Home repairs can be expensive, especially when something breaks at the most inconvenient time. But did you know you can save a ton of money by taking a DIY approach to fixing common issues around the house? Not only will you feel accomplished, but you’ll also keep your hard-earned cash where it belongs—in your pocket. Let’s take a look at some of the most common home repairs that you can tackle yourself, even if you’ve never picked up a tool before.
Leaky Faucets: A Simple Fix with a Washer Replacement
A dripping faucet might seem like no big deal, but it can actually add up to a lot of wasted water and higher bills. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is easier than you think. You’ll typically only need a few basic tools, like an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, and a replacement washer. Start by turning off the water supply to the faucet, and use the wrench to remove the handle. Once that’s done, you’ll see the internal mechanism where the washer is located. Replacing the old, worn washer with a new one will eliminate the leak and save you money on your water bill.
One pro tip: when you’re buying a replacement washer, make sure to take the old one with you to match the size and shape. If you’re unsure, a trip to your local hardware store will help you get the right one.
Clogged Drains: Clean It Out Yourself
Clogged drains are another common issue that can cost you a lot if you call a plumber for help. Before you pick up the phone, try these easy fixes. First, try using a plunger to dislodge the clog. If that doesn’t work, you can try a plumbing snake, a long tool that reaches down the drain to clear blockages. If you don’t have one, you can often find them at your local hardware store or order one online for a reasonable price.
For more stubborn clogs, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can work wonders. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then flush it with boiling water. The fizzing action of the baking soda and vinegar will break up the grease and grime that’s causing the clog.
Painting Walls: Give Your Home a Fresh Look
A fresh coat of paint can transform any room, and it’s a home improvement project that’s easy to do yourself. Painting walls doesn’t require a lot of special skills, just the right supplies and a bit of patience. You’ll need paint, brushes, and a paint roller. You can also invest in a drop cloth to protect your floors and furniture. Start by prepping the walls—fill in any holes with spackle and sand them smooth. Use painter’s tape to protect trim and edges.
When it’s time to paint, work in sections, starting from the edges and working your way inward. Apply thin layers of paint and let them dry before adding more. If you’re painting over dark colors, you might need to apply a primer first to prevent the old color from bleeding through. This may take a bit of time, but it’s one of the best DIY fixes for dramatically improving the look of your home without the hefty price tag of hiring a pro.
Replacing a Broken Tile: Easy and Affordable
Replacing a broken tile might seem intimidating, but it’s actually something you can easily handle on your own. First, you’ll need a tile replacement kit (which you can find at any hardware store) and a few simple tools. If the tile is cracked or damaged, use a hammer to gently tap around the edges to remove the broken pieces. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tiles.
Once the old tile is removed, clean the area to remove any dust or debris. Apply a thin layer of tile adhesive to the area and press the new tile into place. Use a rubber mallet to tap it gently until it’s level with the surrounding tiles. Finally, let the adhesive dry for at least 24 hours before grouting the joints. Grouting is the final touch—use a grout float to apply the grout and smooth it into the seams. Wipe away any excess with a damp sponge, and you’ll have a brand new-looking tile in no time!
Fixing a Running Toilet: Stop Wasting Water
A running toilet might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day if left unchecked. The issue is usually with the flapper valve that controls the flow of water. If the flapper is worn out or doesn’t seal properly, water will keep flowing into the bowl. Fortunately, replacing the flapper is a simple fix.
First, turn off the water supply to the toilet. Then, flush the toilet to drain the tank. Remove the lid and check the flapper. If it looks worn out, simply detach it and replace it with a new one. You can find a replacement flapper at any hardware store. This is one of the easiest home repairs to tackle and can save you hundreds of gallons of water each month.
Repairing Small Holes in the Wall: Quick and Simple
Whether it’s from a doorknob bumping into the wall or a small nail hole, small holes in your walls are common but easy to fix. For most small holes, you’ll only need spackle, a putty knife, and sandpaper. Start by cleaning the hole and surrounding area, then use the putty knife to apply spackle over the hole. Smooth it out as much as possible, and allow it to dry. Once it’s dry, lightly sand the area until it’s smooth and flush with the rest of the wall. If necessary, apply another layer of spackle and sand it again.
After the hole is patched, you can repaint the area to blend it in with the rest of the wall. This quick fix will make your walls look as good as new without the need for a professional.
Fixing a Broken Door Handle: A Simple Replacement
A broken or loose door handle is another easy repair that can save you a lot of money. If the handle is loose, start by tightening the screws. If it’s completely broken, you’ll need to replace the handle. Luckily, most door handles are easy to remove and replace with a few simple tools, such as a screwdriver. Simply unscrew the old handle, remove it, and install the new one by following the instructions on the packaging.
If you’re replacing the entire hardware set, you’ll want to make sure that the new handle is the same size and style as the old one. This will ensure that the hole for the handle aligns properly, and you won’t have to do extra work.
Fixing a Squeaky Floor: A Cheap and Effective Fix
Squeaky floors are annoying, but they’re usually pretty easy to fix. To stop the squeak, sprinkle talcum powder or baby powder between the floorboards. This will lubricate the area and stop the friction that causes the squeak. Another option is to use screws to secure the floorboards tightly to the joists below. If the squeak is near a floor vent, you might want to remove the vent cover and tighten any screws that hold the boards in place.
For larger squeaks or areas where the boards are very loose, you may need to use a wood glue to hold the boards together. Make sure to let the glue dry completely before walking on the area.
Fixing a Broken Window Seal: No Need for a Replacement
If your window seal is cracked or damaged, you don’t have to replace the entire window. Instead, you can fix the seal yourself with a few simple supplies. First, remove the old sealant with a utility knife. Clean the area around the window to remove dust and dirt, then apply a fresh layer of window caulk. Be sure to smooth it out with a wet finger to ensure it seals properly.
This quick fix will not only improve the appearance of your windows but also help you save energy by preventing drafts. Replacing the window seal is one of the most effective ways to lower your heating and cooling bills.
Final Thoughts
DIY home repairs are a great way to save money and get a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a broken tile, many of the repairs around your home can be done with just a few basic tools and a bit of patience. Plus, you’ll gain valuable skills that will help you with future projects. So next time something breaks or needs fixing, don’t rush to call a professional—take it on yourself. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do!
Remember, with a little know-how and the right tools, you can keep your home in top shape without breaking the bank!