The Bathroom DIY You May Regret Trying To Do Yourself

When it comes to bathroom upkeep and renovations, there are a lot of things the average homeowner should know how to do on their own. From painting the walls to replacing cabinet hardware and unclogging the sink, these are basic tasks that most can pull off with confidence, no questions asked. There are also more difficult tasks, like replacing tiles, fixing a running toilet, or re-caulking a tub, which anyone can conquer with the help of online tutorials and expert advice from hardware or big box stores. But when it comes to large plumbing jobs, it's best to leave it to the professionals. 

Many experts warn against DIY-ing major plumbing work for a reason. Moving drain lines, rerouting pipes, or replacing the old pipes with new ones may sound doable, but fumbling a home's plumbing system can turn into a nightmare, both structurally and financially. It's all too easy to end up with a gas leak, flooding, or code violations that could come back to haunt you when it's time to sell your home. Plumbing mistakes can cause more damage than you think, which is why even most seasoned home renovation experts seek out a professional plumber for big jobs. 

It's easy to assume that bathroom plumbing work is simple and straightforward if you base it on the exposed pipes under your vanity sink. But experienced contractors and professional plumbers know there's far more to this than meets the eye. What's tricky about plumbing is that most of the system is tucked behind walls, under floors, or over the ceiling. The system must also adhere to strict local building codes to ensure that it uses the right materials and has the correct slope and venting for proper drainage and leak prevention. Even the tiniest mistake can have serious consequences for the property and homeowners. As such, while you may view DIY-ing as a cost-effective way to fix or update your plumbing system, this is actually a bad idea if you are saving or cutting down on expenses.

While common bathroom plumbing mistakes are easily avoidable, there are instances or errors that go beyond what an average homeowner can handle, say for example, sewer line issues and constant moisture buildup on walls and flooring. Both scenarios can lead to mold growth, decay, and structural damage in the long run. When it does, you'll have to shell out thousands of dollars more for repair. In the end, even if hiring a professional may seem a bigger expense upfront, it can save you stress and money from flubbed DIY work and prevent a disaster you'll definitely regret.