Should You Hire a Pro or Attempt DIY for Kitchen or Bath Tile Work?

Hiring a Professional or Performing DIY Tile Work

The kitchen and bathroom of a house contain the most value and, when done right, will provide the most joy and comfort for a family. Redecorating or remodeling with materials from a local countertop supplier in Santa Rosa can help breathe life into a dated or stale design, but tile work brings the wow.

Many homeowners attempt DIY solutions to save money on projects, but trying DIY with tile work, especially with little to no experience, is a mistake. Not only is tile one of the costliest additions to a remodel, but it also provides functionality. If installed improperly, it affects the entire kitchen or bathroom.



Countertop Supplier in Santa Rosa Discusses the Benefits and Need of Hiring a Professional

DIY solutions are not suitable for every job. While a homeowner may have the ambition and curiosity to attempt tile work, saving DIY projects for smaller tasks is better. Professionals can ensure that the tile is laid, seated, and sealed correctly. 

While you might believe DIY methods can save money, they often cost more than hiring a professional. The average DIYer gets in over their head and makes costly mistakes, resulting in the need to replace materials. Hiring a professional from the beginning means fewer, if any, mistakes, meaning costs remain in line with original estimates.

Redecorating Versus Remodeling

That said, some changes to a space do not require the expense of a licensed contractor. For example, if you are only redecorating, meaning not replacing countertops or demoing the area, you can probably save a little money by doing it yourself. Redecorating refers to painting or updating the look of your kitchen or bath. It does not involve intense or skilled labor.

If you are remodeling, you likely need a professional, especially if you are working with a countertop supplier in Santa Rosa. While there is nothing wrong with qualified individuals working with suppliers independently, it is typically easier for delivery and communication when the person handling the materials is experienced in the tasks.

Remodeling, Design, and Installation

Remodeling a space is challenging, especially when tearing the area down to the studs and reworking the existing footprint, and preparing for new cabinets. While homeowners may feel capable of such a task, most owners underestimate the time, labor, and costs associated with a remodel. Also, homeowners may not fully comprehend the level of risk they accept when choosing DIY options. 

Remodels involve technical skills and regulatory know-how. Licensed professionals understand everything involved and are familiar with the process. Homeowners do not usually have significant experience with inspections and building codes, which is problematic for important installations and kitchen or bathroom upgrades.

Imagine you just finished installing a beautiful counter from a countertop supplier in Santa Rosa. You also installed a gorgeous new tile surround and floor. You think your remodel is complete. Suddenly, you receive papers claiming your project was unpermitted and needs to be inspected. An inspection could result in the removal of all that tile and the new countertop.

A licensed and reputable contractor would not make such a costly mistake. They would ensure permits were in order, and the project passed inspections every step of the way.

Professionals and Resources

Most homeowners do not have the tools or materials necessary for remodeling work. Without the proper tools, a job can take twice as long, if not longer, than it should. For a homeowner to go out and buy all the equipment necessary to complete a remodel is impractical and expensive.

Also, one expense people get caught up on is labor. Some people feel labor costs are unfair, so they opt for DIY methods. They fail to realize that paying for labor means paying for a team of skilled professionals. Hiring a team means your remodel gets finished faster with fewer, if any, mistakes and hold-ups.

Trying to complete a remodel by yourself requires more than a countertop supplier in Santa Rosa. You need tools, skills, materials, designs, and manpower to compete with private contractors.

Professional Contractors Are More Capable Than DIYers

On average, DIYers are inexperienced individuals trying their hand at a hobby. Professionals invest much more into their careers, including certifications and education. The number of hours, days, months, and years professional contractors put into perfecting their craft should instill confidence in homeowners, and it should encourage them to use pros whenever possible.

Yes, professionals are more expensive on the surface, but when you factor in labor, materials, tools, etc., homeowners are saving money. The next time you have a remodel or interior tile project, hire a professional and save yourself money and the inevitable headache. 

Work With a Contractor and Countertop Supplier in Santa Rosa

Are you interested in remodeling your kitchen or bath? Contact Ceramic Tile Center, a countertop supplier in Santa Rosa, to select the best tile, countertop, or backsplash for your space. Once you make your selection, the company can help you find a qualified installer. It may even be able to put you in contact with designers it works with.