You Can Do These Repairs Yourself Around the House
Taking care of your home doesn’t always require hiring a professional. In fact, many common household issues can be tackled with a few basic tools, a bit of patience, and a can-do attitude. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or just looking to save money, here are some easy DIY repairs you can do yourself—with helpful tips and tricks to make the process smoother.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
That constant drip-drip-drip isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting water and money. Most faucet leaks are caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring, which are inexpensive and easy to replace. You’ll need an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, and possibly a faucet repair kit.
Tips & Tricks:
- Turn off the water supply before starting.
- Take a picture of the assembly before disassembling it, so you know how to put it back together.
- Bring the old washer to the hardware store to find the exact replacement.
Patching Small Holes in Drywall
Difficulty: Very Easy
Nail holes, small dents, and scratches are common, especially in high-traffic areas. Luckily, patching them is quick and requires minimal tools: spackle, a putty knife, sandpaper, and paint.
Tips & Tricks:
- Use a damp sponge to wipe away dust before applying spackle.
- Apply spackle in thin layers and sand between each one for a smooth finish.
- Match your wall color using leftover paint or bring a chip to the store for color matching.
Unclogging Drains
Difficulty: Easy
Slow drains are often caused by hair and soap buildup. You don’t need harsh chemicals—just a drain snake (a flexible plastic tool) and maybe some baking soda and vinegar.
Tips & Tricks:
- Use a drain cover to prevent future clogs.
- For maintenance, pour boiling water down the drain weekly.
- Try a mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water, to break down buildup.
Silencing a Squeaky Door
Difficulty: Very Easy
That creaky hinge is one of the simplest fixes. All you need is WD-40 or a dab of petroleum jelly.
Tips & Tricks:
- Remove the hinge pin and apply lubricant directly to it.
- Wipe off any excess to avoid collecting dust.
- Open and close the door several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.
Replacing a Light Fixture
Difficulty: Moderate
Upgrading outdated light fixtures can make a big difference in a room’s appearance. If you’re comfortable turning off the circuit breaker and following basic instructions, this is a great DIY project.
Tips & Tricks:
- Always turn off the power at the breaker box.
- Use a voltage tester to double-check wires are dead.
- Follow the new fixture’s instructions carefully, and save your old one just in case.
You Can Do It
DIY home repairs don’t have to be intimidating. Start with small projects to build your confidence and gradually take on more challenging tasks. You’ll save money, feel empowered, and maybe even enjoy the process.
Pro Tip: Keep a basic toolkit on hand—hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, utility knife, measuring tape, and a cordless drill—and organize it so it’s easy to grab when inspiration (or a leak) strikes.
Remember, when in doubt, there’s no shame in watching a few how-to videos or calling in a professional. But you’d be surprised how much you can do with a little know-how and a weekend afternoon.
