Home Repairs 101

We all know the age-old stereotype—Dads are the household handymen. But what if you're not quite a seasoned pro with a tool belt yet? Don't worry! Today we're diving into some common home repairs that even the most "un-handy" dad can tackle. So, grab your toolbox; it’s time to get to work!

Unclogging Drains

Tools: Plunger, drain cleaner, pipe wrench

Tips: If plunging and drain cleaner don't work, you can always disassemble the P-trap under the sink to remove blockages. Just make sure to turn off the water supply first!

Fixing Leaky Faucets

Tools: Adjustable wrench, plumber's tape, replacement parts

Tips: Identify the leak source and replace the corresponding parts, which could be the O-ring, washer, or valve seat. And don't forget to use plumber's tape for a watertight seal!

Patching Holes in Walls

Tools: Spackle (drywall compound), putty knife, sandpaper, paint

Tips: Fill the hole with spackle using a putty knife, let it dry, and sand it smooth. Finish with a coat of paint that matches your wall.

Filling a larger hole? Checkout Jeff’s (from Home Renovision DIY) tips for filling larger drywall holes!

Replacing a Door Knob

Tools: Screwdriver, new door knob set

Tips: Unscrew the old knob and latch, insert the new latch, and then attach the new knob. Ensure that the latch bolt is facing the correct direction!

Stopping a Running Toilet

Tools: Flapper, float, fill valve, wrench

Tips: Often, replacing the flapper solves the problem. But if not, adjusting the float or replacing the fill valve might be the ticket.

Re-caulking Bathtubs and Sinks

Tools: Caulk, caulk gun, painter’s tape

Tips: Remove old caulk first, clean the area, and then apply painter's tape to guide your application. Use a caulk gun to apply new caulk neatly.

Hanging Shelves

Tools: Stud finder, level, drill, screws, brackets

Tips: Always locate the studs for secure mounting, and use a level to make sure your shelf isn’t leaning.

Replacing a Light Switch

Tools: Screwdriver, wire strippers, new switch

Tips: Always turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker before touching any wiring. Connect the new switch the same way the old one was wired.

Fix a Squeaky Door Hinge

Tools: WD-40

Tips: Listen for the hinge that is squeaky, then hit all the hinges with a shot of that sweet, sweet WD-40. Pshh-Pshh!

We hope this helps you become the reliable and trusted handy-dad your family thinks you've always been. Here’s to fewer calls to professional repair services and more high-fives from the fam! 🙌