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Easy DIY Repairs That Save You Hundreds

Many homeowners are taking on small projects themselves to save money, but not all DIY repairs are created equal. Here are some of the most common (and manageable) fixes you can handle without calling in the pros.

Top DIY Repairs to Try:

• Fixing a Leaky Faucet:  A dripping faucet wastes gallons of water. Most often, replacing the washer or O-ring solves the problem in minutes.

• Patching Small Drywall Holes:  Use a self-adhesive patch kit, sand it down, and apply touch-up paint to make walls look good as new.

• Replacing a Broken Light Fixture:  Turn off the power, match your new fixture’s wiring, and mount it securely for an instant room upgrade.

• Unclogging Drains Naturally:  Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water to dissolve common clogs without harsh chemicals.

These small projects not only improve your home but also build your confidence to tackle even more to save! Reach out to us TODAY!   (330) 851-6060

More Easy DIY Repairs That Save You Hundreds

When it comes to maintaining your home, small repairs can quickly add up if you hire a professional for every issue. Luckily, many common fixes are simple enough to do yourself, saving you both time and money. Here are more easy DIY repairs to help you keep your home in top shape and your wallet happy.

1. Quiet a Squeaky Door

Squeaky doors can be annoying, but fixing them is quick and inexpensive.

What You’ll Need:

• WD-40 or any spray lubricant
• A hammer and screwdriver

Steps:

1. Remove the hinge pins by tapping them out with a screwdriver and hammer.
2. Clean the pins and hinges with a cloth to remove dirt and rust.
3. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the pins and reinsert them.

If the squeak persists, it may be time to replace the hinges entirely, but even this is a straightforward task.

Fix a Running Toilet

A running toilet can waste gallons of water and increase your utility bill, but the repair is often as simple as replacing a few inexpensive parts.

What You’ll Need:

• A new flapper or fill valve kit (available at hardware stores)

Steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank.
2. Remove the old flapper or fill valve and replace it with the new part according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Turn the water supply back on and test to ensure the problem is resolved.

Repair a Sticky Drawer

A drawer that sticks every time you try to open it can be frustrating, but the fix is often as simple as cleaning and lubricating the drawer tracks.

What You’ll Need:

• A vacuum or damp cloth
• Silicone spray or bar soap

Steps:

1. Remove the drawer and clean the tracks thoroughly to remove debris.
2. Apply a small amount of silicone spray or rub a bar of soap along the tracks for smoother operation.

If the tracks are damaged, replacing them is a straightforward and affordable solution.

Re-Caulk Your Bathroom

Over time, bathroom caulk can crack or grow mold, making your space look dingy. Replacing it freshens up your bathroom and prevents water damage.

What You’ll Need:

• A tube of bathroom caulk (mold-resistant)
• A caulk gun
• A utility knife or caulk remover tool
• Painter’s tape

Steps:

1. Remove the old caulk with a utility knife or caulk remover tool.
2. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol to ensure a smooth surface.
3. Apply painter’s tape along the edges for a clean finish.
4. Use the caulk gun to apply a steady bead of new caulk, smoothing it with a damp finger or caulk smoothing tool.
5. Remove the painter’s tape before the caulk dries.

Fix Loose Cabinet Doors

Loose cabinet doors are not only unsightly but also inconvenient. The solution is often as simple as tightening or replacing the screws.

What You’ll Need:

• A screwdriver
• Wood filler or toothpicks (if the screw holes are stripped)

Steps:

1. Tighten the screws in the cabinet hinges using a screwdriver.
2. If the screws don’t hold because the holes are stripped, remove the screw and fill the hole with wood filler or insert toothpicks coated with wood glue. Let it dry, then reinsert the screw.

Replace a Damaged Light Switch

A faulty or outdated light switch can be a safety hazard. Replacing it is a simple task that requires basic electrical knowledge.

What You’ll Need:

• A new light switch
• A screwdriver
• A voltage tester

Steps:

1. Turn off the power to the switch at the breaker box.
2. Use a voltage tester to confirm there’s no electricity flowing to the switch.
3. Remove the old switch by unscrewing it from the wall and disconnecting the wires.
4. Connect the wires to the new switch, matching the same configuration as the old one.
5. Screw the new switch into place and restore power to test it.

Remove Carpet Dents

If you’ve rearranged your furniture, you might notice unsightly dents left in the carpet. Fixing them is surprisingly easy.

What You’ll Need:

• An ice cube
• A spoon or fork

Steps:

1. Place an ice cube on the dent and let it melt completely.
2. Fluff the fibers with a spoon or fork, and the dent will disappear.

Fix Peeling Wallpaper

Peeling wallpaper can make a room look untidy, but re-adhering it is a quick fix.

What You’ll Need:

• Wallpaper adhesive
• A small paintbrush
• A smoothing tool

Steps:

1. Apply a small amount of wallpaper adhesive to the peeling area using a paintbrush.
2. Press the wallpaper back into place and smooth out any bubbles with the smoothing tool.

Tighten Loose Handrails

Wobbly handrails can be dangerous, but securing them only takes a few tools.

What You’ll Need:

• A screwdriver or drill
• Anchors (if screws are loose in drywall)

Steps:

1. Tighten all screws securing the handrail.
2. If screws are loose in drywall, replace them with longer screws or use wall anchors for a firmer hold.

Remove Hard Water Stains

Hard water stains on faucets or glass shower doors are unsightly but easy to remove.

What You’ll Need:

• White vinegar
• A microfiber cloth
• Baking soda (optional)

Steps:

1. Soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the stained area. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the cloth and wipe clean. For stubborn stains, make a paste of vinegar and baking soda and scrub gently.

By tackling these easy DIY repairs, you’ll not only save money but also gain confidence in maintaining your home. If you ever feel a project is too big or complicated, your local handyman is always here to help.   Call Us Today!   (330) 851-6060