Homeownership presents a unique blend of joys and challenges, and one of the most common challenges you may encounter is the inevitable need for repairs. The good news is that not all home repairs require a professional.
In fact, there are several home repairs you can easily tackle on your own to save money and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Replacing a Light Switch
If you’ve noticed a flicker in your light or your switch is no longer functioning, replacing a light switch is a relatively simple task that you can accomplish with a few basic tools. If you don’t yet own the necessary tools, be sure to stock up on the essential home repair supplies every homeowner should have. Once you gather the proper tools, ensure your safety by turning off your home’s power.
With a screwdriver, remove the faceplate and then the screws securing the switch to the wall, then pull the switch out and disconnect the wires. Attach these wires to your new switch, screw it back into the wall, and replace the faceplate. Remember to note how the wires were connected to the old switch to ensure they’re correctly attached to the new one.
Repairing a Toilet Handle
Repairing a broken toilet handle is a straightforward task you can complete in a few steps. Begin by removing the lid from the toilet tank. You’ll notice a chain connected to the handle that’s linked to the flapper at the bottom of the tank. If the chain has disconnected from the handle, reattach it.
If the handle itself is broken, you’ll need to replace it. Unscrew the nut inside the tank that holds the handle in place, remembering that it may require turning clockwise, as many toilet handle nuts have reverse threads. Once the nut is removed, you can pull the old handle out and insert your new handle, securing it with the nut. Finally, reattach the chain, making sure you adjust the length of the chain for proper flushing function.
Replacing a Doorknob
Replacing a doorknob is another simple task requiring a few basic tools. Start by using a screwdriver to unscrew and remove the existing doorknob. You’ll typically see two screws on either side of the knob; remove them by turning them counterclockwise.
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Once the screws are out, the knob should come apart easily, and you can remove both pieces. Next, turn your attention to the latch plate on the edge of the door. This is a rectangular piece of metal where the latch protrudes from the door and is held in place by two more screws. Once those are unscrewed, you can remove the latch itself.
Now, you’re ready to install the new doorknob. Insert the new latch into the hole in the edge of the door and secure it with the provided screws. Then, place one half of the doorknob on either side of the door, ensuring the spindle goes through the latch mechanism. Line up the screw holes on either side of the knob and tighten them down until secure.
The best part about this list is that these are just a few of the home repairs you can easily tackle on your own! By learning the ropes of simple repairs like these and applying the skills to other projects around the house, you can save substantial amounts of money while boosting your self-sufficiency.
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