DIY vs Professional Handyman: When to Tackle Repairs Yourself and When to Call the Pros

The DIY Decision Matrix

Not every home repair requires a professional, but knowing your limits can save you money, time, and potentially prevent safety hazards or costly mistakes.

Perfect DIY Projects

Safe and Simple Tasks

• Painting: Interior and exterior painting (single story)
• Basic plumbing: Replacing faucets, unclogging drains
• Weatherproofing: Caulking, weather stripping
• Hardware replacement: Cabinet handles, door knobs

When to Call the Professionals

Safety-Critical Work

Some projects require professional expertise for safety and code compliance:

• Electrical work: Beyond simple outlet replacement
• Gas line work: Any natural gas appliance installation
• Structural changes: Load-bearing wall modifications
• Roofing: Beyond simple shingle replacement