The Ultimate Home Repairs You Should Never Do Yourself Quiz


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About This Quiz

It can be tempting for a keen DIY-er to want to do all home repairs. But there are some home repairs that you should never attempt to do yourself. If you think you know when it is time to call in a professional for the job, see how you fare in this quiz!

What sort of plumbing repairs are safe to attempt on your own?

Changing a shower head, replacing a faucet or even installing a new toilet are plumbing tasks a keen DIY-er might attempt. However, tasks such as extending hot water lines and re-routing sewer pipes should be done by a professional.

What tool is required for work done on copper pipes and should only be used by someone experienced?

Work on copper pipes requires the use of a blow torch, which can be a dangerous tool and should only be used by a professional who is experienced in welding.

What do you need to do before you start any electrical work?

Make sure that the power is off before doing any electrical work. Changing a light switch or installing a ceiling fan are examples of minor repairs that can be done by yourself. But one wrong move when working with electric wires can result in severe property damage, injury or even death. It is best to have a professional electrician do anything more than a minor job or repair.

What tool is it worth investing in when attempting minor electrical repairs?

A volt meter can test wires for power running through them. This enables you to check that the power is completely off before attempting electrical repairs.

Before you start certain electrical repairs you need a __ to get the work done.

For some electrical projects you will have to get a permit before you can to the job. In these cases you will be forced to use a professional electrician.

Building codes have been instituted for safety purposes. When might they affect you?

If you chose to ignore building codes you may be lucky and they may not affect you. However, it may be difficult for you to sell your home, as the buyer will want to make sure the home is safe before buying it.

Why was asbestos such a popular material?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used due to its good insulating properties, including resistance to heat, electricity and noise.

In what year was asbestos use banned?

Asbestos was banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1989, but the ban was overturned in 1991, allowing trace amounts of asbestos in specific products.

Why are their laws requiring a professional to remove asbestos from buildings?

You may not care about exposure to asbestos toxins, but your neighbors might. Removing asbestos can pose a danger to you and to anyone in close proximity, which is why there are laws governing the manner in which asbestos should be safely removed.

What is the main reason why you should hire a professional to help you with roof repairs?

The main reason that a professional should be hired for roof repairs is because it is very easy to fall, which may result in major injury or death. This risk is increased because roof work is tiring. When you are tired you are more likely to make mistakes, and mistakes can be very costly if you are on a roof.

On what sort of roof might you try some minor roof repairs?

If your home has only one-story and a slope of no more than 20 degrees, you may get away with attempting some minor roof repairs on your own, such as gutter work or minor shingle repairs.

What should you make sure of before attempting roof repairs?

Make sure someone is home when you attempt roof repairs. Have them hold the ladder for you and be there in case of an accident.

Which part of gas repairs usually lead to gas leaks?

Unhooking the gas pipes is usually the easy part. Hooking them back up is where it gets tricky. Gas will find its way through the smallest leak, so it is best to have a professional do your gas or gas appliance repairs and prevent gas leakages.

What substance may leak from a gas pipe that has not been hooked up properly?

Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur from a leaking gas pipe.

How many people in the U.S. die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning?

In the U.S., about 400 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning. Spending money on a gas professional may save your life.

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