13 DIY Renovations That Will Cost You More in the Long Run

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When it comes to home renovations, it’s very easy to be tempted to save a buck or two by doing it yourself. And in any case, laying a bit of tile or slapping up a fresh coat of paint shouldn’t be that difficult, right? Social media success stories are all over the place, and they make it seem easy, but they aren’t showing you the disasters just out of frame.

While it’s really empowering to take matters into your own hands, some renovations need more than good intentions and a YouTube tutorial. By cutting corners in some areas, you may end up with expensive repairs or a home not as good as when you started it. Let’s examine some DIY renovations that could end up costing you more than they save.

Installing Hardwood Floors

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It may sound like laying hardwood floors could be a weekend project, but it’s a tricky process that requires precision. Those uneven subfloors, that improper spacing, or that bad cut can ruin your space. And worse, mistakes such as poor sealing can warp or buckle due to the moisture. Not only does hiring a pro guarantee you a seamless finish, but also a floor that will last— something a DIY mishap won’t guarantee.

Knocking Down Walls

Breaking a wall with a sledgehammer can be the most satisfying stress relief until you hit a load bearing wall or a hidden plumbing line. The wrong wall can bring huge repair bills due to structural damage to your home, which will be huge compared to what you’d pay a professional. You also run the risk of damaging electrical or gas lines. Not exactly a walk in the park, right?

Plumbing

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Plumbing is one of those things that is simple to think you can just swap out that old sink or add a new toilet, but it’s not so simple and it really does take finesse and experience. Leaks, water damage, mold issues, etc can occur due to a small mistake.

Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Painting cabinets is a DIY trend, but it’s one of the easiest features to mess up. Your new paint job will chip or peel in no time at all if you don’t prep properly, which means sanding and priming. You can also end up with a sticky, uneven mess using the wrong type of paint. Painting may seem simple, but getting a professional looking finish requires skill, the right tools and patience.

Replacing Electrical Wiring

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Electrical work sounds like simple stuff, right? Wrong. Playing with your home’s electrical system without training is dangerous. Power outages, expensive repairs or worse, electrical fires can result from faulty wiring. Electrical failures or malfunctions are one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S. says the National Fire Protection Association, and you shouldn’t be trusting updates to your wiring to anyone other than a licensed electrician: It’s a safety investment.

Adding a Deck

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Building a deck might seem like assembling a giant outdoor puzzle, but one wrong measurement can mess up the whole thing. Improper supports or poor construction could make the deck unstable and hazardous to anyone who would use it. Professional builders are aware of which materials and what way to build a structure that will hold up and be safe for your friends and you.

Roof Repairs

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One of the most dangerous home improvement tasks to take on yourself might be roofing. If you slip, fall or install shingles improperly, you may have more problems than solutions. Not only do you risk injury, a botched roof repair could result in leaks and water damage in your home. There is no job more suited to the experts than roofing.

Laying Bathroom Tiles

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Laying tile seems like a fun, doable DIY project, but straight lines are harder than they appear. Poor grout work, or uneven tiles, will allow the water to seep underneath and eventually lead to mildew and rot. Professional tile setters use materials and techniques that look flawless and will prevent problems later.

Replacing Windows

Replacement of old windows isn’t as easy as substituting old glass with new; it entails accurate measurement, insulation, and sealing. A poor installation can contribute to drafts, higher energy bills and even water leaks when storms hit. Investing in a professional guarantees a snug fit and long term energy savings.

Building Custom Shelving

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While custom shelves might seem like a no brainer, uneven cuts, poorly anchored brackets, or weak materials can make for a collapsing disaster. You could even end up with more clutter and repairs than if you hadn’t tried to save space. Because pros know which materials will work with what, you can count on a sturdy, attractive result.

Installing a New HVAC System

Installing HVAC is more than plugging in the unit and turning a switch. Failure to install correctly leads to poorer efficiency, mechanical issues or voided warranties. Energy Star reports that improperly installed HVAC systems can reduce efficiency by 30%. The best way to ensure your home stays comfortable and energy efficient is to use a certified technician.

Refinishing Furniture

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Refinishing old furniture can be an artistic adventure, but it’s simple to ruin the wood with poor sanding or bad stain. With a blotchy or uneven finish, or you may even weaken the structure of the furniture. Vintage pieces should be restored by professionals who know how to do so, and without damaging the integrity.

Retaining Walls for Landscapes

Stacking bricks and hoping for the best is not going to build a retaining wall. If your walls are collapsing, it could be a result of poor drainage or lack of proper support for your yard—and even worse, your home’s foundation. Landscape architects and contractors know how to design and construct walls that will stand up.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.