There are certain plumbing problems you should never take on by yourself, as doing so could likely make the problem worse. Replacing copper pipes or removing entire fixtures can pose greater challenges than some homeowners expect. Before taking on any DIY plumbing tasks, evaluate your own skills and the equipment you have on hand; try to gauge if the job is a relatively minor, straightforward fix (something you can handle entirely on your own), or if it calls for some professional attention.
For everyday plumbing repairs and upgrades, you can actually do much of the work on your own, without hiring a professional plumbing service. This includes tasks like:
As long as the plumbing task at hand is relatively straightforward, and you have the tools and know how to complete the job, DIY repairs are an affordable option to consider. It’s pretty likely that you can handle minor drain unclogging on your own. What about more extensive work, like renovating bathrooms and rerouting utility/pipe lines within walls? If you decide to pursue DIY repairs, even minor hiccups can turn into huge problems very quickly.
Worst case scenario, you may slip up during DIY plumbing repair and not even realize it. Like unattended plumbing problems, unnoticed DIY errors can cost you thousands of dollars in remedial repair later on. Licensed plumbers go through the training and have the experience necessary to avoid these mistakes, and get the job done right the first time.
The following are common plumbing repairs that typically require professional assistance to some degree, if not for the entire job:
The DIY versus professional plumbing debate really comes down to one factor: how comfortable you are handling the task at hand. While a seasoned homeowner may be able to renovate their own bathrooms without professional assistance, not everyone can tackle such a project on their own. Only take on DIY projects if you’re sure you can see them through without error; otherwise, contact the pros and make sure the job is done right.