7 DIY Skills to Learn If You Want to Save Money on Home Renos

Every homeowner knows renovations can get expensive if you need to hire a professional for every little job. Instead of spending unnecessary money on upgrades, learning some basic DIY skills can save you hundreds—or even thousands—on your reno projects..

We asked home reno pros for their take on the best DIY skills to learn if you want to save money on home renos.

Using a Drill, Hammer, and Screwdriver

There are many jobs that can be completed simply by learning how to use a drill, hammer, or screwdriver, such as hanging shelving, replacing hardware, mounting TVs, or repairing decks and fencing.

“Most people are familiar with [screwdrivers] and are able to do the basic screwdriver tool functions of inserting or removing a screw,” says Peter Andra, owner and general contractor at Kalispell Contracting. “This is used frequently for tasks like setting up new furniture or switching out door handles or drawer knobs.”

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Painting

Painting is such a common DIY project that most homeowners have at least attempted to tackle a home painting project at least once.

But learning how to paint properly and like a professional can make an even bigger difference in the look of your home.

“It’s beginner-friendly and has almost instant gratification—unless you hate taping, however if you have a steady hand, you can use a good, angled brush to get a clean line you can be super proud of,” says Josh McGrath, Broker/Owner at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central.

Caulking

Caulking is used in a variety of different jobs around the house, from sealing the base of the toilet after a toilet replacement or repair, to sealing gaps and cracks around wires or pipes that run from the exterior to the interior of the home.

McGrath says learning to caulk can result in smooth, mold-resistant lines. While caulking is relatively easy to learn, it’s not as easy to master, so plan to experience some initial difficulties with getting your caulk lines perfect when you first begin.

Light Demolition

Many professionals will charge extra to demolish and remove items from the home before they begin with renovations or reconstructions, but if you learn how to complete light demolition jobs, like taking up old carpeting or hardwood and disposing of it properly, then you can save on the cost of your next renovation project.

“They even make demolition ‘stress relief’ rooms that you have to pay to use these days!” Andra says. “If there is wiring or plumbing involved, it is best to call a professional, but if you’re simply removing old cabinets or getting rid of a non-load bearing wall, breaking stuff up for removal is pretty straightforward!”

Patching Drywall and Drywall Prep Work

Hiring a pro to come patch holes in drywall takes both time and money that you don’t need to spend if you learn how to do a basic patch, apply drywall compound, and sand the area.

And if you are painting a room, the results always look better if you take the time to prep the drywall by filling any small holes or smoothing cracks, making this an invaluable skill for a successful renovation.

“Most labor costs go into what happens before the brush hits the wall,” McGrath says. “Patch holes, smooth cracks and ensure the walls are ‘paint ready’.”

Basic Plumbing

Hiring a plumber, even for small repairs, can get expensive fast, so learning some basic plumbing skills can save you lots of money.

Focus on learning simple repairs for the toilet, like replacing the flapper or the float, to correct running toilet problems, and spend some time learning how to remove and replace a faucet or clear a drain.

“Basic plumbing, like replacing a faucet or unclogging a drain without calling in backup is essential for DIYers,” McGrath says. “If you can swap out a faucet, you’re golden. Doing this is a big labor saver, if you can do it correctly.”

Tiling

Completely tiling a bathroom or even tiling a full shower may fall outside of the basic skills of most homeowners, but learning how to complete simple tile jobs can cut down on the cost of a bathroom or kitchen renovation project.

“Save the complicated tile work for professionals, but you could consider doing some simpler backsplash work or decorative tile on your own,” Andra says. “The key is to go slow and take your time on even placement, measurements, and smooth grouting.”