
Mar 15, 2024
Simple repairs you can tackle on your own
🔧 Simple Repairs You Can Tackle on Your Own (No Handyman Required!)
Let’s face it—home repairs can be intimidating, especially if you’re not exactly the DIY type. But here’s a secret: not every fix requires a call to a professional. There are plenty of simple repairs that you can handle with just a few tools and a little know-how. And guess what? Knocking them out yourself will save you time, money, and maybe even give you a bit of that “I’ve got this!” pride.
Here are some easy home repairs anyone can do—even if you’ve never picked up a wrench before.
1. 🛠 Fixing a Leaky Faucet
That constant drip-drip isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting water and hiking up your utility bill. Most leaky faucets are caused by worn-out washers or O-rings.
What you’ll need:
Adjustable wrench
Replacement washer/O-ring (available at any hardware store)
What to do: Turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, replace the washer, and reassemble. Boom—no more drip.
2. 🚪 Silencing a Squeaky Door
Squeaky doors are one of those little annoyances that are so easy to fix.
What you’ll need:
WD-40 or petroleum jelly
What to do: Spray or rub a little lubricant on the door hinges, open and close the door a few times, and enjoy the sweet sound of silence.
3. 🔌 Replacing a Light Switch or Outlet Cover
Got a cracked switch plate or want to swap beige for something more modern? This one’s purely cosmetic and super simple.
What you’ll need:
Screwdriver
New cover plate
What to do: Unscrew the old one, screw in the new one. (Just make sure to turn off the power at the breaker if you’re replacing the switch itself.)
4. 🚿 Unclogging a Slow Drain
No need to call a plumber for a sluggish sink or tub. Chances are it’s just hair or gunk buildup.
What you’ll need:
Drain snake or wire hanger
Baking soda + vinegar (optional for natural cleaning)
What to do: Use the snake to pull out the clog. For extra cleaning power, pour in baking soda, follow with vinegar, wait 10 minutes, and flush with hot water.
5. 🧰 Patching Small Holes in the Wall
Whether it’s from picture hooks or furniture dings, patching little holes is easy.
What you’ll need:
Spackle or joint compound
Putty knife
Sandpaper
What to do: Fill the hole with spackle, smooth it with the putty knife, let it dry, then sand it flat. Add a little paint, and it’ll look brand new.
6. 🪟 Replacing a Torn Window Screen
Bug-free breezes? Yes, please.
What you’ll need:
Replacement screen
Spline tool
Scissors
What to do: Pop the screen frame out, remove the old screen and spline, lay the new screen over it, press in the new spline with the tool, trim the excess, and reinstall.
7. 🧽 Cleaning Dirty Grout
Grimy grout can make even clean tile look dirty.
What you’ll need:
Baking soda + water
Old toothbrush
What to do: Make a paste with baking soda and water, scrub into grout lines, let sit, and rinse clean. Add a little vinegar for extra whitening.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
You don’t need to be a pro to take care of small repairs around your home. With a few tools, a bit of patience, and the right guidance, you can tackle a lot more than you think—and build some serious DIY confidence in the process.
Start small. Practice. And remember: every repair you handle on your own makes you a more empowered, capable homeowner.