Using Home DIY Fixes to Tackle 10 Common Household Problems

Many issues in the home can be resolved with simple home DIY fixes – although it’s always good to know when something is beyond your skillset and it’s time to call in the professionals. Here are ten easy-to-implement solutions for repairing common household items. These tips are not only actionable but also designed for anyone, even if you don’t consider yourself a handy person.

1. Clearing a Slow Drain

Slow drains can be a nuisance. However, an easy home DIY fix involves using household staples: vinegar and baking soda. Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. The mixture will bubble and work to break down any blockages. After 15-20 minutes, rinse with boiling water to wash away the residue.

2. Tackling a Leaky Faucet

Leaky faucets can waste significant amounts of water. The first step in fixing this issue is identifying your faucet type: ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk. Once you’ve done that, you can follow an online guide specific to your faucet. Most fixes involve replacing a small part, which you can find at a local hardware store.

3. Patching Small Holes in Walls

Small holes left by nails or screws are easily fixable. Using a putty knife, apply a small amount of spackle to the hole. Allow it to dry (this usually takes a few hours), then sand the area until it’s smooth and flush with the wall. Finish up with a touch of paint to match the wall color.

4. Repairing a Running Toilet

A running toilet can usually be fixed by replacing the flapper or adjusting the float. Both tasks are simple and require minimal tools. If your toilet is still running after these adjustments, it may be time to replace the fill valve.

5. Silencing Squeaky Doors

A squeaky door hinge can be an annoying issue. Luckily, it’s one of the easiest home DIY fixes. Simply apply a lubricant such as WD-40 or petroleum jelly to the hinge pins. Open and close the door a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

6. Replacing a Light Switch

Replacing a light switch is a slightly more advanced task but still doable. Before you start, ensure you turn off the power at your electrical panel for safety. Then, unscrew the faceplate, disconnect the wires from the old switch, connect them to the new one, and screw everything back into place.

7. Mending Minor Carpet Damage

For small burns or stains on your carpet, cut out the damaged area using a utility knife. Then, replace it with a patch from a leftover piece of the same carpet. Apply carpet glue to the back of the patch and press it into place.

8. Repairing Loose Tiles

Loose tiles can be reattached using tile adhesive and grout. Clean the area thoroughly first to ensure the adhesive sticks properly. Apply the adhesive, press the tile into place, and then apply grout once the adhesive has dried.

9. Fixing a Sticky Lock

A sticky lock can often be remedied by spraying a graphite-based lubricant into the keyhole. If this doesn’t alleviate the problem, you may need to replace the entire lock.

10. Repairing a Broken Drawer

A broken drawer can usually be fixed by replacing the slides. Unscrew the old slides, purchase replacements that match the size, and screw the new ones into place.

These home DIY fixes are designed to help you tackle minor issues around your home. For more complex problems, consider hiring a professional. Stay tuned for more practical home repair tips in our upcoming posts!