Owning a home comes with its share of maintenance challenges, especially for first-time homeowners. But not every issue requires a professional. With the right tools and know-how, you can tackle many common home repairs yourself. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you address the most frequent home issues quickly and efficiently.

 

1. Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet not only wastes water but also drives up your utility bill.

• Fix It:
• Turn off the water supply under the sink.
• Disassemble the faucet to replace a worn-out washer or O-ring.
• Reassemble and test for leaks.
• Tools Needed: Wrench, screwdriver, replacement parts.
• Learn More: Follow detailed steps at Family Handyman.

 

2. Clogged Sink or Drain

A clogged sink can disrupt your routine but is often easy to clear.

• Fix It:
• Use a plunger to loosen debris.
• Flush the drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
• For tougher clogs, use a drain snake.
• Shop Tools: Find plungers and snakes at Home Depot.

 

3. Drafty Windows and Doors

Drafts increase energy bills and make your home uncomfortable.

• Fix It:
• Apply weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows.
• Use caulk to fill small cracks in window frames.
• Place draft stoppers at the base of doors.
• Learn More: Check solutions at Lowe’s.

 

4. Squeaky Hinges

That squeaky door or cabinet hinge can be silenced in seconds.

• Fix It:
• Apply WD-40 or petroleum jelly to the hinge.
• Open and close the door several times to spread the lubricant.
• Where to Buy: Shop lubricants at Walmart.

 

5. Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet wastes water and can be frustrating.

• Fix It:
• Open the tank and check the flapper valve for wear or damage. Replace it if necessary.
• Adjust the float to stop water from filling too high.
• Shop Parts: Replacement flappers are available at Amazon.

 

6. Loose Cabinet Doors

Loose or crooked cabinet doors can be an eyesore.

• Fix It:
• Tighten loose screws on the hinges.
• If holes are stripped, fill them with wood filler and reinsert screws once dry.
• Shop Supplies: Check out The Container Store for repair kits.

 

7. Small Drywall Holes

Nail holes or minor dents in walls can make a space look unfinished.

• Fix It:
• Clean the area and apply spackling paste with a putty knife.
• Let it dry, sand it smooth, and paint over it.
• Tools Needed: Spackling paste, sandpaper, paint.
• Learn More: Follow tips at This Old House.

 

8. Tripped Circuit Breaker

A sudden loss of power in part of your home often points to a tripped breaker.

• Fix It:
• Locate your circuit breaker panel.
• Identify the switch that’s out of position and flip it fully off, then back on.
• Safety Tip: Always ensure your hands are dry and wear rubber-soled shoes when handling the panel.

 

9. Replace a Showerhead

Installing a new showerhead is an easy upgrade for better water pressure and efficiency.

• Fix It:
• Unscrew the old showerhead.
• Wrap plumber’s tape around the pipe threads for a tight seal.
• Screw on the new showerhead and tighten by hand.
• Shop Options: Browse affordable showerheads at Wayfair.

 

10. Resetting a Loose Tile

A loose tile in the bathroom or kitchen can become worse if left unaddressed.

• Fix It:
• Remove the tile and clean off old adhesive.
• Apply fresh adhesive, press the tile in place, and let it set.
• Grout the edges for a seamless look.
• Tools Needed: Adhesive, grout, putty knife.
• Shop Supplies: Find tiling tools at Floor & Decor.

 

Save Money with Cashback Apps

Tools and materials for these repairs can add up, but you can offset costs with cashback apps like Fluz. Earn rewards while shopping at retailers like Home Depot, Amazon, and Lowe’s.