As a homeowner, there are likely countless home repairs you need to attend to. From fixing a leaky faucet to repairing a damaged drywall, it can be difficult to know whether you should attempt these repairs on your own or hire a professional. Below, we'll provide you with a helpful guide so you can determine whether or not to DIY certain home repairs.Time and EffortThe first factor you should consider is the time and effort it will take to complete the repair. While DIY repairs may save you money, they can be extremely time-consuming and require a lot of effort– especially if you’re unsure what you’re doing. You may find yourself down a YouTube rabbit hole when a professional could do the same job with little effort or time needed. So, if you're short on time or have limited skills, it may be more practical to hire a professional.Skill LevelAnother essential factor to consider is your skill level. Some home repairs require specialized skills and knowledge that you may not possess. Attempting these repairs on your own can lead to further damage or personal injury. As much as you may want to DIY a project, it’s important to be honest about your abilities and don't hesitate to call a professional when necessary.CostOne of the primary reasons homeowners attempt DIY repairs is to save money. However, it's essential to weigh the cost of the repair against the cost of hiring a professional. In some cases, hiring a professional may be more cost-effective in the long run, particularly if you're not confident in your abilities.SafetySafety should always be a priority when it comes to home repairs. Some repairs, such as electrical or plumbing, can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you're unsure about your safety or the safety of your family, it's best to hire a professional. Better safe than sorry!ComplexityThe complexity of the repair is another crucial factor to consider. Some repairs may seem simple on the surface, but they may actually require specialized tools or knowledge. Before you know it, you may be spending money and time on extras that you never accounted for. Assess the complexity of the repair before you decide to DIY or hire a professional.Based on these factors, here are some DIY repairs you can consider and others that may warrant the help of a professional: Repairs you can attempt to DIY:Minor plumbing repairs, such as fixing a leaky faucet or replacing a toilet flapperPainting and minor drywall repairs, such as patching small holesInstalling light fixtures, ceiling fans, and other small electrical projectsInstalling shelving, window treatments, and other basic carpentry projectsCleaning gutters and replacing damaged gutter partsBasic landscaping tasks, such as mowing the lawn and trimming bushesRepairs you may want to hire a professional for:Major plumbing repairs, such as replacing pipes or water heatersElectrical repairs that involve rewiring, adding circuits, or working with the electrical panelRoof repairs or replacementsStructural repairs, such as foundation or framing workHVAC repairs and installationsLarge-scale landscaping or tree removalAnything involving working at heights or in dangerous conditions, such as on a roof or with heavy machineryRemember, if you are unsure about the complexity or safety of a repair, it is always better to err on the side of caution and hire a professional. A DIY repair that goes wrong can end up costing you more time and money in the long run, and can even be dangerous. Always consider your skill level, time, effort, cost, safety, and complexity of the repair. By doing so, you'll be able to make an informed decision that's right for you and your home!

The days are getting a bit shorter, leaves are changing colors, and colder months are around the corner. But before we take a deep dive into the snow, autumn is the perfect time to do a home maintenance check to get ahead of any potential issues. From clearing the gutters to checking for drafts, there is plenty to be done this time of year. Replace Batteries & Check AlarmsWith cold weather approaching, you want to be sure your home is well-equipped for emergencies. While it can be an easy thing to put off, checking your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms is a quick and simple task that will give you peace of mind.  Clear Your GuttersGet ahead of the falling leaves and clean out your gutters as you don’t want them to get clogged! Leaves easily get stuck in gutters, causing damage if the weight becomes too heavy.Check for DraftsBe sure to go around your home and check for any drafty windows or doors that may need to be fixed before the cold weather really hits. Replacing the weather stripping on doors is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix that’ll keep you and your family warm and comfortable.Prepare Your Furnace/Fireplace, Gather FirewoodIf you have a fireplace, wood-burning stove or furnace, you’ll want to get ahead of the game and gather plenty of wood to keep you warm through the winter. If you use a fireplace, make sure the chimney is clear and ready for use. If you have an electric heating or boiler system, you’ll want to test it as it’s been sitting unused during the summer months. The last thing you want to do is realize your heat isn’t working on a cold winter’s day. Check Your InventoryFrom back-up batteries and flashlights to the necessary tools (rakes, shovels, etc.), now is a great time to go through and organize your shed or storage space to ensure you have everything you need for the coming months. It may take some time to clean up, but your future self will thank you.Disconnect Garden HosesIt’s very important to disconnect and drain your garden hoses before freezing temperatures hit. If there’s any water left in a hose, and the temperature drops below freezing, the spigot itself can become damaged. Once a spigot is cracked, it must be replaced. Simply drain your hose by turning off the spigot, and then using a spray nozzle to get any excess water out of the hose. Fall home maintenance is critical so your property remains in the best possible condition for enduring any rain, frost, and snow as we approach the winter season. Without completing preventative home maintenance projects early, you may find yourself having to repair more serious damage in colder, harsher months, especially when it comes to any wooden structures and electrical systems. Get ahead of the game so you can enjoy cozy, comfortable nights inside!