When it comes to home projects, it often comes down to a case of doing it yourself (DIY) or calling a professional (CAP) to do the job. You’ve watched the TV shows that make everything look so easy and for a moment say to yourself “How hard could it be?” Well, in reality it could be really hard! Remember, those people you’re watching on TV aren’t doing the project for the first time… they’re actually professionals!
A great example of a DIY project gone wrong is installing your own fence. So many things can and will go wrong. Yes, we’re not in the business of putting in fences. We’re focusing on this as it’s a great example of something that looks simple to do, but in reality, is much more complicated. We run into all types of DIY home repair jobs that we have to take over and fix. Today we’ll use fences as an example of DIY vs. CAP. Check out these photos. Is that what you want to do or have your fence look like?
NOT HEAVENLY FOUNDATIONS OR HEAVENLY HANDYMAN ACTUAL WORK!!
Crooked Fence Lines
Wider angle on crooked DIY fence lines
First and foremost, local ordinances dictate that a large number of home repairs or improvements require the homeowner to obtain a permit. This is often a requirement to build a fence. And to take it a step further, if you live in an area overseen by a homeowner’s association, there may be strict rules as to the color, material and height of fences. But those are the easy steps in a fence project. There’s much more to be considered, such as:
• Property lines
• Land surveys
• Land topography
• Ground composition
• And more….
There are DIY kits available for almost every project you can think of. Have you ever purchased one? Haven’t you noticed that the instructions are “one size fits all” and more often than not, don’t begin with the basics or take into consideration the nuances of the property. Basics like marking off the line where the fence will be installed; factoring in the topography to keep the fence height even; factoring in corners or bends; the list goes on.
Home projects fall into the “Rule of 3” category. Rule 1 is that it will take you longer to do it yourself. Rule 2 is that you will run into complications and it could end up costing more than if you had hired a professional. And Rule 3 is that the project may end up looking less than professional.
Do it right and hire a professional!!