DIY culture is stronger than ever—especially with countless YouTube tutorials, Pinterest boards, and step-by-step guides promising that you can renovate your home all on your own. And hey, in many cases, that’s true!
Painting a room, changing hardware, or updating décor? Go for it. These small improvements can be satisfying and budget-friendly.
But for every DIY win, there are stories of renovations gone wrong—blown budgets, code violations, and even serious safety issues.
So how do you know when it’s time to roll up your sleeves, and when it’s time to call in a professional?
âś… Projects You Can (Probably) Do Yourself
Let’s start with the good news. There are a number of renovation tasks that are very manageable for the average homeowner:
Painting walls and ceilings
Replacing cabinet hardware
Installing peel-and-stick backsplash
Changing light fixtures (if you’re comfortable with basic electrical safety)
Laying floating flooring like vinyl or laminate
Minor landscaping projects
These DIY tasks are low-risk, and mistakes are usually easy to correct. They’re a great way to save on labour costs and build some hands-on experience.
Tip: Always read instructions carefully and measure twice—especially before making cuts or applying adhesives.
⚠️ The Gray Area: Proceed with Caution
There are some projects that technically can be done on your own—but that doesn’t mean you should. These projects often appear simple but can get complicated fast:
Installing tile (bad alignment or uneven grout can ruin the look)
Building a deck (requires structural knowledge and permits)
Refinishing hardwood floors (requires equipment and technique)
Bathroom updates (waterproofing is critical and mistakes are expensive)
In these cases, it’s worth at least consulting a pro before you start. They can give you tips, flag potential issues, or even step in for the tricky parts.
🛑 When to Hire a Professional—No Exceptions
Some renovations are absolutely not DIY-friendly—especially in Sault Ste. Marie, where weather, code regulations, and older housing stock can complicate matters. Here’s when you must bring in a qualified pro:
Electrical work beyond basic fixture changes
Mistakes can lead to fires, injury, or fines.
Plumbing reroutes or new installations
One leaky joint can cause thousands in water damage.
Structural changes (removing walls, adding beams, digging footings)
Load-bearing walls must be handled carefully—and inspected.
HVAC or gas line modifications
These require certification and code compliance.
Anything requiring a permit
Unpermitted work can delay home sales and void insurance.
Professional contractors ensure the job is done safely, legally, and to the highest standard. A mistake in these areas can cost far more to fix than you’d spend hiring a pro in the first place.
🧰 The SSM Advantage
In Sault Ste. Marie, we deal with unique issues like frost heave, outdated building materials, and legacy systems from older homes. That’s why it’s even more important to involve professionals when tackling major work—especially anything behind the walls or under the floors.
Contractors here understand the local building codes, permit processes, and climate-related challenges better than someone following a generic online tutorial.
✅ Thinking of tackling a reno on your own? We’re happy to help you figure out where to start—and where you might want a hand from the pros.
➤ Give us a call today for honest advice on your next home project.