When you move from renting to owning your own home, then you become responsible for the property, so whether it springs a leak or the roof falls down, it is down to you to fix it, Of course, you can hire contractors to do the work and sometimes that is the most sensible option, but if you always do that, then you will end up spending a whole lot of money on repairs.
It’s much better to learn as many DIY skills as you can so that, when it is safe to do so, you can make your own repairs and save more of your money so you can pay off the mortgage early!
Wiring a plug
Now that our homes are filled with so many useful electrical appliances it is even more important that we all know how to wire plug and change the fuse. That way, if your kettle blows a fuse or your lamp stops working, you will be able to fix it fast instead of having to pay for a new one, saving tons of money over the years.
Lock picking
Some locks are so complex that you will always need to call a locksmith to unlock doors, but others can be picked open by someone who has the skills to do so. So, if you are the forgetful type who often misplaces or loses your keys, learning how to pick locks could be a surprisingly handy skill to have, and many people find it a lot of fun to learn too – it’s a bit like solving a puzzle!
Fixing a leaking faucet
One of the most common plumbing problems in any home is a leaking faucet, and it is actually really easy to fix one. As a homeowner, you should know where the stopcock is and how to turn it off to stop the flow of water, then it is just a matter of replacing the washer and or o ring for a no-longer leaking faucet.
Painting a room
Rooms need to be refreshed from time to time, and paying a professional painter and decorator can be expensive, so it is always a good idea to learn how to prep and paint the walls in your home. The key is to clean walls and fill any holes before painting so you have a clear surface to work on.
Unblocking a drain
The thing about drains is that they tend to get blocked. So, it is never a bad idea to learn how to use a trusty drain snake to deal with those pesky blockages. If it’s serious, you may still need a plumber, but it’s surprising just how much a rod and a plunger can help you fix in a plumbing emergency.
If it’s dangerous work like electricals, then you should call a professional, but as you can see, there are a number of skills you can learn yourself that will save you a lot of money down the years. So, start learning now!
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