Contractor vs DIY Calculator
Pick a project preset or enter your own numbers. We'll calculate your potential savings, effective hourly pay, and give you a Worth It Score from 0–100 so you can decide with confidence.
Selecting a project fills in typical costs — adjust any values below
Labor only — not including materials
Same for both — you buy materials either way
Total hours to complete the project yourself
What your time is worth (use your hourly wage as a baseline)
Contractors often handle permits — add this if you'd pay separately
Tools you'd need to buy or rent to do it yourself
Medium — structural or code-related
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide whether to DIY or hire a contractor?
The key factors are: potential cost savings vs. your time value, project risk (structural, electrical, or permit-required work is riskier to DIY), your skill level, and whether mistakes could cost more to fix than hiring out would have. This calculator weighs all of these to give you a Worth It Score.
What projects should you never DIY?
Electrical panel upgrades, gas line work, load-bearing structural changes, and most roofing in high-wind zones should almost always be left to licensed contractors. Mistakes can be dangerous, void your homeowner's insurance, and fail home inspections when you sell.
How much can I save by doing home projects myself?
Labor typically makes up 40–65% of a contractor's quote. On a $5,000 project, you might save $2,000–$3,000 by DIYing. However, factor in your time, tool rental or purchase costs, permit fees, and the risk of rework if something goes wrong.
Do I need a permit for DIY work?
It depends on your municipality and project type. Structural work, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC almost always require permits. Cosmetic work (painting, flooring, tile) usually does not. Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home and may void your homeowner's insurance.
How do I find a trustworthy contractor?
Get at least 3 quotes, check reviews on Angi or Google, verify their license and insurance in your state, and never pay more than 10–30% upfront. Ask for references from similar projects completed in the past 12 months. Avoid contractors who pressure you to decide same-day.