Many home repairs can be done without professional help.
Learning some basic house maintenance skills can save both time and money. Common problems, such as blocked toilets or faulty locks, are problems experienced in many houses. While some problems require the assistance of a professional, many house faults can be repaired by the use of some basic tools and a little knowledge. Does this Spark an idea?
Doorknobs and Locks
Doorknobs are one of the most frequently used items of furniture in a home. They often become so loose that the handle fails to function and it's a struggle to get doors open. This is typically due to the screw that fixes the doorknob around the spindle getting loose, as stated on the Home Task repair website. This can be tightened by removing the faceplate and securing with a screwdriver. The screws that fix the faceplate in place can also require tightening.
Locks can also become rigid and difficult to access over time. If this occurs, apply liquid graphite to the keyhole. This will make it easier to fit keys into the lock. Avoid using oil as this may cause the lock to become sticky over time.
Gutter and Drain Problems
Leaks can often occur in the gutter or downspout pipes of a home. These are typically caused by icy deposits, which can cause leaks when melting or cracks in the seams of downspouts. Most gutter damage can be repaired by applying gutter caulk, but cracks in downspout materials should only be tackled by a professional.
Blocked drains are a problem faced by many homeowners each year. There are various methods to unblock drains, depending on the severity of the problem. If the drain has not recently experienced a blockage, use a commercial unblocking remedy. These are usually available as chemical cleaning agents that you can apply directly into the drain. You can also try using a plunger, which uses air pressure to unblock drains.
Overflowing Toilet
A toilet overflows when it becomes blocked and the valve stays open instead of shutting. You can inhibit the water flow by opening the roof of the toilet tank and locating the tank ball. This is located just above the outlet valve and should be pushed into the valve to prevent water flow. If the tank ball can't be moved, raise the float arm to prevent flow. The float arm is a large round ball fixed to a wire arm. It can be fixed in a raised position with a strip of wood or heavy book placed across the tank. You can now remove the blockage with a plunger.
Tags: over time, some basic, tank ball, unblock drains, water flow
