The DIY Era: 4 Home Repairs You Can Tackle

Did you know the average home in America has nine DIY jobs? If you’re in the same boat, we can help.

Are you wondering how to complete home repairs on your own? Not to worry! In this guide, we’ll go over some basic projects.

Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out.

1. Is Your Toilet Not Flushing Well?
Most of the time, a weak toilet flush has to do with the holes under the rim. Sediment and calcium will clog the holes. Use a small bristle brush and scrub away at the holes to clear them out.

Another possibility is that your toilet’s clogged. You may have tried to flush too much toilet paper down the drain. If a plunger isn’t working, try filling a bucket with water and pour it into the toilet bowl. Use a toilet snake as well.

2. Old and Grimy Grout
You may want to replace the grout in your shower if it’s starting to smell. To remove it, use a grout-removal tool. Get rid of all the older brittle material. Clean out all the dust by using a vacuum.

Next, you’ll need to mix your grout powder with water. Find out the exact measurements from the manufacturer. Once it’s mixed well in a bucket, use a plastic towel to apply the grout.

With a grout float, you can push the mortar deep into the joints. Make sure you hold the grout float at a 45-degree angle to the floor surface or wall as you do this.

After, clean off any excess grout before it hardens. You can use your grout float again. Hold the tool at an 80-degree angle and skim off the extra grout from the tiles.

Use a damp sponge to get rid of any lingering grout. Make sure you rinse the sponge often. Let the grout harden for up to two days.

3. Wobbly Furniture
Do you have some chairs or tables that are unsteady? You’ll need to take them apart first. Label pieces, so you know how to put them back together. Use a chisel to get rid of any excess wood or glue on the joining parts.

Once the joints are clear, add new glue and place the parts together. You can hold them together with a rope as the glue dries.

4. Fixing Squeaky Stairs
Ask someone to walk down and up the stairs to help you locate the squeaks. Tag the spots with painter’s tape. Do you have a stair runner? If so, remove the runner for your next step.

Pull out any loose nails. Pre-drill a hole next to the squeaky nail or use the pre-existing hole if you removed the nail. Secure the tread by using a screw.

If you have old or worn down steps that you need to fix, check out this concrete stair repair.