A DIY enthusiast outlines four situations where attempting projects yourself may not be worthwhile, advocating for alternatives like professionals, tool libraries, and secondhand shopping. The article emphasizes saving time, money, and reducing waste over forcing DIY efforts. Published on Earth911, it highlights practical options for those questioning the trend.
The popularity of DIY has inspired many to tackle home projects, but not every endeavor suits the do-it-yourself approach. As a self-proclaimed DIY fan notes, 'the real question is, is DIY always the best bet? When doing it yourself costs more, takes longer or creates more waste than it would to simply buy something new, is it really a better option?' The answer, according to the piece, is often no.
First, consider time investment. Simple tasks like sanding and painting a dresser can yield big results with minimal effort, but elaborate projects—such as constructing a birdcage from wire hangers over two weeks—may waste hours better spent elsewhere. Non-DIYers might echo the sentiment toward elaborate cooking: 'Don’t you know you can pay people to do that for you?'
Second, acquiring tools can undermine savings. If a project demands 'hundreds of dollars of supplies or a garage full of brand-new tools,' it contradicts DIY's roots in simplifying life and cutting waste. Instead, tool libraries offer a solution. These community hubs allow borrowing items like power drills, which see only 12-13 minutes of use over their lifetime. Annual memberships cost $25-100, providing access to equipment such as floor sanders and pressure washers, plus workshops. The Toronto Tool Library has saved members over a million dollars and diverted tons of waste from landfills. Similar programs exist in Seattle and Buffalo; find local options via LocalTools.org.
Third, safety and skill limits matter. Avoid DIY for electrical work or complex tasks like intricate etching. Pallets, often treated with harmful chemicals, pose risks in upcycled projects—experts can advise safer alternatives. If overwhelmed, enlist friends for help, offering compensation like a meal or favor. For items not DIY-feasible, shop secondhand at thrift stores, garage sales, or local markets to extend item lifespans and skip packaging waste. Online, Etsy enables custom requests from crafters, even filtering by location to support nearby makers. For decision-making, Diyornot.com compares DIY time and costs against professional hires, such as 47 hours versus $150 saved.
Finally, personal preference trumps trends. If DIY lacks appeal, support artisans and eco-friendly pros instead. This approach maintains environmental benefits without the hassle, freeing time for more rewarding pursuits.