If you’re like most homeowners, you want to keep your home in tip-top shape. But who has the time (or money) to hire a professional for every little repair? Not to worry! With a little know-how and the right supplies, you can tackle many common household repairs yourself. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:
Unclog a Drain
Over time, hair and soap can build up in your drains and cause them to clog. To clear a clogged drain, start by removing the drain cover and using a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a plumbing snake to clear the drain. If you still can’t get the clog to budge, you may need to call a professional.
Fix a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet can be annoying and waste a lot of water. To fix a leaky faucet, start by turning off the water supply to the faucet. Then, remove the handle and use a wrench to loosen the packing nut. Once the packing nut is loose, you can remove the washer and replace it with a new one. Finally, reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply. The leak should be gone!
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Patch a Hole in Drywall
Small holes in drywall are easy to fix yourself. To patch a hole, start by cutting a piece of drywall to fit the hole. Then, use drywall screws to secure the piece of drywall in place. Once the drywall is in place, you can use joint compound to fill in any gaps and smooth out the surface.
Replace a Broken Tile
If you have a broken tile, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible to avoid water damage. To replace a broken tile, start by removing the grout around the tile. Then, use a chisel and hammer to remove the tile. Once the tile is removed, you can install a new one using mortar. Finally, re-grout the area around the new tile. The repair should be virtually undetectable!
Hang a Picture
Hanging a picture is a simple way to add some personality to your home. To hang a picture, start by finding the studs in the wall using a stud finder. Once you’ve found the studs, mark the location of the hangers on the back of the frame. Then, use a drill to make pilot holes for the screws. Finally, screw the hangers into place and hang the picture on the wall.
Replace a Light Fixture
A burned-out light bulb is easy enough to replace, but what about when the whole fixture needs to be replaced? To replace a light fixture, start by turning off the power to the fixture at the breaker box. Then, remove the glass shades and unscrew the mounting bracket. Once the bracket is removed, you can disconnect the wires and remove the old fixture. To install the new fixture, simply connect the wires and screw the mounting bracket into place.
Unstick a Door
If your door is sticking, it’s probably because the hinges are dry. To fix a sticking door, start by removing the door from the frame. Then, use a wire brush to remove any rust from the hinges. Next, apply a thin layer of oil to the hinges and reattach the door. Finally, check that the door is opening and closing smoothly.
Organize Your Closets
A cluttered closet can make getting dressed in the morning a nightmare. To organize your closet, start by getting rid of any clothes that you don’t wear. Then, sort the remaining clothes by type and color. Finally, put the clothes back in the closet, and be sure to leave some space for future purchases! The more organized your closet is, the easier it will be to find what you’re looking for.
Remove a Paint Stain
If you accidentally get paint on your floor or carpet, don’t panic! Paint stains can be removed with a little elbow grease. To remove a paint stain, start by blotting up as much of the excess paint as you can with a clean cloth. Then, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to scrub the stain. If the stain is still visible, you can try using a carpet cleaner or white vinegar.
Cleaning Glass
Cleaning glass can be tricky because you don’t want to leave streaks. To clean glass, start by dusting the surface with a microfiber cloth. Then, spray the glass with a vinegar and water solution. Next, use a squeegee to wipe away the solution. Finally, dry the surface with a clean cloth. The glass should be streak-free!
Fix Scratches in Wood
Whether it’s a scratched-up table or a gouge in the door, you can easily fix scratches in wood. To fix a scratch, start by sanding down the area around the scratch with fine-grit sandpaper. Then, use a wood filler to fill in the scratch. Once the filler is dry, sand it down until it’s flush with the rest of the wood. Finally, apply a coat of stain or paint to the area.
Maintain Your Lawn
A well-maintained lawn is the cornerstone of a beautiful home. To keep your lawn looking its best, start by mowing it on a regular basis. You should also water your lawn regularly, and fertilize it at least once a year. Additionally, you’ll need to remove any weeds that pop up. Finally, aerate your lawn every few years to help the roots grow.
Clean Gutters
Gutters can get clogged with leaves and other debris, which can cause water to back up and damage your home. To clean gutters, start by removing any debris with a shovel or rake. Then, use a hose to flush out the gutters and downspouts. Finally, use a brush to scrub the inside of the gutters and remove any remaining dirt or debris.
As you can see, there are a number of household repairs that you can do yourself without having to call a professional. With a little know-how and the right supplies, you can tackle many common household repairs on your own. So next time something breaks in your home, don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get to work!