Hire or DIY: Which Is Worth It?

By: Rosalie Merriner

“Do It Yourself” projects (aka DIY) have taken over the internet in recent years. More and more people are skipping the professional route and choosing to tackle projects on their own. This naturally raises the question: is DIY really worth it?

Both options have their advantages, but factors like cost, experience, materials, and long-term durability all play an important role when deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional.

Is DIY Always the Cheaper Route?

• Contrary to popular belief, DIY is not always the most cost-effective option. While taking the DIY route can save money upfront, especially since you aren’t paying for labor or professional design, those savings don’t always last.

• When you hire a professional, you’re working with someone who knows what to look for from the start. At Antonucci Lawn and Garden, years of experience, including both successes and lessons learned, allow us to evaluate the longevity of a project, not just the initial installation.

• Hardscapes like patios, pavers, and retaining walls may seem straightforward, but when they’re installed incorrectly, they often end up costing more in the long run. For larger-scale projects, hiring a professional is usually more cost-effective and far less stressful for homeowners, providing peace of mind throughout the process.

Hidden Costs of DIY Projects

As mentioned above, projects like patios and pavers can become expensive if mistakes are made. Here are a few additional costs homeowners may not consider when planning a DIY landscape project:

• Overlooking Permits and Regulations

• Permits are common in the landscaping world—and easy to overlook. Drainage requirements, HOA rules, and water-use regulations can quickly add up if something isn’t done correctly. At Antonucci, we’re familiar with these requirements and know what’s needed to keep projects compliant from the beginning.

• Higher Water Bills from Inefficiency

• Irrigation systems are designed to be both efficient and effective. However, if they aren’t laid out properly, they can waste water and increase monthly bills. Improper winterization can also lead to costly repairs once temperatures drop.

• Re-Doing Projects After One Harsh Winter

• Northern Nevada winters are unpredictable and can be tough on landscaping. If a project isn’t timed correctly or installed properly, a single winter can undo months of hard work and investment.

What Can the Average Homeowner DIY?

Not every project requires professional help. Some landscaping tasks are perfect for DIY and can still make a big impact.

• Flower boxes are a great example. Choosing pots and flowers allows homeowners to add personality and color to their space. Flowers like irises, pansies, and daffodils are resilient options that thrive in our climate.

• Seasonal cleanups are another great way to stay involved in your yard. Leaf removal, spring debris cleanup, mulching, and light pruning are manageable tasks that help maintain the health and appearance of your landscape.

When weighing all the options, hiring professionals often proves to be the most cost-effective choice for larger or more complex landscaping projects—and it offers invaluable peace of mind. That said, DIY still has its place. Smaller projects and routine maintenance can be done simply and efficiently by homeowners.