It’s fun and inspiring to watch TV shows about home design and remodeling – everything from the latest looks in countertops to whole-house remodels. And YouTube and other online video sites are chockfull of helpful how-to’s and demos to assist homeowners through countless do-it-yourself projects.
There are relatively simple home projects that can be completed by DIYers, such as hanging pictures, interior painting, caulking, and changing doorknobs and cabinet pulls. And homeowners with the correct tools and a higher skill level should be able to tackle some aesthetic work such as installing crown molding. But it’s also important to know when to stop and hire a professional.
Builders can tell you lots of funny stories about siding installed upside down – and sometimes scary stories involving do-it-yourself electrical wiring gone awry that required a professional. So before you buy the latest or trendiest gizmo for your home, ask yourself a few questions.
How much do you know? Replacing the exhaust fan over your oven with a built-in microwave looks like a reasonably simple swap. But if you notice your kitchen lights are dimming when you zap your popcorn, you’ve probably forgotten that the microwave, unlike the exhaust fan, uses a lot more energy and likely needs a dedicated circuit. A remodeling professional knows that.
What if it doesn’t work? That YouTube do-it-yourself video may make a tile work project look doable, but will YouTube give you your money back if you don’t lay it straight? More than 30% of all jobs professionals perform come from failed do-it-yourself projects. Professional builders/remodelers may not know everything, but they do take responsibility for everything they do.
Are there any unintended consequences? In today’s increasingly efficient and more airtight homes, it’s more and more important to look at the house as a system. Your new windows are keeping out drafts, but how are they affecting your home’s air quality once the “natural ventilation” of the leaky old ones is gone? Do you need to look at mechanical ventilation systems? If so, how big? A professional can tell you.
How do you know if it’s right for your home? A professional builder/remodeler or service provider can advise you on products, finishes and appliances that match your lifestyle, location, house size and budget. Plus, they can help you avoid spending money without a reasonable payback on either resource expense (energy and water, for example) or the sale of your home when you are ready to upsize or downsize.
And how do you find a professional builder/remodeler? There’s a question with an easy answer. Contact the Builders Association of South Central Kentucky at 270-781-3375 to find a Registered Builder with the experience, educational qualifications and knowledge to do the job right – the first time. Or select an Associate professional that specializes in the product or service you need.
Or, better yet, visit Home Expo 2020, March 6-8 at Sloan Convention Center. Hours are Fri. 5-8pm, Sat. 10am-5pm, and Sun. 1-5pm. Tickets are one for $10 or 2 for $15. Children are free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased at the door, with a portion of ticket proceeds going to the Gary Raymer Scholarship Fund.
If you want innovative products, new ideas and great advice, don’t miss this one-stop shopping event. Plus, there will be chances to win Exhibitor giveaways by signing up at participating booths.
Home Expo 2020 is presented with the help of sponsors Ferguson Bath Kitchen & Lighting Gallery and Stewart-Richey Service Group, along with WBKO! Contact us at 270-781-3375 for more info.
-by Anita Napier
About the Author: Anita Napier is the Chief Executive Officer of Builders Association of South Central Kentucky.
