There are plenty of small household projects that many people can tackle themselves. However, there are also some tasks that are best left to the professionals. Here are some things you should avoid tinkering with yourself around the house:
- Electrical work: Electrical work is dangerous and should only be done by licensed professionals. If you need any kind of electrical work done, from changing a light fixture to adding a new outlet, call an electrician.
- Plumbing: Plumbing issues can be complex and difficult to diagnose. Plus, if you make a mistake, you could end up with a major water leak or even damage to your home’s foundation. It’s best to leave plumbing work to the experts.
- Gas appliances: Gas appliances require special expertise to install and repair safely. If you have a gas stove, water heater, or furnace, call a professional to service it.
- Roofing: Climbing onto your roof is dangerous, and even a small misstep can result in serious injury or worse. Plus, roofing is a complex task that requires special tools and training. If you need any kind of roof repair or replacement, call a professional.
- Structural work: Any work that involves altering the structure of your home, such as removing walls or adding a room, should be left to the professionals. A structural engineer can assess your plans and make sure they’re safe and feasible.
- Asbestos removal: If your home was built before the 1980s, it’s possible that some materials in your home contain asbestos, which is a hazardous material. Asbestos removal requires special equipment and training to do safely, so it’s important to hire a professional.
- Tree removal: If you have a tree that needs to be removed from your property, it’s best to call a professional tree removal service. Climbing a tree with a chainsaw is a recipe for disaster.
- Major appliance repair: While some minor appliance repairs can be done yourself, more complex repairs should be left to the professionals. Attempting to repair a major appliance like a refrigerator or washing machine can be dangerous and may cause further damage.
- Major HVAC repairs: Heating and cooling systems are complex and require special training to repair. If you’re having issues with your HVAC system, call a professional.
- Mold removal: If you have mold in your home, it’s important to have it removed by a professional. Attempting to remove mold yourself can cause it to spread and make the problem worse.
In general, if you’re not sure whether you can tackle a home repair project yourself, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call a professional. The cost of hiring a professional is usually worth the peace of mind of knowing that the job is done safely and correctly.