Safety Alert

When DIY Becomes Dangerous: Home Projects You Should Never Attempt

DIY home projects can be fun. We get it. But here in Central Pennsylvania, we also see where DIY goes wrong — and when it does, it can go really wrong. Here are the projects that should never be DIY — no matter how confident you feel.

1. Electrical Panel Work

If there’s one thing we wish homeowners would never touch, it’s the electrical panel. We’ve seen DIY panel work lead to burned breakers, melted wiring, and fire hazards. This isn’t swapping a light fixture. One wrong move can cause serious injury or long-term damage.

2. Structural Framing

Someone wants to frame a wall or change a room layout, and suddenly the structure of the house is affected. Common issues include floors that start to bounce and walls that crack. These are signs the structure isn’t supported correctly.

3. Load-Bearing Wall Removal

Open-concept layouts are popular, but removing a wall without knowing if it's load-bearing leads to sagging ceilings and emergency structural repairs. If you’re not 100% sure, call a pro.

4. Gas Line Work

Gas lines are not forgiving. Incorrect work can lead to leaks, carbon monoxide risks, and utility shutoffs. That’s not a situation you want to deal with in the middle of winter in Central PA.

Know Your Limits

Good for DIY

  • Painting
  • Flooring
  • Trim & Cosmetic Updates
  • Minor Repairs

Call a Pro

  • Electrical Panels
  • Structural Changes
  • Gas Lines
  • Permit-Required Work

Stay safe. Call the professionals.

Don't risk your home or safety. We handle the dangerous work so you don't have to.