As budgets become tighter, more homeowners are making small repairs themselves in order to save money. Here are 3 repairs that you can make yourself in your Tri-Cities home.
- A problematic toilet is likely an easy fix for someone who is handy around the house. If it does not flush properly, use a mirror and a pipe cleaner to make sure the holes under the rim are properly cleared. If the toilet is running all the time, you might need to replace the flapper valve.
- Replacing a light switch takes no time at all and can save you up to $100. Make sure you turn off the breaker before fixing the light, and buy a circuit tester if you want to be certain that there is no electricity present during the job. Unscrew the top plate, unscrew the switch, unhook two wires, unscrew two terminals, and swap out the old switch for the new one. Take a picture before disassembling anything to make sure it looks the same when you put it back together.
- Installing a dimmer switch is a popular project for homeowners and one that takes less than an hour. Before replacing the switch, you need to turn off the breaker and determine if the light is controlled by one or two switches. One that is controlled by two switches, such as florescent lights or fan lights, will need special dimmers.
For more DIY repairs for your Tri-Cities home, visit MSN Real Estate.
What are some of the Tri-Cities home repair projects you have taken on yourself in order to save money? Leave a comment to share with others!
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If they’re small home renovation jobs, DIY is certainly the best option as getting estimates and the cost of a contractor or inspection alone would be more expensive than a simple and small fix-up.
Thank you for your comment; I agree completely. Once it is known that the repair is of a more serious nature and/or scope, however, it is best to have a professional come take a look and offer an estimate for the job. For many of these larger projects, it’s just best to not risk doing it yourself, unless you are experienced in home repairs.
- Eunice