Home Maintenance: DIY or Call in the Pros?

When you purchase a home there are a few things that are decidedly different than renting. One of the biggest changes is that you’ll have to manage all the home maintenance yourself. Home maintenance is an absolute must for quality of living as well as preserving the value of your property. 

There’s a lot you can DIY on your own to save a little money and take pride in putting your personal touch on your home. But there are also times when it’s definitely best to call in the professionals. If not, you may make matters worse rather than improving home maintenance. 

Call in the Pros: Pest Control Treatments

There’s one very good reason to call in the pros for pest control services - handling pesticides can be hazardous. So much so, the government regulates pesticides and some are only available to licensed professionals. 

When you have an actual infestation, a professional pest control technician should handle the job to get insects out quickly and minimize the damage. The technician is trained in identifying pests, finding out where they are hiding, how they are entering the home, and putting together a treatment plan that will work. Many pros also offer a guarantee on their services. 

DIY: Preventative Integrated Pest Management

While you may not be able to get your hands on certain pest control treatments and safely eradicate an infestation, there is a lot you can do to prevent problems. The EPA recommends that homeowners take an integrated pest management approach. Part of integrated pest management keep a close eye out for pests and take steps to prevent their appearance. 

Pest prevention is pretty simple and straightforward. Do things like: 

• Cut down on clutter
• Keep dirty dishes out of the sink
• Fix water leaks 
• Seal up cracks around doors and windows
• Remove trash
• Eliminate standing water 

Call in the Pros: Install New Lighting Fixture or Outlet

Electricity is dangerous - period. Anytime you need to install a new lighting fixture or outlet call a licensed electrician. A good rule of thumb is that anytime wires are involved beyond plugging something in a pro should do the work. 

Every year hundreds of people are electrocuted, including professionals who are on the job. Some accidents prove fatal. Fire is another big concern. Faulty electrical distribution and lighting components cause 9% of house fires in the U.S.

DIY: Install Automated Lighting and Swapping Out Faceplates

If you want to update your lighting system with automation that’s an easy task for DIYers. Most systems come with simple directions that include screwing in smart lightbulbs, download an app, connecting to the WiFi and then setting up automatic schedules. 

Another easy task that you should be able to handle is swapping out the faceplates of light switches. It’s one of those small, inexpensive touches that actually goes a long way in updating the look of an outdated home. 

Call in the Pros: Plumbing Installs, Leaks Behind Walls and Serious Clogs

A home’s plumbing system is complex. It runs throughout the inside of the home weaving through walls and floors. Everything must fit precisely and connect securely or you could have a major problem on your hands.

Water damage can be costly and occur quickly. That’s why most people opt to have a professional plumber come out and investigate problems. Once you hear the estimated fee you may be tempted to try a DIY, but that often leads to more problems. There are signs a plumber should handle a clog or leak, like when you have no idea what’s going on with the pipes.

It goes without saying that plumbing installs should also be handled by a licensed plumber.

DIY: Fixing an Accessible Slow Leak

Got a pipe that’s dripping water under the kitchen sink? When you can see what’s happening and know where the leak is coming from, it could be an easy fix that takes basic tools. Plastic pipe leaks are particularly easy because you may just need to tighten the connectors or adding a sealant to the joints. You’ll also need to know how to shut off water to your home or you’ll just end up making a huge leak. 

If you don’t already know home maintenance professionals, ask friends and family for recommendations. Good home maintenance pros can be hard to come by so asking around can improve your odds of finding an honest, fairly priced service provider. 

Related Article:

The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist