• Replacing cabinet handles and knobs is an easy DIY job that requires only a screwdriver and new hardware.
• Painting your walls is an affordable way to give them a makeover without hiring professionals.
• Clogged drains can be fixed with a plunger, while leaky faucets can be repaired by tightening screws/nuts/bolts or replacing worn-out parts.
• Scratched sink surfaces can be restored with sink refinishing kits, and mold and grout stains can be removed with a mixture of water, bleach, or a brush/buffing pad.
Sometimes, something is bound to break or malfunction, no matter how hard you try to keep your home in perfect condition. When this happens, it can be tempting to call a repairman. But before you pick up the phone and schedule an appointment, why not fix the problem yourself? DIY small repairs around the house can save you a lot of money, provide you with a sense of accomplishment, and give you insight into how your home works. Here’s a look at some common household repairs that are easy enough for anyone to tackle.
Replacing Cabinet Handles and Knobs
Cabinet handles and knobs often need replacing because they get worn out over time from use. Luckily, this is one of the easiest DIY jobs there is.
All you need is a screwdriver and some new hardware. Then, follow these easy steps:
- Measure the existing hardware so that you know what size to buy—you don’t want to end up with knobs that are too big or too small for your cabinets.
- Unscrew the old hardware and replace it with new pieces.
- Depending on the type of knobs and handles you buy, you might need to use a drill to make holes for them.
- Finish off by screwing them into place.
That’s it! You’ve just given your kitchen or bathroom cabinets an instant facelift without spending any money on repairs. You can even mix and match different styles of knobs and handles to add some personality.
Painting Your Walls
If your walls look dull or outdated, painting them is an easy way to give them a much-needed makeover without breaking the bank. Painting may seem like a daunting task if you’ve never done it before, but rest assured that it isn’t as difficult as it looks.
Here’s a rundown of the steps:
- Start by prepping your walls—this means filling holes and sanding down any bumps or imperfections.
- Apply primer if necessary (depending on the paint you use).
- Apply coats of paint until you reach desired coverage (normally, two coats will do).
And voila! You now have fresh-looking walls without spending money on professional painters. Just make sure that you’re using the right tools and supplies, as this will ensure a professional-looking finish.
Fixing Kitchen Fixtures
Kitchen fixtures like faucets and sinks can start to look dingy over time. Instead of replacing them, why not try fixing them up? This is a much more affordable option that doesn’t require any major renovations. Here are some kitchen repairs you can conquer:
Clogged Drains
Having a fully clogged drain can be a major headache, but they’re also one of the easiest DIY repairs. All you need is a plunger and some elbow grease to get the job done. Just insert the plunger into the drain, cover it with some water, and start plunging away. If that doesn’t do the trick, try using a combination of baking soda and vinegar to flush out any stubborn clogs.
Leaky Faucets
Nobody likes dealing with leaky faucets—not only do they waste water, but they can also drive up your water bill significantly. The good news is that repairing a leaky faucet isn’t all that difficult if you know what to do. First, turn off the water supply valve under your sink, so there’s no chance of flooding while you work on the faucet. Then take apart the faucet and inspect its components for any signs of wear and tear (which could be causing the leak). If everything looks okay, then chances are there just needs to be some tightening of screws/nuts/bolts. Otherwise, replace any worn-out parts before reassembling everything back together again.
Scratched Sink Surfaces
If you have a stainless steel or porcelain sink, it’s likely that it’ll get scratched over time. To fix this, all you need to do is purchase some sink refinishing kits from your local hardware store and follow the instructions included in the package. This will help restore your sink’s surface to look as good as new.
Mold or Grout Stains
Mold and grout stains can be unappealing to look at, but they’re also fairly easy to remove with the right tools. Start by scrubbing the area with a mixture of water and bleach, then use a brush or buffing pad to get rid of any stubborn marks. Finally, spray on some mold/grout sealant to keep the area clean and free from staining in the future.
DIY repairs don’t have to be intimidating. In fact, with just a few tools and some basic know-how, you can tackle a lot of common household problems without having to call in professionals. So before you pick up the phone to hire a repairman, take a few minutes to see if you can fix it yourself. You just might be surprised at how easy it was.
