DIYing a job can often reduce costs by removing the cost of someone else’s labour, but not always. Specialised tasks such as panel beating often have barriers of entry that dissuade one-off DIY attempts. A task might require specialist tools or knowledge that would prove too costly to acquire that a professional would already have. Or there may be other stipulations due to insurance or legal complications that further remove the task from a DIY purview.
DIY
DIY activities can often be cost-effective and deeply rewarding to complete. Whether it’s woodworking, arts and crafts or building your own computer, it’s enjoyable learning whilst stumbling through a new experience.
Mistakes are generally not expensive to fix, and through completing the activity, you’ll be more prepared for similar experiences in the future.
With motor vehicles, it’s useful to know how to do several maintenance activities yourself, from changing tyres to replacing windscreen wipers and checking your oil.
But these activities are not smash repairs.
Smash Repairs
If your vehicle has been involved in an accident, even if the damage appears minor, there are several key factors to take into account when deciding on an avenue of repair.
- Structural Damage – Do you have the expertise to identify structural damage? Structural damage is a significant safety concern as it signifies a degradation in vehicle integrity.
- Tools and Equipment – The specialised tools used by panel beaters and auto shops are expensive and may not be readily available or cost-effective for DIY enthusiasts.
- Insurance – Many insurance companies prefer or require insurance work to be completed by certified professionals, introducing further DIY complications.
- Time – Smash repairs are time-consuming, especially if you’re still learning. If you need your vehicle to be back on the road ASAP, seeing a panel beater is likely the better choice.
- Quality of Work – High-quality repairs not only ensure the safety and integrity of the vehicle but also help preserve its value by accurately restoring the vehicle to its pre-damaged condition so that repair work is less noticeable.
While everyone’s situation is unique, smash repairs represent a significant concern for car owners, and the factors above should be considered when weighing up the choice between DIY repairs and seeing a professional panel beater.
Professional Panel Beaters
Professional panel beaters have the necessary tools, knowledge and experience to provide accurate recommendations and to make short work of your smash repairs.
Their tools and extensive knowledge enable them to navigate the unique challenges presented by different vehicle models to provide a timely, high-quality service.
Visiting a panel beater for smash repairs is often the most logical choice.
Balcatta Panel & Paint have over 40 years of experience and is your Perth car repairs specialist. Contact us with any queries or visit our workshop for a smash repair quote.