Plumber vs DIY: Today we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of each option.
At WaterSmart, we have over 25 years of experience in the plumbing and water softener industry; and we'd love to share our expertise with you.
We'll also talk about the types of jobs that many people feel comfortable with and the types of jobs that are best left to a professional. So, let's get started.
Plumber vs DIY? Learn about the pros and cons of each option
Plumber vs DIY: Here are the Pros and Cons
Pros of DIY Plumbing
Cost Savings:
The biggest advantage to tackling a plumbing job yourself is the money you will save by not having to pay for a professional plumber.
This is a good choice if the task is relatively simple and you are confident that you can do it without any trouble. However, if you tackle a more difficult task that you aren't able to do, then you run the risk of messing it up and then having to pay someone to fix your mistake.
It usually costs more to fix a plumbing mistake that it would have cost to hire a professional in the first place.
Pride in Doing the Job Yourself:
It's a great feeling to be able to fix something around your home yourself. It can give you a great sense of accomplishment and many people actually enjoy doing odd jobs themselves.
You just need to understand your limitations and skill level and choose the type of plumbing jobs that you are able to do well.
Plumber vs DIY: Doing a plumbing repair yourself can be very satisfying
DIY Plumbing Cons
Dealing with the Unexpected:
Often when you are tackling a plumbing problem, the unexpected happens that you weren't prepared for and that wasn't covered in the video that you watched. Many times these unexpected surprises will require you to act fast in order to avoid even more damage.
If you don't know what you are doing, you will probably be at a loss as to what you should do; and the time that it takes for you to find out could end up costing you a lot of extra money in further damages.
No Guarantees:
When you tackle a plumbing job yourself, you cannot guarantee your own work. If something goes wrong, you will need to fix it yourself or pay to have a professional fix it.
May Not Recognize the Full Extent of the Problem:
If you are attempting a plumbing repair on your own, you may not be able to detect the full extent of the problem. A small issue may just be a sign of a much bigger problem and without proper training, you may not be able to see that for yourself.
If you aren’t sure about what you are doing, you may not be prepared for the unexpected
Plumber Pros
Proper Licensing:
Certain plumbing projects require that you have a license in order to perform them. A professional plumber will have the proper licenses required to do the plumbing projects you need done.
Has Extensive Knowledge and Experience:
A licensed plumber will have the knowledge and the experience to tackle any major and minor plumbing project or repair.
They will know what to do if the unexpected happens and they will be able to react quickly to any surprises that might come up thus saving you on any extra unnecessary damages.
Plumber vs DIY: A licensed plumber will have the expertise to do the job right the first time
Familiar with Plumbing Codes and Regulations:
Your municipality will also have plumbing codes and regulations that need to be followed when doing major plumbing installations or repairs. A professional plumber will be familiar with those codes and regulations and will know what is required to follow them properly.
Can Detect Other Problems:
Because of their training, a plumber will be able to detect other potential problems that you might not see yourself such as harmful mould or polybutylene piping .
Can Give You a Professional Result:
A professional plumber has the skill set and ability to give you a professional-looking result. It is very difficult to achieve the same level of quality and appearance when you are attempting certain repairs for the first time.
Plumber vs DIY: A professional plumber will give you professional-looking results
Plumber Cons
Cost for Labour:
The biggest con when it comes to hiring a professional plumber is the cost for labour. If you do the repair yourself, you don't have to pay anything for labour, only your time.
The largest portion of your plumbing bill goes to pay for the labour of your plumber. However, when you hire a professional plumber you are paying for their years of experience, training, and know-how to do the job right.
Cost of Supplies:
Your plumber may charge you more for the parts and supplies than what you could've bought yourself at your local hardware store.
However, you may be paying more because they are using a higher quality part that will last longer than the type you can buy yourself.
Plumber vs DIY: Choose relatively easy plumbing tasks for DIY
Plumber vs DIY: Which Should You Choose?
With the rising popularity and abundance of DIY videos on the internet, you may be tempted to try some plumbing repairs yourself.
Some plumbing tasks are easier than others. You will probably be able to do the easier ones on your own without running into any trouble. The more complicated ones are probably best handled by a professional.
Plumbing Tasks that Are Easy DIY Tasks
Plumbing Tasks that Are Best Left to a Professional Plumber
Installing new plumbing
Moving existing plumbing
Replacing leaking pipes
Installing a new toilet, tub, shower, or sink
Water softener and dishwasher installations
Sump pump repairs and installations
Plumber vs Diy? Trust WaterSmart for All Your Plumbing Needs
Looking to hire a professional plumber? You can trust WaterSmart with all of your plumbing needs. We are your local plumbing experts in the Kitchener-Waterloo region proudly celebrating 25 year of professional service.
If you are having problems with your sewer or would like to have it inspected, contact us today. We also provide a full range of other plumbing services that include but are not limited to:
Tankless Hot Water Heaters
New Plumbing and Renovations
Master Plumber and Gas Fitter
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Toilets and Taps,
Leaks and Repairs
Clogged or Slow Drains
Countertop Pre and Post Installation
Water Softener and Dishwasher Installations
