Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
When a DIY project goes well, there's no feeling like it. All of your hard work is on display for you and everyone in your home to see.
But when it doesn't go well — it really doesn't go well. According to a Better Homes and Gardens 2024 trends report, 74% of people surveyed had an unfinished DIY project lying around the house.
Additionally, 89% say they regret tackling the project when they're in the thick of it.
While changing out a doorknob or installing a new showerhead doesn't usually require a contractor, there are some jobs best left to the pros.
Here are five DIY home renovation projects you should not do yourself:
Painting your cabinets
The DIY influencer on social media or the happy designer on TV may make it look easy, but painting your kitchen cabinets is not easy. In fact, some people say you shouldn't do it at all.
Brittany Anas, writing for Apartment Therapy, interviewed several realtors who warn against it.
They say painted cabinets, especially the DIY variety, don't move the needle when you're selling your home. In fact, the paint may start to wear off and expose the wood (or last coat of paint) underneath.
If you hate your cabinets and want a painted look without purchasing new cabinets, hire a professional painter. They can get the job done faster and better than the average DIYer.
It should be noted that many designers are seeing wood cabinetry make a comeback. The honey hues of the 90s are once again gaining popularity, so there's no need to paint them if you're trying to stay on-trend.
Sanding floors
If you're fortunate enough to have hardwood floors in your home, don't ruin them by sanding them yourself. The process seems simple enough — you get the equipment and push the machine over your floors.
But that easy routine doesn't account for small bumps, thinner wood, and anything else out of the ideal.
One professional carpenter told Realtor.com that he won't even sand his own hardwood floors. He says using the machine requires a special touch, and if you're not doing it frequently, you'll inevitably make hard-to-fix mistakes.
If you've made the sinking mistake of sanding your own hardwood floors, visit your local Giant Carpet One to look at replacements or other options.
Fixing electrical problems
Watching a couple of DIY videos on YouTube isn't enough to tackle an electrical project.
It might be incredibly dangerous. One expert tells Homes and Gardens that "messing with electrical components can cause shocks, fires, or permanent system damage."
On a less dangerous note, some projects, such as converting an electric stove to a gas stove, require a permit in many areas.
To avoid the hassle of figuring out if you need a permit, paying for one, and then doing the project, just hire an electrician to handle it all.
You'll have peace of mind and a home in tip-top-electrical shape.
Removing popcorn ceilings
The days of teal countertops, pink toilets, sunken living rooms, and faux wood paneling are long past, but those pesky popcorn ceilings still linger in some homes.
According to Apartment Therapy, the trend began in the 1950s and continued through the 80s. As society learned more about asbestos, the once-popular treatment became a danger — especially if you took it down.
If you're living in an older home with a popcorn ceiling, there's a chance it could contain asbestos. While it's possible to remove it by yourself, even if it contains asbestos, it's a long and messy project.
Hiring a professional who does this project often will save you time, stress, a mess, and possibly your health.
Installing new flooring
In a 2019 survey, ImproveNet found at least two-thirds of people regret taking on a DIY project. Reported by Realtor.com, the survey found various floor installation projects took several spots in the top 10 most-regretted DIY projects.
While each type of flooring installation varies in time and technicality, it's much easier to hire a professional to lay your flooring.
Not only will they have the correct tools and supplies, but they will also have the experience to do it right the first time — and quickly.
Get high-quality flooring with professional installation
Make your remodel the one you've been dreaming of with beautiful, new flooring. Giant Carpet One has a huge selection of carpet, LVP, hardwood, tile, and more. From warm faux wood vinyl planks to soft, textured carpets, Giant Carpet One has a style for every budget and palette.
Find the perfect flooring for your project by visiting one of their Utah locations or by browsing online.
