This guide outlines the common household repairs you can do yourself, and quick guides to fix them.
We all encounter household hiccups and problems every now and then. Luckily, you don’t have to rely on professionals for every minor repair. In this guide, we will walk you through some common household repairs that you can handle yourself, saving you both time and money. However, for more complicated plumbing issues, consider reaching out to a reputable Houston Texas plumber. Let’s dive in!
Top DIY household repairs
Fixing a Running Toilet
A constantly running toilet can waste significant amounts of water and become irritating. Common causes include worn-out flappers, float issues, or a faulty fill valve. Checking these elements and making the necessary adjustments can solve the problem in no time.
Unclogging a Drain
Dealing with a clogged sink or shower drain can be a nuisance and is one of the most common household repairs. Instead of reaching for costly drain products, try using a drain snake or a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to break up the obstruction. Remember to use a plunger as well to loosen up any stubborn clogs.
Replacing a Broken Doorbell
If you have a traditional wired doorbell, it may stop working due to a worn-out switch or frayed wires. Figure out which part is the culprit by testing the switch and checking for loose connections. Replace the faulty part yourself after unplugging the electrical power to the doorbell.
Patching Small Holes in Walls
Small holes in the wall left by nails or hooks can be quite unsightly but are an easy one of the household repairs. You can easily repair them using a patch kit or spackling paste. Apply it to the hole, smooth the surface with a putty knife, and allow it to dry. Finish by painting over the patched area with matching paint.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet can be a constant annoyance and cause water waste, which is why it is one of the household repairs you should do asap. Most leaks result from worn-out washers, seals, or O-rings.
Based on your faucet type, turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, and replace the damaged parts. Recruit a helper if needed, as some faucets may require two sets of hands.
Tackling Squeaky Doors
Squeaky doors can become a real headache. Applying a lubricant, such as WD-40 or a silicone spray, to the door hinge pins can usually fix the issue. If the squeak persists, remove the hinge pin and rub a bar of soap or a wax candle on it before reinstalling.
Repairing Loose Cabinetry Knobs and Handles
Loose knobs and handles in your kitchen or bathroom can make your cabinetry look shabby. Simply tightening the screws should resolve the issue. If the problem persists, try adding a drop of thread-locking compound on the screw to maintain a tight grip.
Replacing a Broken Tile
Cracked or broken tiles not only look unsightly, but they can also create an uneven surface. To replace a damaged tile, use a grout saw to remove the surrounding grout and carefully pry up the damaged piece. Apply adhesive to the back of the replacement tile, press it securely into place, and reapply fresh grout around the edges. Allow the grout to dry before walking on the repaired area.
Touching Up Wall Paint
Over time, walls may get scuffed and scratched. To touch up the paint as part of your household repairs, clean the surface, sand any rough edges, and then apply a matching paint with a small brush or roller. If you don’t have the original paint, take a small sample of the wall to a paint store for a color match.
Stopping a Squeaky Floor
Squeaky floorboards are often caused by wood rubbing against wood or loose nails. Sprinkling talcum powder or using a lubricant on the problem area can silence the squeak for a short-term fix. If it’s a consistent problem, consider securing the floorboard with a flooring nail or screwing it down from below.
Replacing a Light Switch
Replacing a faulty light switch is a straightforward task, provided you feel comfortable with basic electrical work. Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before starting. Carefully remove the faceplate, unscrew the switch, and swap the wires from the old switch to the new one. Secure everything back in place and restore power.
Sealing Gaps and Cracks
Over time, gaps and cracks may appear around windows, doors, and baseboards. These openings can let in drafts, leading to higher energy bills.
To repair the gaps, use paintable latex caulk for sealing smaller areas or expandable spray foam for larger ones. This can help improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep it comfortable throughout the year.
Regular Maintenance of Appliances
Performing regular maintenance on your appliances can help extend their lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Tasks such as cleaning refrigerator coils, changing air filters, and checking washing machine hoses for wear and tear can save you from significant headaches down the line. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines for each appliance will keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Armed with these tips, you’re now ready to tackle common household repairs yourself. By mastering these basic tasks, you’ll save time and money, as well as boost your DIY confidence. Happy repairing!
