Every homeowner knows that home repairs are inevitable. Whether it's a leaky faucet, a creaking door, or a challenging stain, these issues are bound to pop up. But the good news is, you don't always have to call a professional. With a little knowledge and some elbow grease, you can handle many of these tasks yourself. Here are five common household repair problems and how you can solve them in 2025.
Loose Handles and Knobs
Don't let a wobbly handle or knob frustrate you. Often, all it takes is a screwdriver to tighten things up. For door knobs, remove the knob first, then tighten the screws on the latch. If the screw keeps spinning and doesn't tighten, you might need to replace the screw or use a longer one.
Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can cause a lot of inconvenience, but there's a simple solution you can try before calling a plumber. Use a plunger to try to dislodge the blockage. If that doesn't work, you can use a plumber's snake or a hand auger to clear the clog.
Sticking Doors
Changes in humidity can cause doors to stick, making them difficult to open or close. This problem can often be solved by sanding the door. Remove the door from its hinges, mark the area where it’s sticking, and then lightly sand it. Be sure to paint or varnish the sanded area to protect the door from moisture.
Squeaky Hinges
A squeaky door can be quite annoying. The culprit is usually a hinge that needs lubrication. Spray a little WD-40 or a similar lubricant onto the hinge while moving the door back and forth to work in the lubricant. Wipe away any excess to prevent it from dripping onto your floor.
Peeling Wallpaper
If you notice your wallpaper starting to peel at the corners or seams, don't fret. Simply apply a small amount of wallpaper paste to a piece of writing paper, then rub the paper against the underside of the peeling section. Press the wallpaper against the wall, then slide the writing paper out and smooth away any bubbles with a clean cloth.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many household repairs that you can handle yourself. With a little patience and the right tools, you can save money while keeping your home in top shape. Remember, if a task seems too daunting, it's always best to call a professional. But for many small jobs, DIY can be a satisfying and economical solution.