Winter can cause a lot of problems for your home if you aren’t prepared, which is why it’s worth taking the time to ready your home before the first snows fall. Before tackling that to-do list, though, consider your options. Whether you can implement DIY projects yourself or if you need a professional are two options to consider as you attempt to seal out the cold and bring more warmth to you this winter season.
Do It Yourself
Air and pipe leaks within the home can greatly affect energy costs. According to Ecotech Institute, there are several ways to save on our energy bills with simple tweaks you can do yourself, like welcoming natural light on a particularly frigid day, which can serve as a natural heat source. You may even want to seal off your pool by finding a pool cover to help keep it fresh over the colder months, so that dirt and debris don’t enter. Investing in a winter cover will also help keep your pool from growing algae, which can be a costly endeavor to clean up in the long run.
Finding and sealing leaks that are typically prominent around the windows, doors and even within the basement and attics can save you exponential amounts of money, as well. According to Angie’s List, a basic chimney sweep can cost anywhere from $100 to $250. While you may thoroughly clean a chimney yourself, using the correct tools, it takes a professional to perform a full inspection and to notice any other harmful substances hiding within your fireplace.
Hire a Professional
Hiring a professional will save you money on DIY projects, especially when it comes to complex issues that are structural or electrical. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a private contractor’s job entails various types of work, from laying concrete to managing the details of a project. The most popular types are electricians, and when it comes to saving your life, he or she is probably the most crucial aspect of your project, safety-wise.
Hiring a professional to perform jobs, such as HVAC and heater repair, plumbing, window replacement, can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Roofing is another repair issue that takes a considerable amount of time and expertise. Hiring a professional also ensures that you don’t need to spend money on tools necessary for the job. Some experts will offer a discount, which helps save you time and money. However, a reputable professional is crucial, as you’ll want him or her to be licensed and trained to perform the task at hand.
Consider the Costs
While there are advantages of doing it yourself, consider the planning and tools that you will need, which may cost you more than you realized. Additionally, if that project doesn’t go over too well, you’ve potentially lost hundreds or even thousands of dollars on shoddy work. A professional contractor, on the other hand, will sometimes give you the best rate, depending on the size of the job and has access to quality material at a lower price.
Shop around to find the best deal that will also meet your needs. It’s also essential that you keep in mind the length of the project as this may conflict with your availability and whether or not you’re up to the task of living in a mess for a few weeks to a month. Otherwise, take the time to tally up the essentials and whether or not it makes sense.
With home trends coming and going, it’s no wonder why anyone would want to get their hands dirty. However, some projects are better left to the professionals. As you work in maintaining your home this winter, consider what you can gain from a DIY project or hiring someone who is particularly trained within a field. Weight the pros and cons and choose what’s best for you.
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