Embarking on a home improvement journey can be both exciting and intimidating. Luckily, there are many common repairs you can tackle by yourself without breaking a sweat.
Sometimes, however, professional help is not just nice to have — it’s essential.
This guide simplifies the process for you, outlining five home repairs within your reach and when it’s smarter to call in the experts. Let’s dive right in.
Home Repairs You Can Handle Yourself
1. Unblocking Your Drains
Everyone encounters a clogged drain at some point. Instead of worrying or spending money on a plumber right away, why not tackle it yourself?
All you may need is a little patience and possibly a plunger. Most blockages can usually be cleared up with just these basic tools. Remember to inspect the pipes regularly to prevent future issues.
2. Repairing Minor Wall Damages
Don’t let small holes or cracks in your wall get you down. A simple wall repair is something you can do on your own.
First, identify the type of damage. If it’s a small hole, maybe from a picture hook, some spackling paste and sandpaper will suffice.
A paint job afterward will make it look as good as new! Remember, handling minor repairs can save major dollars off professional bills.
3. Leakage in Faucets: How to Handle It Yourself
A dripping faucet isn’t just annoying. It also skyrockets the water bills. The good thing is that you can fix this yourself as long as you have a bit of time and the right tools in your possession.
A leaky tap can often be fixed just by replacing the washer inside it. You’ll need a few tools like a wrench and screwdriver, but don’t let that intimidate you.
Just remember to turn off the water supply before beginning your repair work! After all, an unexpected shower isn’t part of your DIY plan.
4. Window Fixes: Replacing Broken Panes
Accidents happen, and sometimes that means ending up with a broken window pane. Fret not; this is something you can manage yourself.
The first step is to carefully remove the remaining shards of glass wearing thick gloves for protection. Next, you’ll need to measure the frame to know what size of a new glass you need.
A quick trip to your local hardware store should suffice in securing what’s required. With the right tools, replacing a window pane can be quick work.
5. Door Adjustments: Easing the Squeak
A squeaky door can cause annoyance in many ways. It can disrupt sleep and impact concentration when having important conversations or working from home on a delicate, urgent task. Squeaky doors are easy to address through a DIY approach without much hassle.
Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of lubricant applied directly to the hinges. If that doesn’t work, consider tightening the hinge screws.
When to Call In the Experts
There’s a time and place for DIY, but there are also situations when calling in the professionals is simply sensible. Here’s when you should dial up expert assistance for home repairs and beyond:
1. Electrical Troubles? It’s Expert Time
Electrical repairs can be dangerous if mishandled. From damaged outlets to complete electrical failures, professional electricians are trained to handle these complications safely. This isn’t an area where you should risk tackling without the right knowledge and tools.
2. Roofing Repairs — Find a Local Expert
When it comes to significant repairs like your roof, trust only experienced professionals who are well-versed with the roofing needs of different kinds of roofing and property in the local area or region.
For instance, if you’re from New Orleans, it would be worth looking into contacting New Orleans’ roofing experts with experience and a good reputation. They’ll know how best to handle your specific problem.
3. Major Plumbing Problems = Call The Pros
A severe plumbing issue can lead to unmanageable water damage or even structural harm if left unresolved. So while small leaks may be DIY-possible, significant problems such as rerouting pipes should always be left to professional plumbers—after all, they’re experts for a reason.
4. Structural Repairs: Never a DIY Job
Finally, any structural alterations or repairs definitely require a professional hand. Manipulating load-bearing walls or attempting to fix foundational problems could lead to further damage or even compromise the safety of your home.
Always hire a structural engineer or an experienced contractor for these types of repairs. They ensure your home remains both attractive and safe.
In conclusion, while it’s great to have a DIY spirit for minor home repairs, knowing when to call in the experts is equally important. Armed with this knowledge, you can handle home repairs sensibly and safely, always ensuring your home remains your haven. Here’s to confident and smart homeownership!
Published by HOLR Magazine.