Should I Hire a Pro or DIY My Interior Renovations?

It’s true. Stay in a home long enough, and you’re bound to find something you’d like to change. And whether it’s updating your kitchen, finishing a drab basement, or finally tackling that outdated bathroom, there are plenty of decisions to be made. 

How will the finished product look? What kind of materials will you choose? And, perhaps most importantly of all: will you do the work yourself or hire a professional to complete your renovations?

The fact is, that last one is not always an easy call to make. So, to help you make the right decision for you and your home, we’ve put together this friendly guide outlining the pros and cons of DIY projects vs. hiring a general contractor.

It’s a quick scan and by the end we think you’ll be feeling confident in your decision.

What Are the Benefits of DIY Interior Renovations?

There’s no denying the appeal of a finished DIY project. Even if it doesn’t come out perfect, the satisfaction of doing the work yourself is pretty awesome.

But there’s more to it than that. In fact, DIY renovations have several key benefits. 

These include:

• Cost Savings: Labor generally makes up around two thirds of total costs
• Learning New Skills: DIY projects practically guarantee teaching you something new 
• Creative Control: Design, timelines, and creative quirks are totally up to you
• Pride of Ownership: Doing something yourself just feels good

That said, if you’re a handy homeowner with access to the right tools, a DIY project can be deeply rewarding (not to mention cost-effective and, dare we say it, even fun).

What Are the Downsides of a DIY Interior Renovation?

While DIY projects have their appeal—cost savings, learning new skills, the pride of a job well-done—there are a few notable downsides. Be forewarned that the following cons can be very real and frustrating.

• Time Sinks: Weekend projects can stretch into months—especially if you’re already busy
• Skill Gaps: Electrical, plumbing, and load-bearing walls all require specific knowledge to be worked on safely
• Quality Concerns: Uneven tiles, sloped floors, and imperfect drywall can show up over time—and potentially hurt resale value
• Stress & Mess: Living in a construction zone isn’t fun—and can start to wear your family thin over time

Many times, it isn’t worth the risk, and hiring a pro is the smartest decision.

When Does Hiring a Professional Contractor Make Sense?

While the DIY route will work for some, most times hiring a professional for your interior renovations makes more sense. 

“It’s best for customers to work with a professional general contractor when the cost of doing the project outweighs the time, ability, tools, and knowledge of the homeowner. While I think many people are capable of doing the work on their own homes, most do not have the privilege of the time and tools necessary to complete more complex projects.”

- John Brogan, E&E General Contracting Sales and Project Manager for the Interior Division

What Are the Benefits of Working With a Professional Contractor for Interior Renovations?

Working with the pros brings a few key advantages—and depending on the scope of your interior renovations, it may be the best choice for you.

Here’s why:

• Expertise & Experience: Working with someone who’s done similar projects means fewer mistakes and smoother execution
• Efficiency: A contractor and professional crew can typically finish a remodel faster and with fewer delays
• Code Compliance & Permits: Licensed pros are aware of local codes and can keep your interior renovations legal and up to snuff
• Project Management: Save yourself trip after trip to the hardware store and let your contractor handle scheduling, materials, and trouble-shooting
• Familiarity with Best Practices: An experienced pro can help you choose the best materials and design for your budget, personal tastes, and goals
• Peace of Mind: This may be the most important—knowing the job was done right

What is the Cost Difference Between DIY and Hiring a Professional Contractor?

Generally speaking, you can expect labor to cost around two thirds of your total interior renovation costs. 

That means if a DIY bathroom remodel were to cost $5,000–$10,000 in materials, tools, and subcontractors, getting the project professionally completed could run you $15,000–$25,000.

When determining if the additional cost is worth it, it’s important to consider the long-term. For a simple refresh, DIY work might be worth the investment of time. But if you’re eyeing a healthy ROI or high-end finish, professional craftsmanship often pays.

How Do I Know If I’m Capable of DIY Interior Renovations?

To determine whether you’re up to the task of a DIY job, ask yourself the following questions. Your answers should give you a good idea of the best path.

• Have I ever done a project like this before?
• Do I have the tools and space necessary to work safely?
• Am I willing to work weekends and evenings for several weeks or months?
• If I mess up, can I afford to fix it?
• Is my spouse/partner on board with this plan?

More than a few “nos” might make a call to a local contractor worth it. And if you’re still keen on saving some costs, see if they’re willing to split the job with you.

How Do I Find an Interior Renovations Contractor I Can Trust?

A successful project starts with choosing the right contractor. And the truth is, here in southeastern Pennsylvania you have plenty of options.

To help you make a good decision—and ensure your prospective contractors are top-notch—we’ve created a free PDF called “Seven Questions to Ask Before Hiring A Contractor.”

Give it a read. Then, give us a call and put our crews to the test. If after exploring your options you decide to work with E&E, you can count on…

• Lifetime Workmanship Warranties on all renovations
• A commitment to high-quality, modern products we trust
• Overcommunication through every step of your renovation
• Quality craftsmanship as the backbone of our labor force
• Respectful cleanup and care for your property

So give the PDF a read—then reach out for your free initial consultation and complimentary estimate…

Because we’re ready to bring your dream home to life.

Get Your Complimentary Estimate