DIY emergency home repair hacks that will save you money

DIY emergency home repair hacks that will save you money

Homeownership is a rewarding experience, but it can also be fraught with unexpected repairs and maintenance challenges. Whether it’s a leaky tap, a creaky door, or a loose tile, knowing how to tackle these issues yourself not only saves you money but also instils a sense of accomplishment and confidence in your home improvement skills. In this blog post, we’ll explore some DIY emergency home repair hacks that can help you navigate those inevitable home dilemmas without breaking the bank.

1. Squeaky hinges? Grab some oil

Squeaky doors and cabinets can be more than just annoying – they can also be a sign of wear and tear. Instead of replacing hinges, a little lubricant is often all you need. Use a few drops of:

  • Olive oil: A common household item that works wonders as a quick fix.
  • WD-40: This is a go-to product for squeaky hinges, and it’s readily available at most DIY stores.
  • Vaseline: In a pinch, this can also help quiet those pesky noises.

Simply apply your lubricant of choice to the hinge and move the door back and forth several times to distribute it evenly. Your doors will glide smoothly in no time!

2. Leaky tap? Don’t call the plumber just yet

A dripping tap can waste a significant amount of water, leading to high bills. Fortunately, this repair is often quite simple.

What you’ll need:

  • A wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • Replacement washers or O-rings (available at any hardware store)

Steps:

  1. Turn off the water supply.
  2. Plug the sink drain to prevent losing any small parts.
  3. Remove the tap handle by unscrewing it, using your wrench if necessary.
  4. Take the tap apart and replace any worn washers or O-rings.
  5. Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on. No more drip and more money saved!

3. Temporary fix for a hole in the wall

Accidental bumps can leave unsightly holes in your walls. Instead of hiring a professional right away, you can perform a quick and effective temporary fix!

What you’ll need:

  • Polyfilla
  • A putty knife or your fingers
  • Sandpaper

Steps:

  1. Clean the area around the hole.
  2. Use the putty knife to apply Polyfilla over the hole, or squeeze some toothpaste into it for a quick fix.
  3. Smooth it out until it’s level with the wall and allow it to dry.
  4. Once dried, sand it down gently to give it a smooth surface.
  5. Touch up with paint if you have any on hand.

If using toothpaste, this hack won’t be permanent, but it’s a great way to keep things looking decent until you can tackle a proper repair.

4. Clogged drain? Try bicarbonate of soda and vinegar

Clogged drains can be a hassle and even lead to more significant plumbing issues if not dealt with promptly. Before you reach for chemical solutions, consider this natural method!

What you’ll need:

  • Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
  • Vinegar
  • Hot water

Steps:

  1. Pour about a cup of bicarb down the drain.
  2. Follow it with a cup of vinegar. You’ll see and hear the mixture fizz and bubble.
  3. Cover the drain with a cloth or a plug to keep the reaction contained.
  4. After about 30 minutes, flush the drain with hot water.

This eco-friendly method can help break down clog-causing debris without having to resort to harsh chemicals!

5. Prevent windows from sticking with soap

Stuck windows can be particularly frustrating, especially during the summer months when you want to give your home an airing. Instead of replacing the entire window unit, try this easy technique.

What you’ll need:

  • A bar of soap (preferably unscented)

Steps:

  1. Rub the soap generously onto the edges of the window frame and where the window slides up and down.
  2. Open and close the window a few times to work the soap in.

This will create a smoother surface and can help your window operate freely once again!

6. Broken tile? Use epoxy for quick fixes

Tiles can crack easily, but before you consider replacing them, try this simple fix.

What you’ll need:

  • Epoxy adhesive
  • Utility knife
  • Ruler and marker

Steps:

  1. Clean the cracked tile carefully and ensure it’s dry.
  2. Apply epoxy adhesive to the crack, pressing down to fill any gaps.
  3. Use a utility knife to remove excess adhesive around the edges after it sets.

While this isn’t a permanent solution, it can buy you some time until you can replace the tile.

Conclusion

Emergency repairs at home don’t have to send you into a panic or drain your wallet. With a few basic tools, materials and some creativity, you can tackle many common problems yourself. Whether it’s a squeaky hinge, a dripping tap or a clogged drain, these DIY hacks can keep your home in good shape while saving you money.

Remember, if you find a problem beyond your comfort zone or expertise, it’s always best to consult a professional. Happy fixing!

The 4 things we all wish we knew at the start of our DIY journey

The 4 things we all wish we knew at the start of our DIY journey

While we may very well be great at the various concepts of interior design and renovations in general, sometimes we could look back and wish we knew certain things at the very outset of our DIY journey. We all have to start somewhere, so if you’re looking to pass some wise information on, here are a few things that can make all the difference.

Quality tools are worth the investment

Whether it’s something as little as wood screws or a screwdriver set, high-quality tools are definitely worth your time and money. High-quality tools and implements tend to have better ergonomics, are built better, and this means that they’re also more durable, which can save you money in the long run and reduce your frustrations.

Sometimes we can’t justify a major expense, but while they say a shoddy workman blames their tools, if there are huge problems in your DIY journey, it could very well be that the things you bought are way too cheap to be effective in the long run.

Proper planning will save time and money

Sometimes we have that approach where we think we should just start something. While this could be beneficial with a small project where you’re learning the ropes and figuring out what you can and cannot do, the reality is that if you’re attempting to renovate a home or undertake a major project, you’ve got to research the potential challenges and solutions beforehand.

Consider the various factors such as weather, drying times, availability, accurate costs and unexpected expenses, as well as create a detailed project plan including material lists, step-by-step procedures and timelines. As the saying goes – fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

Safety first

You should always use appropriate protective equipment, and while many of us don’t think we need to read the instructions, sometimes following all the manuals and safety guidelines can make a major difference.

When it comes to safety, keep your work area clean and organised, as this will prevent accidents, particularly with sharp tools around. Also, take the time to learn proper techniques for lifting and handling materials to reduce injury.

Start small and build up

Starting out should be dealing with simple projects that require fewer skills and tools, then gradually increase the complexity alongside our confidence. Each project is an opportunity to develop new skills, and we could certainly feel frustrated that we’re not developing as quickly as others, but we need to understand that quality work often takes time. Therefore, we should remember that precise or difficult tasks don’t benefit from rushing through. It’s okay to make mistakes, and while we should take breaks to avoid mistakes that come from fatigue, every mistake is a learning opportunity.

We need to be prepared to problem-solve and to adapt when things do go wrong. It could be very easy to be a perfectionist about it, but don’t let this hinder your progress. You have all the tools at your disposal as long as you remember to develop those fundamental skills. Stay updated on new tools, techniques and materials, but also remember that seeking insight can help people, new and old to DIY, approach their projects with greater knowledge, realistic expectations and a higher rate of success.

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The hidden value in repurposing what’s broken

The hidden value in repurposing what's broken

Let’s discuss something that’s a bit of a game-changer in how we handle our belongings. It’s easy to get caught up in the buy-and-toss cycle – something breaks, and we think, “Well, time to get a new one!” But what if we paused that thought? What if we looked at our old, beaten-up things as treasures waiting to be rediscovered? Repurposing your home décor items and your clothing is not just great for your budget; it’s a big win for our planet too.

Creative reuse in home décor

First on the list, let’s have a look at home décor – this is where you can really let your creativity fly. Broken vase? Hello, new planter! Jeans that went out of style (or size)? How about cutting them up for funky denim coasters? Old books stacking up? Stack them up differently, and boom – you have yourself a chic bookshelf.

Technology and appliance fixes

Tech stuff can seem a bit intimidating, but fixing a glitchy gadget isn’t as hard as it sounds. There are hundreds of tutorials online that can help you fix everything from a lazy laptop to a phone that’s seen better days. And it’s not just about saving money – getting a little more tech-savvy is always a plus, right?

Reviving and reinventing furniture

Next, let’s talk about your furniture. That chair that’s been in your family for ages, or that table that’s seen better days – don’t be too quick to kick them to the curb. Sprucing up the finish, tightening up the screws, sending them away for furniture repairs or even turning one thing into another (like turning an old door into a desk) can breathe new life into them. It’s not just fixing; it’s keeping a piece of history alive and well – and totally stylish, by the way.

Garden and exterior repairs

Outdoorsy bits have loads of potential too. That cracked pot? It has ‘base for a new plant’ written all over it. Old tires can also be upcycled into robust garden planters – add a splash of paint, and your garden just got a dose of fun and sustainability.

The benefits of fixing and repurposing

So, why go through the trouble? For starters, it’s cheaper… way cheaper. Repairing and reusing can seriously cut down on your shopping expenses. Environmentally, it’s a no-brainer – less waste, less demand for new stuff and a happier planet. And personally? It feels amazing to create something new and beautiful out of something no one thought twice about.

Tools and resources to get started

Thinking of giving it a go? You’ll need some basic tools – nothing fancy, just some screwdrivers, a hammer, perhaps some glue and paint. Check out local craft stores or even online tutorials for ideas. And don’t forget about community resources! Speaking to your neighbours about your projects is the perfect way to get access to tools and advice without spending a fortune.

Embracing a culture of repair

It all comes down to shifting how we see our stuff – not as disposable, but as full of potential. Every fixed item, every repurposed piece, adds a bit of character to our lives and makes the world a tad more sustainable.

So, next time you’re about to throw something out, give it a second look. Maybe… just maybe, it’s waiting for its second chance to shine.

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Expanding your homeowner skill set, one step at a time

Expanding your homeowner skill set, one step at a time

It’s a satisfying feeling when you become a homeowner. You have your own space, your own property, your own investment to look after. Success or failure, it all comes down to your own planning and effort. Or at least, that’s how it’s supposed to be.

Yet, living as a homeowner is also a skill. While renting is surely not as financially stable as owning your own place (paying someone else’s mortgage instead of your own is, of course, less ideal), it gives peace of mind when a landlord or property agent is fully responsible for any maintenance issues that materialise. As a homeowner, you will need to learn all this for yourself, or pay for someone else to do it out of your own pocket.

In this post, then, we hope to simplify that approach. Let’s consider some of the vital knowledge you should add to your homeowner skill set.

Develop your painting techniques

Painting may not be a task that needs to be carried out on a regular basis, but it’s an easy and elementary skill to learn. Carrying out a quality paint job can quickly freshen up a room and transform the décor, and it’s a simple method for changing up the visual profile of a space without shelling out too much cash. Learning to strip wallpaper, prime walls and skirting, cut in and effectively (and neatly) apply paint with a roller and brush is a worthwhile effort.

Invest in a complete toolbox

You can never tell when you’ll need to carry out the array of DIY household tasks that could arise. For that reason, it’s a good idea to start compiling a toolbox with high-quality basics like screwdrivers, wrenches, a hammer, pliers, a drill, a spirit level and a tape measure, at the very least. You can buy tools from reputable retailers and make sure every job is covered. From that point on, you’ll at least have the means to carry out most basic DIY jobs. From then on, all you’ll need to consider will be your technique, which will develop with time and practice.

Understand how to manage damp

If you live in an old house in a temperate or cold climate, damp is an issue you’ll likely encounter. Ultimately, it’s about managing moisture build-up in your home, and not letting it linger on walls and windows to the point where it becomes a problem. You’ll recognise what damp smells like when you first experience it; a musty, mushroomy odour that feels unhealthy to inhale. That’s because it is; often, mould can lead to toxic spores that can damage your airways and cause illness. Using anti-mould spray, inspecting walls and woodwork for rot, ventilating your home correctly and using dehumidifiers to counter the moist conditions is a necessity. If you can get a handle on how to recognise and deal with damp, you can resolve a good deal of preventable DIY repair issues.

With this useful advice, you’ll be certain to start expanding your homeowner skill set one step at a time. Before too long, a possible repair will inspire you to action, instead of it feeling like an overwhelming burden.

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