DIY Repairs Every New Homeowner Should Know

Becoming a new home owner can be exciting and daunting at the same time. Perhaps the most intimidating part of owning a home is having to be personally responsible for the maintenance, rather than calling in the landlord every time something goes awry. The following items should be in every homeowner’s DIY playbook to keep your home running smoothly and your wallet full.

Patching Drywall Holes

Whether it’s small, unsightly holes or larger gaps, knowing how fix drywall is a must. The key is to cut the damage into an easy shape such as a circle or square. Then you can cut your drywall patch into that same shape, instead of trying to perfectly match the shape of the damaged area. Smaller holes can be easily fixed with a bit of spackle.

Faucet Repair

This is another must-know area for homeowners. A leaky faucet can easily dump gallons of water per week down the drain. The last thing you want is an extra high water bill. The good news is, the repair is usually a simple matter of removing the handle and replacing the washer beneath. Bring the worn washer to the hardware store and find an exact match.

Clean Gutters

Cleaning gutters can be an all-year job in some locations. If you let debris clog up the gutter, things might start to grow in them, or they might become so full that they break in the next storm. Gutter cleaning is easy, if not exactly pleasant. You’ll need a ladder, some type of scooping tool, and eventually a hose to clean out fine debris. This is one home maintenance tip that’s easy and saves you a lot in the process.

Monitor Heating and Cooling

Monitoring heating and cooling systems is also an essential part of being a new homeowner. Pay attention to any unusual noises or smells coming from the unit, and how often you have to adjust the thermostat. According to HomeSmart from Xcel Energy, unusual humidity or a sudden increase in allergy symptoms from those in the home may also indicate problems. Some repairs are easy, such as changing the furnace filter. However, anything more complex usually requires the help of a furnace repair company.

Caulking

Caulk is the sealing used all around your home, such as in your shower or around sinks. Caulk eliminates air and water leaks throughout your home. Learn how to apply it, and make sure you’re buying the right type of caulk, which is usually silicone. This is a good skill to know since it can be used on anything you need kept airtight in your home.

Even though DIY repairs are essential for any homeowner, it’s also important to have an emergency list of trusted professionals on hand when problems take a turn for the worse. As you get to know your new house and it’s quirks, make sure you have a backup and maintenance plan for everything else as well.