Many homeowners prefer to cut costs by doing home repairs without professional help. This may be the perfect option for most people, but it is necessary to consider several factors like the amount of repair involved, time, tools, and skills it requires.
Some people do not possess the skills needed for repairs, and even with instructional videos and manuals, they may not get their desired result. There are some home repairs most people can attempt. These home repairs include:
- Fixing a Leaky Bathroom or Kitchen Pipe
If your bathroom or kitchen pipe leaks from the hole in the drainpipe, you can couple the drainpipe with hose clamps. Tightening the slip-nut close to the T-trap can also fix the leak. However, if the leak is from a drain pipe in the wall, calling a professional may be the best option to fix the leak.
- Fixing a Clogged Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is clogged, you can use a small specialty wrench that fits into the opening on the bottom side of the garbage disposal. This quick fix is best done when the garbage disposal is turned off. If the garbage disposal is still clogged, contact a professional to check the problem and fix it.
- Fixing a Running Toilet
If you have a toilet rebuild kit that is available at any hardware store, you can fix a running toilet. The kit usually comes with a simple manual for different fixes, but specialty or one-piece toilets need a professional fix.
- Replacing a Faucet
If you have a centerset-type faucet that requires replacement, you can carry out the replacement with a professional. Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions, you can easily replace the faucet, but contact a professional if the faucet is the wide-spread type with different hose connections on the underside.
- Re-grouting Tile
Dirt can easily get trapped in the cracked grout, leading to discoloration and further damage. If you want to repair grout, ensure you choose the right one. Your options include epoxy, acrylic, unsanded and sanded grout.
If the space between your tiles is below 1/8 inch, use the epoxy, unsanded, or acrylic grout, but if the space is higher, you can use the sanded grout. Ensure your grout color matches the previous one for uniformity. Clean the area and use a grout saw to remove damaged grout before damping the joints with a wet rag.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the grout, then fill the joints, smooth the surface with a damp sponge and allow to dry.
- Patching a Hole in Drywall
Walls with nail holes often appear old, but you can patch up these holes to make your drywall look new. You can fill the hole with lightweight putty using a spackle knife. After filling the hole, scrape off excess putty, then wait for it to dry and smoothen the wall. You can paint the area with a primer for a better finish.
- Cleaning Gutters
Clogged gutters leave pools of water around your house, increasing the chances of water leaking into your basement. If it is a single-story home with level ground, place the ladder on a balanced area before climbing. Ensure someone is available to hold the ladder and offer help when necessary.