At GT Movers & Cleaners, we know that keeping up with home maintenance can feel overwhelming. While some tasks require professional help, there are plenty of simple fixes you can handle yourself to keep your home in great condition. Here are some quick handyman tips to help you tackle small issues before they turn into big problems.
1. Stop a Dripping Tap
A dripping tap isn’t just annoying—it can waste litres of water and increase your bill. Most leaks are caused by a worn-out washer or cartridge. Replacing it is easier than you think:
- Turn off the water supply.
- Unscrew the tap handle and remove the old washer.
- Replace it with a new one and reassemble.
2. Fix a Sticking Door
Doors that stick when opening or closing are often caused by humidity or misalignment. Try these quick fixes:
- Tighten the hinge screws with a screwdriver.
- If the door still sticks, lightly sand the problem area and repaint it.
3. Unclog a Slow Drain
Instead of using harsh chemical cleaners, try this simple method:
- Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar.
- Let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- If needed, use a plunger or drain snake for stubborn clogs.
4. Patch Small Holes in Walls
Nail holes and small dents in walls can make a home look untidy, but they’re easy to fix:
- Fill the hole with filler using a putty knife.
- Let it dry, sand it smooth, and touch up with matching paint.
5. Secure Loose Screws
Over time, screws in furniture, doors, and cabinets can loosen. If a screw won’t tighten properly:
- Remove it and insert a matchstick or toothpick into the hole with a drop of wood glue.
- Let it dry, then reinsert the screw. This helps it grip better.
6. Silence Squeaky Hinges
Squeaky doors and cabinet hinges are easy to fix:
- Spray a little WD-40 or rub petroleum jelly onto the hinge.
- Move the door back and forth to work the lubricant in.
7. Re-Seal Your Bathroom with Silicone Sealant
Old, cracked sealant around sinks and tubs can lead to leaks and mould growth. Re-sealing with 100% silicone sealant is the best solution:
- Remove the old sealant with a utility knife or scraper.
- Clean and dry the area thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion.
- Apply new waterproof silicone sealant smoothly along the seam and let it dry.
8. Fix a Wobbly Table or Chair
If a table or chair wobbles, check for loose screws or joints:
- Tighten any screws with a screwdriver.
- If the joints are loose, apply wood glue and clamp them until dry.
9. Weatherproof Your Doors and Windows
Prevent draughts and reduce energy bills by sealing gaps around doors and windows:
- Install weatherstripping around doors.
- Use caulk to fill gaps around window frames.
- Add a door sweep to block cold air from coming in.
10. Refresh Your Walls with a Quick Touch-Up
Scuffed walls can make a space look worn out. Instead of repainting an entire room, try:
- Using a magic eraser for small marks.
- Touching up spots with leftover paint from the original job.
Need Professional Help? We’ve Got You Covered!
While these DIY fixes can help with minor home repairs, sometimes it’s best to call in a professional. At GT Movers & Cleaners, we offer reliable handyman services throughout Oxfordshire for all your home maintenance needs – whether it’s fixing, assembling, or repairing, we’re here to help.