10 Home repairs you can do yourself

DIY home repairs, while incredibly satisfying when done right, can also be challenging. Many people are motivated to take on DIY projects to save costs. The theory is that by doing work yourself, you eliminate the labour costs associated with hiring professionals, which can significantly reduce the overall expense. But at the same time, DIY projects carry the risk of mistakes or errors, especially if you lack experience in a particular area. Mistakes can lead to additional costs, delays, and frustration. Thorough research, planning, and careful execution can help mitigate these risks.

If you fancy yourself as a handyman or woman, here are 10 home repairs you can consider doing yourself.

Painting: Refreshing the paint on your walls is a great DIY project. Prepare the surfaces properly, use high-quality paint, and invest in good brushes or rollers for a professional finish.

Fixing leaky taps: Leaky taps waste water and can be fixed easily. Replace worn-out washers or cartridges to stop the leaks and save on your water bill.

Caulking: Inspect and replace old or cracked caulking around windows, doors, and joints. Properly sealed gaps help with energy efficiency and prevent water damage.

Installing light fixtures: Replacing or installing light fixtures is a relatively simple DIY task. Ensure the electricity is turned off, and be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. However, if any electrical work is required, be sure to call a professional electrician.

Repairing grout: Cracked or damaged grout in bathrooms and kitchens can lead to water seepage and mould accumulation. Remove the old grout and replace it with new grout using a grout removal tool and a grout float.

Patching holes in walls: Small holes or dents in walls can be repaired using a spackle or joint compound. Apply the material with a putty knife, let it dry, sand it down, and then paint over it.

Repairing wooden furniture: If you have wooden furniture that needs repairing, such as loose joints or scratches, you can use wood glue, clamps, and wood filler to fix them. Sand and refinish the repaired areas for a seamless look.

Replacing cabinet hardware: Update the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets by replacing the hardware. Measure the hole spacing accurately, and choose hardware that matches your desired style.

Fixing squeaky floors: Squeaky floors can be fixed by securing loose floorboards. Use screws or nails to reattach the subfloor to the floor joists, eliminating the squeaks.

Installing Shelving: Adding shelves to your walls is a practical and straightforward DIY project. Measure and level the shelves carefully before securing them to the wall.

When carrying out DIY home repairs in Portugal it’s important to ensure that you have the right tools for the job. Many houses here are older and made of materials that can be difficult to work with if you don’t have the right tools or experience.

Remember to always prioritize safety when undertaking any DIY projects. If you're unsure about a particular repair, it's best to consult a professional.