Expectation vs. Reality: Common DIY Problems

In a survey of 2,000 Americans by ImproveNet, 63% who attempted an average of eight home improvement projects by themselves regretted at least one of those DIY jobs. One in three called a professional to correct their mistake.

Common DIY Problems

• 55% didn’t expect their project to take as long as it did. Projects mostly involved exterior painting, walkway or patio installation and foundation repair.

• 50% found the project harder than they anticipated. Projects mostly involved roof replacement, landscaping and walkway or patio installation.

• 48% found it too technical. Projects mostly involved electrical work, backsplash installation, and furniture building.

• 17% spent more money than they expected. Projects mostly involved fireplace installation, landscaping and foundation repair.

• 8% accidentally caused damage to their home. Projects mostly involved foundation repair, ceiling replacement and roof installation.

• 6% suffered an injury while working on their project. Projects mostly involved window replacement, fireplace installation and foundation repair.

While it can be enjoyable and satisfying to bring a project to fruition, DIYing is not the best route to take when it involves most home improvement and repair jobs.

Most people who decide to go the DIY route want to save money. But when a project goes wrong, it’s usually costlier because you spent money on something that didn’t go as planned. If you have to tear down your work without having any use for it, then all that money goes into the dumpster with it. The same is true if you have to pay a professional to correct your mistake, and that’s even worse because now you’re paying almost twice as much.

Other reasons for DIYing include trying to challenge oneself, thinking it would be a fun activity, and not trusting professionals to realize one’s vision for the project. Often, these expectations are proven wrong almost as soon as the homeowner starts the project.

Poor Research

One of the reasons for DIY project failure is poor research. Compared to a professional who has the experience, training, and tools to successfully complete a project, a DIY enthusiast would normally spend just several hours watching YouTube videos or a TV show, or several minutes talking to a store clerk.

No Training

If you’ve done many home improvement projects before, you have a higher likelihood of success, but not always. Projects vary in difficulty and demands. Without the right training — the kind that professionals go through — you are more likely to botch the job than to be satisfied with the results.

You can avoid regretting a job if you call a professional from the beginning. In case the project doesn’t turn out the way you expected, or the pro made mistakes, you can hold them accountable. At any rate, a professional has a higher likelihood of completing your project just the way you want.

Avoid common and costly DIY mistakes and regrets. Get in touch with Hunterdon Roofing, Siding and Window Company to work on your exterior renovations. Call us today at (908) 735-0809 or fill out this form.