DIY Home Repairs: Save Money & Fix Common Issues Yourself

Why Learn DIY Home Repairs?

Owning a home comes with unexpected repairs. Instead of spending money on a contractor for every small issue, learning basic DIY home repairs can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Common Home Repairs You Can Do Yourself

1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet isn’t just annoying—it wastes water and increases your bill. Most leaks are caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring.

🛠️ What You Need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement washers/O-rings
• Screwdriver

🔧 How to Fix It:

1. Turn off the water supply under the sink.

2. Use a wrench to remove the faucet handle.

3. Replace the old washer or O-ring.

4. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.

2. Patching Small Holes in Walls

Whether it’s from nails, screws, or accidental damage, small holes in walls are easy to fix.

🛠️ What You Need:

• Spackling paste
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Paint

🔧 How to Fix It:

1. Apply spackling paste over the hole with a putty knife.

2. Let it dry completely (about 1-2 hours).

3. Sand the area until smooth.

4. Paint over the patch to match the wall.

3. Unclogging a Slow Drain

Hair, grease, and soap scum can clog your sink or shower drain over time. Instead of using harsh chemicals, try a simple DIY method.

🛠️ What You Need:

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Boiling water

🔧 How to Fix It:

1. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain.

2. Add 1 cup of vinegar and let it bubble for 10 minutes.

3. Flush with boiling water to clear the clog.

4. Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet wastes gallons of water daily and increases your bill. The problem is usually a faulty flapper or fill valve.

🛠️ What You Need:

• Replacement flapper or fill valve
• Adjustable wrench

🔧 How to Fix It:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.

2. Remove the toilet tank lid and check the flapper.

3. If the flapper is worn, replace it.

4. If the water level is too high, adjust the fill valve.

5. Turn the water back on and test the toilet.

When to Call a Professional

Some home repairs require a licensed professional, especially those involving electricity, major plumbing, or structural damage.

🚨 Call a pro for:

• Electrical wiring issues

• Major plumbing leaks

• Roof repairs

• Foundation cracks

Save Money & Maintain Your Home

Learning how to fix small issues yourself will save you money and help you maintain your home without stress. Start with these simple repairs, and you'll build confidence over time.

📩 Need more home repair tips? Stay tuned for more DIY guides!