Spending more time at home lately? Use some of that extra time to improve your living space! These three fun repairs will make your home look and feel better in no time. And you might even enjoy the solo time.
Fix a Sticking Door
Sticking doors are annoying, but they’re also an easy fix! There are many reasons why your door stick: too much paint, temperature changes, humidity—the list goes on. But you can fix it with a few simple tools and materials. Start by removing the door’s hinges and screws, then sand them down to remove any rust or buildup. Then lubricate the hinge pins with oil or graphite powder and reattach the door securely.
You can also adjust the door’s strike plate, which is the metal plate attached to the door frame. Unscrew the strike plate and adjust it to line up with the latch. You can do this in a few minutes with a screwdriver.
Unclog a Toilet
Clogged toilets are gross, but you don’t have to call a plumber to fix them! Start by removing as much water from the bowl as possible. Then, put on some rubber gloves and reach in to remove the clog manually. If that doesn’t work, try using a plunger or an auger. You can also use baking soda and vinegar to dissolve the clog. Once it’s unclogged, always remember not to flush any wipes, paper towels, or other materials down the toilet. Remind everyone of this so that the clog won’t happen again.
Repair a Broken Window
Broken windows can also be fixed. If you have a broken glass window, chances are that it’s easy to repair. Start by removing the old glass with a screwdriver and then measure for replacement glass. Once you have the correct size, install the new pane of glass in the frame. Ensure any exposed edges are well-sealed with caulk or putty to keep out drafts. Remember to always check your windows for cracks. Cracked glass may cause injury and is not energy efficient. Even a tiny crack can create a leak and result in an expensive energy bill, so fix it quickly.
Update Your Fixtures
It’s amazing what a difference it can make when you update your light or plumbing fixtures. You don’t have to be an expert carpenter to switch out those old fixtures. All you need is the correct tools and a bit of know-how. Make sure to turn off all power sources before you begin, then dismantle the old fixtures and install the new ones.
You can add decorative touches with accent lighting or interesting hardware such as pulls, knobs, and handles. This is a great way to update your home without remodeling. And since you’re doing it yourself, you can choose fixtures that reflect your style. Fixtures like doorknobs, faucets, and light switches should be replaced every few years for safety and aesthetic reasons. However, if they are properly maintained, they can last much longer.
Paint a Room
Painting can make a huge impact in any room. You’ll be surprised at how much brighter and fresher your home looks with just a few coats of paint. To get started, choose the color you want, roll up your sleeves, and start painting. Be sure to cover any furniture and floors with drop cloths, and remember to wear a face mask and gloves for protection.
To make a room look more spacious, choose a light color like white or light blue. Dark colors make a room appear smaller, so consider using them only for accent walls. You can use fun and creative colors for the kids’ room to turn the whole space into a work of art. Surely, they’ll be surprised and excited to see the results.
Patch Up Some Holes
Have some holes in your walls from old pictures or tacky decor? No problem! All you need is some spackle and a putty knife. First, clean out the hole with a vacuum cleaner or a can of compressed air. After that, fill the hole with a spackle until it is level with the rest of the wall. Give it 24 hours to dry before sanding down any excess material. A fresh coat of paint and no one will ever know those holes were there! You can also use spackle to repair minor cracks in walls or damaged corners. And don’t forget to cover up any exposed nails and screws so you don’t poke yourself when walking around the room.
Home repairs aren’t everyone’s idea of a good time. But if you’re stuck at home alone with nothing to do, they can be pretty fun! These repairs are easy enough for anyone to do, making your home look and feel better in no time. So get to work and enjoy your newly improved living space!
