Home Show a haven for do-it-yourselfers and contractors alike

Almost everyone who starts a home improvement project asks themselves the same question. It is smarter to a hire a contractor or do the work yourself?

Customers and vendors at the Black Hills Home Builders Association Home Show on Saturday said it's a trick question. The right answer depends on each person's priorities, goals and abilities.

Casey Bonsall, owner of the Cedar N More Cabinet Shop, said the Home Show had about a 50-50 split between the do-it-yourself crowd and those who prefer to hire a professional.

Bonsall said he prefers to install his handmade cabinets himself to make sure the job is done properly. Most people who buy cabinets from him also have him install them, though some people prefer to buy the lumber and make their own furnishings from it.

"I'm not opposed to letting somebody do it by themselves," he said. "But some people don't have the time or the talent to do it alone."

People who buy custom-made work might be better served having the craftsman install it, but for generalized projects, doing it yourself can save you a few bucks.

Adrian Rouse, 30, and his wife, Jennifer Rouse, were browsing the Home Show Saturday looking for ideas to spruce up their new home in Rapid City.

The couple bought their first house in November and were interested in finding a landscaping project, Jennifer Rouse, 31, said.

The Rouses said they were intrigued by the outdoor fireplace displays, since they looked great and don't require an expert to assemble.

Adrian Rouse said he plans to do all his own landscaping work to save some money.

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Home Show a haven for do-it-yourselfers and contractors alike