10 Home Repair Projects Anyone Can Do

Although some home repair projects take careful thought, planning, and sometimes even an expert, there are plenty of small home repair projects that anybody can do. These projects will not only improve your home, but many of them will also help save energy and money, too.

Replace the Shower Head

Is your shower head not working as well as it used to? Replacing an old showerhead is well within the skill set of the average homeowner. Not only will you save money and water, but you'll also have a much more enjoyable shower as well.

Put a Stop to Drafts

Check around your windows and doors for drafts. You can use a piece of facial or toilet tissue, holding it up in front of the doors and windows. If it flutters in a small invisible breeze, you need to be weatherproofed. Depending on your skills and budget, you can use weather stripping, or the plastic sheet weatherproofing kits for windows. You should also check the caulking around windows and doors to make sure there aren't cracks that could cause drafts.

Change the Air Filter

Change your air filters on your heating and cooling systems. If they are dirty, your furnace or air conditioner has to work much harder, which wastes energy and money.

Re-Caulk the Tub

Touch up or replace the caulk around the shower and tub. A tube of caulk is cheap, but the water damage, mold, and dry rot that can occur from water seeping into the wall are not.

Fix a Leaky Faucet

If you have a leaky faucet or your toilet keeps running, fix them. Faucets often only need a new washer, and there are kits you can buy to fix a toilet. You'll save a lot of money, especially if it's a hot water leak.

Maintain the Washing Machine

If your washing machine is taking longer than it used to fill with water, the inlet screen might be clogged. First, unplug the washer and shut off the water supply valves. Then, disconnect both water hoses at the machine, and put the ends in a bucket. Locate the inlet screens on the back of the washing machine and remove both of them, using the end of a screwdriver or the sharp tip of a metal fingernail file. Replace with new screens, and reassemble everything. It should be as good as new.

Keep the Gutters Clean

If your gutters and downspouts are clogged with leaves and debris, you're at risk for water and ice damage. Clean them at least twice a year, and install downspout extenders if you don't already have them, to keep water away from the foundation of your home. Better yet, for a long-term solution, install gutter guards for catching debris.

Adjust the Hot Water Heater Temperature

You can save energy as well as money by adjusting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is still hot enough to clean clothes and dishes, but it won't waste energy... and you can't scald yourself either. While you're at it, get a water heater blanket to insulate your water heater, to save even more.

Fix Loose Hinges

Fix any loose door hinges that you might have. You might just be able to tighten the screws, but if you find that the screws are stripped, you can purchase a repair kit. By using the metal mesh in the kit, and a longer screw, your doors will fit perfectly again.

Replace Light Bulbs

If you replace the incandescent bulbs in your home with compact fluorescent bulbs or LED, you'll save both money and electricity. Not only do they last longer, but they both use much less electricity.