DIY vs. Plumber: When to Call a Pro
If you’re updating your home or renovating a house, there is a lot of room for error. When things go wrong you want to keep your expenses as low as possible, and this is especially true for plumbing problems. Calling an expert is not only sometimes a hassle, but it also can cost an arm and a leg. However, putting off professional help might lead to an even more costly problem if you aren’t careful. Even small plumbing problems can cost anywhere from between $300 and several thousand dollars.
The reality is there are many home improvements you can DIY, even if you’re not a skilled professional. That being said, you need to know when it’s time to call a pro to get the job done or lend a helping hand. The experts at SPS Plumbers Sydney share their advice for when to call a plumber to help with your project.
When to DIY
Like we said before, there are many instances when you’re completely capable of handling your plumbing problem on your own. We’ve all experienced some of these things before, and though they might seem daunting at first, they’re quite manageable. The key is to take your time and really work through every step to make sure it’s done right the first time. Small mistakes will add up quickly, and this isn’t the time to cut corners.
Once again, if you encounter an unexpected problem while dealing with one of these below, call a plumber. It’s better to be safe than sorry if things don’t turn out correctly. A qualified plumber might not need to make any big adjustments, but they provide essential insight.
Here’s when to DIY:
- Clogged Drains – Clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem. We’ve all dealt with backed up hair in the shower and so on. Yes, it’s a bit gross, but you can fix this on your own with some effort. Start by using a DIY drain cleaning solution. Never pour a chemical drain cleaning agent down your drain! These can be harmful. Another option is a drain snake. If you’re unable to remove the clog, call an expert.
- Replace a Faucet or Toilet – Want a new plumbing fixture? The good news is you can likely do this yourself. Start by turning off the water, then remove the current fixture. Add the new one and ensure everything is working properly.
- Re-Caulk Your Bathroom – This is an easy fix that improves the look of your space. First, clean the area of any mildew. Then, apply your new caulk.
- Aerator Trouble – Another common issue is with the aerator. Luckily, it most likely just needs to be replaced. First, turn off the water supply to the sink and check the aerator. Does it have threads on the inside or outside? This will help you find a replacement piece. You can wash the current aerator or thread a new one in its place.
Call a Professional
Now that you know what projects you’re qualified to handle, it’s time to talk about when you need an expert to help. While you can find many resources and DIY guides online for many of the things below, it’s always better to proceed with caution. Even if you’re an experienced home renovator, you don’t want to take a chance when it comes to water in your home.
If you have any of the following, don’t try to fix it yourself:
- Sewage backup or leak
- Broken pipes
- Replace your shower or tub
- Water heater problems
In general, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Even if your problem isn’t on the list above, it’s still worth consulting with an expert. Most plumbers will visit your home and check the area in question for a low hourly rate. They’ll be able to direct you towards the best course of action, whether that means a DIY fix or plumber intervention.
Protect your home with the tips above. Water problems are costly if you’re not careful. Don’t risk flooding, pipe damage, or worse by trying to DIY a complex project. Though it might be expensive to enlist the help of a professional, this will be much more affordable in the long run than a catastrophic problem.
