5 DIY Repairs You Can Safely Do (And 5 You Shouldn't)

The DIY approach to home repairs can be tempting. It potentially saves money, provides a sense of accomplishment, and allows you to learn new skills. However, not all repairs are suitable for DIY enthusiasts. Some require specialized knowledge, tools, or certifications to be completed safely and effectively.

In this article, we'll explore five repairs you can confidently tackle yourself and five that are best left to the professionals.

DIY-Friendly Repairs

1. Unclogging Drains

Most minor drain clogs can be safely addressed without professional help:

• Start with a plunger designed for the specific drain (sink plungers differ from toilet plungers)
• Try a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water
• Use a drain snake for more stubborn clogs
• Remove and clean the P-trap under sinks to clear blockages

When to call a professional: If the clog persists after multiple attempts, if multiple drains are clogged simultaneously, or if you notice sewage odors, it could indicate a more serious problem requiring professional attention.

2. Patching Drywall

Small holes and cracks in drywall are relatively easy to repair:

• For small holes (up to 15cm), use a patch kit available at most hardware stores
• Clean the damaged area and remove loose material
• Apply mesh tape or a patch over the hole
• Cover with joint compound, let dry, sand smooth, and paint

Pro tip: Apply multiple thin layers of joint compound rather than one thick layer for a smoother finish that's less likely to crack.

3. Replacing Tap Washers

A dripping tap is often caused by a worn washer, which is relatively simple to replace:

• Turn off the water supply to the tap
• Remove the tap handle and unscrew the valve
• Replace the old washer with a new one of the same size
• Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on

Remember: Different types of taps have different internal components. If you're uncertain after disassembling, take photos or bring the parts to a hardware store for guidance.

4. Painting Interiors

Interior painting is one of the most impactful DIY projects:

• Properly prepare surfaces by cleaning, filling holes, and sanding
• Use quality painter's tape for clean edges
• Apply primer where needed (especially on bare drywall or when making dramatic color changes)
• Use appropriate brushes and rollers for the surface and paint type
• Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat

Pro tip: Invest in quality tools if you plan to paint multiple rooms. Good brushes and roller covers make a significant difference in the final result.

5. Replacing Cabinet Hardware

Updating cabinet knobs and handles is a simple way to refresh kitchens and bathrooms:

• Remove existing hardware and measure the hole spacing
• Purchase new hardware with the same spacing (or be prepared to fill old holes and drill new ones)
• Use a template to ensure consistent placement if installing new hardware
• Tighten securely but avoid overtightening which can damage cabinets

Design tip: Bring an existing piece of hardware to the store to ensure proper sizing and fit.

Repairs to Leave to the Professionals

1. Electrical Work

Electrical repairs present serious safety hazards and often require certification:

• Improper electrical work can cause fires, electrocution, or death
• Most electrical work requires permits and inspections
• Professional electricians understand building codes and safety standards
• Insurance may not cover damage from DIY electrical repairs

Exception: Homeowners can typically safely replace light fixtures and outlet covers after turning off power at the breaker box, but even these tasks require careful attention to safety.

2. Gas Appliance Repairs

Gas appliances require specialized knowledge due to the risk of leaks:

• Gas leaks can lead to explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning
• Gas work typically requires certification
• Professional technicians have specialized tools to detect leaks
• Gas appliance repairs often involve both gas and electrical components

Safety note: If you smell gas, leave your home immediately, do not operate any electrical switches, and call your gas company from outside or from a neighbor's home.

3. Structural Modifications

Changes to load-bearing walls or other structural elements require professional expertise:

• Improper structural changes can compromise the integrity of your entire home
• Structural work typically requires engineering approval and building permits
• Professionals understand how to properly transfer loads
• DIY structural work can significantly impact your home's value and insurability

Warning: Never remove a wall without confirming whether it's load-bearing. Even non-load-bearing walls may contain plumbing, electrical, or HVAC components that require professional relocation.

4. Major Plumbing Repairs

While minor plumbing tasks can be DIY-friendly, major repairs should be left to professionals:

• Incorrect plumbing work can cause extensive water damage
• Professional plumbers understand pressure, venting, and drainage requirements
• Plumbing modifications typically require permits and must meet building codes
• Proper tools like pipe cutters, torches, and pressure testing equipment are expensive for one-time use

Cost consideration: The expense of repairing water damage from a failed DIY plumbing job typically far exceeds the cost of hiring a professional plumber initially.

5. Roof Repairs

Roof work involves significant safety and technical challenges:

• Falls from roofs account for a significant percentage of home improvement injuries
• Improper repairs can lead to leaks and extensive water damage
• Professional roofers have proper safety equipment and insurance
• Quality roofing requires specific techniques to ensure waterproofing
• Amateur repairs often void roof warranties

Safety first: Even experienced DIYers should think twice about roof work. The combination of height, awkward positioning, and potentially slippery surfaces makes roofing particularly dangerous.

Know Your Limits

Even within these categories, individual skill levels vary. When deciding whether to DIY a repair, honestly assess:

• Your experience and comfort level with similar tasks
• Whether you have the proper tools and safety equipment
• Your understanding of relevant building codes and best practices
• The potential consequences if something goes wrong
• Whether permits or inspections are required

Remember that YouTube tutorials make projects look deceptively simple. What takes a professional minutes may take an inexperienced DIYer hours, with less predictable results.

Conclusion

DIY home repairs can be rewarding and cost-effective for many tasks. However, knowing when to call in professionals is an essential skill for responsible homeownership. When in doubt, consulting with a professional before starting a project can help you make an informed decision about whether it's suitable for DIY.

At Ovoschnaya-Kinza Repair Services, we're always happy to provide guidance on which repairs are DIY-appropriate and offer professional services for those that require specialized expertise. Your safety and your home's integrity are our top priorities.