The Hazards of a DIY Kitchen Remodel
America is a nation of “do-it-yourselfers.” While it’s great to be so self-reliant and creative, it can also be a huge mistake when it comes to a room as important as the kitchen. A full or partial remodel may seem within the realm of possibility for someone who loves HGTV and DIY, but it can be hazardous and costly in the long run.
Kitchens have so many working parts including major appliances, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It’s a room that often needs updating and renovations, but it’s also the room that should be cared for by professionals who understand building codes and the major components that keep a kitchen operational and safe.
Today’s blog is focused on the potential pitfalls of taking on a kitchen renovation by yourself. Read on to hear about hidden dangers, compliance issues, and the overall impact of home value when planning a kitchen renovation on your own.
Safety Hazards
First and foremost, there are safety hazards that should be considered when renovating a kitchen. While all renovations have some level of danger, some rooms are more complicated than others – the kitchen being one of the most complicated in a home.
Many DIY enthusiasts believe that watching a few YouTube videos can help them understand how to install new cabinets, redesign the footprint of a kitchen, or even rewire an entire kitchen for new lighting and appliances. This could not be further from the truth.
Unfortunately, many enthusiasts find out the hard way that there are safety requirements that contractors and construction teams follow to keep everyone safe. This includes electrical work protocols, building code processes, and plumbing requirements.
Hazards such as hidden plumbing leaks, unsafe installation of appliances, electrical code issues, and so many more can lead to injuries and catastrophes long after the renovations are complete. Think fire, flood, or structural issues that could come up later, long after the renovation work is completed.
Hiring construction professionals gives you access to the skilled workers who understand the order of work to be done and how to ensure that the plumbing, electrical, and other processes are done properly.
Compliance With Municipal Codes
Local municipal building codes vary from area to area. While these codes and permitting for kitchen upgrades may not seem important to homeowners during a renovation, they can quickly become an issue when it comes time to sell the property.
When a potential home buyer has an inspection completed and checks for permitting are done, the town may require that the current owners show compliance by exposing certain features of the structure, electrical, or plumbing. They could also levy a hefty fine for not following building codes or potentially require a ‘rebuild’ in the case that safety precautions were not evident.
This situation could be costly and ultimately delay the sale of the home in the long run.
Impact on Home Value
Most of us think about home renovations as adding to the value of a home. This is usually the case when professionals take on the task. Exactly the opposite can occur when weekend warriors try to install electrical, plumbing, or HVAC features on their own.
Many homeowners have asked for help midway through a home improvement project because the work became too arduous or above their skill level.
Poorly installed cabinets, flooring that is not level, and potentially unsafe appliance installations could actually lower a home’s value if done improperly.
If the scope of your kitchen project goes beyond painting or switching out cabinet hardware, it may be a good idea to consult a contractor who can help you make the changes you desire without the fear of safety hazards, building code violations, or hurting the value of your home. Contact us with questions and get started on your next project.
