DIY Always Saves Money? Data Suggests Otherwise: Think Before Tackling Home Projects
Mistakes Bring Significant Costs
The report found that homeowners spent an average of $1,171 to repair a single DIY mistake. Forty-three percent said one such correction cost more than $500. Over a three-year period, homeowners spent an average of $3,166 addressing different project blunders, according to the report. The article does not specify how many homeowners were surveyed.
DIY Savings Have Tradeoffs
Taking on a project yourself can cut labor costs and may save thousands of dollars on a single job. It also requires time and effort, and the finished work may have flaws.
When a project goes wrong, the consequences can include both practical difficulties and repair bills. The figures suggest that the cost of mistakes can offset some of the expected savings.
Angi Co-Founder Urges Preparation
Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi, said unexpected outcomes can offer lessons. She recommended assessing which tasks homeowners can handle comfortably and seeking help for more complicated work. Hicks also advised addressing small problems early, saying that doing so can help make the next chapter shorter and less expensive.
Key points
- Homeowners spent an average of $1,171 correcting one DIY mistake.
- Forty-three percent said a single mistake cost more than $500 to fix.
- Over three years, homeowners spent an average of $3,166 on project blunders.
- Angie Hicks advised seeking help with complicated work and dealing with small problems early.