️ Asbestos/Lead Removal
Health hazard. Certified abatement required by law in most areas.
Maybe DIY (Skill Dependent)
These projects can be DIY with research and proper preparation, but aren't beginner-friendly:
🧱 Concrete Slab (Small)
Shed pads, patios under 100 sq ft. Doable with proper prep and helpers.
🏗 Drywall (Full Room)
Hanging is straightforward. Taping and finishing takes practice.
🚼 Tile Floor
Requires level subfloor, proper thinset, and patience. Bathrooms are harder than dry areas.
🏚️ Deck Building
Low decks are DIY-able. Elevated decks need engineering and proper footing.
💧 Fixture Plumbing
Replacing toilets, faucets. OK if no pipe modifications needed.
💡 Simple Electrical
Replacing outlets, switches (not adding new). Requires shutting off power safely.
Typical Cost Comparison
| Project | DIY Cost | Pro Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paint room (12x12) | $100-150 | $400-600 | ~70% |
| LVP flooring (200 sq ft) | $600-900 | $1,500-2,200 | ~55% |
| Tile backsplash | $200-400 | $800-1,500 | ~65% |
| 10x10 concrete pad | $300-500 | $1,200-2,000 | ~70% |
| Drywall room (12x12) | $200-350 | $700-1,200 | ~65% |
| 12x12 deck | $1,500-2,500 | $4,000-7,000 | ~55% |
How to Find a Good Contractor
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1
Get multiple bids (3 minimum)
Compare scope of work, not just price. Cheapest isn't always best.
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2
Verify license and insurance
Check your state's contractor licensing board. Ask for certificate of insurance.
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3
Check references and reviews
Ask for recent customers. Check Google, Yelp, BBB, and Nextdoor.
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4
Get everything in writing
Contract should specify scope, materials, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty.
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5
Never pay 100% upfront
Standard is 10-30% deposit, with rest upon completion. Avoid large upfront payments.
Contractor Red Flags
- No written contract - Every legitimate contractor provides written agreements.
- Cash only / no paperwork - Often means they're avoiding taxes and accountability.
- Pressure to decide now - Good contractors don't need high-pressure sales tactics.
- Much lower bid than others - May indicate cut corners, hidden costs, or unlicensed work.
- Can start immediately - Good contractors are usually booked weeks/months out.
- No physical address - Legitimate businesses have verifiable addresses.
- Requests large upfront payment - Standard is 10-30%, not 50%+.