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Everyone loves to save money. So when it comes time to improve or repair your home, it’s natural to ask, “Can I DIY that?” Looking online, it seems like homeowners can DIY just about anything. Yet reality often turns out differently. What was pitched as a simple DIY project can easily end in wasted hours and even higher costs when you need a professional to fix a botched job. Before you decide to tackle that next DIY project, learn from American Kitchen Stones about what it really takes to pull off these popular home improvements.

Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchens are one of the most expensive rooms in the house to remodel. It’s not hard to see why: Kitchens contain a ton of wiring, plumbing, and even gas lines that complicate even the simplest of projects. That’s why so many families trust the experience of American Kitchen & Stones to help them upgrade to the kitchen of their dreams.

Installing cabinets

Take installing cabinets for example. Hanging pre-made cabinets seems simple enough until you end up with misaligned cabinets and doors that swing in the wrong direction. If you choose DIY cabinet installation, arm yourself with a good level and a weekend with nothing else on your calendar. This is a finicky project that takes patience. However, we recommend hiring an experienced cabinet installer that will design the space with you, like American Kitchen & Stones. When you’re paying $40,000 to $60,000 for a kitchen remodel, you want to be confident it’s done right.

Bathroom Upgrades

Bathrooms are another place where homeowners are eager to save money but think twice before attempting major bathroom construction on your own. It’s wiser to hire experts at American Kitchen & Stones to help you create your bathroom oasis.

Vanity makeovers

Simple changes like installing a new medicine cabinet, replacing the bathroom light fixture, and updating bathroom cabinets with new paint and hardware are the exception. These minor bathroom renovations require minimal know-how and only a few tools.

Tile work

Retiling bathroom floors is where people go wrong. What seems like a fun project quickly turns into a nightmare that pushes homeowners’ patience to its limits. Paying $10 to $25 per square foot to install tile flooring is worth sparing the frustration. If you are attempting DIY tile work, Tile Shop says not to skimp on preparation and plan tile placement to avoid sliver cuts or getting tiled in.

Outdoor Living

Outdoor living spaces are trending as homeowners search for space to stretch their legs. the backyard is full of fun projects for DIYers with a green thumb, but some outdoor improvements call for an expert.

Raised garden beds

Building raised garden beds is a great weekend project that even beginners can do. You can build raised beds from scratch using cedar or redwood (avoid pressure-treated or stained wood) or buy a prefabricated garden bed kit for even easier assembly.

Building a deck

Decks take outdoor living to the next level — literally and figuratively. Floating decks are a DIY- friendly option for the experienced, but a traditional deck attached to the house requires a contractor. An expert deck builder will also accommodate slopes and other property features to make the most of your outdoor living space. To save money on a new deck, hire a builder in the off-season when costs trend lower.

Fence installation

Whether you have kids, pets, or just want more privacy, a fence is an ideal solution. Fences can be expensive — the average cost for a new fence is $3,000 according to Inch Calculator — but don’t attempt to save money by installing a fence yourself. Proper fence installation requires permitting and careful attention to post depth and placement, grade, and underground utility lines. You’re better off hiring a licensed fence installer near you to build a fence that looks great and lasts for years.

Home Office Addition

Creating a dedicated space in the home for an office is a wise investment, and not just for the convenience and practicality of working out of the house. It’s also a coveted amenity for many homebuyers, adding value to the home. When setting up your home office, choose a space that allows in plenty of natural light, and ensures you’re outfitted with a fast internet connection. And don’t skimp on ergonomics, including your choice of desk and chair. We all know that it’s important to consult experts like American Kitchen & Stones when doing any kind of electrical, plumbing, or structural repairs. But too often, homeowners assume that as long as a project is safe, it’s safe to DIY. As noted, it depends on the size and scope of the project, as well as your abilities. In reality, there’s a lot that can go wrong with DIY renovations. While you might not get hurt, you may end up unhappy with the results. Rather than investing your hard earned money and time into larger-scale DIY projects that don’t pan out, call on professionals to lend a hand with your next home improvement.