With networks such as TLC and HGTV shoving DIY projects down our throats every hour of every day, one may easily be swept into the apparent charm of it all: “We made this tiny bathroom a master suite in 2 days with $500!” Every time I hear such claims on TV I want to yell into the unresponsive appliance, “Deceit! Deceit!”
Here’s the thing. As a professional interior decorator, my calendar stays full because people do not want to do it themselves, so I can’t speak against the movement entirely. What I can say is that more often than not my new clients come to be because they tried to do it themselves and they weren’t armed before jumping in with both feet. What the cameras don’t show is the number of behind-the-scenes craftsmen working on the project long after the TV personalities have gone home. They don’t tell you that many of the products purchased were done so at a large dicount or even donated by sponsors. They often won’t tell viewers if any money and time was required at any point to fix a mistake (as often happens during any given project).
On the flip side there are several jobs that any able-bodied and willing homeowner is perfectly capable of taking on alone. Replacing a toilet or sink may be simple for you. Installing new wiring, not so much. So today I am going to give you a brief run down of some typical projects a homeowner may want to confront at some point. We will go over the “DIY” versus the “Hire a Pro” jobs and I will also recommend local contractors to assist with these often-complicated tasks.
1) Replacing a toilet/tub/shower in its existing location: DIY
Moving any of the above to a new location in the bathroom: Hire a pro! An experienced plumber will know all about your pipes, drains, etc. Make a wrong move and you could cost yourself hundreds and countless headaches.
2) Installing a fireplace mantle: DIY
Wiring your fireplace for a flatscreen TV to sit on top of a mantle: Hire a pro! Steer clear of electrical work if you do not have the experience and knowledge to be safe.
3) Picking out new furniture: Depends.
This is a DIY if you are decisive and if you and your spouse can agree or at least compromise on big ticket items. This requires the knowledge of a pro if you need to find your city’s best deals, need to custom order pieces or cannot decide what style suits your family best!
4) Interior painting: DIY
Applying faux finishes, wallpaper or glazing: Hire a pro! Unless you have experience with these applications, get yourself an expert. He/she can save you money, time, and stress and can also recommend looks that you may never have considered!
5) Installing tile flooring: DIY
Staining concrete or installing hardwood: Hire a pro! Not only are these time consuming projects but one mistake here could be more than you are prepared for. Additionally, seek the opinion of a flooring or design expert before purchasing any materials. They can help you decide which flooring is right for your needs and budget as well as give you proper measurements so you order enough!
These are just a few of the most common jobs I come across throughout the year.
Now that we’ve covered some things you may be considering taking on as a homeowner this year, here are my recommendations for local pros Designing Diva Interiors trusts:
- Tile flooring installation: Advanced Tile Concepts, Rusty Wells 405-589-1183
- Landscaping, roofing, painting, and more: All Services, LLC, Jared Rider 405-622-4442
- Hardwood flooring installation: B&D Flooring, Bruce Maness 405-408-1399
- Faux Finishing: Lezley Lynch Designs, Lezley Lynch: www.lezleylynchdesigns.com
- Custom Draperies: Patti Wommer 405-615-3086
- Carpet Cleaning: Sunbell Carpet Cleaning, Ronnie Schweitzer 405-682-1818
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