She Strengthens

Taking Control of Your Home Improvement

As a homeowner, it’s essential to be self-sufficient when it comes to minor repairs and maintenance. Relying on handymen or professionals can be costly and time-consuming. By learning to tackle simple home fixes, you’ll not only save money but also gain a sense of empowerment and independence.

Lighting Up the Way

Changing a lightbulb may seem like a daunting task, especially if you have high ceilings. However, with the right tools, it’s a breeze. You’ll need a step stool, a lightbulb changing kit, and a new bulb. Ensure the light switch is off, and the blown bulb is cool to the touch before starting. Remove the old bulb, and replace it with the new one. For those hard-to-reach bulbs, a lightbulb changing kit with an extendable pole can be a lifesaver.

Flipping the Switch

If changing the lightbulb doesn’t solve the problem, it may be time to replace the light switch. You’ll need a screwdriver, a replacement switch, and a circuit tester. Before starting, locate your circuit breaker and turn off power to the room. Remove the faceplate, unscrew the light switch, and test the wires with a circuit tester to ensure the power is off. Then, simply replace the old switch with the new one, and reassemble everything.

Unclogging the Kitchen Sink

A jammed garbage disposal can be frustrating, but it’s easily fixed. You’ll need a wooden dowel, pliers, and an Allen wrench. If your disposal is not hardwired, unplug it from the wall. Then, use the Allen wrench to free any stuck debris, and the wooden dowel to remove any remaining blockages. Finally, use pliers to retrieve the debris, and plug the disposal back in.

Filling in the Gaps

When moving out of a rented property, filling in nail holes is essential to get your deposit back. You’ll need spackle, a putty knife, a small paint brush, and color-matched paint. Remove the nail, fill the hole with spackle, and smooth out the surface. Then, use a small brush to dab paint over the area, feathering it out to blend with the surrounding wall.

Toilet Troubleshooting

A broken toilet lever can be a nuisance, but it’s relatively easy to fix. You’ll need a toilet repair kit and a new flush lever. Start by shutting off the valve to the toilet and draining the tank. Then, unscrew the wing nut, remove the old lever, and install the new one. If the valve is broken, you may need to replace it, but this is a relatively simple process.

By taking control of these simple home fixes, you’ll not only save money but also gain confidence in your ability to maintain your own home. So, don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get to work!