Homes need regular maintenance and it often proves to be expensive. We all hope that there will never come a time when repairs to the structure of the building are necessary, but we accept that the fabric will need work at some time.
Do you consider yourself to be a competent DIY enthusiast? Many people do not realise how capable they are at carrying out their own projects around the home because they have never tried. With only basic tools, great things can be achieved.
Here is a list of tools you should consider buying if you want to save money by performing a few home repairs yourself.
- Electric Drill
- Battery Drill / Screwdriver
- Hammer
- General Purpose Saw
- Hacksaw
- Pliers
- Spanners
- Adjustable Spanner
- Spirit Level
- Tape Measure
- Hot Air Gun
- Paint Brushes
- Scraper
- Craft Knife
- Scissors
Armed with the above tools, you will be ready to go into battle.
Let’s take a look at some of the jobs you can expect to carry out around the home.
Exterior Painting
The exterior paintwork is under sustained attack from the elements. Every few years it will need a little repair, so reach for your tool box and set to work on the problem area. It is best to work on one small area at a time because considering the task as a whole seems a little daunting at times.
- Using a hot air gun and scraper, remove old, flaking paint and use sandpaper to smooth the edges of the remaining paint.
- Apply a good quality undercoat to the area and leave it to dry.
- When the undercoat is dry, which only takes a few hours, apply a topcoat.
- Apply another topcoat if you feel it is needed. Perhaps the weather conditions are harsh where you live.
Never use old tins of paint that have been stored for decades, as it may contain lead that is bad for you and the environment.
Drain Problems
If you are faced with a horrible smell when you are working in the kitchen or brushing your teeth at the bathroom sink, it could be a sign that the drains need cleaning out. Don’t call for a plumber at this stage; you may be able to handle this on your own.
Look under the sink, and you will see the waste trap directly below the plug hole. The trap unscrews in an anti-clockwise direction. Place a bowl below before unscrewing and removing it. When you inspect the trap, it will be obvious if it is clogged up with disgusting debris. Clean it out and replace it. Now pour lots of white vinegar down the plug hole and the overflow to kill all of the bacteria without using harsh chemicals.
If your home has blocked drains that you cannot access, it is probably best to call for expert help because the problem will only get worse if it is left alone.
Interior Decorating
You will get a feeling of satisfaction after decorating a room yourself and save a packet too. The tools listed above are sufficient for this undertaking. Begin stripping old wallpaper off the walls in preparation for the new covering. Interior painting is easy; emulsion is applied by brush or roller, and gloss paint is applied using the same methods described for exterior painting. Wallpapering only takes a little practice, and most people can master the basics in under an hour.
All you need, in order to save a fortune over the years, is a little confidence and encouragement to carry out home repairs yourself. Do not be disheartened if a job sometimes goes wrong or you make a simple mistake. You are only human; the same as everyone else.
