Homeownership brings many joys, but it also comes with responsibilities, especially when it comes to maintenance. In Canada, where extreme weather can impact everything from plumbing to insulation, knowing how to tackle common repairs yourself can save you time, money, and stress. Here are ten household repairs you can easily DIY, complete with practical tips and specific products available in Canada to help you along the way.
1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet
Tips:
- Identify the Type of Faucet: Most faucets are either compression, cartridge, ball, or ceramic disk. Knowing your faucet type will guide you in choosing the right replacement parts.
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Before starting any repair, ensure the water supply is turned off to avoid any mess.
Recommended Products:
- Plumbing Repair Kits: Look for kits like the Dura Faucet Repair Kit available at Home Depot, which includes various washers and O-rings.
- Faucet Grease: Use Plumbing Silicone Grease to lubricate moving parts and ensure a smooth operation.
2. Unclogging Drains
Tips:
- Use a Plunger First: For minor clogs, a good-quality plunger can often do the trick.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 30 minutes before flushing with hot water.
Recommended Products:
- Drain Snake: A tool like the RIDGID 3 ft. Drain Auger can be found at Canadian Tire and is excellent for tougher clogs.
- Natural Drain Cleaner: Try Eco-Safe Drain Cleaner, which is biodegradable and safe for pipes.
3. Replacing Light Fixtures
Tips:
- Choose the Right Fixture: Make sure the new fixture is compatible with your existing wiring and space.
- Turn Off Power: Always turn off electricity at the breaker before starting any electrical work.
Recommended Products:
- Light Fixtures: Check out options from HomeSense or IKEA for trendy, affordable fixtures.
- Wire Connectors: Use IDEAL Wire Connectors, available at any hardware store, to secure your connections safely.
4. Repairing Drywall Holes
Tips:
- Use a Patch Kit for Larger Holes: For holes bigger than a quarter, consider using a drywall patch kit.
- Smooth the Surface: Once patched, sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper for a seamless finish.
Recommended Products:
- 3M Patch Plus Primer: This all-in-one solution is perfect for quick and easy repairs and is available at Lowe’s.
- Drywall Tape: Use Fibatape Self-Adhesive Joint Tape for a strong hold.
5. Cleaning and Maintaining Gutters
Tips:
- Use a Ladder Safely: Always ensure your ladder is stable and positioned correctly. Consider using a ladder stabilizer for added safety.
- Install Gutter Guards: These can significantly reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
Recommended Products:
- Gutter Cleaning Tool: The Gutter Sense tool can help you reach and clean gutters safely from the ground.
- Gutter Guards: Look for LEAFGUARD Gutter Protection Systems, which are available at various home improvement stores.
6. Adjusting Door Hinges
Tips:
- Tighten Screws: Sometimes, simply tightening the screws on the hinges can solve alignment issues.
- Add Lubrication: A few drops of oil can prevent squeaks and ensure smooth operation.
Recommended Products:
- WD-40 Multi-Use Product: This is great for lubricating squeaky hinges and is available at most Canadian retailers.
- Hinge Oil: Use 3-IN-ONE Oil for a long-lasting solution.
7. Caulking Windows and Doors
Tips:
- Remove Old Caulk: Use a caulk removal tool or a utility knife to scrape off old caulk before applying new.
- Apply Evenly: Use a caulking gun for a steady hand and even application.
Recommended Products:
- GE Silicone II Window & Door Caulk: This product is weatherproof and perfect for Canadian climates, available at Home Depot.
- Caulking Gun: A Dripless Caulking Gun will make your job easier and cleaner.
8. Replacing Air Filters
Tips:
- Check Filters Regularly: Ideally, check your filters every three months and replace them when dirty.
- Choose the Right Size: Filters come in various sizes; make sure to measure yours before purchasing.
Recommended Products:
- Filtrete Air Filters: These are widely available at retailers like Walmart and are known for their efficiency.
- Reusable Air Filters: Consider investing in a reusable filter like the CLEANSPACE filter, which can save money in the long run.
9. Fixing a Running Toilet
Tips:
- Check the Flapper: The most common cause of a running toilet is a worn flapper. Replacing it is usually a quick fix.
- Adjust the Float: If the float is set too high, it can cause overflow. Adjust it to the correct height.
Recommended Products:
- Fluidmaster Universal Toilet Repair Kit: This kit includes everything you need for most toilet repairs and is available at Canadian Tire.
- Toilet Tank Cleaner Tablets: Use these to keep your tank clean and prevent build-up.
10. Painting Walls and Ceilings
Tips:
- Prep the Area: Move furniture and cover floors to protect them from paint splatters.
- Use Quality Brushes and Rollers: Investing in good tools will make a significant difference in the finish.
Recommended Products:
- Behr Premium Plus Paint: This is a popular choice for quality and durability, available at Home Depot.
- Purdy Paint Brushes: These brushes are known for their quality and can provide a professional finish.
Conclusion
Being able to perform these common household repairs not only saves you money but also gives you a sense of accomplishment. With the right tools and a bit of confidence, you can tackle these projects and ensure your home remains a comfortable sanctuary, especially during Canada’s challenging seasons.
At ARFixIt, we are excited to announce that we’re working on transforming these repair guides into simple, visually guided tutorials. Soon, you’ll have access to step-by-step visual instructions that make DIY repairs even easier. Stay tuned for this valuable resource, and remember, we’re here to support you on your home repair journey!