7 DIY Home Repairs
7 Common Home Repairs You Can Do By Yourself
Regardless of whether you live in a brand new home or not, you are bound to come across a few things that need fixing 
every now and again. Whilst some of us may have the instinctual habit to get out our toolbox and try and fix them ourselves, the rest of us may find it far easier to ring the local handyman.
However, if it becomes a regular occurrence, then calling your handyman will become a costly habit. Having the know-how on how to fix some of the most common household repairs can get you far in life. Not only will you get the satisfaction in knowing that you were able to achieve and sort the problem out yourself but you will also be able to save yourself a fair bit of money too.
Home Repair Info-graphic:
Our friends over at HeitonBuckley, the builders’ merchants, have decided to compile together an infographic which looks at seven home repairs that we should all be able to fix ourselves. The infographic takes a look at what you will need in your toolbox and the easy steps to follow to complete the job. Why get someone else to do it for you when you are more than capable of doing it yourself?
Broken Toilet Handle:
To replace a broken toilet handle, you’re going to need a crescent wrench and a toilet trip lever. Take your old handle with you when you go to buy your replacement as it will help you in making sure you have the right type of lever and fit for your toilet.
Unclogging A Toilet:
When unclogging a toilet, you’re going to need one of two things depending on the severity of the clog. For minor clogs, a standard toilet plunger should do the job – with a few downward thrusts into the toilet bowl. Major clogs will need an auger crank. Toilet plungers are completely different to those that are used for sinks, so be sure you have the right kind of plunger before you get started.
Fixing A Leaking Pipe:
Leaking pipes can cause a lot of problems, so getting them fixed quickly will definitely help you out in the long run. Using a bucket, pipe wrench and p-trap fitting washers, you can easily get your pipe sorted by twisting off the compression rings, rising out build up and replacing your washers. If you’re struggling to find the shut off valve, take a look under your sink as that’s where it’s likely to be in moist homes. If not, take a look around any airing cupboards or the basement.
Fixing A Leaking Faucet:
Stopping a leaky tap is quite different to that of a leaky pipe. Here, you’ll need some pliers, a Philips head screwdriver and a new washer. Replace the old washer in the tap by unscrewing the tap handle and removing the packing nut. Be sure to check that you are using the correct size washer that fits correctly with your tap.
Replacing A Light Switch:
Replacing a light switch may sound a bit of a tricky task, but it can be relatively easy. Owning a flat-head and a Phillips head screwdriver, along with a replacement light switch will get you far. Be sure to turn the power off at the main circuit breaker first and by using a voltage tester before you start will help to make sure whether the circuit is dead before you start touching potentially exposed wires.
Wall Patching:
It’s likely that over time, there will be some holes in the wall that could do with touching up. With the right set of tools and products, you will be able to remove drywall, patch up the wall and eventually be able to cover with a coat of paint – it’ll look like nothing ever happened.
Lastly, for anyone looking to fill up some cracks or dents within the plaster on walls then it’s a pretty easy solution. Lightly dampen the crack before filling as that will help the filler stick. Using your tools to brush away debris and spread the filler in to the crack and then finally covering with a coat of paint, you’ll be able to get rid of those distracting cracks in the wall.
The infographic below so you can use it as a great resource next time you need sorting something out around the house. Do it yourself, you’ll be impressed with yourself.
