Three Top Home Improvement Myths
Unexpected factors can turn your little household project into an expensive nightmare. Take a look at these home improvement myths before you break out your ladder and hammer.
Most people have an innate tendency to twiddle with things, and that's often expressed in home improvement projects. As we're knocking down those walls, ripping up that linoleum, or having that special feature installed, we like to tell ourselves that a) we know what we're doing; and b) whatever we do will end up adding value to our home.
Well, it ain't necessarily so. Much of the common knowledge in the field is actually myth, and it's our duty to educate you on the reality. In this article, we'll reveal the truth underlying three insidious misperceptions about improving your home.
Myth 1: A swimming pool will add value to my property.
This is a popular home improvement myth, but prospective home buyers with any experience with swimming pools know the truth: that they're big holes in the ground you pour money into. A pool takes a lot of effort to maintain, and it's a constant drain on your energy and water bills.
That said, it may be worth the effort to install a pool if you use it regularly and can afford the expense. Otherwise, consider this option very carefully before you succumb to the temptation, especially if you live in a part of the country where the swimming season is brief.
Myth 2: A tool is a tool is a tool.
Well sure, in the same way all cars are created equal -- not. Don't fall for the myth that any tool out there will suffice for the type of home improvement project you've got in mind. If you've got to dig one hole, that five-dollar shovel may be just fine for your needs; but if you need to dig up a whole garden, buy the most shovel you can afford. You'll appreciate your foresight by the end of the day.
Myth 3: It's cheaper and faster to do it myself.
Maybe so, if all you're doing is tiling the bathroom floor. But can you safely rewire the house yourself, or even install your own hot water heater? The point is that if you don't already have construction experience, any project that isn't very basic can easily get away from you.
This may sound harsh, but the truth is that the average do-it-yourselfer doesn't have the skills or experience -- or patience -- to get most jobs done right. Nor do they know all the little tricks the contractor does, or have the same access to low-priced materials. Don't be ashamed to ask for help, and don't let your home improvement project break you because of a sudden outbreak of pride.
