Home ownership is a thrilling journey, but it comes with its share of challenges. One of those is managing the repairs that inevitably arise. While calling a professional is sometimes necessary, there are many fixes you can handle yourself with a little knowledge and the right tools. Inspired by the recent trending articles on the web, let's dive into five essential home repairs every homeowner should know how to tackle.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet
Often, a faucet starts dripping due to a worn-out washer. Start by turning off the water supply and removing the handle of the faucet and the packing nut, which will reveal the stem. Remove that as well and you'll find the washer. If it's damaged or worn out - that's likely your culprit. Replace the washer, and reassemble the faucet.
Silencing Squeaky Doors
That annoying squeak every time you open or close a door is usually down to friction in the hinges. The simplest solution? Lubrication. Spray a little WD-40, or a similar lubricant, onto the hinges while moving the door back and forth to help work the lubricant in.
Unclogging the Sink
A clogged sink can be a major inconvenience. Before you consider disassembling the pipes, try a hand auger, also known as a plumber's snake. Push the cable down the drain, then turn the handle to break up the blockage.
Repairing a Running Toilet
A running toilet is often caused by a problem with the flapper. To fix it, turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Check the flapper - if it's worn out or damaged, replace it. If not, it might be that the float height just needs adjusting.
Patching Small Holes in Walls
For small holes, all you need is some spackle and a putty knife. Apply the spackle to the hole and smooth it out with the putty knife. Once it dries, you can sand it down and paint over it to match the rest of the wall.
Conclusion
Armed with these practical tips, you can tackle common home repairs head-on, saving yourself time and money. Remember, the key to successful DIY is knowing when to call in the professionals - if a job seems too big or complex, it's safer to seek expert help. Happy repairing!
