Home improvement seems simple enough, right? Home improvement mistakes happen all of the time and they can be a real pain to try to correct later. You may think that permits aren’t that big of a deal, that you can handle all of the work yourself and that the details aren’t that important but think again.

DIY home improvement mistakes are common as well as expensive and time-consuming to deal with. It’s important that you are prepared, think the project through and make sure you have the proper equipment and manpower to help you get the job done. Here is a look at the common mistakes to avoid when you do your next DIY project.

Underestimate the Value of the Time

You may think you’re saving dollars by doing everything yourself but what about the time you are giving up to do these projects? You could be working longer hours at work or having more time off while paying someone else to do the work but you are trading your time for a project that isn’t guaranteed to be done well.

While you’re capable of laying bathroom tile, do you really want to do this between kids’ activities, work and your regular home’s chores? The time you’re trading may not be worth it and hiring a pro may be better depending on your circumstances.

Permits

If you are doing everything yourself, have you considered what permits you might need to apply for? Fixing your own septic system might sound simple but if its caught in a home inspection later, you may be kicking yourself later. Call the professionals for the proper permits.

Value vs. Dollars Spent

Sometimes just because you’ve spent more money doesn’t mean the value will go up. A kitchen with beautiful appliances and a horrible design is not going to work out when it’s time to sell. Make sure a professional can help you design it to mesh with the rest of the house. Once you’ve reached the point of work with the studs, you’ll want an interior designer or architect to help consult.

Other common mistakes including not asking for a professional’s opinion whether for free or for a charge, missing guarantees on huge projects like roof repairs, neglecting to finish projects that are left half-done for many years and overstating your own capabilities in which you have a house with bowed laminate flooring or light sockets that aren’t vertical. Consider these tips before tackling a DIY project at your home.