Whether homeowners have lived in the same house for decades and have been putting off needed repairs or they’ve recently received some unpleasant news during a home inspection, there are a few things they should keep in mind when it comes to tackling major repair work. Read on to find four practical tips that can help.
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Choose the Most Important Projects
Refinishing living room floors or remodeling aging bathrooms may seem like important projects since their results will be immediately visible, but are they really the most important ones? If the house needs major repairs, chances are the answer is no. Start with projects that will increase the home’s value or prevent the need for additional repairs.
The top of most responsible homeowners’ lists is usually foundation repair. Foundation settling can cause problems with just about every other component in the home from floor joists to attic rafters, so although this project may not be the most glamorous it is usually the most important. Homeowners can get the information and help they need to repair their foundations from helitechonline.com.
Know When to Hire a Professional
Some projects are easy enough that almost any homeowner with a few free weekends and the right tools can handle them alone. Others really require the help of a professional. It’s important to know the difference.
Consider things like what equipment will be required, how much time the job will take, how important it is to get it right, and the potential consequences for a botched job. If a project takes a lot of specialized tools or skills or if getting it wrong could mean spending a fortune on other even more expensive repairs, it’s always best to hire a pro.
Buy the Right Tools
Most homeowners have a few basic hand tools and those with workshops in their garages often have power tools or more specialized equipment, as well. That doesn’t mean they’re ready to tackle any major repair job. Having the right tools can make the difference between getting a job done in a day and wasting countless hours struggling with seemingly impossible tasks.
Do some research and find out what tools the experts use. If they’re affordable and easy to use, go out and buy them before starting the project. If they’re expensive or require a ton of specialized skills, it’s usually easier and more affordable to hire a contractor who already has all the right equipment and experience to get the job done right.
Choose the Right Contractor
For major repair jobs, choosing the right contractor is one of the most important things homeowners can do to preserve their properties. Find a licensed professional who works for a reputable company, not a random handyman suggested by a friend. Determining who will be best for the job requires a little research.
Get recommendations from friends and neighbors, check companies’ websites, and read through a few reviews. Don’t make a final decision until after speaking with the contractor and getting an official estimate.
The Bottom Line
Few homes are beyond repair but it’s important for homeowners to accurately evaluate their own abilities. Even seemingly major problems like foundation settling, leaky roofs, and water damage can all be resolved with the help of a professional. Botched DIY repairs will only cost more money in the long run so stick to simple projects and leave complex, specialized renovations to the pros.
