All of us dream of owning a big home with all sorts of furnishings. However, besides the initial cost of buying the home, maintenance and repair costs could go through the roof.
So you shouldn’t be in such a hurry to buy that home unless you first get your finances right. However, you can always settle for a smaller house, but you’ll still need to do a couple of house repair jobs.
House repairs can either be done professionally or by yourself. Unfortunately, you can’t do most house repairs yourself. The thing with professional repair services is that they don’t come cheap.
In this piece, we’ll look at seven simple home repairs that you can do by yourself. You may, however, need help from your buddy. Also, before you do any repairs on your own, ensure you have the right tools for the job.
When You Need Professional Repair Services
Being handy is not always the best approach to certain home repairs. There are some repair jobs you should just leave to the professionals.
Here are some home repairs that you better keep to the pros:-
Wiring and Electrical Fixes
We don’t doubt you were an ace in your physics class. However, building wiring may not be the best place to put your knowledge to the test.
The garage door and a broken ceiling are within your scope, but the behind the wall wiring stuff is completely off-limits.
Repairing the Foundation
A damaged foundation could compromise the entire building. When you don’t fix a bad foundation correctly, then you’re worsening the situation.
Just hire a professional for any foundation issue. You could end up spending much more than the service fee if you fix your foundation wrongly.
Intensive Plumbing
You can fix leaky faucets and shower heads but when it comes to underground pipe stuff, let the professionals handle it. You may have to pay a bundle if you make even an itty bitty mistake.
Gas Lines
Trying to fix the gas lines by yourself is a death wish. Plus, you could do a lot more than just hurt yourself. When it comes to gas line repairs, just call the gas company, and you’ll be okay.
House Repair Jobs You Can Do Yourself
Professional repair is always the better option, but it could get costly. Most people feel that they pay too much to a professional for just turning a wrench. It makes no sense to pay hundreds to fix a warm refrigerator.
Another group of people are just handy and love DIYs as a hobby. Others are just plain bored and need something to give them satisfaction.
Whatever category you belong, here are a couple of repair jobs that you could get done on your own:-
1. Exterior Painting
Painting your house’s exterior is a major job. However, it’s not as complicated as most people think it is.
Depending on your home, you may require a couple of tools. Some homes require rake boards, trims, or soffits. Almost all homes require ladders, and some will require a bit of roof climbing.
So though you’re good at this painting job, you should never overlook the safety aspect of exterior painting. If you’re scared of heights, just let the professionals do it.
2. Fixing a Running Toilet
Repairing a running toilet isn’t a risky plumbing job. So when your toilet is running, it may be time to pick up the wrench. However, pick up the wrench only if you know what you’re doing.
You can always get a DIY toilet rebuilding kit and get to business. These kits may, however, be not so handy for specialty toilets.
3. Installing Ceiling Fan
Installing a new ceiling fan isn’t rocket science, but it could take you a few hours. You’ll also need a high ladder, so keep safety in mind while installing your ceiling fan.
There are those fancy fans with all the bells and whistles. Installing these fans may make you break a sweat. If you can’t, don’t be ashamed to call a professional.
4. Patching a Drywall Hole
Some holes on the walls are pretty unsightly. Fortunately, anyone with two hands can easily fix a hole on the drywall. If you’ve ever filled some nail holes on the wall, then you can fix most holes on the walls.
You need a bit of putty and a putty knife. Plug the wall with enough putty to fill the hole completely. In case of any excess, just scrape it with the same putty knife.
For a smooth and even finish, sand the putty until you achieve the evenness you want. Get a primer and paint over the parts you’ve repaired and the wall will look as good as new.
Large holes may require the help of a professional. However, once you’re done plugging a few holes, these larger holes won’t seem so difficult.
5. Re-Grouting Tile
Re-routing the tiles isn’t for anyone afraid of heights. The surface of tile grout is easily discolored, so you have to re-grout it a couple of times during your home’s lifetime.
First, you’ll need to choose the right grout. Next, you’ll need to clean the grouted area then dampen it after removing the damaged grout.
Mix the grout then begin grouting as per the manufacturer’s direction.
6. Cleaning the Gutters
If you’re not afraid of heights, then you should clean the gutters yourself. All you need is a firm ladder. Let someone hold the ladder steady while you clean the gutters.
If you don’t, you could have puddles in your home from the leaking gutters.
7. Unclogging a Clogged Garbage Disposal
If you call a professional for this task, you’re just plain lazy. However, you’ll need a special wrench to do it properly. So you may be justified to call a professional sometimes.
Remember to unclog your garbage disposal only when it’s turned off.
You Don’t Have to Go It on Your Own
Doing these repair jobs by yourself comes with a feeling of pride and accomplishment. However, you don’t need to do it completely alone.
You can always ask for help from your neighbor, buddies, and even your wife. When things get tricky, it’s always a good idea to leave it to the professionals.
For more thrilling and informative articles, be sure to check out our other pieces.
