In the era of free YouTube tutorials, Google, and Pinterest, there seem to be nothing but benefits when you decide to take the DIY (Do-It-Yourself) approach. There is a new glory is being able to make, convert, or fix something yourself, without the help of a professional. Everyone will convince you that hiring someone to do something that you can DIY is just a waste of money. But is it really?
Deciding to DIY a few things every now and again can be a great way to learn new skills, develop new passions, live creatively, and usually save some cash. However, at other times life will teach you that doing it yourself is just not worth it, whether it’s because of the liability, the amount of time it takes, or just the quality of the result. At other times it can even turn out more expensive!
Now you’re hesitant whether you should do your own landscaping project or repurpose that chest of drawers that you have gathering dust in your basement? Is it worth cutting a hole in your ceiling to try to fix the electric problems yourself?
Here are some triggers that might have you double guessing whether your DIY resources are enough…
- There’s a warrantee or insurance on it
If you found a crazy fast motherboard for your desktop and are thinking of switching the parts yourself, make sure that the warrantee that you have isn’t voided the moment you switch something out. Just like fiddling with the wires in your home without the approval of a licensed electrician can render your home insurance useless, even if the electric component is not what is causing the problem. That’s why many retailers recommend using professional repair and installation services for all major appliances and brands. These professionals know exactly how to properly execute the job in a way that won’t damage the item or void the warrantee. Some of these companies even offer their own service guarantee supporting the quality of their work.
- If You don’t have the tools
Unless you are an avid DIY-er or have unlimited resources, many projects will require a number of tools and some equipment before you even get started. So if you have to rent or purchase several power tools that you would otherwise never get, along with expensive materials, you are probably NOT saving money on this project. The successful DIY projects are the ones for which you already have the majority of the tools and equipment.
- It requires Specialized Skills or knowledge
OK, you might be able to learn to do your own decent “smokey eye” makeup look, but if you are thinking of building your own house, may luck be on your side. It’s a great idea if you have experience or an education related to engineering and construction. Otherwise, stop and actually consider the risks you are taking by not hiring a professional consultant or builder. Is having your house have huge structural issues and worst-case scenario injuring someone really worth the savings you gained by cutting out the professional help?
Now that you have gone through some of the important considerations for your DIY project, do you still feel like DIY is the only way to go? In many instances, it can be a smart and fun alternative to paying for a ready product or service, bringing people and ideas together, but can also be a hassle and sometimes an utter failure. However, don’t despair if that’s what it comes to. We learn from every decision and in the future we will know our DIY limits.
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