While certain household repair jobs are best left to the experts, there are many common fix-it jobs that you can easily address on your own. The first step in DIY success is arming yourself with the right tools. Below, we list 10 potential home repair issues and the tools to help you solve the problems.
Fix-It Issue #1: Leaky Faucet
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Not only can the constant dripping of a leaky faucet drive you crazy, but did you know that it also wastes as much as 3 gallons of water a day? In addition to a wrench, pliers, a hammer, and a few other items, you'll need the aid of a flat-head screwdriver or a Phillips screwdriver. This step-by-step guide will show you how to fix a leaky faucet in no time. It's one of the easiest home tasks you can do!
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Fix-It Issue #2: Cracked Ceramic Tile
Whether in our kitchens or bathrooms, we might need to replace a piece of ceramic tile due to cracking or chipping. This job calls for super clean, precise handy work when cutting grout or wood in order to take out the old tile and make space for a new piece. And, in order to be doable, it needs to be easy. Luckily, there is a handy tool for that.
Use This Tool: HART 20-Volt Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool, $54
Fix-It Issue #3: Defective Smoke Detector
Every home should have working a smoke detector or carbon monoxide detector. If you need to troubleshoot a current one that might be having issues (check the batteries!), or if you want to add more detectors to your space, a drill will help you do the job. A smoke detector should be mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall; a CO detector can be placed on any level on the wall, but not the ceiling since CO does not rise. Have one on each floor of your home.
Note: Be sure to thoroughly review all instructions included with your smoke detector or CO detector for proper installation.
Fix-It Issue #4: Squeaky Door
Got a squeaky, creaky door in your home? Welcome to the club. Over time, it's bound to happen. A smart solution is to remove the hinges, clean them, re-grease them, and then reinstall. For this job, a hammer is helpful with hard-to-remove hinges. You may need to tap out the hinge with a hammer and a punch — and then when you reinstall, a hammer will help to tap down the pin. (Also, it's a good idea to have a screwdriver set and a drill at the ready.) Click here for a detailed guide on how to fix a squeaky door.
Use This Tool: HART 20oz Steel Hammer, $21.88
Fix-It Issue #5: Broken Glass Window
As far as many handy men and women are concerned, a circular saw is the undisputed king of portable power tools. It's going to give you fast, clean cuts. Have you been in that position where you've needed to cut a piece of wood to cover up a broken window? (Think a ball thrown off center in the backyard or a rogue rock spit out from a lawn mower— it happens.) Board up that hole until you can get the glass properly replaced.
Use This Tool: HART 20-Volt Cordless 6 1/2-inch Circular Saw, $69
Fix-It Issue #6: Unstable Bookshelf
If you're concerned about whether or not your floating bookshelf is sturdy enough to hold your favorite decor, you might need to rehang it with stronger reinforcement. An important step is to make sure your brackets, drywall anchors, and all other hardware is lined up evenly — and the best way to do that is with a level. This is ideal for hanging curtain hardware, too.
Fix-It Issue #7: Remove Debris From Walkways and Garden Beds
A buildup of fallen leaves, twigs, and sticks should be cleaned from your garden beds and paths. By removing these items from garden beds, your seeds and bulbs will have space to grow. Using a high-powered blower with a turbo fan will release and blow away the debris without your having to step on the beds once the plants start sprouting.
And for everyone's safety, it's important to remove junk from walkways, paths, and sidewalks so everyone has a clear space for walking. A blower will do this quickly and easily.
Use This Tool: HART 40-Volt Cordless Turbo Fan Blower Kit, $154
Fix-It Issue #8: Busted Blinds, Shades, or Screen Doors
You need your privacy, so blinds and shades are a must. You also need to keep pesky insects from coming inside your home, so a screen door feels like a necessity during the warmer months. But, if they are broken or not working well, you need to change them out ASAP. Don't leave anything to chance and be sure to get a precise measurement of your windows and doorways before you order any replacements. A tape measure will be your trusty tool for this job ... and really, for so many more fix-it jobs around your home.
Use This Tool: HART 25-Foot Pro Grade Non-Magnetic Tape Measure, $12.88
