DIY Disasters: What Can Go Wrong with Home Renovations
Winter is coming, and while it might not be the season for outdoor projects, it’s the perfect time to tackle home renovations that can boost your property’s value in time for a spring sale. However, while the DIY route might seem cost-effective, some projects can quickly spiral out of control, leading to stress, delays, and higher costs than expected. If you’re planning to spruce up your home this winter, it’s important to know which renovations could end up being more of a headache than a help. Let’s explore some common home projects that homeowners often get in over their heads with—and how to avoid turning your renovation dream into a nightmare.
- Bathroom Overhauls
Bathrooms are complex spaces that require a mix of skills, including plumbing, tiling, and electrical work. Even minor mistakes, like poor grout application or improper waterproofing, can lead to water damage and mold issues down the line. Homeowners often start with the idea of a quick facelift but find themselves facing unexpected challenges that require a professional touch.
- Kitchen Remodeling
Kitchens are the heart of the home, and remodeling them can be a rewarding but daunting task. The mix of cabinetry, countertops, plumbing, and electrical systems makes it easy to underestimate the time and skill needed. DIYers often run into issues with misaligned cabinets, incorrect measurements, or even gas line connections, which can all lead to costly setbacks.
- Flooring Installation
Installing new flooring might seem straightforward, but it’s easy to get wrong. Issues like improper subfloor preparation, incorrect cuts, and wrong adhesives can lead to uneven floors, gaps, and other issues. These problems might not just be unsightly but could also create safety hazards, which can hurt your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
- Structural Changes (Knocking Down Walls)
Open floor plans are popular, but taking down a wall isn’t as simple as it looks on TV. Homeowners often overlook the importance of checking if the wall is load-bearing, leading to potential structural damage. Additionally, there can be hidden electrical, plumbing, or ductwork that complicates the project and adds unforeseen costs.
- Electrical Work
Any renovation that involves electrical work should raise a red flag for DIYers. Projects such as adding outlets, installing lighting fixtures, or rewiring can be dangerous if not done correctly and can lead to safety hazards like electrical fires. Furthermore, improper installations often don’t meet building codes, which could affect your home’s sale.
- Basement Finishing
Basements present unique challenges that homeowners might not anticipate. Issues like moisture control, insulation, and ventilation are essential to creating a comfortable, usable space. Without the proper materials and planning, you might end up with a damp, moldy basement that requires expensive repairs and renovations before you can put your home on the market.
- Roof Repairs or Replacements
Roofing projects can quickly go awry for those without the right tools, safety equipment, and skills. DIYers may not install shingles correctly, fail to seal around vents, or ignore flashing details, leading to leaks and other issues. Poor roofing jobs can also void warranties, leaving you to foot the bill for costly repairs.
- Deck Building
A deck can be a wonderful addition to your backyard, but building one isn’t as easy as hammering together a few boards. It requires knowledge of local building codes, structural integrity, and wood treatments. Homeowners often misjudge the strength and stability of the structure, resulting in unsafe decks that don’t meet code requirements.
What To Do When DIY Goes Wrong
If your DIY project is causing more stress than satisfaction, it might be time to call in a professional. Although DIY can save money, the cost of fixing mistakes is often higher than just hiring an expert from the start.
Consult Diana Klejne, Your Creston Real Estate Expert
If you’re preparing your home for a spring sale and wondering which renovations will give you the best return on investment, Stonehaus Realty Corp’s Diana Klejne is always here to help. Diana can provide insights on what buyers in your specific market are looking for, so you don’t waste time or money on unnecessary upgrades. Plus, she has a list of Preferred and Recommended contractors that she can email to you if you need reliable professionals to get the job done right.
Reach out to Diana to help plan your winter renovation projects wisely and get your home ready to wow buyers this spring!
Contact Diana today! 604-789-8202 Email: [email protected]
