5 Common Household Problems You Can (Sometimes) Fix Yourself – And When to Call a Professional Handyman
We’ve all been there: a minor household nuisance pops up, and our first thought is often, “Can I fix this myself?” The satisfaction of tackling a DIY project can be immense, not to mention the potential savings. But knowing when to grab your tools and when to pick up the phone is key to avoiding bigger headaches (and bigger bills!).
At Jack of All Trades Limited, we believe in empowering homeowners. Here are five common household issues with simple DIY tips, along with clear advice on when it’s time to call in the professionals.
1. The Annoying Dripping Faucet
That constant drip, drip, drip can waste water and drive you crazy.
- When to Call Us: If the drip persists, if you can’t locate the main water shut-off, if the faucet requires specialized tools, or if you suspect a deeper plumbing issue (like pipe corrosion or a problem within the walls). Plumbing can quickly turn from a minor leak to a major flood!
- DIY Tip: Often, a dripping faucet is due to a worn-out washer or O-ring. Turn off the water supply to the faucet, carefully disassemble the handle and stem, replace the old washer/O-ring with a new one of the same size, and reassemble.
2. The Squeaky Door Hinge
A persistent squeak every time you open or close a door is just plain irritating.
- DIY Tip: This is usually an easy fix! Apply a lubricant like WD-40, silicone spray, or even petroleum jelly directly to the hinge pins. Open and close the door a few times to work the lubricant in.
- When to Call Us: If the squeak doesn’t go away, if the door itself is sagging or misaligned (which can indicate hinge damage or frame issues), or if the door isn’t closing properly, we can assess and fix the underlying problem, which might involve hinge replacement or door adjustments.
3. The Slow or Clogged Drain
A sink or shower that drains slowly can be a sign of a buildup of hair, soap scum, or other debris.
- DIY Tip: For minor clogs, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can sometimes work wonders. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water. A drain snake (or even a straightened coat hanger) can also physically pull out clogs near the surface.
- When to Call Us: If the clog is severe, reoccurs frequently, affects multiple drains, or if foul odors persist. A professional can use specialized tools like augers or hydro-jetting to clear deep blockages without damaging your pipes, preventing bigger issues down the line.
4. Loose Door Handles or Knobs
A wobbly door handle isn’t just an annoyance; it can be a security concern.
- DIY Tip: Most door handles and knobs have visible screws that can simply be tightened with a screwdriver. For handles, check the set screw on the side of the knob or lever.
- When to Call Us: If tightening the screws doesn’t resolve the issue, if parts are missing or broken, or if the latch mechanism itself is faulty. We can replace faulty components or install new handles/knobs, ensuring your doors are secure and functional.
5. Wall Scuffs or Small Nail Holes
Everyday life can leave its mark on your walls.
- DIY Tip: For minor scuffs, a damp cloth with a little mild soap can often clean them away. Small nail holes can be filled with spackle using a putty knife, sanded smooth once dry, and then touched up with paint.
- When to Call Us: If you have larger holes, cracks, water damage, or if you need professional plastering and painting for a seamless finish across a larger area. Our team can ensure the repair is virtually invisible and blends perfectly with your existing walls.
When DIY Reaches Its Limit: Why Professionals Like Us Are Indispensable
While a little DIY can be satisfying, there are times when calling a professional like Jack of All Trades Limited is the smartest choice:
- Safety First: Electrical work, gas lines, major plumbing, or working at heights should always be left to qualified experts.
- Lack of Tools or Expertise: Some jobs require specialized tools, techniques, or simply knowledge that goes beyond a YouTube video.
- Saving Time & Effort: Your time is valuable. Let us handle the repairs efficiently while you focus on what matters most to you.
- Guaranteed Quality: We ensure the job is done right the first time, with a professional finish that lasts.
- Preventing Further Damage: A botched DIY attempt can often lead to more extensive, and expensive, problems down the road.
With over 200 satisfied customers and a track record of successfully completing a wide array of projects, Jack of All Trades Limited is your trusted partner for reliable, high-quality home and business maintenance across New Zealand. We’re here to tackle everything from the small fixes to the larger renovations, providing peace of mind and professional results.
Don’t let home problems pile up!
Whether you need a quick fix or a comprehensive solution, reach out to Jack of All Trades Limited. Visit our website at jackofalltradesltd.co.nz or give us a call for a friendly chat and a no-obligation quote. Let us help keep your home running smoothly!
