8 Home Repairs You Can Easily DIY and 8 You Should Leave to the Experts
When it comes to maintaining your home, the world of home repairs offers a wide array of projects. From simple do-it-yourself (DIY) tasks to those that require the expertise of professionals, knowing when to take action can save you time and money. In this article, we'll guide you through mastering home repairs, focusing on the projects you can confidently tackle yourself and those that are best left to the experts.
Tasks You Can DIY
Repairing a Dripping Pipe in the Kitchen or Bathroom
Dealing with a leaky pipe can be a common challenge in home repairs. For minor issues like a loose slip-nut near the P-Trap, a DIY fix can save the day. You can also use a flexible coupling with hose clamps to patch small holes in the pipe. However, if the leak is concealed within your wall, it's wise to entrust the repair to an expert handyman in Singapore who can address it effectively.
Repairing a Jammed or Blocked Garbage Disposal Unit
A clogged garbage disposal can be a hassle, but there are DIY tricks you can attempt. Using a wrench to clear blockages from the hexagonal opening under the disposal often does the job. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with the process, rely on professionals from trusted home servicing companies like Sendhelper in Singapore. Their trained experts have the tools and experience to handle tough clogs efficiently.
Installing a New Faucet
There are plenty of modern faucets available in Singapore. Therefore, Swapping out a faucet can be a rewarding DIY project, especially for centre-set faucets. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and you'll have a functional faucet in no time. However, if you're dealing with a complex, widespread faucet with multiple hose connections underneath, it's prudent to let a professional handle the installation for safety and precision.
Stop a Continuously Running Toilet
A continuously running toilet is a common annoyance, often solvable with a toilet rebuild kit from a local hardware store. These kits provide clear instructions for an easy fix. For unique or complex toilet systems, consider professional help. Sendhelper’s handyman professionals in Singapore are equipped to manage such challenges, ensuring your toilet operates smoothly.
Installing Doorbell Chimes
Enhancing your doorbell with chimes is a straightforward, low-voltage DIY project. You can confidently tackle this without professional assistance. The process is uncomplicated and doesn't require specialized skills. Enjoy a new doorbell chime quickly by taking on this project yourself.
Repairing Holes in a Drywall
Patch up nail holes in your drywall for a quick home improvement. All you need are lightweight putty and a spackle knife. For small holes, apply the putty, scrape off excess, let it dry, sand, and paint. For larger holes, seek professional help to ensure seamless results.
Cleaning the Gutters
Regular gutter cleaning is essential to prevent water damage. If you're comfortable with heights and ladder use, you can handle this task yourself, with someone to assist. If not, consider the handyman services from Sendhelper in Singapore to ensure your gutters stay debris-free.
Renewing the Grout Between Tiles
Regrouting tiles can be a satisfying DIY project. Select the appropriate grout type, follow instructions, and maintain the correct spacing between tiles. For larger projects or complex tiling, consult a professional to guarantee quality results.
Task Best Left to the Experts
Installing Wallpapers
Hanging wallpapers can be a challenging task, especially when trying to match patterns and align them perfectly on the wall. This task often requires the assistance of another person. There is a chance for bubbles to occur while installing wallpapers, which may result in having to remove and reinstall a strip of paper or even ordering more wallpaper. Whether or not the potential cost savings of a DIY approach outweigh the risks is a decision only you can make. However, hiring a professional can ensure a smooth and predictable outcome.
Painting Your Home’s Exterior
Giving your home's exterior a fresh coat of paint is a significant undertaking. Depending on the type of home, it may involve painting all of the trim, soffits, rake boards, and siding, which can require using ladders at high levels and even climbing onto the roof. Ensuring safety should be a top priority for homeowners before taking on an exterior painting project. For a smooth and worry-free experience, we suggest seeking the help of a skilled professional who has the necessary equipment and experience to get the job done right.
Removing Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings are becoming less popular, and many homeowners are opting to remove them, but it can be a very messy job. You should start by spraying a softening agent onto the popcorn to make it easier to remove. Follow by scraping the surface with a blade which can create holes and divots that need to be fixed with a special compound. Sand the surface smoothly when the compound dries. Now apply primer and paint the ceiling. This job is done overhead and requires ladders, so it's best to hire a professional to avoid headaches and ensure a quality result.
Electrical Work Beyond 50 Volts
Electrical work can be costly, but with a little research and understanding of your electrical system, some projects can be tackled on your own. You can do low-voltage projects such as installing a light fixture without harming yourself or your home's structure. However, if your project involves work beyond 50 volts or if you're unsure of your knowledge or skills, it's recommended to hire a handyman professional to ensure safety and quality work.
Installing Large Ceiling Fans
While installing a ceiling fan is not a particularly complex task, it can be time-consuming, especially if you're not used to doing home repairs or the fan is particularly large. It is always best to hire a professional to do the job for you if you're not comfortable working on a ladder for doing such work.
Complex Crown Molding
For homeowners without experience using a power saw or comfortable working on a ladder, installing crown molding can be a daunting task. You need to know the precise measurements and make clean cuts for a seamless installation. It's best to leave this job to a professional who has the skills and tools to do it safely and efficiently.
Major Door Installations
Installing a new door can improve your home's aesthetics and energy efficiency. However, it's important to prioritize the installation process to ensure it's done correctly. It is best to hire a professional to handle the job for major door modifications like converting windows into French or sliding glass doors.
Repairing Stuck Windows
If you're experiencing a window that won't budge, there could be a variety of underlying causes such as dirt and debris buildup, foundation issues, or high humidity. Fixing a sticking window often involves removing the window and using specialized tools such as a belt sander or planer. This can be a complex job that requires expertise and safety knowledge. Hence it's best to leave it to a handyman professional if you're not experienced enough in home repairs or lack the appropriate tools to do the job.
In the world of home repairs, understanding when to DIY and when to call in the experts is crucial. For complex tasks or when unsure of your abilities, consider the services of a professional handyman in Singapore, such as Sendhelper, with rates starting at just $60. Download the Sendhelper app or visit our website today and get 10% off on your first booking with code ACHM. Don't hesitate—invest in professional expertise and enjoy peace of mind in your home repairs.
